WO2012041953A1

WO2012041953A1 - In vivo imaging method for cancer

Info

Publication number: WO2012041953A1
Application number: PCT/EP2011/066970
Authority: WO
Inventors: Paul Alexander Jones
Original assignee: Ge Healthcare Limited
Priority date: 2010-09-30
Filing date: 2011-09-29
Publication date: 2012-04-05
Also published as: CN103179991B; JP2013538839A; US9314541B2; EP2621544A1; KR20130136457A; JP5932804B2; AU2011310498B2; BR112013004983A2; GB201016411D0; CA2808324A1; CN103179991A; MX2013003178A; US20130183240A1; RU2013111163A; AU2011310498A1

Abstract

The present invention provides a method useful in the diagnosis and monitoring of cancer wherein there is an abnormal expression of PBR. The method of the invention is particularly useful in evaluating the severity of the cancer, e.g. PBR expression correlates with cell proliferation rates, metastatic potential, tumour aggressiveness, malignancy progression. The method of the invention can therefore be applied in the determination of likely disease progression and in making an associated prognosis. Furthermore, the method of the invention can find use in determining the likely success of certain therapeutic approaches, or in the evaluation of the efficacy of certain proposed new treatments.

Description

IN VIVO IMAGING METHOD FOR CANCER

Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention concerns in vivo imaging and in particular in vivo imaging of the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR). In particular, the present invention provides a method useful for the diagnosis and monitoring of cancer.

Description of Related Art

The peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR, also known as translocator protein (TSPO)) is a mitochondrial protein involved in cell proliferation. PBR is known to be mainly localised in peripheral tissues and glial cells but its physiological function remains to be clearly elucidated. Subcellularly, PBR is known to localise on the outer mitochondrial membrane, indicating a potential role in the modulation of mitochondrial function and in the immune system. It has furthermore been postulated that PBR is involved in cell proliferation, steroidogenesis, calcium flow and cellular respiration.

A link has been observed between PBR expression and cancer

pathophysiology. In glioma cell lines, a high correlation between PBR density and both enhanced tumourgenicity and cell proliferation rates (Veenman et al Biochem Pharmacol 2004; 68: 689-98) and metastatic potential of the cancer (Rechichi et al Biochim Biophys Acta 2008; 1782: 118-25) has been

characterised. In an animal model of mammary tumours, the total expression of PBR (Bmax of [³H]Ro5-4864) increased by 56% in non-aggressive tumours, but considerably more (128%) in aggressive tumours (Mukhopadhyay et al Glycoconj J 2006; 23: 199-207). Similarly, Hunakova et al (Neoplasma 2007; 54: 541-8) correlated PBR expression with tumour aggressiveness in breast as well as ovarian carcinoma cell lines. They showed little correlation with mitochondrial concentration, but a very strong correlation with malignancy progression. High PBR density was also shown to be a significant differential marker between cispiatin-sensitive and insensitive ovarian carcinoma cell lines. A direct link between PBR and tumour aggression was shown in glioma cells over-expressing the receptor that exhibited potentiated proliferation, motility and transmigration capability compared to wild type cells (Rechichi et al Biochim Biophys Acta 2008; 1782: 1 8-25). Zheng et al (Mol Pharmaceutics 20 1 ; 8: 823-2) found using immunohistochemistry that a significant portion of tumour stromal PBR expression colocalised with F4/80 positive macrophage cells. Knockdown of PBR expression by siRNA in the highly aggressive MDA- MB-231 breast cancer cell line lead to a reduction in cell proliferation (Li et al Biochem Pharmacol 2007; 73: 491-503). These studies suggest that the link between tumour aggression and PBR expression is a direct pathophysiological one and not secondary or epiphenomenal. This furthermore suggests that successful treatment is likely to be mirrored by a decrease in expression, a finding observed in breast, glioma and hepatocarcinoma cells lines (Pretner et al Anticancer Res 2006; 26: 9-22).

The above-described in vitro observations have been mirrored in vivo, firming the link between PBR, tumour aggressiveness and patient survival. Maaser et al (Clin Cancer Res. 2002; 8: 3205-9) examined resected stage III colorectal carcinomas histologically. Subdividing patients into 'high' and 'low' PBR expression groups the authors showed a differentiated mean survival of 30 months and concluded that PBR overexpression was an independent prognostic factor for this cancer. Miettnen et al (Cancer Res 1995; 55: 2691-5) showed a tight correlation between the severity grade of 86 astrocytic brain tumours and intensity of PBR expression (P<0.0012), such that of the 37 Grade IV tumours (the most severe) 86% had 'moderate or greater' expression of PBR and 64% exhibited 'very high' expression. In contrast, of the 9 Grade I tumours 66% had 'little or no' PBR expression and none had 'very high' expression. A clear correlation was also observed between PBR expression and proliferative index (as ascertained by Ki-67 immunohistochemistry).

Analysing patient survival of the 'low or no expression' groups with 'moderate to very high expression' groups significantly linked PBR expression to poorer outcome. Similarly, Vlodavsky & Soustiel (J Neurooncol 2007; 81 : 1-7) correlated PBR expression negatively to survival and positively to tumour malignancy, proliferation and apoptotic indices.

use in determining the likely success of certain therapeutic approaches, or in the evaluation of the efficacy of certain proposed new treatments.

Brief Description of the Figures

Figure 1 shows co-elution of imaging agent 5 (prepared according to Example

I ) and non-radioactive imaging agent 5 (prepared according to Example 2).

Figure 2 shows co-elution of imaging agent 6 (prepared according to Example 3) and non-radioactive imaging agent 6 (prepared according to Example 4).

Figure 3 shows co-elution of imaging agent 7 (prepared according to Example 5) and non-radioactive imaging agent 7 (prepared according to Example 6).

Figure 4 shows co-elution of imaging agent 8 (prepared according to Example 7) and non-radioactive imaging agent 8 (prepared according to Example 8).

Figure 5 shows imaging agent 10 (top) and 7-Fluoro-9-(2-[ ⁸F]fluoro-ethyl)- 2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4-carboxylic acid diethylamide (middle) and 7- F!uoro-9-(2-[¹⁹F]f!uoro-ethy!)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazo!e-4-carboxy!ic acid diethylamide (bottom) (each obtained according to Example 9).

Figure 6 shows co-elution of imaging agent 11 (prepared according to Example

I I ) and non-radioactive imaging agent 11 (prepared according to Example 12).

Figures 7 and 8 show the radioactive (top) and the UV (bottom) HPLC traces obtained using the above semi-preparative method for the PET tracer of the invention and its alternative enantiomer, respectively.

Figures 9 and 10 show the HPLC traces obtained using the above analytical achiral method for the PET tracer of the invention and its alternative

enantiomer, respectively.

Figures 11 and 12 show the HPLC traces obtained using the above chiral HPLC method for the PET tracer of the invention and its alternative

enantiomer, respectively.

counterions), sugars (e.g. glucose or sucrose), sugar alcohols (e.g. sorbitol or mannitol), glycols (e.g. glycerol), or other non-ionic polyol materials (e.g.

polyethyleneglycols, propylene glycols and the like). The pharmacologically- acceptable carrier may also comprise pharmacologically-acceptable organic solvents such as ethanol. Such organic solvents are useful to solubilise more lipophilic compounds or formulations. Preferably the pharmacologically- acceptable carrier is pyrogen-free water for injection, isotonic saline or an aqueous ethanol solution. The pH of the pharmacologically-acceptable carrier for intravenous injection is suitably in the range 4.0 to 10.5.

The radiopharmaceutical composition is most preferably an aqueous solution. Such a composition may optionally contain further ingredients such as buffers; pharmacologically acceptable solubilisers (e.g. cyclodextrins or surfactants such as Pluronic, Tween or phospholipids); pharmacologically acceptable stabilisers or antioxidants (such as ascorbic acid, gentisic acid or para- aminobenzoic acid).

The term "in vivo imaging agent" in the context of the present invention refers to a radiolabeled compound suitable for in vivo imaging. The term "in vivo imaging" as used herein refers to those techniques that noninvasively produce images of all or part of the internal aspect of a subject. Examples of in vivo imaging techniques suitable in the context of the present invention are single- photon emission tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET), both of which are well-known techniques in the field of in vivo imaging (the reader is referred for example to "Emission Tomography: the

Fundamentals of PET and SPECT"; 2004 Academic Press: Wernick and Aarsvold, Eds.).

Unless otherwise specified, the term "alkyl" alone or in combination, means a straight-chain or branched-chain alkyl radical preferably containing, unless otherwise specified, 1 to 3 carbon atoms. Examples of such radicals include methyl, ethyl, and propyl.

The term "fluoroalkyl" represents a haloalkyl group as defined below wherein the halogen is fluorine.

The term "hydroxy" refers to the group -OH.

The term "halogen" or "halo-" means a substituent selected from fluorine, chlorine, bromine or iodine. "Haloalkyl" and "haloalkoxy" are alkyl and alkoxy groups, respectively, as defined above substituted with one or more halogens. Suitably in the case of haloalkyl and haloalkoxy substituents, the halogen replaces a hydrogen at the terminal end of the radical, i.e. -alkylene-halogen or -alkoxylene-halogen. The term "alkylene" refers to the bivalent group -(CH₂)_n- wherein n is preferably 1-3, and the term "alkoxylene" refers to an alkylene group comprising an ether linkage, wherein an ether linkage is as defined above.

The term "cvano" refers to the group -CN.

Unless otherwise specified, the term "alkoxy" means an alkyl radical as defined above comprising an ether linkage, and the term "ether linkage" refers to the group -C-O-C-. Examples of suitable alkyl ether radicals include, methoxy, ethoxy, and propoxy.

The term "fluoroalkoxy" represents a haloalkoxy group as defined above wherein the halogen is fluorine.

The term "araikyl" refers to the group -alkylene-phenyl wherein alkylene is as defined above.

A "nitrogen-containing C -g aliphatic ring" is a saturated C_4-6 alkyl ring

comprising a nitrogen heteroatom. Examples include pyrolidinyl, piperidinyl and morpholinyl rings.

In the context of Formula I, the term "comprises an atom which is a

radioisotope suitable for in vivo imaging" means that the isotopic form of one or more (preferably one) of the atoms defined herein for said formula is a radioisotope suitable for in vivo imaging. In order to be suitable for in vivo imaging, the radioisotope is detectable externally following administration to

image.

The step of "using" the information determined in step (e) in the identification and/or monitoring of said cancer can be understood to encompass

identification of the presence of cancer in said subject, preferably as an aid to making a diagnosis, in selecting an appropriate treatment or in the

determination of a patient's prognosis. In the context of identifying the presence of cancer, the information obtained in step (e) is compared with data obtained using the same in vivo imaging method carried out on a cohort of normal subjects, i.e. subjects known not to be suffering from cancer. In this way any significant deviation from the normal value for PBR expression can be determined, and this deviation can be attributed to a particular clinical picture. For monitoring said cancer, the information obtained in step (e) is compared with data obtained at an earlier point in time using the same in vivo imaging method carried out on the same subject. Differences between the information obtained at the various time points can indicate progression or regression of the cancer. The using step also encompasses monitoring as a means to evaluate the success of a treatment, or in the determination of the potential efficacy of a test compound as a new treatment. It is envisaged that the method of the invention can also be applied in a pre-clinical setting in the testing and optimisation of treatments under development.

A preferred in vivo imaging agent of Formula I is suitable for imaging using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or positron emission tomography (PET). For SPECT, said in vivo imaging agent suitably comprises a gamma- emitting radioactive halogen. Examples of gamma-emitting radioactive halogens suitable for use in the present invention are ¹²³l, ³ 1 and ⁷⁷Br. A preferred gamma- emitting radioactive halogen is ¹²³l. Where the radioisotope of the in vivo imaging agent is I it is preferred that R is I. For PET, said in vivo imaging agent suitably comprises a positron-emitting radioactive non-metal. Examples of positron-emitting radioactive non-metal suitable for use in the present invention are ¹C, ¹⁸F and ²⁴l. Preferred positron-emitting radioactive non-metals are ¹C and ¹⁸F. In the case of ¹ C it is preferred that R is ¹¹C methyl. Where the

for example be -O-benzyl. R ^{2" 4} and γ^11"12 are as suitably and preferably provided for Formula II above, with the proviso that R ² is not chloro. In this synthetic route, the chlorine at the bottom position on the ring forces the cyclisation to take place in just one way such that only one isomer is produced. A similar method is disclosed in WO 2003/014082 but wherein the solvent system used for the cyclisation step is diethyl ether in place of toluene. The product of the cyclisation step dissolves in diethyl ether whereas the uncyclised starting compound does not. The uncyclised starting compound therefore remains with the ZnCI₂ at the bottom of the reaction vessel, and the cyclised product moves into the diethyl ether at the top of the reaction vessel.

When the radioisotope of the in vivo imaging agent is ¹⁸F, labelling with ¹⁸F can be achieved by nucleophilic displacement of a leaving group from a precursor compound. Suitable leaving groups include CI, Br, I, tosylate (OTs), mesylate (OMs) and triflate (OTf). Another strategy would be to have a suitable leaving group in place on an alkylamide group present on the precursor compound. In both cases, the precursor compound may be labeled in one step by reaction ith a suitable source of [ Fj-fiuonde ion ( F ), which is normally obtained as an aqueous solution from the nuclear reaction ¹⁸O(p,n)¹⁸F and is made reactive by the addition of a cationic counterion and the subsequent removal of water. 8F can also be introduced by O-alkylation of hydroxy groups in the precursor compound with ¹⁸F(CH₂)3-LG wherein LG represents a leaving group as defined above. Alternatively, the radiofluorine atom may attach via a direct covalent bond to an aromatic ring such as a benzene ring. For aryl systems, ¹⁸F-fluoride nucleophilic displacement from an aryl diazonium salt, aryl nitro compound or an aryl quaternary ammonium salt are suitable routes to aryl-¹⁸F derivatives.

Either Scheme 1 or Scheme 1a above can be continued to arrive at precursor compounds suitable for obtaining ¹⁸F in vivo imaging agents for use in the method of the invention, e.g. as illustrated in Scheme 2 below:

with an automated synthesis apparatus.

In a kit, the precursor compound can be presented in a sealed container which permits maintenance of sterile integrity and/or radioactive safety, plus optionally an inert headspace gas (e.g. nitrogen or argon), whilst permitting addition and withdrawal of solutions by syringe. An example of a sealed container is a septum-sealed vial, wherein the gas-tight closure is crimped on with an overseal (typically of aluminium). Such sealed containers have the advantage that the closure can withstand vacuum if desired e.g. to change the headspace gas or degas solutions. The precursor compound for use in the kit may be employed under aseptic manufacture conditions to give the desired sterile, non- pyrogenic material. The precursor compound may alternatively be employed under non-sterile conditions, followed by terminal sterilisation using e.g.

gamma-irradiation, autoclaving, dry heat or chemical treatment (e.g. with ethylene oxide). Typically, all components of the kit are disposable to minimise the possibilities of contamination between runs and to ensure sterility and quality assurance.

Certain in vivo imaging agents, and in particular those labelled with ¹⁸F are now often conveniently prepared on an automated radiosynthesis apparatus. There are several commercially-available examples of such apparatus, including TracerlabTM and FastlabTM (GE Healthcare Ltd). Such apparatus commonly comprises a "cassette", often disposable, in which the radiochemistry is performed, which is fitted to the apparatus in order to perform a radiosynthesis. The cassette normally includes fluid pathways, a reaction vessel, and ports for receiving reagent vials as well as any solid-phase extraction cartridges used in post-radiosynthetic clean up steps. A typical such cassette comprises:

^i α vc oci \_ ιισ y a ^i coui aui Vi i i uu i iu da ucs i lucu i ici cil l , dl

(ii) means for eluting the vessel with a suitable source of said radioisotope suitable for in vivo imaging as described herein.

The cassette may additionally comprise: (iii) an ion-exchange cartridge for removal of excess radioisotope; and optionally,

(iv) where the precursor compound comprises one or more protecting

groups, a cartridge for deprotection of the resultant radiolabelled product to form the desired in vivo imaging agent.

Where the in vivo imaging agent is administered as a radiopharmaceutical composition as described above, the method for preparation of said in vivo imaging agent may further comprise the steps required to obtain a

radiopharmaceutical composition, e.g. removal of organic solvent, addition of a pharmacologically-acceptable carrier and any optional further ingredients. For parenteral administration, steps to ensure that the radiopharmaceutical composition is sterile and apyrogenic also need to be taken.

PBR expression can be correlated to various indices of cancer severity, as reported e.g. in the in vitro studies of Rechichi et al (Biochim Biophys Acta 2008; 1782: 1 18-25); Veenman et a/ (Biochem Pharmacol 2004; 68: 689-98); Mukhopadhyay ei ai (Giycoconj J 2006; 23: 199-207); and Li et al (Biochem Pharmacol 2007; 73: 491-503), and in the in vivo studies of Maaser et al (Clin Cancer Res. 2002; 8: 3205-9); VIodavsky & Soustiel (J Neurooncol 2007; 81 : 1- 7); Galiegue et al, (Clin Cancer Res 2004; 10: 2058-64), and Miettnen et al (Cancer Res 1995; 55: 2691-5). The method of the present invention can therefore be used in the evaluation of tumourgenicity, cell proliferation rates, metastatic potential of the cancer, tumour aggressiveness, malignancy progression, patient outcome and survival. The method of the invention can also be applied in the selection of the most appropriate treatment.

Furthermore, the method of the invention can be used to determine whether treatment has been successful, as this will correlate with a reduction in PBR expression. In some instances [¹⁸F]-fluorodeoxyglocose (FDG) is not ideal for assessing differentiation. The method of the invention therefore presents an improved method of in vivo imaging for certain cancers as compared with [ ⁸F]- FDG imaging. In an alternative aspect, the in vivo imaging method of the invention may be carried out repeatedly during the course of a treatment regimen for said subject, said regimen comprising administration of a drug to combat cancer wherein said cancer is as defined herein. For example, the in vivo imaging method of the invention can be carried out before, during and after said treatment in order to monitor its effectiveness over time. The suitable and preferred embodiments of the method of the invention as described herein also apply to this aspect of the invention. This aspect of the invention may also be applied in the evaluation of the efficacy of potential new treatments, e.g. in either pre-clinical or clinical studies.

In another aspect, the present invention provides an in vivo imaging agent, as suitably and preferably defined herein in respect of the method of the invention, for use in said method.

In a yet further aspect, the present invention provides for use of the in vivo imaging agent, as suitably and preferably defined herein in respect of the method of the invention, in the manufacture of a radiopharmaceutical composition as suitably and preferably defined herein for use in the method of the invention.

The invention is now illustrated by a series of non-limiting examples. Brief Description of the Examples

Example 1 describes the synthesis of imaging agent 5.

Example 2 describes the synthesis of a non-radioactive analogue of imaging agent 5.

Example 3 describes the synthesis of imaging agent 6.

Example 4 describes the synthesis of a non-radioactive analogue of imaging agent 6.

Example 5 describes the synthesis of imaging agent 7. Example 6 describes the synthesis of a non-radioactive analogue of imaging agent 7.

Example 7 describes the synthesis of imaging agent 8.

Example 8 describes the synthesis of a non-radioactive analogue of imaging agent 8.

Example 9 describes the synthesis of imaging agent 10.

Example 10 describes the synthesis of a non-radioactive analogue of imaging agent 0.

Example 1 1 describes the synthesis of imaging agent 1 1. Example 12 describes the synthesis of a non-radioactive analogue of imaging agent 1 1.

Example 13 describes enantiomeric separation of precursor compound 5.

Example 14 describes enantiomeric separation of non-radioactive imaging agent 5. Example 15 describes an in vitro potency assay that was used to test the affinity for PBR.

Example 16 describes a biodistribution method that was used to examine the performance of imaging agents of the invention in vivo.

List of Abbreviations used in the Examples aq aqueous

DCM dichloromethane DMAP 4-Dimethylaminopyridine DMF dimethylformamide EDC 1 -Ethyl-3-[3-dimethylaminopropyl]carbodiimide Hydrochloride

EOS end of synthesis

EtOAc ethyl acetate

I PA isopropyl alcohol

LC-MS liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry

NMR nuclear magnetic resonance

OBn benzyloxy

OMs mesylate

OTs tosylate

RT room temperature

TLC thin layer chromatography

Tol toluene

Examples

Example 1: Synthesis of 9-(2-f¹⁸F1Fluoro-ethvh-5-methoxv-2.3,4,9- tetrah¥dro-1H-carbazole-4-carboxwlic acid diethylamide (imaging agent 51

Example 1(a): Benzyloxy acetyl chloride (1)

To benzyloxyacetic acid (10.0 g, 60.0 mmol, 8.6 mL) in dichloromethane (50 ml_) was added oxalyl chloride (9.1 g, 72.0 mmol, 6.0 mL) and DMF (30.0 mg, w 1 1 lui , ci i«_i on 1 1 au \ lui n . ι i ici c vva ii i iaiiy σ ι σμιυ

evolution of gas as the reaction proceeded but evolution ceased as the reaction was complete. The dichloromethane solution was concentrated in vacuo to give a gum. This gum was treated with more oxalyl chloride (4.5 g, 35.7 mmol, 3.0 mL), dichloromethane (50 mL), and one drop of DMF. There was a rapid evolution of gas and the reaction was stirred for a further 2 h. The reaction was

One component of the reaction was isolated ¹³C NMR (75 MHz, CDCI₃) 6_C 14.3, 20.6, 21.8, 26.4, 38.6, 43.0, 55.8, 60.5, 68.7, 73.3, 93,4, 106.3, 108.2, 1 19.3, 121.5, 127.5, 127.6, 128.3, 135.7, 137.0, 137.9, 155.7, and 175.0.

Example Iff): 9-(2-Benzvloxv-ethyl)-8-chloro-5-methoxv-2, 3,4,9, -tetrahvdro-1H- carbazole-4-carhox lic acid ethyl ester (6)

Zinc chloride (7.1 g, 52.0 mmol) was added to 3[(2-Benzyloxy-ethyl)-(2-chloro- 5-methoxy-phenyl)-amino]-2-hydroxy-cyclohex-1-ene carboxylic acid ethyl ester (5) (8.0 g, 17.0 mmol) in dry diethyl ether (150 ml_) under nitrogen and heated at reflux for 5.5 h. As the reaction was refluxed a thick brown dense oil formed in the reaction. The reaction was then cooled and the supernatant diethyl ether decanted off, ethyl acetate (100 mL) was added, washed with 2 N HCI (50 ml_) and with 10% aqueous potassium carbonate (50 mL). The diethyl ether layer was separated, dried over magnesium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo to afford an oil (2.0 g). The crude material was purified by silica gel

chromatography eluting with petrol (A): ethyl acetate (B) (10-40% (B), 340 g, 22 CV, 150 mL/min) to afford 1.8 g of 9-(2-Benzyloxy-ethyl)-8-chloro-5-methoxy- 2,3,4,9,-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (6). The thick dense brown layer was treated with ethyl acetate (100 mL) and 2 N HCI (50 mL). The ethyl acetate solution was separated, washed with 10% aqueous potassium carbonate (50 mL), dried over magnesium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo to give an oil (5.2 g). Diethyl ether (100 mL) and anhydrous zinc chloride (7.0 g) were added. The mixture was heated at reflux for a further 5 days. The ether layer was decanted off from the dark gum, was washed with 2 N HCI (50 mL), dried over magnesium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo to give a gum (2.8 g). This gum was purified by silica gel chromatography eluting with petrol (A): ethyl acetate (B) (5-35% (B), 340 g, 150 mL/min) to afford 2.1 g of 9-(2-Benzyloxy-ethyl)-8-chloro-5-methoxy-2,3,4,9,-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole- 4-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (6). Total material obtained was 4.1 g (50%) of 9- (2-Benzyloxy-ethyl)-8-chloro-5-methoxy-2,3,4,9,-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4- carboxylic acid ethyl ester (6). The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (75 MHz, CDCI3): 5c 14.4, 20.5, 22.3, 27.5, 40.2, 43.9, 55.0, 60.2, 70.7, 73.3,

³C NMR (75 MHz; CDCI₃): 5_C 13.1 , 14.6, 20.1 , 22.0, 28.1 , 36.4, 40.5, 42.0, 43.0, 54.7, 68.8, 73.3, 99.4, 102.4, 107.8, 1 16.4, 121.2, 127.6,127.6, 128.3, 135.6, 137.8, 138.0 153.6, and 175.0.

Example 1 (k): 9-(2-hvdroxveth vl)-5-methoxv-2.3.4, 9-tetrah vdro- 1 H-carbazole-4- carboxylic acid diethylamine (11)

9-(2-Benzyloxy-ethyl)-5-methoxy-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4-carboxylic acid diethylamine (10) (1 .0 g, 2.1 mmol) in methanol (50 ml) was shaken with 10% palladium on charcoal (300 mg), and hydrogen gas excess for 18h at 55°C. The reaction was then filtered through a pad of celite and the filtrate concentrated in vacuo to give 578 mg (100%) 9-(2-hydroxyethyl)-5-methoxy- 2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4-carboxylic acid diethylamine (11) as a foam. The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (75 MHz; CDCI₃): 5_C 13.0, 14.4, 20.0, 22.0, 28.0, 36.4, 40.6, 42.0, 54.7, 60.6, 99.2, 102.6, 107.0, 1 16.7, 121 .1 , 136.1 , 137.5, 138.0 153.5, and 175.7. Example 1(11: Methanesulphonic acid 2-{4-dieth vlcarbamvl-5-methoxv- 1.2,3.4- tetrah vdro-carbazol-9-vl) ethyl ester

9-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-5-methoxy-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4-carboxylic acid diethylamine (11 ) (478 mg, 1 .4 mmol) in dichloromethane (30 ml) was cooled to 0°C and methanesulfonyl chloride (477 mg, 4.2 mmol, 324 μΐ_) and triethylamine (420 mg, 4.2 mmol, 578 μΙ_) were added and allowed to warm to RT overnight. The reaction was washed with 5% aqueous potassium carbonate solution. The layers were separated. The combined organics were dried over magnesium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo to give a gum (696 mg). The crude material was purified by silica gel chromatography eluting with petrol (A): ethyl acetate (B) (75-100% B, 22 CV, 120 g, 85 mL/min) to afford

Methanesulphonic acid 2-(4-diethylcarbamyl-5-methoxy-1 ,2,3,4-tetrahydro- carbazol-9-yl) ethyl ester as a gum that crystallised from diethyl ether to give 346 mg (59%) of a colourless solid. The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (75 MHz; CDCI₃): 5_C 13.1 , 14.5, 20.0, 21.9, 28.0, 36.3, 36.7, 40.3, 41.8, 41.9, 54.7, 68.1 , 100.0, 102.0, 109.0, 116.4, 122.0 135.1 , 137.3, 153.8, and 174.6.

- 30% (B), 330 g, 18.1 CV, 120 mL/min) to afford 1.3 g (25%) of 2-chloro-5- methoxy-phenyl) (2-fluoroethyl) amine (13) as a yellow oil. The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (75 MHz; CDCI₃): 5_C 43.8 (d, J_CF = 23 Hz), 55.3, 82.0 (d, JCF = 165 Hz), 98.1 , 102.2, 1 1 1.6, 129.5, 144.1 , and 159.5.

Example 2M: 3-f(2-Chloro-5-methox¥-Bhen fl}-{2-fluoroethYl} aminol-2-hydroxv- C clohexYl-l-enecarbox lic acid ethyl ester ( 14)

A solution of 2-chloro-5-methoxy-phenyl) (2-fluoroethyl) amine (13) (6.1 g, 30.0 mmol) in THF (170 mL) was cooled to -40°C. Potassium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide (126.0 mL of a 0.5 M solution in toluene, 63.0 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction stirred for 30 min at -40°C.) 3-Bromo-2-hydroxy-cyclohex-1- enecarboxylic acid ethyl ester (4; prepared according to Example 1 (d)) (7.4 g, 30.0 mmol) in THF (30 mL) was added dropwise at -40°C. The cooling bath was removed and the reaction was stirred at RT for 4 h. The reaction was quenched with brine (300 mL) and extracted into ethyl acetate (2 x 400 mL), dried over magnesium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo to give 12.0 g

(quantitative) of 3-[(2-Chloro-5-methoxy-phenylH2-fluoroethyi) amino]-2- hydroxy-cyclohexyl-1-enecarboxylic acid ethyl ester (14) as a brown oil which was used crude in the next step. The structure as a mixture of isomers was confirmed by ¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCI₃): δ_Η 1.08 (0.8H, t, J = 9 Hz,

CO₂CH₂CH₃), 1.22-1.33 (2.2 H, m, CO₂CH₂CH₃), 1.40-2.60 (7H, m, 4-, 5-, and 6-CH2, CHN), 3.20-4.50 (10H, m, NCH₂CH₂F, NCH₂CH2F, OCH₃,

CHCO₂CH₂CH₃), 6.50-6.70 (1 H, m, CHC(OCH₃)CHCH), 6.95 (0.5H, dd, J = 3 and 6 Hz, CHC(OCH₃)CHCH), 7.08 (0.5H, d, J = 3 Hz, CHC(OCH₃)CHCH), and 7.20-7.30 (1 H, m, CHC(OCH₃)CHCH).

Example 2(d) 8-chloro-9-i2-FluoroethYn-5-m

carbazole-4-carboxylic acid [ ethyl ester (15)

Synthesis of 8-Chloro-9-(2-fluoro-ethyl)-5-methoxy-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H- carbazole-4-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (15) was initially attempted using the conditions described in WO 2003/014082. A solution of 2-chloro-5-methoxy- phenyl) (2-fluoroethyl) amine (13; prepared according to Example 2(b)) (600 mg, 3.8 mmol) in dry THF (20 mL) was cooled in an ice bath and treated with potassium bis(trimethyl silyl) amide (16 mL of a 0.5 M solution in toluene, 8.0 mmol). After 30 minutes 3-Bromo-2-hydroxy-cyclohex-1 -enecarboxylic acid ethyl ester (4; prepared according to Example 1 (d)) (1.04 g, 4.2 mmol) in THF (4 mL) was added and the reaction was allowed to warm to RT over 2 hours. The reaction was quenched with saturated ammonium chloride solution and extracted twice with ether. The extracts were washed with water, brine, dried and concentrated in vacuo. The crude material was purified by silica gel chromatrography eluting with petrol (A) and ethyl acetate (B) (2.5-50 % B, 50 g, 25 CV, 40 mL/min). The main spot was a mixture of three compounds. This mixture was refluxed in toluene (20 mL) with dry zinc chloride (1 .7 g, 12.6 mmol) overnight. The reaction was concentrated in vacuo and the residue was partitioned between 1 N HCL (25 mL) and ethyl acetate (25 mL) and then extracted once more with ethyl acetate. The organic layers were washed with water and brine, dried and concentrated in vacuo to afford a brown oil. 1 H NMR indicated that it was a mixture of several compounds. TLC on silica in a range of solvents could not separate this mixture into separate spots. Comparison of the ¹H NMR of the mixture with an authentic sample indicated that the mixture contained an estimated 25% of 8-Chloro-9-(2-fluoro-ethyl)-5-methoxy-2, 3,4,9- tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (15).

A modified method was then carried out. 3-[(2-Chloro-5-methoxy-phenyl)-(2- fluoroethyl) amino]-2-hydroxy-cyclohexyl-1 -enecarboxylic acid ethyl ester (14) (12.2 g, 30.0 mmol) was dissolved in diethyl ether (250 mL) and zinc chloride (16.4 g, 120.0 mmol) was added. The reaction was heated at reflux for 16 h. Ethyl acetate (500 mL) was added to dissolve everything and was washed with 2N HCI (200 mL), water (200 mL), 10% aqueous potassium carbonate (200 -/, ui icu uvci lay ι ica ι u oun ic ai i^ui in atcu // / vauuu. ι l i ; i uuc material was purified by silica gel chromatography eluting with petrol (A): ethyl acetate (B) (5-20% B, 12 CV, 10 g, 100 mL/min) to afford 5.3 g (50% over 2 steps) of 8-chloro-9-(2-Fluoroethyl)-5-methoxy-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H- carbazole-4-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (15) as a yellow solid. The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (75 MHz, CDCI₃): 6_C 14.4, 20.4, 22.2, 27.4, 40.1 , 44.2

allowed to cool and then diluted with ethyl acetate (50 mL). This was washed with water (3 x 20 mL) and the organics were dried and concentrated in vacuo. The crude material was purified by silica gel chromatography eluting with petrol (A) and ethyl acetate (B) (0-50% B, 100 g, 19.5 CV, 85 mL/min) to afford 2.22 g (37%) of (2-benzyloxy-ethyl)-phenyl-amine (21 ) as a yellow oil. The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (75 MHz, CDCI₃) 5_C 43.6, 68.6, 73.2, 1 13.1 , 1 17.5, 127.5, 127.7, 128.4, 129.1 , 138.2, 148.1 ,

Example 3(d) : f9-( 2-Benzvloxv-eth vl)-2.3.4.9-tetrah vdro- 1 H-carbazol-4-vll- piperidin- 1 -vl-methanone ( 22)

A mixture of 2-bromo-6-(piperidine-1 -carbonyl)-cyclohexanone (20) (1 .5 g, 5.2 mmol) and (2-benzyloxy-ethyl)-phenyl-amine (21 ) (3.2 g, 10.4 mmol) was stirred under N₂ at 50°C for 3 h and the reaction turned brown. The resulting mixture was dissolved in propan-2-ol (5 mL) and dry zinc chloride (2.13 g, 15.6 mmol) was added. The mixture was heated to reflux under N₂ for 16 h and then concentrated in vacuo. The residue was dissolved in ethyl acetate (100 mL) and washed with 2 N HCI (30 mL), water (2 x 30 mL) and aqueous potassium carbonate solution (2 x 30 mL) then dried and concentrated in vacuo. The crude material was purified by SCX cartridge and then silica gel

chromatography eluting with petrol (A) and ethyl acetate (B) (30-100% B, 12 g, 41 CV, 30 mL/min) to afford 600 mg (27%) of [9-(2-benzyloxy-ethyl)-2,3,4,9- tetrahydro-1 H-carbazol-4-yl]-piperidin-1-yl-methanone (22) as an oil. The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (75 MHz, CDCI₃) 5_C 21.5, 21 .7, 24.5, 25..7, 26.3, 273, 37.7, 42.8, 43.1 , 46.7, 60.2, 68.7, 73.1 , 108.2, 108.7, 1 17.8, 1 18.9, 120.5, 126.4, 127.3, 127.4, 128.1 , 136.2, 137.8, 172.9.

Example 3(e): [9-(2-Hvdroxv-ethvl)-2.3.4, 9-tetrah vdro- 1 H-carbazol-4-yl]- oipendin- 1 -vl-methanone (23)

To a solution of [9-(2-benzyloxy-ethyl)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazol-4-yl]- piperidin-1-yl-methanone (22) (600 mg, 1 .4 mmol) in methanol (15 mL) was added a slurry of Pd/C (200 mg) in methanol (10 mL). The mixture was placed on the Parr hydrogenator and shaken for 24 h under a hydrogen atmosphere.

Analytical-HPLC: Phenomenex Luna C18 column (150 x 4.6 mm i.d.), particle size 5μm; mobile phase A: Water, mobile phase B: Methanol; flow gradient: 1 ml/min; 0-1 min 50 %B; 1-20 rnins 50-95 %B; Wavelength 230 nm; t_R imaging agent 6 16 rnins. Radiochemical yield 23±2% (n=3) non-decay corrected, time 90-120 rnins, radiochemical purity >99%. Figure 2 shows co-elution of

imaging agent 6 and non-radioactive imaging agent 6 (prepared according to Example 4).

Example 4: Synthesis of f9 2-Fluoro-ethM}-Z3,4,9~tetrah¥dro-1 H- carbazol-4-wl!-Pifieridin-1-wl-methanone (non-radioactive analogue of imaging agent 6)

Example 4(a): ( 2-Fluoro-eth yl)-phen vl-amine (24)

In a round bottom flask aniline (0.5 g, 5.4 mmol), 2,6-lutidine (0.58 g, 5.4 mmol) and 2-fluoroethyl tosylate (12; prepared according to Example 2(a)) (1.17 g, 5.4 mmol) were combined in DMF (2.5 ml_) and stirred at 100°C overnight. The reaction was allowed to cool and then diluted with ethyl acetate (50 ml_). This was washed with water (3 x 20 ml_) and the organics were dried and

concentrated in vacuo. The crude material was purified by silica gel

chromatography eluting with petrol (A) and ethyl acetate (B) (100 g, 0-100% B, 18 CV, 85 mL/min) to give 435 mg (60%) of (2-fluoro-ethyl)-phenyl-amine (24) as a yellow oil. The structure was confirmed by ¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCI₃) δ_Η 3.41 (1 H, t, J = 3 Hz, NCH₂CH₂F), 3.50 (1 H, t, J = 3 Hz, NCH₂CH₂F), 3.93 (1 H, s, br), 4.54 (1 H, t, J = 3 Hz, NCH₂CH₂F), 4.71 (1 H, t, J = 3 Hz, NCH₂CH₂F), 6.65-6.82 (3H, m, 2 x NCCH, NCCHCHCH), 7.14-7.28 (2H, m, 2 x

NCCHCHCH).

1-¥l-methanone (non-radioactive imaging agent 6)

A mixture of 2-bromo-6-(piperidine-1 -carbonyl)-cyclohexanone (20; prepared according to example 3(b)) (500 mg, 1 .7 mmol) and (2-fluoro-ethyl)-phenyl- amine (24) (890 mg, 3.5 mmol) was stirred under N₂ at 50°C for 3 h and the

136.2, 136.9, 137.8, 175.0.

Example 5(b): 9-(2-Benzylox -eihyl}-2,3A,9 etrah dro H-ca

carboxylic acid (26)

9-(2-Benzyloxy-ethyl)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (25) (35 g, 9.3 mmol) was dissolved in ethanol (9 mL) and then NaOH (1.56 g) in water (15 mL) was added. The reaction was heated at reflux for 2 h. The reaction was concentrated in vacuo and the residue diluted with water and washed with dichloromethane (2 x 150 mL). The aqueous layer was added drop wise to 2 N HCI (150 mL) and then extracted into dichloromethane (3 x 150 mL). The organics were dried and concentrated in vacuo to afford 2.48 g (92%) of 9-(2-benzyloxy-ethyl)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4-carboxylic acid (26) as a yellow solid which was used in the next step without purification. The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (75 MHz, CDCI₃) 5_C 20.4, 21.8, 26.4, 38.3, 42.9, 68.7, 73.3, 105.7, 108.8, 1 18.7, 1 19.3, 102.9, 127.4, 127.6, 128.3, 136.2, 137.1 , 137.8, 108.9.

Example 5(c): 9-(2-Benzvloxv-ethvl)-2.3.4.9-tetrah vdro- 1 H-carbazole-4- carboxvlic acid benzvl-meth vl-amide (27)

9-(2-Benzyloxy-ethyl)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4-carboxylic acid (26) (600 mg, 1.7 mmol) was dissolved in dry DCM (8 mL) under nitrogen and oxalyl chloride (393 mg, 3.1 mmol, 0.26 mL) was added. The reaction was stirred at room temperature for 3 h and there was vigorous evolution of gas. The reaction was concentrated in vacuo and then redissolved in dichloromethane (8 mL) and cooled to 0°C and and N-benzylmethylamine (412 mg, 3.4 mmol, 0.44 mL) was added. The reaction was warmed to room temperature overnight. The reaction was washed with 5% aaueous Dotassium carbonate solution, dried and concentrated in vacuo to afford a brown oil. The crude material was purified by silica gel chromatography eluting with petrol (A) and ethyl acetate (B) (30% B, 10g) to afford 246 mg (64%) of 9-(2-benzyloxy-ethyl)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H- carbazole-4-carboxylic acid benzyl-methyl-amide (27) as a yellow oil. The structure was confirmed by ¹H NMR (CDCI₃) δ_Η 1.60-2.30 (4H, m, CHCH₂CH₂CH₂), 2.70-2.90 (2H, m, CHCH₂CH₂CH₂), 3.10 (1.5H, s,

N(CH₃)CH₂Ph), 3.13 (1 .5H, s, N(CH₃)CH₂Ph), 3.73 (2H, t, J = 6 Hz,

NCH₂CH₂O), 4.10-4.30 (3H, m, NCH₂CH₂0, CHCH₂CH₂CH₂), 4.42 (1 H, s, OCH₂Ph), 4.44 (1.H, s, OCH₂Ph), 4.80 (1 H, s, N(CH₃)CH₂Ph), 4.81 (1 H, s, N(CH₃)CH₂Ph), 6.90-7.50 (14H, m).

Example 5(d): 9-(2^ydroxy-ethyl)-2,3_t4,9-tetrahYdro-1H-carbazole-4-carboxylic acid benzvl-meth vl-amide (28)

To a solution of 9-(2-benzyloxy-ethyl)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4- carboxylic acid benzyl-methyl-amide (27) (246 mg, 0.5 mmol) in methanol (15 mL) was added a slurry of Pd/C (200 mg) in methanol (10 mL). The mixture was placed on the Parr hydrogenator and shaken for 24 h under a hydrogen atmosphere. The reaction was filtered through a pad of celite, washed with methanol and concentrated in vacuo to afford_36 mg (20%) of 9-(2-hydroxy- ethyl)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4-carboxylic acid benzyl-methyl-amide (28) as a green oil which was used in the next step without purification. The structure was confirmed by H NMR (CDCI₃) δ_Η 1.80-2.20 (4H, m), 2.70-3.00 (2H, m), 3.20-4.30 (10H, m), 6.90-7.50 (9H, m).

Example 5(e) Methanesulfonic acid 2-[4-lbenzyl-methyl-carbamoYl)- 1,2,3, 4- tetrahvdro-carbazol-9-yll-eth yl ester

To a solution of 9-(2-hyd roxy-ethyl)-2 ,3 ,4 ,9-tetrahyd ro- 1 H-carbazole-4- carboxylic acid benzyl-methyl-amide (28) (36 mg, 0.1 mmol) in dichloromethane (2 mL) was added pyridine (7.91 g, 1.0 mmol, 8.1 mL). The reaction was cooled to 0°C and methanesulfonyl chloride (57 mg, 0.5 mmol, 0.04 mL) was added. The reaction was allowed to warm to room temperature overnight. The mixture was washed with 2 N HCI (2 x 10 mL and water (2 x 10 mL). dried and concentrated in vacuo. The crude material was purified by silica gel

chromatography eluting with petrol (A) and ethyl acetate (B) (20-80% B, 4 g, 45 CV, 18 mL/min) to afford 14 mg (32%) of methanesulfonic acid 2-[4-(benzyl- methyl-carbamoyl)-1 ,2,3,4-tetrahydro-carbazol-9-yl]-ethyl ester as a yellow oil. The structure was confirmed by ¹H NMR (CDCI₃) δ_Η 1.10-2.40 (5H, m), 2.51

(84%) of (2-benzyloxy-ethyl)-(4-fluoro-phenyl)-amine (34) as a yellow oil. The structure was confirmed by ³C NMR (75 MHz, CDCI₃) 5_C 44.0, 68.3, 72.8, 1 3.7 (of, JCF = 7 Hz), 1 15.3 (d, J_CF = 22 Hz), 127.5, 127.6 (d, J_CF = 3 Hz), 128.3, 137.8, 144.5, 154.1 , and 157.2.

Example 7(c): 3-Bromo-2-oxo-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid diethylamide (35)

Ethyl 2-cyclohexone-carboxylate (7.50 mL, 47.0 mmol), DMAP (1 .72 g, 14.1 mmol) and diethylamine (9.77 mL, 94.0 mmol) were heated at reflux for 72 hours in toluene (100 mL). The reaction was allowed to cool and the toluene was removed under reduced pressure. The crude oil was purified by silica gel chromatography eluting with petrol (A) and ethyl acetate (B) (1 :1 , 100 g, SiO₂) to afford 6.8 g (73%) of 2-oxo-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid diethylamine as an orange oil. The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (CDCI₃) 51 1 .1 , 12.7, 21 .3, 24.9, 28.5, 39.4, 39.6, 51 .7, 166.5, 205.9.

2-oxo-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid diethylamine (3.56 mL, 19.3 mmol) was dissolved in diethyl ether (5 mL) and cooled with stirred to 0°C under N₂.

Bromine (0.99 mL, 19.3 mmol) was added drop wise over 15 minutes and the reaction mixture was allowed to warm to room temperature over 3 hours. A solid had precipitated out of the reaction. It was collected by filtration and washed with ether to give 5.85 g (109%) of 3-Bromo-2-oxo- cyclohexanecarboxylic acid diethylamide (35) as a pale yellow solid. The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (CDCI₃) 51 1.2, 12.8, 22.7, 28.8, 37.6, 37.9, 39.4, 51 .0, 55.7, 165.5, 197.2

Example 7(d): 9-(2-Benzvloxv-eth vl)-6-f1uoro-2.3.4.9-tetrahvdro- 1 H-carbazole- 4-carboxMlic acid diethylamide (36)

A mixture of 2-benzyloxy-N-(4-fluoro-phenyl)-acetamide (33) (5.3 g, 22 mmol) and 3-bromo-2-oxo-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid diethylamide (35) (3.0 g, 13 mmol) ) was stirred under N₂ at 50°C for 3 h and the reaction turned brown. The resulting mixture was dissolved in propan-2-ol (30 mL) and dry zinc chloride (9.0 g, 66 mmol) was added. The mixture was heated to reflux under

To a solution of 6-fluoro-9-(2-hydroxy-ethyl)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4- carboxylic acid diethylamide (37) (460 mg, 1 .4 mmol) in dichloromethane (20 ml_) was added pyridine (1.1 1 g, 14.0 mmol, 1.1 ml_). The reaction was cooled to 0°C and methanesulfonyl chloride (722 mg, 6.3 mmol, 0.5 ml_) was added. The reaction was allowed to warm to room temperature overnight. The mixture was washed with 2 N HCI (2 x 30 mL) and water (2 x 30 ml_), dried and concentrated in vacuo. The crude material was purified by silica gel

chromatography eluting with petrol (A) and ethyl acetate (B) (0-100% (B), 10 g, 45 CV, 30 mL/min) then triturated with diethyl ether to afford 166 mg (30%) of methanesulfonic acid 2-(4-diethylcarbamoyl-6-fluoro-1 ,2,3,4-tetrahydro- carbazol-9-yl)-ethyl ester as a white solid. The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (75 MHz, CDCI₃) 6_C 12.9, 15.0, 21 .1 , 27.7, 36.1 , 36.7, 40.6, 41.7, 67.8, 103.3 (d, JCF = 23 Hz), 108.7, 109.0, 109.1 , 109.4 (d, J_CF = 5 Hz), 126.9 (d, J_CF = 10 Hz), 132.4, 138.4, 156.1 , 159.2, and 173.3.

Example 7(f): 6-Fluoro-9-i2-f¹⁸FJfluoro-ethvl}-2.3.4.9-tetrahvdro-1H-carbazole- 4-carboxvlic acid diethylamide (imaging agent 8)

Labelling of methanesulfonic acid 2-(4-diethylcarbamoyl-6-fluoro-1 , 2,3,4- tetrahydro-carbazol-9-yl)-ethyl ester with ¹⁸F was carried out as described in Example 1 (f).

Semi-preparative HPLC: HICHROM ACE 5 C18 column (100 x 10 mm i.d.), particle size 5 μιη; mobile phase A: Water, mobile phase B: Methanol; flow gradient: 3ml/min; 0-1 min 40 % B; 1-20 mins 40-95 %B; Wavelength 254 nm; imaging agent 8 15 mins.

Analytical-HPLC: Phenomenex Luna C18 column (150 x 4.6 mm i.d.), particle size 5μ!Ύΐ; mobile phase A: Water, mobile phase B: Methanol; flow gradient: 1 ml/min; 0-1 min 50 % B; 1-20 mins 50-95 %B; Wavelength 230 nm; t_R

imaging agent 8 14 mins. Radiochemical yield 26±8% (n=4) non-decay corrected, time 90-120 mins, radiochemical purity >99%. Figure 4 shows co- elution of imaging agent 8 and non-radioactive imaging agent 8 (prepared according to Example 8).

MHz, CDCI3) δ_Η 1.13 (3H, t, J = 9 Hz, N(CH₂CH₃)₂), 1.30 (3H, t, J = 9 Hz, N(CH₂CH₃)₂), 1.55-2.14 (4H, m, 2- and 3-CH₂), 2.78-2.86 (2H, m, l-CHfe), 3.36- 3.67 (4H, m, N(CH₂CH₃)₂), 4.00-4.10 (1 H, m, 4-CH), 4.30 (2H, dm, J = 21 Hz, NCH₂CH₂F), 4.60 (2H, dm, J = 41 Hz, NCH₂CH₂F), 6.75-6.95 (2H, m,

NCCHCHCFCH), and 7.05-7.15 (1 H, m, NCCHCHCFCH.

Example 9: Synthesis of 5-Fluoro-9-(2-[¹⁸Flfluoro-ethvl)-2.3,4.9-tetrahydro- 1H-carbazole-4-carboxvlic acid diethylamide f imaging agent 10)

Example 9(a): 2-benzvloxv-N-(3-fluoro-Phenvl)-acetamide (39)

To a solution of benzyloxyacetic acid (4.65 g, 28 mmol, 4.0 ml_) in DCM (52 ml_) was added oxalyl chloride (7.7 g, 61 mmol, 5.3 mL) and a drop of DMF. The reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature for 4 h. Excess of oxalyl chloride was removed in vacuo and the crude acyl chloride was diluted into DCM (100 mL) and triethylamine (5.3 mL, 41.6 mmol, 4.2 g) was added followed by 3-fluoroaniline (3.5 g, 32 mmol, 3.0 mL). The reaction mixture was stirred at RT overnight. The reaction was then quenched with 1 M aqueous HCI (100 mL), dried and concentrated in vacuo to afford 7.10 g (95%) of 2- benzyloxy-N-(3-fluoro-phenyl)-acetamide (39) as a yellow oil which was used in the next step without purification. The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (75 MHz, CDCI3) δ₀ 69.2, 73.5, 106.9, 107.2, 11 1.0 (d, J_CF = 24 Hz), 1 14.9 (d, J_CF = 3 Hz), 127.8, 128.2, 128.5, 129.7 (d, J_CF = 9 Hz), 136.2, and 167.6.

Example 9(b): (2-Benzvloxy-ethvl)-(3-fluoro-phenvl)-amine (40)

To a suspension of LAH (1.25 g, 27 mmol) in dry diethyl ether ( 00 mL) was added dropwise a solution of 2-benzyloxy-N-(3-fluoro-phenyl)-acetamide (39) (7.0 g, 27 mmol) in dry diethyl ether (100 mL). The addition was such as a reflux was maintained. Once the addition was completed, the reaction mixture was heated to reflux for 4 h, then poured into ice-water and DCM was added. In order to break down the aluminium salt, 2M aqueous sodium hydroxide solution was added until strong basic pH was obtained. The layers were separated and the aqueous layer was washed with DCM, dried and concentrated in vacuo.

2,3,4, 9-tetrahydro-1 H-carbazole-4-carboxylic acid diethylamide (bottom).

(300 MHz, CDCI₃): δ_Η 0.94 (3H, d, J = 6.0 Hz, CH₃), 1.15-1 .35 (1 H, m,

CH₂CH=CN), 1.50-1.80 (3H, m, CH₂CH₂CHCH₃), 2.00-2.25 (4H, m,

CH₂CH=CN and CH₂CH₂CHCH₃), 2.65-2.95 (4H, m, OCH₂NCH₂), 3.73 (4H, t, J = 6.0 Hz, OCH₂NCH₂), and 4.60-4.65 (1 H, m, CH₂CH=CN).

Example 1 Kb): 5-Methvl-2-oxo-cvclohexanecarboxylic acid ethyl ester (45)

To a solution of 4-(4-methyl-cyclohex-1-enyl)-morpholine (44) (23 g, 127.0 mmol) in benzene (55 mL), ethyl chloroformate (7.5 g, 69.0 mmol, 6.6 mL) was added under nitrogen while the enamine solution was being stirred rapidly. After refluxing for 18 h, the solution was cooled and filtered. The precipitate of enamine hydrochloride was washed with with dry ether. The filtrate and washings were returned to the reaction flask and 10% aqueous HCI (40 mL) was added. The mixture was stirred vigorously for 15-30 min. The layers were separated, the aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl acetate (2 x 100 mL) and the combined organic layers were concentrated in vacuo. The crude material was purified by distillation under reduced pressure to afford 12.5 g (53%) of 5-methyl-2-oxo-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid ethyl ester (45) as an oil (b.p. 85°C - 90°C at 10 mmHg). The structure was confirmed by ¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCI₃): δ_Η 0.85-0.95 (3H, m, CH₃), 1.17 (3H, t, J = 7 Hz, OCH₂CH₃), 1.25-2.00 (5H, m, 5-CH, 4- and 6-CH₂), 2.15-2.40 (3H, m, 1-CH and 3-CH₂), and 4.00-4.20 (2H, m, OChbCHs).

Example 11(c): 5-Meth l-2-oxo-cvclohexanecarbox lic acid diethylamide (46)

5-Methyl-2-oxo-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid ethyl ester (45) (5.9 g, 32 mmol), DMAP (1 .12 g, 10 mmol) and diethylamine (4.7 g, 65 mmol, 6.7 mL) in toluene (90 mL) were heated at reflux for 4 days. The reaction was allowed to cool and the toluene was removed under reduced pressure to give a ye!!ow oil. The crude material was purified by silica gel chromatography eluting with petrol (A) and ethyl acetate (B) (20-50% B, 80 g) to afford 4.4 g (65%) of 5-methyl-2-oxo- cyclohexanecarboxylic acid diethylamide (46) as a yellow oil. The structure was confirmed ¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCI₃) δ_Η 0.8-1.05 (9H, m, CH₃ and

N(CH₂CH₃)₂), 1.05-2.10 (5H, m, 5-CH and 4- and 6-CH₂), 2.15-2.80 (2H, rn, 3-

chromatography eluting with petrol (A) and ethyl acetate (B) (0-100% B, 10 g, 34 CV, 30 mL/min) then triturated with diethyl ether to afford 250 mg (80%) of methanesulfonic acid 2-(4-diethylcarbamoyl-2-methyl-1 ,2,3,4-tetrahydro- carbazol-9-yl)-ethyl ester as a white solid. The structure was confirmed by ¹³C NMR (75 MHz, CDCI₃) 5_C 12.9, 13.0, 5.2, 22.0, 29.7, 30.2, 36.7, 36.8, 40.8, 41.6, 42.0, 67.8, 108.6, 109.5, 1 18.6, 1 19.6, 121.2, 126.4, 136.2, 136.4, 173.7.

Example 11(h): 9-(2-f¹⁸FlFluoro-eth¥l)-2-methYl-Z3,4,9-tetrahYdro-1H~

carbazole-4-carboxvlic acid diethylamide (imaging agent 11)

Labelling of methanesulfonic acid 2-(4-diethylcarbamoyl-2-methyI-1 ,2,3,4- tetrahydro-carbazol-9-yl)-ethyl ester with ¹⁸F was carried out as described in Example 1 (f).

Semi-preparative HPLC: HICHROM ACE 5 C18 column (100 x 10 mm i.d.), particle size 5 μηη; mobile phase A: Water, mobile phase B: Methanol; flow gradient: 3ml/min; 0-26 min 50 % B; Wavelength 254 nm; f_R imaging agent 11 15 mins.

Analytical-HPLC: Phenomenex Luna C18 column (150 x 4.6 mm i.d.), particle size 5μΐη; mobile phase A: Water, mobile phase B: Methanol; flow gradient: 1 ml/min; 0-1 min 40 % B; 1-20 mins 40-95 %B; Wavelength 230 nm; t_R

imaging agent 11 17 mins. Radiochemical yield 14±13% (n=3) non-decay corrected, time 90-120 mins, radiochemical purity >99%. Figure 6 shows co- elution of imaging agent Hand non-radioactive imaging agent 1 1 .

Example 12: synthesis of 9-(2-Fluoro-ethvl)-2-methyl-2.3.4.9-tetrahvdro- 1 H-carbazole-4-carboxMlic acid diethMlam

agent 11) A mixture of 3-bromo-2-hydroxy-5-methyl-cyclohex-1-enecarboxylic acid diethylamide (47; prepared according to Example 1 1 (d)) (2.0 g, 7 mmol) and (2- fluoro-ethyl)-phenyl-amine (24; prepared according to Example 4(a)) (1.9 g, 14 mmol) was stirred under N₂ at 50°C for 3 h and the reaction turned brown. The resulting mixture was dissolved in propan-2-ol (7 mL) and dry zinc chloride

agents of the invention were tested.

Each test compound (dissolved in 50mM Tris-HCI, pH 7.4, 10mfVf MgCI₂ containing 1 %DMSO) competed for binding to Wistar rat heart PBR against 0.3 nM [³H] PK-1 1 195. The reaction was carried out in 50mM Tris-HCI, pH 7.4 10mM MgCI₂ for 15 minutes at 25°C. Each test compound was screened at 6 different concentrations over a 300-fold range of concentrations around the estimated K,. The following data were observed:

Example 16: In Vivo Biodistribution Method Imaging agents of the invention were tested in an in vivo biodistribution model.

Adult male Wistar rats (200-300g) were injected with 1-3 MBq of test compound via the lateral tail vein. At 2, 10, 30 or 60 min (n = 3) after injection, rats were euthanised and tissues or fluids were sampled for radioactive measurement on a gamma counter. The following data of note were observed:

Claims