WO2011006032A2

WO2011006032A2 - Modular system for radiosynthesis with multi-run capabilities and reduced risk of radiation exposure

Info

Publication number: WO2011006032A2
Application number: PCT/US2010/041467
Authority: WO
Inventors: Arkadij M. Elizarov; Carroll Edward Ball; Jianzhong Zhang; Hartmuth C. Kolb; Reza Miraghaie; Artem Lebedev; Todd Graves
Original assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions Usa, Inc.
Priority date: 2009-07-09
Filing date: 2010-07-09
Publication date: 2011-01-13
Also published as: US20110008215A1; EP2451570A2; CA2767582A1; US8273300B2; WO2011006032A3

Abstract

Macro- and microfluidic devices and related technologies, and chemical processes using such devices. More specifically, the devices may be used for a fully automated synthesis of radioactive compounds for imaging, such as by positron emission tomography (PET), in an efficient, compact and safe to the operator manner. In particular, embodiments of the present invention relate to an automated, multi-run, microfluidic instrument for the multi-step synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals, such as PET probes, comprising a remote shielded mini-cell containing radiation-handing components.

Description

MODULAR SYSTEM FOR RADIOSYNTHESIS WITH MULTI-RUN

CAPABILITIES AND REDUCED RISK OF RADIATION EXPOSURE

CLAIM TO PRIORITY

[0001 ] The present application is based on and claims priority to U.S. provisional application No. 61/224.31 1 , filed July 9. 2009, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

[0002] The foregoing application, and all documents cited therein or during their prosecution ("appln cited documents") and all documents cited or referenced in the appln cited documents, and all documents cited or referenced herein ("herein cited documents"), and all documents cited or referenced in herein cited documents, together with any manufacturer's instructions, descriptions, product specifications, and product sheets for any products mentioned herein or in any document incorporated by reference herein, are hereby incorporated herein by reference, and may be employed in the practice of the invention.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates generally to macro- and microfluidic devices and related technologies, and to chemical processes using such devices. More specifically, the invention relates to a fully automated synthesis of radioactive compounds for imaging, such as by positron emission tomography (PET), in an efficient, compact and safe to the operator manner, In particular, embodiments of the present invention relate to an automated, multi-run, microfluidic instrument for the multi-step synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals, such as PET probes, comprising a remote shielded mini-cell containing radiation-handing components.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a molecular imaging technology that is increasingly used for detection of various diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, cancer, AIDS, Parkinson's disease and other disorders. Disease is a biological process, and molecular imaging provides a sensitive and informative means to identify, study, and diagnose the biological nature of disease early in arid throughout its evolution, as well as to provide biological information for development and assessment of therapies. For example, PET whole body imaging in cancer provides the means to (i) identify early disease, (ii) differentiate benign from malignant lesions, (iii) examine all organs for metastases and (iv) determine therapeutic effectiveness.

[0005] PET imaging systems create images based on the distribution of positron-emitting isotopes in the tissue of a patient. The isotopes are typically administered to a patient by injection of probe molecules that comprise a positron-emitting isotope (e.g.. carbon-! 1 , nitrogen- 13, oxygen- 15, or fluorine- 18) covalently attached to a molecule that is readily metabolized or localized in the body or that chemically binds to receptor sites within the body. Positron emitters of Cu, Zn, K, Br, Rb, I, P. Fe, Ga and others can also be used.

[0006] PET probes and drugs are being developed together - in low mass amounts, as molecular imaging probes to image the function of targets without disturbing them, and in mass amounts to modify the target's function as a drug. Common tissue concentrations of PET probes are in the range of pico- to femtomoles per gram. Over 500 molecular imaging probes have been developed and consist of various labeled enzyme and transporter substrates, ligands for receptor systems, hormones, antibodies, peptides, drugs (medical and illicit), and oligonucleotides. For PET probes the short half-lives of the positron emitters require that synthesis, analysis and purification of the probes are completed rapidly.

[0007] Common pharmaceuticals radiolabeled with F- 18 include, but are not limited to 2-deoxy-2-[F- 18j-fluoro-D-glucose (¹⁸F-FDG), 3'-deoxy- 3'[F-18]-fluoiOth>πiidine (¹⁸F-FLT), 9-[4-[F-18| fluoro-3- (hydroxymethyl)butyljguanine ( ¹⁸F-FHBG), 9-[(3-[F-18] fluoro-l-hydroxy-2- propoxy)methyl]guanine ( F-FHPG), 3-(2'-[F- I Sj fluøroetliyljspiperone (¹⁸F-FESP), 4-(F- 18] fluoro-N-[2-[ 1 -(2-methoxyρheny I)-I - piperaziny l]ethyl]-N-2-pyridinyl-benzamide (^l8F-p-MPPF), 2- (1 -{6-((2-[F- 181fluoroethyl)- 10 (methyl)amino]-2-naphthyl }ethylidine)malononitrile (¹⁸F- FDDNP), 2-(F-181 fluoro-amethyltyrosine. [F- 18] fluoromisonidazole (¹⁸F- FMISO), 5-[F-18| f1uσro-2'-deoxyuridine ( ¹⁸F -FdUrd), and 2'-deoxv-2'- [^l8F]fluoro-5-methyI-l -beta-D-arabinofuranosyluracil (¹⁸F -FMAU), Other common radiolabeled compounds include "C-methionine and "C-acetic acid.

[0008] The synthesis of the [F- 18 ]-labeled molecular probe, 2-deoxy-

2-[F- 18]-fluoro-D-glucose ( ¹⁸F-FDG), is based on three major sequential synthetic processes: (i) Concentration of the dilute [F- 18J fluoride solution ( 1 - 10 ppm) that is obtained from the bombardment of target water, [O- 18 ]H₂O. in a cyclotron: (ii) [F- 18 ]fluoride substitution of the mannose triflate precursor; and (iii) acidic hydrolysis of the fluorinated intermediate.

Presently, [F- 18]FDG is produced on a routine basis in a processing time (or cycle time) of 25 about 50 minutes using macroscopic commercial synthesizers. These synthesizers consist, in part, mechanical valves, glass- based reaction chambers and ion-exchange columns.

[0009] Other target probes such as, for example, ¹⁸F-FLT or ¹⁸F -

FMAU, are more complex and require additional steps such as HPLC and intermediate purifications.

[0010] Instrument for carrying out synthesis of more complex radiolabeled targets require more complex and flexible equipment.

[001 1] Most of known radiosynthesis modules have electronic equipment, reagent and radiation-handling components all in one mini-cell. This presents risk of radiation exposure to the operator handling the instrument and to the sensitive equipment inside such modules, which have to be serviced or replaced frequently. Furthermore, in most of the radiosynthsis systems reagents have to be replenished after each run, which subjects the user to radiation exposure and allows limited flexibility in production of wide range of PET probes in an efficient manner.

[0012] As such, there is a need for safer and more efficient systems that are capable of providing the flexibility to produce a wide range of probes, biomarkers and labeled drugs or drug analogs efficiently and in a safe to the user manner and at the same time capable of expediting chemical processing to reduce the overall processing or cycle times and production costs. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[(X)B] The present invention relates generally to an instrument or a system (modular system) capable of conducting chemical processes using macro- and microfluidic devices and related technologies. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to a fully automated system for the synthesis of radioactive compounds for imaging, such as by positron emission tomography (PET), in a fast, efficient, compact and safe to an operator manner.

[0014] One of the embodiments of the present invention is directed to an instrument or a system for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation.

[0015] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the instrument where the "hot" box contains all radiation-handling components.

[0016] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the instrument where a "hot" box containing radiation-handling components is placed inside a mini-cell.

[0017] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the instrument where the "hot" box containing radiation-handling components is placed inside a self-shielded micro-cell.

[0018] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the instrument, where the at least one "hot box" is placed in the mini-cell.

[0019] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the instrument, where at least three "hot boxes" are placed in one mini-cell.

[0020] In another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the instrument where a "cold" box is hosting electronics, pumps and reagents.

[0021 ] In another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the instrument where a "cold" box hosting electronics, pumps and reagents is placed outside the shielding to optimize "hot" space, allow access to reagents between runs and protect electronics and the operator from radiation.

[0022] One of the embodiments of the present invention is directed to the instrument where "hot" and "cold" components are separated into two "boxes" or units, which are about 20 feet away from one another to minimize the effects of radiation on a user and other sensitive equipment.

[0023] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument which can be manually-operated and/or fully-automated.

[0024] In another embodiment, the two units are connected via a bundle of cables and tubing necessary for electronic communication and delivery of reagents.

[0025] In another embodiment, the bundle of cables and tubing connecting the "hot" and "cold" boxes is equipped with a Safety Radiation Detector.

[0026] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the modular system equipped with multiple reactors.

[0027] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the system where the "hot" unit is equipped with a macro reactor.

[0028] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the system where the "hot" unit is equipped with a micro or microfluidic reactor.

[0029] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the system where a macro reactor-based instrument can be upgraded with a micro-reactor and vice versa.

[0030] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system where "hot" component is equipped with the microfluidic chip and the macro reactor for conducting processes on micro and macro scale within the same instrument. [0031] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument where the "hot box" can be accessed through a top opening In a shielded enclosure and/or vertical ejection of the unit out of the shield.

[0032] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument, where the top or vertical opening allows the hot box to be lifted vertically out of the stationary shield. In this embodiment, typically the shields are not movable and stay in place.

[0033] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system where the self-shielded micro-cell comprises at least one unit equipped to carry out a radiosynthetic protocol including synthesis, purification and formulation procedures.

[0034] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the system where a typical mini-cell comprises more than one unit, each equipped to carry out a radiosynthetic protocol including synthesis, purification and formulation procedures.

[0035] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the system where three copies, or identical devices of the "hot'^* unit, each including synthesis, purification and formulation components are fitted inside one mini-cell.

[0036] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the system where the width of mini-cell interior is about 27 inches, depth is about 20 inches and height is about 24 inches.

[0037] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the system where "cold^** box comprises an embedded personal computer (PC), which is designed to perform various operations supporting discovery and production processes.

[0038] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the system where the single "cold" box is adapted to control multiple "hot" boxes. [0039] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the placement of reagent reservoirs outside the radiation shield of the "hot box".

[0040] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the placement of electronics outside the radiation shield of the "'hot box".

[0041] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument capable of conducting multiple runs comprising radiosyntheses of different products without opening shielded enclosures during or between such runs,

[0042] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the instrument where product collection and F- 18 delivery takes place in an interlocking pig device on a self-shielded module without radiation exposure,

[0043] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument which can be used with any cyclotron.

[0044] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to an interlocking pig device, which is used to deliver an isotope to a self-shielded unit or remove product from self-shielded unit without user exposure,

[0045] Another embodiment, the present invention relates to the system where, both the self-shielded and mini-cell-based instruments can be connected directly to the cyclotron to receive an isotope,

[0046] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the chip comprising a system of parapets on the ceiling of the chip preventing liquid vent loss while allowing efficient evaporation,

[0047] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument, where hot box comprises a system of three-way valves on interface base, which is operatively coupled to the chip, for example in an interference fit, mating relationship or alignment, for reagent priming.

[0048] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the chip made of molded PEEK or glass. [0049] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the chip within a PEEK frame that seals with the PEEK micro-reactor and having a glass lid.

[0050] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the system, where the reactors and interface bases are configured in such a way that potential leak paths are diverted away from heaters.

[0051] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the chip comprising a plunger alignment for one-operation chip insertion,

[0052] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a pre- aligned chip.

[0053] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a mechanism of chip-plunger alignment that is built into the instrument and allows the chip to be aligned during its one-operation insertion. Alignment means, for example, that the plungers typically should be in certain positions within the chip in order to insert it without breaking and in order to make them operational. There positions are typically not preset by hand because they are mid way between fully inserted and completely removed. Multiple approaches have been explored to assure such alignment.

[0054] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument comprising a chip-plunger aligning device.

[0055] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the chip with a pocket for pre-dispensed heat-transfer compound. (The chip has a pocket which mates with the heater protrusion. Rather than placing the heat transfer material on the protrusion, where it can easily get smeared and become a source of contamination, it is placed within the hard to reach pocket, and therefore less accessible and thus, less likely to cause a contamination to other parts of the chip/instrument.

[0056] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument where a pressure source- and detector-based system (see pressure monitors 52 in Figures 5a and 5b) are self-testing for leaks. [0057] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument where a pressure-relief tube is incorporated between ion exchange column and micro reactor. This tube is useful since the release solution exits the column very rapidly and then slows down (i.e., the release of the solution begins at a fast rate and then the release rate decreases). The pressure relief tube is incorporated as a deceleration device, so that the release solution does not enter the reactor at a rapid pace,

[0058] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument where stirring in reformulation system is enabled by bubbling gas from the bottom of the vessel (enabled by a tube that reaches all the way to the bottom, which is used as both entrance and exit port).

[0059] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument where the " cold box" is equipped with a UV light source and detector coupled with the flow cell by optical fibers.

[GG6QJ Another embodiment of the present imention relates to the instrument where the hot box is equipped with a UV LED used as a light source. The UV-LED is placed inside the hot box and requires no on-board electronics unlike the UV lamp and no optical fibers, as it mounts right in the flow cell. The LED mounts on the flow cell at one end and the detection optical fiber (connected to a detector) on another. Light shines through solution and is detected by the detector.

[0061] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument where a flow meter for monitoring reactor dryness can be placed both upstream and downstream of the reactor.

[0062] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument where efficient evaporation is achieved by change of pressure during evaporation process.

[0063] to one of the embodiments of the present invention, evaporation can start under low pressure and end under high pressure,

[0064] In one of the embodiments of the present invention evaporation can start under positive pressure and end under vacuum. [0065] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the system where a single syringe drives all reagents and optionally all solvents into the reactor without any of these reagents entering the syringe.

[0066] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the system where the metering pumps drive solvents into the reactor or reformulation system.

[0067] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the platform system where a multi-purpose solid phase extraction (SPE) system is plumbed to be available for (a) purified product reformulation, (b) crude product purification, (c) intermediate purification, (d) intermediate reformulation, (e) ion-exchange (F- 18 trapping and release).

[0068] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument comprising a self-monitoring and self-emptying waste system.

[0069] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument comprising an automated cleaning with readiness indication.

[0070] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument comprising a system of two or more valves that can send any reagent to any location. Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument comprising an air-cooled micro-reactor.

[0071 ] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument comprising air-cooled and air-heated reactor.

[0072] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to synthesis, purification and formulation systems sharing functional components.

[0073] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument comprising the cold box configured for clean-room applications (all surfaces are wipeable with EtOH and detergent and have no protruding features).

[0074] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the radiosynthesis instrument comprising a touch-screen computer, [0075] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument comprising an automated safety interlock on exhaust monitoring.

[0076] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the cold box equipped with a reagent kit.

[u077] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a reagent cartridge that can be plugged into the cold box (other previously shown cartridges were plugged in inside the shielded enclosure).

[0078] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument where one batch of F- 18 can be used for making multiple different products.

[00^*79] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument where one batch of F- 18 can be used (split at least in two) in parallel mode for making multiple different products.

[0080] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument capable of producing various radiolabeled compounds incorporating different isotopes on the same module, which include, for example, F- 18, C- 1 1 , and Cu-64.

[0081 ] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument configured for liquid and gas reagent handling within the same module.

[0082] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument where different processes can take place in individual hot boxes within the mini-cell at the same time.

[0083] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to an instrument comprising a self-shielded waste management system.

[0084] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument capable of automatically generating a batch record with yield, activity concentration, specific activity and other parameters. [0085] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument capable of adjusting preset protocols and procedures.

[0086] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of releasing [F- 18] fluoride from the ion exchange column with a certain volume of aqueous K₂CO₃ followed by a mixture of K an₂dCO₃ Kryptofix 222 (K222) in H₂O/M eCN mixture of solvents. (This process is more efficient than the release of [F- I8]fluorie with K₂CO₃ alone followed by K222.)

[0087] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method where all reagents are driven from cold box to hot box before [F- 18] fluoride delivery and are ready to be dispensed into the reactor right next to the reactor. This is not the case even in modules with onboard reagents without the "cold box" . The reagents have to travel through the fluid network of channels to get from their reservoirs to the reactor.

[0088] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method of passing K222 solution behind K₂CO₃ solution (through an ion exchange column and the entire path from column to reactor) to maximize F- 18 transfer from ion exchange column into reactor.

[0089] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method for F- 18 release using multiple fractions of eluent. This method is more efficient than using a single fraction with the same total volume.

[0090] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method of F- 18 elution involving release direction and trapping direction being opposite, which maximizes the efficiency of release.

[0091] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of loading HPLC injection loop by moving liquids with pressure (typically without using a syringe), which is enabled by specific positioning of liquid-gas interface detectors.

[0092] In another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of increasing the efficiency of the release solution comprising passing the solution bolus through a tube packed with glass beads, (sslitting one bolus into multiple without moving hardware parts) to provide a train of multiple boluses.

[0093] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of conducting multiple runs comprising radiosyntheses of different products without opening shielded enclosures.

[0094] ] Another embodiment of present invention is directed to the instrument, where the cold box has no protruding features (for clean-room applications)

[0095] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument, where the hot box comprises no single-use consumables.

[0096] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument, where the hot box comprises a glass-bead-packed tube to break the release solution into multiple boluses.

[0097] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument, where the hot box comprises a pressure-relief tube between I/E column and reactor.

[0098] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument, where the hot box comprises UV LED in HPLC.

[0099] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument, where the hot box comprises reusable I/E column.

[00100] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument, where the hot box reusable Solid Phase Extractor (SPE) cartridges.

[00101] Another embodiment of the present indention relates to a method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to various embodiments of the present invention. For example, the embodiments of the present invention may be used to perform radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound. [00102] Another embodiment of the present invention relates the method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument where loading an HPLC loop is conducted by pressure via tubing with liquid-gas detectors.

[00103] Another embodiment of the present invention relates the method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to various embodiments of the present invention comprising conducting multiple runs of radiosyntheses of different products without opening shielded enclosures.

[00104] Another embodiment of the present invention relates the method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to various embodiments of the present invention comprising increasing the efficiency of the release solution comprising passing the solution bolus through a tube packed with glass beads to provide a train of multiple boluses.

[00105] Another embodiment of the present invention relates the method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to various embodiments of the present invention comprising passing K222 through the release line behind K₂CO₃,

[00106] Another embodiment of the present invention relates the method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to various embodiments of the present invention where release by a K₂CO, bolus is followed by a mixture of

and K222.

[00107 ] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to various embodiments of the present invention comprising a

chieving efficient release by splitting the release solution into multiple boluses.

[00108] It is further noted that the invention does not intend to encompass within the scope of the invention any previously disclosed product, process of making the product or method of lining the product, which meets the wiitten description and enablement requirements of the USPTO (35 U.S.C. 1 12, first paragraph) or the EPO (Article 83 of the EPC), such that applicants) reserve the right and hereby disclose a disclaimer of any previously described product, method of making the product or process of using the product.

[00109] It is noted that in this disclosure and particularly in the claims and/or paragraphs, terms such as "comprises", "comprised^**, "comprising^*' and the like can have the meaning attributed to it in U.S. Patent law; e.g., they can mean "includes", "included", "including^**, and the like; and that terms such as "consisting essentially of^* and "consists essentially of have the meaning ascribed to them in U.S. Patent law, e.g., they allow for elements not explicitly recited, but exclude elements that are found in the prior art or that affect a basic or novel characteristic of the invention.

[00110] These and other embodiments of the present invention are disclosed or are apparent from and encompassed by the following Detailed Description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[001 1 1 ] The application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.

[001 12] The following detailed description, given by way of example, but not intended to limit the invention solely to the specific embodiments described, may best be understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[00113] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary instrument where "Cold Box" on a cart is connected to a shielded mini-cell with three "Hot Boxes".

[001 14] Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary Dual Module System,

[00115] Figure 3 illustrates an exemplary "Hot Box" Assembly with self-shielding ("micro-cell").

[001 16] Figure 4 illustrates an exemplary interlocking pig device. [00117] Figure 5a illustrates the inside view of the exemplary hot box

(with door open).

[00118] Figure 5b illustrates an additional inside view of the exemplary hot box showing HPLC column (on the right side of the unit),

[00119] Figure 6 illustrates an exemplary micro reactor assembly.

[00120] Figure 7a illustrates an exemplary inverted lid with features on the ceiling that prevent escape of liquids into the vent ports by surface tension.

[00121] Figure 7b illustrates a new interface base allowing off-chip priming of reagents close to chip.

[00122] Figure 8a illustrates an exemplary glass chip in a frame (assembled).

[00123] Figure 8b illustrates an exemplary glass chip with a disassembled frame.

[00124] Figure 9 illustrates an exemplary glass chip with a single-piece frame with a vertical seal.

[00125] Figure 10 illustrates an exemplar)' macro reactor assembly.

[00126] Figure 1 1 illustrates a cross-section view of the exemplary hot box.

[00127] Figure 12 shows an alternative cross-section of the exemplary- hot box (from the back).

[00128] Figure 13 illustrates an exemplary " Cold Box" assembly.

[00129] Figure 14 illustrates a partial inside view of an exemplary cold box,

[00130] Figure 15 shows examples of concepts separated between the exemplary instrument configurations A (left) and B (right). [00131 ] Figure 16a illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary Instrument

A (macro reactor),

[00132] Figure 16b illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary Instrument

A -Cold Box.

[00133] Figure 16c illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary Instrument

A -Hot Box,

[00134] Figure 17a illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary Instrument

B (macro and micro reactors).

[00135] Figure 17b illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary Instrument

B -Cold Box.

[00136] Figure 17c illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary Instrument

B -Hot Box.

[00137] Figure 18 illustrates an exemplary ¹⁸F-FLT Process Block

Diagram.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00138] To facilitate the understanding of the disclosed methods, systems and devices, the following provides a listing of terms and definitions that are used in the art of organic synthesis, engineering and pharmaceutical sciences.

[00139] The term "hot^" means radioactive. In various embodiments of the present invention, the term "hot" or "Hot'^" relates to the radioactive compounds, materials, processes and equipment affected by radiation and/or handling radiation,

[00140] The term "cold" or "Cold" means non-radioactive. In various embodiments of the present invention, the term "cold^" or "Cold" relates to the non-radioactive compounds, materials, processes and equipment not affected by radiation and/or handling radiation. [00141] The terms "device", '"apparatus", "system" and "instrument'^* are used interchangeably herein and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention.

[00142] The term "mini-cell" means a standard shielded enclosure for radiochemistry modules. Typically, there are no windows or manipulators and such enclosure was previously designed to host one synthesis module. Typical dimensions are 27x20x 16. Another example of the mini-cell disclosed herein relates to the width of about 27 inches, depth of about 20 inches and height of about 24 inches.

[00143] "Macro reactor" is a conventional glass reactor, the volume of which is typically from about 5 to about 20 mJL

[00144] A "chip" or "microfluidic device" or "microfluidic chip" or

"synthesis chip" is a unit or device that permits the manipulation and transfer of small amounts of liquid (e.g., microliters or nanoliters) into a substrate comprising micro-channels. The device may be configured to allow the manipulation of liquids, including reagents and solvents, to be transferred or conveyed within the micro channels and reaction chamber using mechanical or non-mechanical pumps. The device may be constructed using micro- electromechanical fabrication methods. Alternatively, the devices can be machined using computer numerical control (CNC) techniques. Examples of substrates for forming the device include glass, quartz or polymer. Such polymers may include PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate), PC

(polycarbonate), PDMS (polydimethyisiloxane), DCPD

(polydicyclopentadiene). PEEK(polyether ether ketone) and the like. Such devices may comprise columns, pumps, mixers, \ alves and the like.

Generally, the microfluidic channels or tubes (sometimes referred to as micro-channels or capillaries) have at least one cross-sectional dimension (e.g.. height, width, depth, diameter), which by the way of example, may range from approximately 1 ,000 μm to 10 μm. The micro-channels make it possible to manipulate extremely small volumes of liquid, for example on the order of nL to μL. The micro reactors may also comprise one or more reservoirs in fluid communication with one or more of the micro-channels, each reservoir having, for example, a volume of about 5 to about 1.000 μL, [00145] "Reaction chamber" (sometimes referred to as "reactor" or

"micro-reactor") refers to feature on the microfluidic chip (such as described here or for example in U.S. Serial No. 1 1/514,396, U.S. Ser. No. 1 1/540,344, or U.S. Ser. Ko. 1 1/701 ,917, each of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference) where the reactions may take place. The reaction chamber may, for example, be cylindrical in shape. The reaction chamber has one or more micro-channels connected to it that delivers reagents and/or solvents or are designed for product removal (e.g.. controlled by on-chip valves, or equivalent devices). For example, the reaction chamber may have a diameter to height ratio of greater than about 0.5 to 10, or more. For example, the reactor height may be about 25 micrometer to about 20,000 micrometers.

[00146] "Column" means a device that may be used to separate, purify and/or concentrate reactants and/or products. Such columns include, for example, ion exchange and affinity chromatography columns.

[00147] A "flow channel" or "channel" means a macro or a microfluidic or channel through which a fluid, solution, or gas may flow. For example, such channels may have a cross section of about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm. For example, the flow channels of embodiments of the present invention may also have a cross section dimension in the range of about 0.05 microns to about 1 ,000 microns. The particular shape and size of the flow channels depend on the particular application required for the reaction process, including the desired throughput, and may be configured and sized according to the desired application.

[00148] "Target water^" [ ¹⁸O] is H2O after bombardment with high- energy protons in a particle accelerator, such as a cyclotron. It contains

[ 18F|fluoride.

[00149] "Kryptofix'^" or "K222" is a tradename for commercially available cryptands. Cryptands are a family of synthetic bi- and polycyclic multidentate ligands for a variety of cations. These molecules are three dimensional analogues of crown ethers but are more selective and complex. The most common and most important cryptand is

N[ CH₂CH₂OCHCH₂OCH₂CH₂ ] ₃N. This compound is termed [2.2.2 Jctyptand where the numbers indicate the number of ether oxygen atoms (and hence binding sites) in each of the three bridges between the amine nitrogen "caps". Λli-amine cryptands exhibit particularly high affinity for alkali metal cations, which has allowed the isolation of salts of K⁺.

[00150] In one embodiment of the present invention, preparation of target water is achieved separately from the system disclosed herein. In one embodiment of the present invention, target water is supplied to the system from a cartridge; in another embodiment, from a pre-filled indiv idual vial.

[00151 ] A "valve" (or "micro- valve") means a device that may be controlled or actuated to control or regulate fluid, gas or solution flow among various components of the macro- or microfluidic device, including flow between flow channels, solvent or reagent reservoirs, reaction chamber, columns, manifold, temperature controlling elements and devices, and the like. For example, such valves may include mechanical (or micromechanical valves), (pressure activated) elastomeric valves, pneumatic valves, solid-state valves, and other valves adapted for a similar and/or equivalent function or purpose.

[00152] The term "RAD" means a unit of absorbed radiation dose or shorthand for "radioactive". Also in the flow charts (see, for example, Figures 16a, 16c, 17a, and 17c) disclosed herein, "RAD" defines radiation detectors.

[00153] The term '"AV" as shown in flow charts (see, for example,

Figures 16a, 16c. 17a. and 17c) and disclosed herein means an air valve. It can be, for example, a macro-valve.

[00154] The term "LV" as shown in flow charts (see. for example,

Figures 16a, 16c, 17a, and 17c) and disclosed herein means an liquid valve. It can be, for example, a macro- valve.

[00155] The term "DV" as shown in flow charts (see, for example,

Figures 16a. 16c, 17a, and 17c) and disclosed herein means a distribution valve. [00156] The term "RTV^" as shown in flow charts (see, for example.

Figures 16a, 16c, 17a. and 17c) and disclosed herein means a Rheodyne trapping valve.

[00157] The term '"RPA" as shown in flow charts (see, for example,

Figures 16a. 16c, 17a, and 17c) and disclosed herein means an on chip liquid valve. It can be, for example, a micro-valve.

[00158] The term "LPA" as shown in flow charts (see, for example.

Figures 16a, 16c, 17a, and 17c) and disclosed herein means an on-chip gas (vent) valve. It can be, for example, a micro-valve.

[00159] The term "LG" as shown in flow charts (see, for example.

Figures 16a, 16c, 17a. and 17c) and disclosed herein means a liquid/gas detector. Such detectors "sit" on the tubing and provide feedback regarding current tubing contents.

[00160] Examples of such valves may be found, for example, in U.S.

Patent Application No. 12/102,822, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[00161] An Interlocking Pig device ("pig") is, for example, a device that can be plugged into a socket on a self-shielded hot box 10 as shown in Figures 3 and 4 as component 32, forming a completely shielded path from pig to box for transferring materials through reagent inlets and/or outlets 40 by a movable socket 42 in and out of the pig without opening either the pig or the box and without any user exposure to radiation. A Peltier cooler, heater, or thermoelectric heat pump is a solid-state active heat pump which transfers heat from one side of the device to the other side against the temperature gradient (from cold to hot), with consumption of electrical energy. Such an instrument is also called a Peltier device, Peltier heat pump, solid state refrigerator, or thermoelectric cooler (TEC), Thermoelectric cooling uses the Peltier effect to create a heat flux between the junction of two different types of materials.

[00162] The term "radioactive isotope" refers to isotopes exhibiting radioactive decay (e.g., emitting positrons). Such isotopes are also referred to in the art as radioisotopes or radionuclides. Radioactive isotopes are named herein using various commonly used combinations of the name or symbol of the element and its mass number (e.g., 18F, [F-18J, fluorine- 18). Exemplary radioactive isotopes include 1- 124, F- 18, C- 1 1. N- 13. and O- 15, which have half-lives of approximately 4.2 days, 1 10 minutes, 20 minutes. 10 minutes, and 2 minutes, respectively.

[00163] The term "reactive precursor" or "precursor^" refers to an organic or inorganic non-radioactive molecule that is reacted with a radioactive isotope, typically by nucleophiiic substitution, electrophilic substitution, or ionic exchange, to form the radiopharmaceutical. The chemical nature of the reactive precursor depends upon the physiological process to be studied. Typically, the reactive precursor is used to produce a radiolabeled compound that selectively labels target sites in the body, including the brain, meaning the compound can be reactive with target sites in the subject and, where necessary, capable of transport across the blood- brain barrier. Exemplary organic reactive precursors include sugars, amino acids, proteins, nucleosides, nucleotides, small molecule pharmaceuticals, and derivatives thereof. One common precursor used in the preparation of ¹⁸F-FDG is 1.3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-2-0-trifluoromethanesulfonyl-β-D- mannopyranose. For example, ¹⁸F-FLT precursor is 3-/V-Boc-l-[5-O-(4.4'- dimethoxytrityl)-3-O-nosyl-2-deoxy-β-D-lyxofuranosyl]thymine.

[00164] The phrase "'reactor temperature" refers to a temperature observed, measured and/or maintained in the reaction chamber.

[00165] "Reaction time" refers to the time allowed for a reaction to run before the next step takes place.

[00166] The phrase "'reagent pressure " or "solvent pressure" refers to the pressure of a gas (usually an inert gas such as nitrogen or argon ) applied to a reagent or solvent vial that drives a reagent or solvent into a flow channel, e.g. on the way to the reaction chamber.

[00167] The phrase "time of reagent filling" or "time of solvent filling" refers to the time allowed for a reagent or solvent to enter the chip before the on-chip valve closes, thereby inhibiting passage of additional reagent or solvent into the reaction chamber. [00168] The term "evaporation" refers to the change in state of solvent from liquid to gas that is usually followed by removal of that gas from the reactor. One method for removing gas is effected by applying a vacuum. Various solvents are evaporated during the synthetic route disclosed herein, such as for example acetonitrile and water. For example, each solvent, such as acetonitrile and water, may have a different evaporation time and/or temperature.

[00169] In another embodiment of the present invention the evaporation takes place by heating the reaction chamber while introducing an inert gas over the reaction mixture to effect the removal of vapors from the reaction chambers.

[00170] In another embodiment of the present invention the evaporation can be affected by changes in pressure. For example, the evaporation can start under low pressure and end under high pressure or the evaporation can start under positive pressure and end under vacuum.

[00171 ] The term "elution" generally refers to removal of a compound from a particular location. Elution of [F- 18]fluoride from the ion exchange column refers to the conveyance of [F- 18]fluoride by the eluting solution from the column to the reaction chamber. Elution of product from the reaction chamber refers to conveyance of the product from the reaction chamber to the off-chip product vial (or into the purification system) by, for example, flushing the reaction chamber with a volume of solvent, e.g. water.

[00172] The "off/on time" in reference to the vacuum (or gas pressure) applied at a point in the system refers to the point in time of the

radiosynthesis operation when the vacuum (or gas pressure) is turned "on" or "off.

[00173] "Inert gas pressure", including ''nitrogen pressure" or "argon pressure" refers to pressure of inert gas, such as nitrogen or argon, allowed past a given regulator.

[00174] The phrase "internal filter" refers to a vial, a syringe or another container that is filled with absorbent material such as charcoal and comprises two ports. When the exhaust from the chip is passed through such a filter, radioactive and nonradioactive contaminants are generally caught by and stay on the filter. After passage of the reaction exhaust through an internal filter purified gas is released into the atmosphere. Use of an appropriate internal filter reduces or even eliminates the need for an additional exhaust processing for safe operation of the portable system. In one embodiment, it is not necessary to operate the portable system disclosed herein in a fume hood,

[00175] The term "priming" when used in reference to a reagent flow channel refers to conveying a reagent through the flow channel connecting the reagent source and the reaction chamber, wherein the reagent flow passes a closed on-chip valve and flows via an open flow channel to a waste receptacle. In this fashion, when the reagent is to be added to the reaction chamber, the corresponding on-chip valve is opened and pneumatic actuation conveys the reagent from the primed flow channel into the reaction chamber with minimal delay.

[00176] In the alternative, when a flow channel is not primed, the reagent must travel the length of the flow channel from the reagent source to the reaction chamber, displacing the gas in that path through the reaction chamber and an open vent channel on the synthesis chip. This can lead to losses of reagents or solvents, which is avoided by priming the flow channel. Analogously, when appropriate, the term 'priming' can be used in reference to a solvent flow channel. An alternative priming technique involves moving the reagent from the reagent vial up to the reactor while displacing the gas out of the line in front of the reagent into the waste but not letting the reagent go to waste (accomplished with a 3-way valve mounted on interface base). When the reagent is needed ion the reactor, this valve is switched to deliver the entire volume (not a fraction) of reagent to the reactor with minimal delay and without pushing gas through the reactor.

[00177] The phrase "pre-packaged disposable reagent cartridge" or

"reagent cartridge" refers to an apparatus or device designed to fit removably and interchangeably into or onto an automated system described herein. The reagent(s) held within the cartridge, after fitting the cartridge into the system described herein, can be convejed to the chip or reactor or reaction chamber. When appropriate for the preparation of a radiolabeled compound, the reagent cartridge may contain solvents as well as reagents. Alternately, solvents may be provided separately from the reagents. Reagent kits may comprise various number and type of reagent cartridges.

[00178] Various prototype components of the system described herein are disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US2008/060267 published as WO 2008/128201 and U.S. Patent Applications Nos.12/01 1.220 and 12/102,822, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[00179] The present invention (one embodiment of which is illustrated in Figure 1 ) relies on an instrument which is split into two separate units: a "hot box", for example. 10, which contains all radiation-handling components, and a separate "cold box^'' such as, for example, 12 containing all electronics, reagents and pumps (everything that does not handle radiation directly). The two units are connected via an approximately 20-feet bundle of cables and tubing 14. The bundle of cables and tubing connecting the "hot" and "cold" boxes is equipped with a Safety Radiation Detector (shown as part 272 in Fig. 17c).

[00180] The hot box can be either encased in its own shield (as shown in Figure 3). or can be placed into a mini cell with optional additional hot boxes (as shown in Figure 1 ). Either option allows protection of electronics from radiation and remote access to reagents without user exposure. Also the footprint of the instrument occupying shielded area is minimized such that one can fit 3 instruments such as, for example, three copies of instrument 10 in one mini-cell 16 side by side. The instrument is designed such that escape of RAM out of the hot box is not possible during normal operation. And for the cases of abnormal operation, there is an automated response system which stops all transfers if an unwanted release is detected. It is conceivable that one cold box such as 12 can be used to control multiple hot boxes such as 10.

[00181 ] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to dual module "Hot Box - Cold Box" Instrument (Figure 2). As shown in Figure 2, the hot box 10, can be a self-shielded unit containing all radiation- handling components. The cold box 20 comprises a liquid handling components 21 , a PC 22. an HPLC pump 23, and a compartment 24 containing reagent bottles 25 on the outside and all electronic components inside (not shown here, but shown as part 26 in Figure 14), An alternative view of the cold box is shown on Figure 13 and a partial inside view of an exemplary cold box is shown in Figure 14. Figure 14 shows liquid handling components 21, HPLC pump 23, and electronic components 26, protected by front and back covers of compartment 24. As shown on Figure 3, the micro- cell shield 30 is equipped with an interlocking pig device 32 (shown in more detail in Figure 4). which is used for delivery of raw isotope to the hot box 10 and to collect the product from the hot box without user exposure. When using such device in order to transfer activity, the user does not need to open the pig or the shield.

[00182] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to

"Cold Box" containing electronic equipment and non-radioactive reagents (Figures 13 and 14), and which is easy in exploitation and safe to the user.

[00183] Other embodiments are directed to the following features of the present invention:

[00184] Ion exchange column (an example of which is shown as component 210 in Figure 17c). Most frit materials lead to either clogging of frits or significant variation in back pressure, or retention of F- 18 fluoride. The current invention resolves this by using frits made out of glass. They provide low flow resistance and do not clog. The use of glass frits on ion- exchange columns allows uniform pore size, inertness and robustness unlike metals, PEEK, PE and other traditional choices,

[00185] Trapping/release of F- 18 fluoride. During release K₂CO₃ solution is passed through the column, As it enters the column the back pressure is low, but extra pressure needs to be generated behind the release solution in order to push it through the column. The solution comes out of the column slowly, but as soon as the last portion of liquid is out, the back pressure vents through the column accelerating the solution towards the chip rapidly. In order to avoid rapid uncontrolled entrance of the release solution into the chip, an expansion tube was added to the instrument. This is about 6- feet and about 0.030" ID line placed between the column and the chip. The release solution travels rapidly through this tube until the back pressure has been released (which happens before the solution reaches the chip.) Then the Loop valve controlling I/E column is switched from Release to Trap and more gas is dispensed into this line. But this time it does not have to go through the column and overcome its resistance. It can drive the release solution into the chip in a controlled manner (by dispensing a known volume of gas at a known rate with a syringe).

[00186] Whether or not the expansion tube is used, some F- 18 usually remains in the plumbing between the column and chip, and some even on the column. In order to maximize the use of F- 18, the new instrument as described herein sends the K222 solution behind K₂CO₃ through the same lines and I/E column to mop up the remaining F- 18. (In the earlier systems K222 was added to the reactor through its own dedicated line. In some macro reactors K222 and K₂CO₃ solutions are mixed prior to release, which significantly impairs the efficiency of release and requires large volumes.)

[00187] Chip: An exemplary chip assembly is shown as a part of the hot box assembly in Figure 5a (component 228, as also shown in Figure 17c) and as a separate component in Figure 6. Unwanted loss of liquids into the vent during drying or filling is now prevented with a vertical step coupled with a ring arrangement of posts on the ceiling 71 of a chip lid 70 (Figure 7a). Figure 7a shows the inverted lid 70 with features on the ceiling 71 that prevent escape of liquids into the vent ports by surface tension. These provide barriers for liquid on its way to the vent ports that are stopping this liquid by surface tension. The liquid needs certain threshold velocity in order to overcome a 90-degree corner, which is much higher than that necessary to move liquid along a flat surface. This lid chip may be made of glass, Teflon ^IM AF, Ultem, pDCPD or other inert and at least partially transparent material. Non-transparent materials may also be used, but they may reduce visual monitoring of reactor contents. Some of the part of the exemplary microreactor assembly (also part 228 in Figure 17c) are shown in Figure 6: 8 chip actuators 60 (some partial view only), 3 plungers 76 (some not shown). microfluidic chip having lid frame 70 and interface base 77 (other parts not shown), and shield for Radiation detector (not shown). Chip assembly 228 can be also seen in Figure 1 1. also showing the location of a chip heater 1 100.

[00188] UV signal: In order to minimize space and cost, the expensive

UV light source coupled to the flow cell via an optic fiber has been replaced with an LED of a given wavelength connected directly to the flow cell. In another embodiment of the present invention a variable-wavelength UV light source is coupled to the flow cell via fiber optics.

[00189] Bypass plungers. Bypass plungers 76 (Figure 7b) have a tendency to clog the priming lines. Since priming involves using excess solutions, loss of 10- 100 μL of these solutions (solvents, acid, base) does not have a large impact. The on-chip valves are 2-way valves and the interface base is equipped with SMC (or other) 3-way liquid valves that are used for priming (Figure 7b). Figure 7b shows a new interface base 77 (also shown in Figure 9) allowing off-chip priming of reagents close to chip. On-chip priming can be used in order to avoid the need to move massive amounts of gas in front of reagents through a partially filled reactor (see part 90 in Figure 9). While the current invention involves moving gas in front of liquid, that volume is minimal (5-20 μL) and constant every time because the long multi- foot lines are primed with liquid.

[00190] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the chip comprising soft plunger tips in it that mate to metal plungers that stay permanently within the instrument. Such soft plunger tips are multi-use consumables.

[00191 ] Dryness monitoring. Reactor dryness can be monitored by a flow meter (shown as part 122 in Figure 17b). If the flow meter is placed in a gas line upstream of the chip, the user will watch for the flow rate to increase once the chip is free of solvent vapors. If the flow meter is placed downstream of the chip, the user will watch for the flow to decrease once the vapors are gone.

[00192] Material. pDCPD tends to acquire brown color after just a few runs with acid or high amounts of radiation. TeleneC!) pDCPD is a polymer based on polydicyclopentadiene (PDCPD), Besides, going ro glass chips, it is also possible to extend the lifetime of pDCPD chips by parylene coating, Parylene is the tradename for a variety of chemical vapor deposited poly(p- xylene) polymers used as moisture barriers and electrical insulators. Among them, Parylene C is the most popular due to its combination of barrier properties, cost, and other manufacturing advantages. Parylene is a green chemistry, which is self-initiated (no initiator needed) and un-teraiinated (no termination group needed) w ith no solvent or catalyst required. The precursor. [2.2]paracyclophane, yields 100% monomer and initiator and does not yield any by-products. Parylene C and to a lesser extent AF-4, SF, HT (all the same polymer) are used for coating printed circuit boards (PCBs) and medical devices. There are numerous other applications as parylene is an excellent moisture barrier. It is the most bio-accepted coating for stents, defibrillators, pacemakers and other devices permanently implanted into the body.

[00193] Chip exchange. The chip can be supplied with plunger tips inserted into it but without plungers. The plungers are a permanent fixture on the instrument. When the chip is inserted they are retracted and then actuated to "pick up" the new tips inside the chip. This reduces the cost of chips and simplifies chip exchange (each plunger does not need to be aligned with a corresponding " fork").

[00194] While conventional techniques applied heat transfer material to the top of the heater before inserting the chip, such process requires perfect alignment of the chip at all times during its insertion in order to avoid contamination of the interface with the heat transfer material or paste. A solution to this problem can be realized by using a syringe to dispense a precise amount of paste into the counter bore of the chip prior to insertion. That surface is unlikely to come in contact with anything other than the heater (and only at the final moment of chip insertion). It allows for aligning the chip as necessary during insertion without contamination,

[00195 ] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the chip with pre-dispensed heat-transfer compound that cannot be accidentally smeared and cause contamination. The chip has a pocket which mates with the heater protrusion. Rather than placing the heat transfer material on the protrusion (where it can easily get smeared) the present invention places it within the pocket (hard to reach) where it is safe from contamination.

[00196] Chips can be pre-aligned manually or by an alignment device.

Alternatively, there may be a self-aligning system where the non-aligned chip is aligned as it is inserted into the instrument. Also, it is possible to have a chip container (for shipment and storage) which either preserves the alignment, or even aligns a non-aligned chip.

[00197] Glass- PEEK chip. Polyether ether ketone (PEEK) is an organic polymer thermoplastic used in engineering applications. Whereas earlier applications mentions glass-PEEK arrangements, it does not show how to realize such an invention in case when valves are required in the chip lid. This arrangement requires an exemplary frame 80 to be split into 2 parts 81 and 82 which sandwich the chip 83 between them and seal with it via 2 o- rings 84 (the two parts are bolted together to hold the chip (Figure 8a and 8b). An alternative solution is to use the bolts that hold the chip down to create the seal. In order to realize this, the ports coming out of the glass part have to be vertical and reach the top surface outside the window necessary for viewing. Then the frame can be bolted down on top of the glass and seal vertically. This makes frame one piece, which leads to a more uniform sealing. Another exemplary full chip assembly including interference base 77, microfluidic reactor 90, glass Hd 70, 2 o-rings 92, and lid frame 94 are shown in Figure 9.

[00198] Method of evaporation. The evaporation is fast when the solution touches the heated floor of the reactor, and slow at the last stages when the condensation has to be removed from the ceiling. Best evaporation method involves low pressure in the beginning (in order not to suppress heat- driven evaporation). Once the liquid is off the reactor floor the pressure can go up and drive evaporation off the ceiling forward by high flow.

[00199] Release solution. A tube filled with multiple slugs of K₂CO₃ followed by a pre-measured amount of K222 can be used as a consumable in every run. This removes 2 syringes from the system, assures repeatability and simplifies the process. This tube is loaded off-instrument and replaces the corresponding reagent vials (which cannot host multiple 1 -μL fractions of solution),

[00200] As shown in Figure 14, HPLC pump is a part of the cold box.

It handles only solvents (large volume, non-reactive entities).

[00201] According to one of the embodiments of the present invention, one cold box may run multiple hot boxes. Previously, even when the HPLC pump was placed outside the radiation-handling equipment it was not configured to support multiple sets of "hot" purification systems.

[00202] As shown in Figure 12, the back side of the hot box 10 has a panel 2100 of outlets and /or inlets connecting the cold box to the hot box via lines 1 - 17 ( 18, 19 -spare), ports 2102 for electrical connections, port 2104 for house air, Ethernet port 2106. From this view, an HPLC radiation detector 270 and multiple liquid valves 2108 (LVs, such as 207, 246. etc.). and the micro reactor 251 can be seen.

[00203] Previously reagents have been typically handled inside the same unit handling radiation-related components. The instrument as disclosed herein represents a new feature, where radiation-handling components are located in the separate hot box and non-radiation-related components are combined in the cold box, wherein the hot and cold boxes are coupled via a bundle of cables and tubing. It has not been previously shown that the entire synthesis instrument alone (not just without

purification) can be split into the stand alone hot and cold units connected by cables and tubing .

[00204] Furthermore, the instrument as disclosed herein is distinguished from the instruments with "localized shielding" (compartments of one instrument are individually shielded within such instrument). Localized shielding does not allow high-scale runs. Splitting the instrument into two units and placing the hot box into a mini-cell allows multiple high-scale runs without user exposure to radiation.

[00205] It has been discovered that breaking up the release solution into multiple boluses increases the efficiency of release. If one bolus is sent through t tube packed w ith glass beads, the train of multiple boluses separated by air bubbles comes out the other end. No valves or syringes are required to achieve this. Same volume of release solution works much more efficiently if it is broken into several gas-separated droplets (boluses) than as one continuous bolus. It releases more F- 18 off the column. It has been discovered that a single bolus can be broken into multiple (irregular but still just as effective) boluses by passing it through a column of packed glass beads with no valves since the liquid picks up air bubbles stuck between the beads. The important factor is the number of gas/liquid interfaces rather than the uniformity of boluses.

[00206] Embodiments of the present invention allow multiple sequential high activity mini-cell-based runs with the benefits that are typically realized with low activity self-shielded runs in previous devices.

[00207] Embodiments of the present invention draw extra advantages from parallel processing. For example, a reagent may be primed while evaporation is ongoing.

[00208] One of the embodiments of the present invention is directed to a self-shielded instrument where the entire hot box is encased into a shield and there is no shielding required for the cold box, which is a separate unit connected to the hot box via a bundle of cables and tubing. The instrument comprises two or more units. The instrument according to one of the embodiments of the present invention is also conceptually different from the instruments with 'localized shielding" which implies shielded compartments within one instrument,

[00209] In case of leaks out of the chip, the new invention protects the

Peltier device by a special basin for collecting unwanted liquid on top of it.

[00210] One of the embodiments of the present invention relates to the instrument capable of handling the entire process from target water to purified injectable product which fits into a hot cell. Most of the users prefer to use mini-cells. Commercial macro-scale instruments can be small enough to fit into mini cells in a one-to-one arrangement. This invention allows a three-to-one arrangement where three instruments can simultaneously share one mini-cell. [0021 1 ] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a self-shielded version allowing practical operation, which is safe for the user for about 500 mCi or less. The self-shielded hot box removed from the user becomes suitable for higher scales.

[00212] The self-shielded instrument of the present invention allows multiple runs without user exposure since the starting materials, solvent and other reagents are removed from the synthesis unit and are shielded from the radiation-handling components. Previously known instruments operated in a hot cell are the one-run instruments because in order to refill the reagents between runs, the user needs to enter the hot cell and receive a dose of radiation.

[00213] According to one of the embodiments of the present invention, electronic components (such as data acquisition boards) do not have to be replaced as frequently as they do not suffer damage from radiation as was previously seen with self-standing radiosynthesis systems. All electronic components are placed into the cold box unit of the instrument, which is moved about 20 feet from the unit operated in a hot cell (with large amounts of activity).

[00214] According to another embodiment, the instrument of the present invention overcomes the following drawbacks of the earlier introduced radiosynthesis devices:

[00215] The chips are susceptible to loss of liquid into the vents under certain conditions (which are abnormal, but occasionally possible).

[00216] Although release of F- 18 from the ion exchange column is very efficient, a measurable amount of it (5- 10%) may be lost in transit from column to chip.

[00217] The latter solution may enter the chip at different

(uncontrollable) rates as it emerges out of the ion exchange column under pressure.

[00218] Bypass plungers are prone to occlusion of priming pathways after several uses. This leads to over pressurized lines and instrument failure, [00219] In case of chip seal failure, the liquid escaping out of the chip runs down the heater block and into the Peltier unit causing it to bum out.

[00220] One of the most significant problems with previous systems was that when performing multiple high scale runs, the self-shielded unit (although designed for multiple runs) could only handle approximately 500 mCi of radiation and could not be placed inside a mini-cell for high activity runs because that would enclose the reagents inside the mini-cell and damage the electronics.

[00221] In order to address these issues the instrument according to various embodiments of the present invention, has been designed conceptually different.

[00222] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a device for automated radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound, comprising a self-shielded "hot box" with a macro reactor and a "cold box" containing the reagents' sources in fluid communication with the macro reactor, a gas and fluid delivery and removal network, and a controller adapted to control the operation of the network. An exemplary macro reactor 251 (see Figures

1 1 and 12) is also shown in Figure 10 as having a reaction chamber 1000, macro heater 1002, and radiation detector sensor 1004 (other parts are not referenced in this figure).

[00223] In another embodiment, the system further comprises a camera for monitoring a reaction chamber within the microfluidic chip or macro reactor.

[00224] According to another embodiment, the device further comprises a Machine Vision system adapted to recognize the completion of one or more steps in accordance with information received from the camera 50 (see an exemplary camera assembly in. for example, Figures 5a and 5b ) In one embodiment, a second step is started upon immediate completion of a first step,

[00225] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device is configured to operate in a batch mode. [00226] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument comprising a system of two or more valves that can send any reagent to any location (see. for example, Figures 5a and 17c and Table I b. parts 255 and 257). The system can use at least from about 2 to 20 various reagents, which can be delivered to any of at least 2-20 receiving locations (valves, vials, reservoirs, reactors, etc.). Various custom designs can incorporate more than 20 reagents and more than 20 locations for processing such reagents.

[00227] In another embodiment, the controller comprises a

programmable logic controller and a user interface. In one embodiment, the user interface is configured to affect at least one of a manual and an automatic operation of the device.

[00228] According to another embodiment, the device further comprises one or more internal filters for removal of exhaust.

[00229] In another embodiment, the self-shielding of the radiation- handling unit prevents user exposure to radiation in multiple synthesis runs conducted by the user.

[00230] In another embodiment, the device further comprises metering of reagents. Some reagents supplied in bulk (like solvents) are metered by metering pumps (see. for example Figure 17b and Table 1 a, parts 128. 130, 132), which deliver a specified fraction of a large total volume loaded onto the instrument.

[00231 ] In another embodiment the instrument is equipped with zero- waste fixtures (ZWF). Zero waste fixtures deliver pre-metered reagents where the entire amount loaded onto the box gets into the reactor.

[00232] A further embodiment of the present invention is related to a method for conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in an instrument comprising two separate units: a "cold" unit and a remote "hot" unit, which are connected with a bundle of cables and tubing (i.e., an umbilical of wires and tubing). [00233] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method where all reagents are driven from cold box to hot box before F- 18 delivery and are ready to be dispensed into the reactor right next to the reactor. This is not the case even in modules with onboard reagents without the "cold box". The reagents have to travel through the fluid network of channels to get from their reservoirs to the reactor.

[00234] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method of passing K222 solution behind K₂CO₃ solution to maximize F- 18 transfer from ion exchange column into reactor.

[00235] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of releasing [F- 18 ] fluoride from the ion exchange column with a fraction of aqueous K₂CO₃ followed by a mixture of K₂CO₃ and K222 in H₂O and MeCN mixture of solvents.

[00236] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of increasing the efficiency of the F-18 release comprising passing the solution bolus through a tube packed with glass beads to provide a train of multiple boluses,

[00237] In another embodiment, the present invention relates to the release of [F- 18]fluoride from ion exchange column with a single fraction of K₂CO₃ followed by K222.

[00238] According to another embodiment of the present invention, release of [F- 18 (fluoride from ion exchange column with a fraction of aqueousK₂CO₃ is followed by a mixture of K₂CO₃ and K222 in H₂O and MeCN mixture of solvents,

[00239] In another embodiment of the present invention, the method of releasing [F- 18jfluoride from ion exchange column with a fraction of aqueous, K₂CO₃ followed by a mixture of K₂CO₃ and K222 in H₂O and MeCN mixture of solvents is used when the multiple bolus-generating method is not suitable. [00240] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method for F- 18 release using multiple fractions of eluent This method is more efficient than when using a single fraction.

[00241] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method of F- 18 elution involving release direction and trapping direction being opposite. Most F-18 is trapped at the beginning of the column, so if it is released in the same direction, it will have to equilibrate along the entire column before being finally released. If released in reverse, it comes right off the end, maximizing the total percentage of released F- 18 with the same volume of release reagent. The said reagent may comprise carbonates (CO₃- ), which include, but are not limited to sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃), potassium carbonate (K₂CO₃). cesium carbonate (CS₂CO3), and trialkyl ammonium carbonates, and phase transfer reagents, which include, but are not limited to Kryptofix 2.2.2, crown ethers, and tetraalkyl ammonium salts.

[00242] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of loading HPLC injection loop by moving liquids with pressure (not a syringe), which is enabled by specific positioning of liquid-gas interface detectors,

[00243] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of conducting multiple runs comprising radiosyntheses of different products without opening shielded enclosures.

[00244] Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to the instrument capable of carrying out an unlimited number of radiosynthesis runs without user exposure. This is assured by "no consumable single-use components" inside the "hot box". An exemplary version of the instrument has 20 SP cartridges (see. for example, Figure 1 1. cartridges 256 ) meaning that 20 runs is the limit. However, another exemplary version of the instrument has a newly discovered "cleanable Solid Phase Extractor (SPE)". The concept of a cleanabie and reusable SPE allows the elimination the last single-use component. In previous instruments all hardware elements and components, such as, for example, SPEs, ion-exchange columns, filters, and others are consumables, meaning require replacement of service after each run. [00245] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument with no single use consumables, meaning that all "consumables" can be used for an unlimited number of runs.

|(X)246J Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument, where the hot box comprises a reusable Solid Phase Extractor (SPE) and a reusable Ion Exchange (I/E) Column.

[00247] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the cold box containing all system-controlling hardware.

[00248] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument as described herein, with a reagent-loading system relying on a pre-loaded tube with multiple reagents separated by air pockets, such as, for example. K₂CO₃ and K222. Additionally, other combinations are possible, including loading the entire reagent set into one tube and preventing the reagents from mixing with each other by separating them with air pockets.

[00249] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument capable of parallel syntheses of multiple tracers (not parallel cleaning and operation, but making several compounds at the same time).

[00250] It has to be noted that there is a difference between a standalone mini-cell based instrument and a self-shielded instrument. Unless the mini cell is plumbed directly to the cyclotron with a shielded path, it is difficult to deliver isotope to the instrument without user exposure. (In some setups that do not have cyclotrons, but have hot labs, people are subjected to exposure when they need to get the isotope into the hot cell). In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the self shielded instrument comprises a plug-in pig device, w hich is used to bring activity into the system without opening any part of it and thus, with zero user exposure.

|fX)251 ) Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of avoiding radiolysis during the radiosynthesis process. Radiolysis is chemical decomposition of material in presence of radiation.

Traditionally, radiolysis is proportional to concentration (high at high concentrations), and it is known to use stabilizers such as ascorbic acid to reduce rddiolysis of the desired products. [00252] According to one of the embodiments of the present invention, the instrument is designed to minimize the time the product spends in a concentrated solution. The solution is dilute up to the point it gets onto the I/E column. When it enters the reactor, the reactions occur rapidly and then the reaction mixture is diluted to a safe concentration. The time in concentrated solution can be minimized by operating the process inside a microfluidic chip,

[00253] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of bringing all reagents into the reactor via one line as well as bringing all reagents from the cold box to the hot box through the same line.

[00254] In particular, embodiments of the present invention relate to a fully-automated synthesis of biomarkers, or radiolabeled pharmaceuticals, for positron emission tomography (PET). Some of the advantages associated with the various embodiments of the present invention include, for example, the ability to synthesize compounds on demand and in a flexible manner. Other advantages of the various embodiments of the present invention include the ability to synthesize multiple products sequentially or at the same time without user exposure to radiation between the runs (which is inevitable in conventional systems).

[00255] The presently disclosed system can contain mechanisms to add additional reagent modules, additional waste modules, and additional synthesis modules to allow the system to be used for different biomarkers simultaneously. Alternatively, the basic system can be used for sequential synthesis of different biomarkers involving the same or different number and order of steps. The instrument may be reused without hardware

modifications, or with single-use cartridges that are pre-loaded with reagents and/or solvents for a single run. This ease of use enables tremendous flexibility in a research environment or in specialized clinical situations, where on-demand synthesis of biomarkers is needed, such as when several patients in the same day require different scans performed with different biomarkers.

[00256] One embodiment of the present invention is directed to an automated instrument that is easy to use and flexible. As such, the sy stem enables non-experts to synthesize a variety of PET biomarkers on demand for biomarker development, synthesis-optimization, and testing. In another embodiment, the present invention provides an instrument that can be deployed in hospitals further from cyclotrons than is currently possible. The presently disclosed embodiments of devices enable synthesis of fresh product on demand as contrasted to the decayed products associated with

conventional systems that require delivery from a centralized (and perhaps distant) synthesis facility. This type of on-site instrument greatly expands the accessibility of PET scanning to additional clinics, patients and research labs, and provides additional flexibility in obtaining desired biomarkers (with high specific activity) that goes beyond what is available from the local

radiopharmacy. Furthermore, it allows multiple tracers to be produced in one day with one instrument.

[00257] In one embodiment, automated systems disclosed herein include those which comprise a disposable reagent cartridge. Using such a cartridge has a number of advantages including simplified set-up, rapid change between production runs, pre-run automated diagnostic checking of the cartridge and reagents, reagent traceability, single-use, tamper and abuse resistance. Substitution of a reagent cartridge eliminates the need to design an entirely new automated synthetic system each time a different

radiopharmaceutical is to be prepared. The system described herein allows cartridge exchange without opening the shield and exposing the user to radiation (unlike current commercial systems). Such cartridges or kits can be used with the cold box. They allow quick and fail-safe preparation for runs. A kit is defined herein as a set of reagents. A cartridge is defined herein as a plug-in cassette (hardware) that contains all the reagents and sometimes reagent paths in it.

[00258] Suitable heat sources for use in the synthetic systems disclosed herein include, but are not limited to, resistive heating, localized and non- localized microwave heating and Peltier devices,

[00259] In one of the embodiment of the present invention, the heat source is a Peltier device. Additionally, in case of leaks out of the chip. Peltier device of the present invention is protected by a special basin for collecting unwanted liquid on top of it.

[00260] Various sensors for example, flow sensors, liquid-gas interface sensors, radioactivity sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and other sensing devices that are capable of performing the desired sensing function and other apparatus components (e.g., valves, switches, etc.) can be integrated into the system and connected to a computer or processing module for process control and monitoring purposes.

[00261 ] The synthetic systems disclosed herein comprise macro and microfluidic synthesis reactors (see, for example Figures 10 and 6), in which, for example, reagents are mixed and heated, solvents are exchanged, to carry out the desired chemical process.

[00262] In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a self- shielded fully-automated radiosynthesis instrument based on batch-mode macro and microfluidic device.

[00263] Instruments and systems as described herein when used for radiochemical synthesis allow biomarkers as well as other compounds and compositions to be made with higher efficiency. Such devices enable production of new biomarkers allowing multi-run syntheses to be performed in one hot mini-cell, where each hot box may be functioning in parallel with the other or according to an individually selected protocol. Such

arrangements enable the researchers to perform rapid optimizations of reaction conditions.

[00264] The present invention is directed to the system where a typical mini-cell comprises more than one unit, each equipped to carry out a radiosynthetic protocol including synthesis, purification and formulation procedures. This feature distinguishes the system disclosed herein from other systems on the market, which offer three units per mini-cell, w here only one of the three would do only synthesis, one - only purification and one- only formulation. None of the units is configured to carry out all three processes if needed. (For example, synthesis unit does not have HPLC capabilities, and purification unit is not equipped with a reactor). [00265] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument where different processes can take place in individual hot boxes within the mini-cell at the same time. Intermediate purification with a single reactor (for example, reactor is cleaned while the intermediate is purified). The system allows cleaning of certain parts within the box while still using other parts (for example, synthesis and purification),

[00266] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the instrument capable of adjusting preset protocols and procedures. The software allows tuning and adjustment of the initial protocol based on live feedback such as pressure, flow, temperature, radiation or color detection,

[00267] The various embodiments of the present invention describe fully automated radiosynthesis {e.g. from target water to purified product in an injectable formulation) to take place in a single instrument run in a fully automated {e.g.. one touch) manner, or allowing individual step control. The various example embodiments disclosed herein can be used for either discovery and/or production of known biomarkers in an automated mode, as well as for development of new biomarkers in a mode with individual step control.

[00268] A more detailed description of the reagent flow and delivery mechanism, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, is described herein in connection with Figures 16 and 17.

Implementation of these schemes in the instrument allows priming of all reagents, delivery of reagents to the reactor, collection of products and running multiple reaction cycles intermittent with cleaning cycles. An exemplary Instrument A (macro reactor only) operation, comprising cold and hot boxes is shown in Figure 16. An exemplary Instrument B (micro and macro reactors) operation, comprising cold and hot boxes is shown in Figure 17. In Figures 16a. 16b. 16c, 17a, 17b, and 17c lines 1 - 17 exemplify the flow lines or tubing connecting corresponding components of the cold and hot boxes. Figures 16b and 17b are the separate illustrations of the cold boxs of the corresponding instruments A and B, where uploading of reagents and preparation for their delivery into hot box takes place. Figures 16c and 17c show the flow charts or a diagrams of the hot boxs of the corresponding exemplary instruments A and B , where the reagents are being delivered to and processed according to the desired radiosynthesis protocol,

[00269] The systems disclosed herein have demonstrated significant yield and reaction time improvements, particularly over conventional chemistry.

[00270 ] One exemplary system automates the chip operation through a

Visual Basic program and PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). The automation process also provides automated product isolation capability.

[00271 ] The hardware disclosed herein can be controlled using various electronic hardware instrumentations and devices. For example, a PC- 104 based system may be used with 16 analog inputs, 10 analog outputs, 8 digital inputs, and 48 digital outputs. The controller can run, for example, embedded Windows-NT software that communicates via an Ethernet connection to a standard PC running the F1X32 automation software, an automation language that allows simple construction of graphical interfaces to visualize what is happening in the hardware and to control the various valves and other components. The interface may allow various modes of operation such as fully-automated, manual, or step-wise operations.

[00272] In one embodiment, the control software may access individual digital outputs {e.g., 2-way and 3-way valves, on-chip valves, temperature control system, heater enable, cooler enable, vacuum system, rotary injector, and other system components) and analog outputs (e.g., temperature set point, and other outputs). Analog inputs (e.g., reactor temperature, vent channel pressure, radiation levels) may be scaled to engineering units for monitoring on the main screen.

[00273] In addition to the interactive graphical interface described herein, dozens of scripts automate the process steps described herein. Each subprogram may perform a sequence of simple operations such as changing the state of a valve, waiting for a fixed amount of time, or waiting for particular value of an input (e.g. heating until the reactor reaches a specified temperature). The system in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention is capable of repeatably producing purified human -scale amounts of¹⁸ F-FLT and other materials, which include, by way of example, FHBG, Fallypride, and FMiso, in an automated fashion (the steps in the radiosynthesis are initiated with a single button on the computer screen).

[00274] Another embodiment of the present invention involves a program code embodied on a computer-readable medium, the program code comprising instructions for causing a controller to implement a method for radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound using a microfluidic chip or a macro reactor, the method comprising introducing one or more reagents into a reaction chamber of a chip or macro reactor, operating the synthesis system to process the reagent(s) responsive to a predetermined algorithm to generate a radiolabeled compound, and collecting the radiolabeled compound.

[00275] In another embodiment the entire process starting with radionuclide received from the cyclotron and finishing with a purified product in an injectable formulation is performed automatically without user intervention.

[00276] In a fully-automated system, the needed reaction times may be optimized, and a simple script, for example, in FIX32, may be written to execute all the operations in sequence. A working example may involve automated unit operations, such as filling, which in turn involve multiple sub- steps. The "unit operation" scripts may be designed to be "parameterized". That is, in a single place, an operator may set the flow times, reaction times, and heating temperatures. The automated script may then read ail the information and adjusts the synthesis run accordingly. The automated operation may be also be initiated, for example, by a simple user click on a 'start' icon that is part of the user interface. The systems in accordance with embodiments of the present invention provide a fully automated hands free operation of the entire radiosynthesis cycle on a microfluidic device or macro reactor yielding purified PET radiotracer.

[00277 ] In another embodiment, the instrument comprises internal filters which enable operation without any additional exhaust and doesn't require a fume hood. [00278] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the hardware disclosed herein may be controlled using a PC, a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), and a Software control program written in Visual Basic, The PLC may control all of the I/O in the instrument using, analog inputs and outputs, relay outputs, digital inputs and outputs, and a Ladder Logic program. The standard PC, using, for example, a Visual Basic control software, may control the PLC and precision pumps using serial communication. This provides a very detailed graphical interface allowing visualization of what is happening in the hardware, and controlling the various valves, pumps, heaters and other components. The interface may also allow various modes of operation such as fully-automated, semi- automated, and manual,

[00279] In accordance with an example embodiment, in the Manual mode of operation, the control software may allow individual control of all of the components and processes in the instrument through button clicks and text input from the User Interface screen.

[00280] In accordance with an example embodiment, in the Semi-

Automated mode of operation, various subroutines adapted for automated control of various processes such as. Initializing, Priming, Filling,

Evaporation, Hydrolysis, Fluorination, and others may be used. Also, each of the automated steps may allow for particular values of input (e.g.

temperature, pressure, flow rate, volume, and time).

[00281 ] In accordance with another embodiment, in the fully-automated mode of operation, the systems provide a fully automated hands free operation of the entire radiosynthesis cycle on a microfluϊdic device or macro reactor yielding purified PET radiotracer products, with the click of a single button. The desired reaction values may be input at the start of the reaction, if desired. That is, the default values may be changed, and an operator mayset the flow times, reaction times, temperatures, pressures and volumes before starting the reaction. The automated script may then read all the information and adjust the synthesis run accordingly. [00282] The general computer system includes a processing device, a system memory, a system bus coupling the system memory to the processing device, a storage device, such as a hard disk drive, a magnetic disk drive, e.g., to read from or write to a removable magnetic disk, and an optical disk drive, e.g., for reading a CD-ROM disk or to read from or write to other optical media. The storage device may be connected to the system bus by a storage device interface, such as a hard disk drive interface, a magnetic disk drive interface and an optical drive interface. Although this description of computer-readable media refers to a hard disk, a removable magnetic disk and a CD-ROM disk, it should be appreciated that other types of media that are readable by a computer system and that are suitable to the desired end purpose may be used, such as magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, digital video disks, etc.

[00283] A user may enter commands and information into the general computer system or enter graphical information into the general computer system. A display device, such as a monitor, having a display screen, is connected to the system bus via an interface. In addition to the display screen, the general computer system can also include other peripheral output devices.

[00284] The general computer system can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computer systems, such as a server, a router, a peer device or other common network node, and such a system can include any or all of the elements described relative to the general computer system. When used in a local area network (LAN) environment, the general computer system is connected to the LAN through a network interface.

[00285] When used in a WAN networking environment, the general computer system typically includes a modern or other means for establishing communications over a WAN, such as the Internet. The modem, which may be internal or external, may be connected to the system bus via the serial port interface. In a networked environment, program modules depicted relative to the general computer system, or portions thereof, may be stored in the remote memory storage device. It should be appreciated that the network connections shown are exemplary and other means of establishing a communications link between the computer systems may be used. It should also be appreciated that the application module could equivalently be implemented on host or server computer systems other than general computer systems, and could equivalently be transmitted to the host computer system by means other than a CD-ROM, for example, by way of the network connection interface. Program modules stored in the drivers of the computer system may control how the general computer system functions and interacts with the user, with I/O devices or with other computers. Program modules may include routines, operating systems, target application program modules, data structures, browsers, and other components.

[00286] It should be appreciated that no particular programming language is described for carrying out the various procedures described in the detailed description because it is considered that the operations, steps, and procedures described herein are sufficiently disclosed to permit one of ordinary skill in the art to practice an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Moreover, there are many computers and operating systems which may be used in practicing an exemplary embodiment, and therefore no detailed computer program could be provided which would be applicable to all of these many different systems. Each user of a particular computer should be aware of the language and tools which are most useful for that user's needs and purposes.

[00287] Moreover, the method may be embodied in the form of computer-implemented processes and apparatuses for practicing those processes. The above may also be embodied in the form of computer program code containing instructions embodied in tangible media, which is non-transitory, such as. for example, floppy diskettes, CD-ROMs, hard drives, or any other computer readable storage medium, wherein, when the computer program code is loaded into and executed by a computer, the computer becomes an apparatus for practicing embodiments of the

Existing systems having reprogrammable storage (e.g.. flash memory) can be updated to implement embodiments of the present invention. The above can also be embodied in the form of computer program code, for example, whether stored in a storage medium, loaded into and/or executed by a computer, or transmitted over some transmission medium, such as over electrical wiring or cabling, through fiber optics, or via electromagnetic radiation, wherein, when the computer program code is loaded into and executed by a computer, the computer becomes an apparatus for practicing embodiments of the present invention. When implemented on a general- purpose microprocessor, the computer program code segments may configure the microprocessor to create specific logic circuits in whole or in part,

[00288] The embodiments of the present invention are further described by the following non-limiting examples which further illustrate the invention, and are not intended, nor should they be interpreted to, limit the scope of the invention.

[00289] The following disclosure is a description of the equipment, process and control in accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention. This instrument is one embodiment of the present invention and allows for the automated synthesis and purification of multiple types of radiolabeled compounds for use in the Positron Emission

Tomography (PET) scanning of animals and humans.

[00290] Users of the exemplary system can select between manual and automated modes of instrument operation. One such device can use a Visual Basic control program, as well as a Ladder Logic PLC for control of the device.

[00291] The instrument according to embodiments of the present invention can be used in any one of a plurality of modes. Examples of three modes include: ( 1 ) full automation that takes the process from target water to purified product in an injectable formulation with one dick of a start button; (2) individual step automation, which allows the user to pause after each synthetic step and decide which parameters to use in the next step, or to skip steps, or to stop the process; and (3) a fully manual mode, where the user can control every device in the instrument such as a valve, pressure regulator, syringe, etc. All modes allow the user to monitor the processes taking place in the chip or macro reactor in real-time by watching the output on the PC monitor screen Machine vision can use the same images to drive certain step sequences in the automated process or give the user an indication of step completion in the manual mode.

[00292] Figures lόa-c (Instrument A) and 17a-c (Instrument B) are similar to each other in that they both illustrate the detailed diagrams of the various components ( Tables Ia and Ib) as well as fluid and gas network in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. However, Figures 17a-c illustrating Instrument B scheme includes additional details regarding the micro-reactor or the chip system as disclosed herein. Figures 16a-c show Instrument B operation setup, where the macro reactor (only, no microfiuidic chip) is used for the radiosynthesis of PET tracers with macro- scale reagent volumes. Typical operation volumes for micro reactors are from about 5 to about 50μL of solution or 1 ng to 10 mg of the dissolved solids. Typical volumes used in macro reactors are from about 0, 1 to about 1 OmL of solution and from about 1 mg to abut 1 g of solid components. The operational volumes and amounts can differ from the typically used values and go beyond these ranges depending on the properties of individual precursors (solubility, molecular weight, etc.).

[00295] Before the synthesis, the instrument goes? through a cleaning cvcle. then the system completes the priming step *htch brings* the reagents used in excess (for example, HCI and H₂O) to the chip or the macro reactor via the dead volume bypass system (automatically). Solvents for cleaning, priming, reaction use and purification and other processes are being drawn from the cold box solvent reservoirs 156 (Acetontrile or MeCN reservoir) (see Figure 17b), and 162 (Solvent 1 reservoir), 164 (Solvent 2 reservoir), 166 (Solvent 3, for example H₂O), and 168 (Solvent 4, for example EtOH) by the corresponding solvent pumps 128 (EtOH pump), 130 (H₂O pump) and 132 (MeCN pump) through the distribution valves DV 1 and DV2 into the corresponding solvent and reagent vials such as 134 (release of K₂CO₃ reagent), 136 (Phase transfer reagent K222), 138 (Chip reagent 1 or precursor), 140 (Chip reagent 2 or precursor), 142 (Chip reagent 3 or Base), 144 (Column regeneration reagent KHCO₃) equipped with a filter 146, macro reactor vials 148, 150, and 152, and reformulation eluent vial 154, The spare solvent reservoir 158 and a spare pump 160 are also incorporated into the instrument to replace one of the existing components or for additional use. HPLC pump 170 delivers the required solvent from reservoirs 162, 164, 166, and 168 of the cold box into the hot box for purification and column regeneration purposes.

[00296] Pressurized nitrogen gas is introduced into the cold box through the gas inlet 100. Nitrogen passes through manual pressure regulator 102, power safety valve and regulator 104 and high pressure automated pressure regulator 106 on the way to the 8- way high pressure manifold, from which nitrogen is being used for actuating the distribution valve DV l and for delivery and dispensing reagents in the hot box. High pressure nitrogen is controlled by air valves 1 10, 1 12. 1 14. and 1 16. Precise volumes of nitrogen are aspired by pump 4, component 120, from the 8- way manifold 108 via air valve 1 14 and dispensed toward the distribution valve Dl , component 124, for pneumatic actuation of Pumps 128, 130 and 132 and distribution valve D2, component 126 for dispensing the exact amounts of the reagents into the lines or tubing leading to the hot box for the further radiosynthesis procedure. Pressurized nitrogen gas (HP) is controlled by and distributed from manifold 108 through air valves 1 10. 1 12. 1 14. 1 16. and 1 18 to lines 1 and 8, pump 4 and to distribution valve DV l , component 124. These processes are described in more detail in Table 2. m hich shows an exemplary run of the system according to the flow chart on Figure 17c.

[00297] Figure 16b outlines the instrumental set up of the hot box.

Radioactive target water containing [P- f 8|fiuoride is delivered into the v ial

18

205 (labeled '" F Vial 5mL Conica") from cyclotron 204 before the trapping procedure Is started, Rheodyne Trapping Valve 211 (RTV) can be set to a "trapping" position. High pressure nitrogen comes from the cold box and may be controlled by AVl 110 and/or manual air flow valve 118 is used to force the target water through the filter 206, valve LV 15. part 207, onto the ion exchange column 210 (MC or I/E column) which traps and holds the [F- 18]fluoride while passing the stripped water on to a collection vial 215 (labeled "Ha¹⁸O Waste"). Then, the rheodyne trapping valve 211 can be switched to the "release" position. K₂CO₃ and K222 from the corresponding reservoir 134 and 136 of the cold box may be delivered via the corresponding line 3 ('"Release & PTR") and dispensed toward the IZE column by means of the RTV 211. The precise volume of nitrogen is used to push the K2CO₃ through the I/E column in the opposite direction to release the trapped [F- 18]fluoride and then deli¥er it into the reaction chamber within the microfluidic chip 228 through the chip valve RPA 1, element 235,

[00298] During release, K₂CO₃ solution is passed through the column.

As it enters the column the back pressure is low, but extra pressure can be generated behind the release solution in order to push it through the column. The solution comes out of the column slowly, but as soon as the last portion of liquid is out, the back pressure vents through the column accelerating the solution towards the chip rapidly, In order to avoid rapid uncontrolled entrance of the release solution into the chip, an expansion tube was added to the instrument. This can be about 6-feet long with about 0.030" ID (internal diameter) line placed between the column and the chip. The release solution travels rapidly through this tube until the back pressure has been released (which happens before the solution reaches the chip.) Then the Loop valve controlling ME column (same as RTV) is switched from Release to Trap and more gas is dispensed into this line. But this time it does not have to go through the column and overcome its resistance. It can drive the release solution into the chip in a controlled manner (by dispensing a known volume of gas at a known rate with a syringe).

[00299] Some F- 18 may remain in the plumbing between the column

210 and the chip 228, and some even on the column. In order to maximize the use of F- 18, according to one of the embodiments of the present invention, the instrument sends the K222 solution behind K₂CO-^ through the same lines to mop up the remaining F- 18.

[0030GJ According to an embodiment of the present invention, F- 18 is delivered into the macro reactor (RPA 4 (238) and DV3 (254) through micro reactor in the design shown on Figure 16b.

[00301] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to an instrument where F- 18 can be directed off the column to either of the reactors. Such design involves I/E column placed between DV4 (24-port distribution valve, part 255) and DV 5 (24-port distribution valve, part 257) similar to one of the SPEs (such as , for example SPE 256).

[00302] Chip 228 is configured to receive the exact amounts of PET tracer precursor, base, acid, and chip eluent from the corresponding reagent reservoirs from the cold box via the corresponding lines 4 ("Chip Reagent 3"), 5 ("Chip Reagent 2"), 6 ("Chip Reagent 1 "), and 7 ("Chip Eluent (H₂O)'^*) and through the corresponding RPA 2 (on chip liquid valve) (port 236), RPA 3 (port 237). RPA 5 (port 239), and 6 (port 240). The chip is further equipped with RPA 4 (port 238) for the exit line going to DV3 (254), LPA 1 (port 241 ) connected with the nitrogen gas line 8 a line going to the mieroreactor 251 (also shown on Figure 10) through LV 14 (246) and LPA 2 (port 242). which is connected to a vent line leading to the distribution valve 5 (DV5, component 257) for further distribution of raw product to HPLC, macro reactor or final product vial (delivered product) or waste.

[00303] Distribution valves DV 1 -DV6 are used for delivery of reagents to various locations. The system as described herein can use at least from 2 to 20 various reagents, which can be delivered to any of at least 2-20 receiving locations (valves, vials, reservoirs, reactors, etc.). Various custom designs can incorporate more than 20 reagents and more than 20 locations for processing such reagents.

[00304] The temperature of the system described herein may be controlled by resistive heaters and compressed air cooling.

[00305] According to another embodiment of the present invention, during acctonitrile evaporation process, the precise drying amount is determined using the timer plus the feedback from the machine vision system. In the machine vision system, several boxes within the view area of the reactor are programmed when wet and dry using red, green, blue, hue, saturation, and brightness values for each box. These values plus time are used to determine the level of dryness. The chip nitrogen valve LPA 1 is closed while chip vent valve LPA 2 stays open in order to fill the acid. The acetonitrile evaporation is designed to be only partial- just to clear enough room for the acid. If the evaporation is allowed to proceed to completion, it will be difficult to dissolve the organic residue in aqueous acid without stirring.

[00306] In another embodiment of the present invention, elution takes place when chip valve RPA 3 (237) is opened, chip valve PRA 4 "EXIT" (238) is opened, and water is dispensed toward the chip to elute the raw product into DV3 from which the sample can be delivered to macro reactor or into the "Injection Loop" 268 depending on the position chosen for the "Injection Loop Valve" 267 or to the general waste system 225.

[00307] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a purification procedure. If the product is eluted into the "Injection Loop", now the "Injection Loop Valve" 282 has to switch from "Chip" to "HPLC" position. Next the "HPLC Pump" 170 (Figure 16a) is started forcing the raw product into the "HPLC Column" 273, equipped with a guard column 274. The column separates various compounds in the raw product stream so that they come off the column at various retention times (HPLC) and distributed via RDV 7 (263) as various fractions to fraction collectors 279. The system is programmed to detect and isolate known compounds such as FLT automatically while executing pre-programmed gradient, step or isocratic programs, A radiation detector RAD 6 (270) and a UV detector 271 may be used to monitor the liquid leaving the column and to trigger the DV6 (valve 258) to direct the purified product into a purified product receiver through the product outlet 259 and the remaining liquid into the "General Waste" container 225. The purified product receiver is connected with the interlocking pig device (not shown on Figures 17a and 17c). [00308] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the cleaning step which performs the ion exchange column 210 regeneration as well as the microfluidic chip 228 and macro reactor 266 cleaning before a subsequent run. Additional details regarding cleaning operations are shown in Table 2, entries 8- 1 1.

[00309] Operations of the exemplar}* instrument B are analogous to the operations of the exemplary instrument A except, for example, for the processes and hardware related to the microfluidic reactor or chip operations.

Use of the system for preparation of ¹⁸F-FLT

[00310] Furthermore, the following description provides an example of a set of steps that may be carried out in accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention for preparation of [¹⁸F]-FLT. Throughout the following description reference is made to the various components that are shown in Figures 17a, 17b, 17c and 18 and Table 2. All flow chart components shown in Figures 17b abd 17c are listed in Tables Ia and Ib.

Table 2. Unit Operations of the exemplary Instrument B

[0031 1 ] Figure 18 shows a series of steps. These steps may be stored on a computer-readable medium and executed by a processor. The invention is further described by the following paragraphs:

[00312] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation,

[00313] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "hot" box with associated radiation-handling components can be placed inside a mini-cell,

[00314] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold^" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation.

The "cold" box hosting electronics, pumps and reagents is placed outside the mini-cell to optimize "hot" space, to allow access to reagents between runs and protect electronics and the operator from radiation,

[00315] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot^" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The instrument can be fully-automated. [00316] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot^" and "'cold'^" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. A bundle of cables and tubing connecting the "hot" and "cold" boxes is approximately 20 feet long.

[00317] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. A bundle of cables and tubing connecting the '"hot" and "cold" boxes is approximately 20 feet long. The bundle of cables and tubing connecting the "hot" and "cold" boxes is equipped with a Safety Radiation Detector.

[00318] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. A macro reaetor-based instrument can be upgraded with a micro-reactor.

[00319] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. A micro reactor-based instrument can be upgraded with a macro-reactor,

[00320] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation, A modular system is equipped with multiple reactors.

[90321 ] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "hot" component is equipped with a microfluidic chip.

[0G322J An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "hot" component is equipped with a macro reactor.

[00323] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "hot" component is equipped with the microfluidic chip and the macro reactor.

[00324] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "hot" box is self-shielded ("micro-cell").

[00325] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "hot" box is self-shielded ("micro-cell") and the shielded enclosure has a vertical or top opening.

[0(026] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The shielded enclosure has a vertical or top opening and the opening allows the hot box to be lifted vertically out of the stationary shield.

|iiO32?l An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. At least one "hot"' box is placed in a mini-cell.

[00328] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and ''cold'^" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The hot box comprises at least one unit equipped to carry out a radiosynthetic protocol including synthesis, purification and formulation procedures.

[00329] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot"' and '"cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "cold'^" box comprises an embedded personal computer (PC), which is designed to perform various operations supporting discovery and production processes.

[00330] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The single "cold" box is capable of controlling multiple "hot^" boxes.

[00331 ] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The instrument being capable of conducting multiple runs comprising radiosyntheses of different products without opening shielded enclosures.

[00332] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising '"hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The product collection and F- 18 delivery takes place in an interlocking pig device on a self-shielded module without radiation exposure.

[00333] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "'hot" box being equipped with a microfluidic chip.

[00334] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "'cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "hot" box is equipped with a microfluidic chip. The chip comprises a system of parapets on the ceiling of the said chip preventing liquid vent loss while allowing efficient evaporation.

[00335] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot"' and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "hot" box is equipped with a microfluidic chip. The chip comprises a system of three-way valves on interface base for reagent priming.

[00336] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation, where the "hot" box is equipped with a microfluidic chip. The chip being made of molded PEEK or glass.

[00337] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "hot" box is equipped with a microfluidic chip. The the chip within a PEEK frame seals with the PEEK micro-reactor and has a glass lid. [00338] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "hot" box is equipped with a microfluidic chip and the chip comprises a plunger alignment for one -operation chip insertion.

[00339] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising '"hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "hot" box is equipped with a microfluidic chip and a chip-alignment mechanism is built into the instrument.

[00340] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The "hot" box is equipped with a microfluidic chip. The chip comprises a pre-dispensed heat-transfer compound.

[00341] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold^"' components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation,

A pressure source and detector-based system are self-testing for leaks.

[00342] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation, A flow meter for monitoring reactor dryness can be placed both upstream and downstream of the reactor,

[00343] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cable> and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. Efficient evaporation is achieved by change of pressure.

[00344] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation where efficient evaporation is achieved by change of pressure and where evaporation can start under low pressure and end under high pressure.

[00345] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation where efficient evaporation is achieved by change of pressure and where evaporation can start under positive pressure and end under vacuum.

[00346] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation, where a single syringe drives all reagents and optionally all solvents into the reactor without any of these reagents entering the syringe.

[00347] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation where at least one metering pump drives solvents into the reactor or reformulation system.

[00348] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation and a self-monitoring and self-emptying waste system. [00349] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation also including automated cleaning with readiness indication,

[00350] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation also including an air-cooled micro-reactor.

[00351] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation also including an air-cooled and air-heated reactor.

[00352] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation also including a touch-screen computer.

[00353] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation also including an automated safety interlock on exhaust monitoring,

[00354] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation also including a reagent cartridge that can be plugged into the cold box.

[00355] An Instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation also capable of producing radiolabeled compounds incorporating different isotopes on the same module.

[00356] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation where different processes can take place in individual hot boxes within the mini-cell at the same time.

[00357] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation capable of automatically generating a batch record with yield, activity concentration, specific activity and other parameters.

[00358] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation capable of adjusting preset protocols and procedures.

[00359] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation where the hot box comprises no single-use consumables.

[00360] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation where the hot box comprises a glass-bead-packed tube to break the release solution into multiple boluses. [00361 ] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation where the hot box comprises a pressure-relief tube between I/E column and reactor,

[00362] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "'hot" and '"cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation where the hot box comprises UV LED light source in HPLC.

[00363] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "'hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation where the cold box has no protruding features (for clean-room applications).

[00364] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation where the hot box comprises reusable I/E column.

[00365] An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation, where the hot box comprises reusable Solid Phase Extration (SPE) cartridges.

[00366 ] A method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to an instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and " cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. [00367] A method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to an instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "'hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation where loading an HPLC loop is conducted by pressure via tubing with liquid-gas detectors.

[00368] A method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to an instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising ''hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The method includes conducting multiple runs of radiosyntheses of different products without opening shielded enclosures.

[00369] A method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to an instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The method includes increasing the efficiency of the release solution comprising passing the solution bolus through a tube packed with glass beads to provide a train of multiple boluses.

[00370] A method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to an instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The method including passing K222 through the release line behind K₂CO₃

[00371 ] A method of conducting radiosy nthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components., which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation The method according to claim 55 where release by a K₂CO₃ bolus is followed by a mixture of K₂CO₃ and K222

[00372] A method of conducting radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound in the instrument according to an instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation. The method includes achieving efficient release by splitting the release solution into multiple boluses.

[00373] Having thus described in detail various embodiments of the present invention, it is to be understood that the invention defined by the above paragraphs is not to be limited to particular details set forth in the above description as many apparent variations thereof are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAMED IS:

1. An instrument for synthesis of radiolabeled compounds comprising "hot" and "cold" components, which are separated into two units connected by a bundle of cables and tubing, and which are removed from one another to minimize exposure of a user and sensitive equipment to radiation.

2. The instrument according to claim 1 , where the "hot " box with associated radiation-handling components can be placed inside a mini-cell.

3. The instrument according to claim 1 , where the "cold" box hosting electronics, pumps and reagents is placed outside the mini-cell to optimize "hot" space, allow access to reagents between runs and protect electronics and the operator from radiation.

4. The instrument according to claim 1 , where said instrument can be fully-automated.

5. The instrument according to claim 1, where a bundle of cables and tubing connecting the "hot" and "cold" boxes is approximately 20 feet long.

6. The instrument according to claim 5, where the bundle of cables and tubing connecting the "hot" and "cold" boxes is equipped with a Safety Radiation Detector.

7. The instrument according to claim 1, where a macro reactor- based instrument can be upgraded with a micro-reactor.

8. The instrument according to claim 1 , where a micro reactor- based instrument can be upgraded with a macro-reactor.

9. The instrument according to claim 1 , where a modular system is equipped with multiple reactors.

10. The instrument according to claim 1. where "hot" component is equipped with the microfluidic chip and the macro reactor.

1 1. The instrument according to claim 1. where the "hot" box is self-shielded ("micro-cell").

12. The instrument according to claim 1 1 , where the shielded enclosure has a vertical or top opening,

13. The instrument according to claim 1 , where at least one "hot" box is placed in a mini-cell.

14. The instrument according to claim 1 where the hot box comprises at least one unit equipped to carry out a radiosynthetic protocol including synthesis, purification and formulation procedures.

15. The instrument according to claim 1 , where the single "cold'^* box is capable of controlling multiple "hot" boxes.

16. The instrument according to claim 1 capable of conducting multiple runs comprising radiosyntheses of different products without opening shielded enclosures.

17. The instrument according to claim 1 , where product collection and F- 18 delivery takes place in an interlocking pig device on a self-shielded module without radiation exposure.

18. The instrument according to claim 1 , where a pressure source and detector-based system are self-testing for leaks.

19. The instrument according to claim 1 , where at least one metering pump drives solvents into the reactor or reformulation system.

20. The instrument according to claim 1. where different processes can take place in individual hot boxes within the mini-cell at the same time.