An efficient chelator for complexation of thorium-227

We present the synthesis and characterization of a highly efficient thorium chelator, derived from the octadentate hydroxypyridinone class of compounds. The chelator forms extremely stable complexes with fast formation rates in the presence of Th-227 (ambient temperature, 20min). In addition, mouse biodistribution data are provided which indicate rapid hepatobiliary excretion route of the chelator which, together with low bone uptake, supports the stability of the complex in vivo. The carboxylic acid group may be readily activated for conjugation through the ɛ-amino groups of lysine residues in biomolecules such as antibodies. This chelator is a critical component of a new class of Targeted Thorium Conjugates (TTCs) currently under development in the field of oncology.