14C-Radiopharmaceutical
14C-radiopharmaceuticals, labeled with carbon-14, are extensively used in metabolic studies, drug discovery, and the analysis of biological processes, thanks to their moderate half-life and exceptional imaging capabilities. Alfa Cytology offers comprehensive 14C radiopharmaceutical development services, supporting clients from initial research through preclinical stages to efficiently develop and optimize 14C-labeled drug molecules for metabolic and pharmacokinetic analyses.
Overview of 14C-Radiopharmaceutical
14C-radiopharmaceuticals, labeled with the carbon-14 isotope, are widely used in drug discovery, metabolism studies, and the tracking and imaging of biological processes. 14C is a radioactive form of the naturally occurring stable isotope ¹²C and has a half-life of about 5,730 years. In radiopharmaceutical research, 14C labels can be incorporated into drug molecules to track their metabolic pathways in animals. The application of 14C-labeled drugs is especially prevalent in preclinical drug development for early-stage drug screening, targeting studies, and assessing drug bioavailability.
![Structure of [14C] difelikefalin.](https://www.rdcthera.com/wp-content/themes/rdc/upload/2-1-1-1-914c-radiopharmaceutical-1.jpg)
Fig 1. Structure of [14C] difelikefalin. (STARK J G, et al., 2023)
Applications of 14C-Radiopharmaceutical
Moderate Half-life
14C has a half-life of about 5,730 years, offering a stable signal with mild radioactivity. This extended decay rate is ideal for long-term metabolic tracking and pharmacokinetic studies, ensuring experimental reliability.
Low Radiation
As a low-energy beta emitter, 14C has low radiation intensity, making it safer for experimental and clinical research. It is suitable for human metabolism tracking with minimal impact, aligning with modern ethical standards.
Biocompatibility
Carbon-14, a naturally occurring isotope, integrates seamlessly into drug molecules without altering their chemical or biological properties. This allows for accurate reflection of drug metabolism within the body.
Highly Sensitive Assay
14C's radioactivity enables precise measurement of its distribution and metabolites using liquid scintillation counters (LSC), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and other sensitive detection instruments.
Our Services
Alfa Cytology is committed to 14C radiopharmaceutical development, offering comprehensive support from synthesis through to preclinical studies. Our expert team leverages 14C labeling technology to help clients accurately track drug metabolism, refine drug design, and accelerate new drug development.
Drug Metabolism Studies
Alfa Cytology utilizes 14C labeling for drug metabolism studies, allowing the precise tracking of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) processes in the body.
- In Vitro Metabolism Studies
- In Vivo Metabolism Studies
- Metabolic Kinetics Studies
- Toxicology of Metabolites
- Quantification of Metabolites
Radiotracer Technology
14C is especially useful in tracer techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET), providing detailed insights into physiological and biochemical processes.
- Radioactive Tracing in Cell Culture
- Biomarker and Disease Tracking
- Receptor Binding Studies
14C Conjugation Service
Alfa Cytology is committed to advancing the development and innovation of 14C radiolabeled nuclear pharmaceuticals. Leveraging our extensive technical expertise and cutting-edge research capabilities, we provide professional support to drive breakthroughs in this field. For any inquiries or additional information about our comprehensive services, please feel free to contact us.
Reference
- STARK J G, NOONAN P K, SPENCER R H, et al. Pharmacokinetics, Metabolism, and Excretion of Intravenous [14C]Difelikefalin in Healthy Subjects and Subjects on Hemodialysis [J]. Clinical pharmacokinetics, 2023, 62(9): 1231-41.
For research use only. Not intended for any clinical use.
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