⁸⁹Zr-Radiolabeling Service

⁸⁹Zr-radiolabeling represents a cutting-edge technology in molecular imaging, enabling the non-invasive visualization and quantification of biological processes in vivo via positron emission tomography (PET). Alfa Cytology is a dedicated provider of premium ⁸⁹Zr-radiolabeling services, offering end-to-end solutions for the development and production of ⁸⁹Zr-labeled conjugates, primarily antibodies and other targeting molecules.

Introduction to ⁸⁹Zr Isotopes

Zirconium-89 (⁸⁹Zr) is a positron-emitting radionuclide with exceptional properties for immuno-PET applications. Its primary appeal lies in its favorable physical properties: a half-life of 78.4 hours (approximately 3.25 days) is exceptionally well-matched to the biological half-lives of monoclonal antibodies and other large biomolecules, allowing for optimal tumor targeting and imaging over several days. The relatively low energy of the emitted positrons (395.5 keV) contributes to high image resolution.

⁸⁹Zr-Labeling for PET Imaging

With a half-life of 78.4 hours and a low positron energy of 395.5 keV, ⁸⁹Zr has ideal physical properties for antibody-based imaging. ⁸⁹Zr labeling involves the conjugation of the radionuclide to a targeting vector, such as an antibody, using a bifunctional chelator. The stable complex allows the radiotracer to preferentially and efficiently accumulate at the target site (for example, a tumor with a specific antigen). The quantitative, real-time data obtained through subsequent PET imaging on biodistribution, target engagement, and pharmacokinetics is invaluable in the selection of doses and monitoring the therapy in trials.

Fig 1. [⁸⁹Zr]ZrDFO-CR011 uptake in TNBC models. (Lee, S., et al., 2022)

⁸⁹Zr Radiopharmaceutical

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Advantages of ⁸⁹Zr Labeling

Our Services

Alfa Cytology provides a comprehensive ⁸⁹Zr-radiolabeling service designed to meet the rigorous standards of preclinical research. Our service encompasses everything from initial consultation and chelator conjugation to the final delivery of purified, quality-controlled ⁸⁹Zr-labeled conjugates, and extends into a full suite of in vitro / in vivo evaluation and subsequent application research. This integrated approach from synthesis to functional validation provides a robust solution to accelerate your drug development and imaging agent validation.

Custom ⁸⁹Zr Conjugation Service

Alfa Cytology offers a flexible custom ⁸⁹Zr conjugation service, where we collaborate closely with you to develop and optimize a radiolabeling strategy for novel targeting molecules, including antibody fragments, peptides, and other biologics, ensuring the high specific activity and retained bioactivity for your unique application.

Small-Molecule Radionuclide Conjugate (SMRC)

Antibody-Radionuclide Conjugate (ARC)

Peptide-Radionuclide Conjugate (PRC)

siRNA-Radionuclide Conjugate

Workflow for Developing ⁸⁹Zr-Radiolabeled Antibody Conjugates

⁸⁹Zr Custom Radiosynthesis

• Design Strategy: Involving a comprehensive assessment of the antibody's characteristics and the intended biological target to define the optimal conjugation and labeling approach.
• Precursor Preparation: The bifunctional chelator (typically DFO-isothiocyanate or DFO-NCS) is covalently attached to the antibody via established bioconjugation chemistry, ensuring minimal impact on immunoreactivity.
• Custom Radiosynthesis: Aimed at maximizing radiochemical yield and labeling efficiency, the ⁸⁹Zr radiolabeling is performed under precisely controlled conditions of pH, buffer, temperature, and time by a dedicated radiochemistry team.

Purification & Quality Control

Following synthesis, the crude product undergoes rigorous purification to remove unincorporated ⁸⁹Zr and other impurities, typically via size-exclusion chromatography or others. A comprehensive suite of quality control assays is then employed to confirm critical parameters, including radiochemical purity, pH, endotoxin levels, and sterility, ensuring the final product meets all predefined specifications for research use.

In Vitro Evaluation

In vitro evaluation provides critical validation of the fundamental integrity and functionality of the ⁸⁹Zr-radiolabeled conjugate under controlled laboratory conditions. This stage focuses on confirming radiochemical purity and stability, supported by a suite of cell-based assays.

In Vivo Evaluation

To establish a comprehensive preclinical profile, in vivo pharmacokinetics and biodistribution are assessed in relevant animal models. These studies evaluate the tracer's behavior in living systems through quantitative biodistribution analysis and PET imaging. Key objectives include measuring target tissue uptake and confirming specific tumor targeting.

Applications of ⁸⁹Zr-Radiolabeling

⁸⁹Zr-radiolabeling is a powerful tool with broad applications across biomedical research and development. It is extensively used to develop PET tracers that facilitate non-invasive, quantitative, and longitudinal imaging of biological processes. This technology provides critical insights into the in vivo behavior of therapeutics, thereby fundamentally guiding drug development and therapeutic strategy.

Why Choose Us?

Driven by an unwavering commitment to quality, precision, and collaborative partnership, we deliver comprehensive, end-to-end radiopharmaceutical development solutions. Our client-focused approach is designed to generate robust, reliable data on time, accelerating your critical R&D programs.

Experience in ⁸⁹Zr
Chemistry

Full-Service
Development

State-of-the-Art
Facilities

Application-Specific
Tailored Solutions

Alfa Cytology's specialized ⁸⁹Zr-radiolabeling service provides access to expert methodology and rigorous analytical support for the successful development of your ⁸⁹Zr-radiolabeled conjugates. For detailed discussions regarding your specific project requirements and to initiate a collaboration, please contact us to explore how our capabilities can contribute to your program's success.

Reference

1. Lee, Supum et al. "[⁸⁹Zr]ZrDFO-CR011 PET Correlates with Response to Glycoprotein Nonmetastatic Melanoma B-targeted Therapy in Triple-negative Breast Cancer." Molecular cancer therapeutics 21.3 (2022): 440-447.

For research use only. Not intended for any clinical use.