Solid state support for the synthesis of [1-¹¹C]-putrescine

A novel solid state support was demonstrated using [¹¹C]-HCN for the radiosynthesis of [1-¹¹C]-putrescine by the Michael addition reaction to acrylonitrile. The silica gel support allowed near quantitative trapping of the [¹¹C]-HCN and its efficient use under anhydrous conditions. The absence of water during the addition reaction eliminated by-product formation and reduced the overall synthesis and purification time required for the preparation of the radiopharmaceutical. A radiochemical yield of 53 ± 4 was achieved for purified product within 40 min of EOB. The process can be automated for the routine synthesis of [1-¹¹C]-putrescine radiopharmaceutical.