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Complexes of Cu(ii) with studied ligands show very short NMR longitudinal relaxation times T1 of 19F nuclei and good T2*/T1 ratio. Thus, Cu(ii) can be considered as a suitable metal ion for the design of efficient 19F MRI/NMR relaxation agents.

A series of Cu(II) complexes with cyclam-based ligands containing two

Cross-bridged cyclam derivatives bearing two phosphonate (H4L1), bis(phosphinate) (H4L2), or phosphinate (H2L3) pendant arms were synthesized and studied with respect to their application as copper...

Al(iii) complexes are extensively studied as [18F]fluoride carriers in positron emission tomography. However, our limited knowledge on their thermodynamic and kinetic properties has hindered efforts to easily prepare radiochemically pure compounds while simultaneously reducing the overall labeling time. Thus, to improve our understanding of fluoride binding to coordinatively unsaturated Al(iii) complexes, we investigated the ternary system Al(iii)-H3NTA-F- (H3NTA = nitrilo-triacetic acid) by NMR, potentiometry and X-ray diffraction. Our results show that the [Al(NTA)] complex binds two water molecules, which are replaced by fluorides. Individual species and isomers show separate 19F NMR signals and different stability constants. The two available positions on the [Al(NTA)] complex feature significantly different properties in terms of basicity of the coordinated water molecules and preferential binding of fluoride anions. Fluorides are effectively bound in weakly acidic or neutral solutions, whereas hydroxido species are preferentially formed in alkaline solutions. Our experimental observations were rationalized by theoretical calculations: predictions of the energy ordering of complexes and isomers, interpretation of 19F NMR chemical shifts, and natural bonding orbital analysis. Radiolabeling of [Al(NTA)] with [18F]fluoride gave low yields that confirmed a high affinity of the complex for hydroxide anions.

A series of lanthanide(III) complexes of a monophosphinate analogue of H4dota, 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7-triacetic-10-methyl[(N,N-dibenzylamino)methyl]phosphinic acid (H4do3apDBAm = H4L1), were prepared and their solid-state structures were studied using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. In all structures, the ligand anion was octadentately coordinated to the Ln(III) or Sc(III) ions similarly to other DOTA-like ligands, i.e. forming parallel N4- and O4-planes. The lighter lanthanide(III) complexes (till dysprosium) were nonacoordinated in the twisted square-antiprismatic (TSA) configuration with the apical coordination of water molecules or oxygen atoms from the neighbouring complex unit. The heavier lanthanide(III) complexes (from terbium) were found as the “anhydrous” octacoordinated twisted square-antiprismatic (TSA′) isomer. For the terbium(III) ion, both forms were structurally characterized. The structural data of the Ln(III)–H4L1 complexes and complexes of several related DOTA-like ligands were analysed. It clearly showed that the structural parameters for the square-antiprismatic (SA) isomers were clustered in a small range while those for the TSA/TSA′ isomers were significantly more spread. The analysis also gave useful information about the influence of various pendant arms on the structure of the complexes of the DOTA-like ligands. The twist angle (torsion) of the chelate ring containing a larger phosphorus atom was similar to those of the remaining three acetate pendants. It led to a larger separation of the N4⋯O4 planes and to smaller trans-O–Ln–O angles than the parameters found in the complexes of H4dota and its tetraamide derivatives dotam(R). It resulted in a relatively long bond between the metal ion and the coordinated water molecule. It led, together with the negative charge of the oxygen atoms forming the O4-plane, to an extremely fast water exchange rate reported for the Gd(III)–H4L1 complex and, generally, to a fast water exchange of Gd(III) complexes with the monophosphorus acid analogues of H4dota, H5do3ap/H4do3apR.

Ligands combining a bis(phosphonate) group with a macrocycle function as metal isotope carriers for radionuclide-based imaging and for treating bone metastases associated with several cancers. However, bis(phosphonate) pendant arms often slow down complex formation and decrease radiochemical yields. Nevertheless, their negative effect on complexation rates may be mitigated by using a suitable spacer between bis(phosphonate) and the macrocycle. To demonstrate the potential of bis(phosphonate) bearing macrocyclic ligands as a copper radioisotope carrier, we report the synthesis of a new cyclam derivative bearing a phosphinate-bis(phosphonate) pendant (H5te1PBP). The ligand showed a high selectivity to CuII over ZnII and NiII ions, and the bis(phosphonate) group was not coordinated in the CuII complex, strongly interacting with other metal ions in solution. The CuII complex formed quickly, in 1 s, at pH 5 and at a millimolar scale. The complexation rates significantly differed under a ligand or metal ion excess due to the formation of reaction intermediates differing in their metal-to-ligand ratio and protonation state, respectively. The CuII-te1PBP complex also showed a high resistance to acid-assisted hydrolysis (t1/2 2.7 h; 1 M HClO4, 25 °C) and was effectively adsorbed on the hydroxyapatite surface. H5te1PBP radiolabeling with [64Cu]CuCl2 was fast and efficient, with specific activities of approximately 30 GBq 64Cu per 1 μmol of ligand (pH 5.5, room temperature, 30 min). In a pilot experiment, we further demonstrated the excellent suitability of [64Cu]CuII-te1PBP for imaging active bone compartments by dedicated small animal PET/CT in healthy mice and subsequently in a rat femoral defect model, in direct comparison with [18F]fluoride. Moreover, [64Cu]CuII-te1PBP showed a higher uptake in critical bone defect regions. Therefore, our study highlights the potential of [64Cu]CuII-te1PBP as a PET radiotracer for evaluating bone healing in preclinical and clinical settings with a diagnostic value similar to that of [18F]fluoride, albeit with a longer half-life (12.7 h) than 18F (1.8 h), thereby enabling extended observation times.

Taraxacum koksaghyz Rodin, a dandelion from the steppes of south-eastern Kazakhstan, has been known for long time as potential rubber producer, as a temperate region alternative to the tropical rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis Mull. Arg.. In this work, we evaluate Taraxacum bicorne Dahlst. (wild populations), a closely related congener of T. koksaghyz. The taxonomy of T. bicorne is reviewed, population genetic characteristics are analysed by Simple Sequence Repeat markers, and rubber biosynthesis genes are identified by Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR. Rubber content of T. bicorne plants collected in wild is measured using a modified extraction method to minimize amount of material. Taraxacum bicorne is shown to be an outcrossing sexual diploid. Its rubber content is about half of that of T. koksaghyz (~ 3.2% vs. ~ 7.2% of root dry weight), but T. bicorne could be used as a potential rubber source or as a source of germplasm for production of hybrids to improve rubber yield in various environments, because T. bicorne has considerable genetic variation, wider geographical range than T. koksaghyz and grows in different environments.

In order to develop novel, more efficient, and/or selective contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), different

Aminoalkyl

International audience; In order to develop novel, more efficient and/or selective contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), different modi operandi are explored as alternatives to water-relaxation enhancement. In this work, cobalt(II/III) complexes of bis(N-trifluoroethy)cyclam derivatives with two acetate or two phosphonate pendant arms, H2te2f2a and H4te2f2p, were prepared and investigated. X-ray diffraction structures confirmed octahedral coordination with a very stable trans-III cyclam conformation and with fluorine atoms located about 5.3 Å from the metal center. The Co(II) complexes are kinetically inert, decomposing slowly even in 1 M aqueous HCl at 80 °C. The Co(II) complexes exhibited well-resolved paramagnetically-shifted NMR spectra. 2 These were interpreted with the help of quantum chemistry calculations. The 13 C NMR shifts of the trans-[Co II (te2f2p)] complex were successfully assigned based on spin density delocalization within the ligand molecule. The obtained spin density also helps to describe d-metal-induced NMR relaxation properties of 19 F nuclei, including the contribution of a Fermi contact relaxation mechanism. The paramagnetic complexes show convenient relaxation properties to be used as 19 F MRI contrast agents.

19F MRI requires biocompatible and non-toxic soluble contrast agents with high fluorine content and with suitable 19F relaxation times. Probes based on a DOTP chelate with 12 magnetically equivalent fluorine atoms (DOTP-tfe) and a lanthanide(III) ion shortening the relaxation times were prepared and tested. Complexes of DOTP-tfe with trivalent paramagnetic Ce, Dy, Ho, Tm, and Yb ions were synthetized and characterized. 19F relaxation times were determined and compared to those of the La complex and of the empty ligand. In vitro and in vivo 19F MRI was performed at 4.7 T. 19F relaxation times strongly depended on the chelated lanthanide(III) ion. T1 ranged from 6.5 to 287 ms, T2 from 3.9 to 124.4 ms, and T2* from 1.1 to 3.1 ms. All complexes in combination with optimized sequences provided sufficient signal in vitro under conditions mimicking experiments in vivo (concentrations 1.25 mM, 15-min scanning time). As a proof of concept, two contrast agents were injected into the rat muscle; 19F MRI in vivo confirmed the in vivo applicability of the probe. DOTP-based 19F probes showed suitable properties for in vitro and in vivo visualization and biological applications. The lanthanide(III) ions enabled us to shorten the relaxation times and to trim the probes according to the actual needs. Similar to the clinically approved Gd3+ chelates, this customized probe design ensures consistent biochemical properties and similar safety profiles.

Magnetic resonance imaging using fluorinated contrast agents (19F MRI) enables to achive highcontrast in images due to the negligible fluorine background in living tissues. In this pilot study, we developed new biocompatible, temperature-responsive, and easily synthesized polymeric nanogels containing a sufficient concentration of magnetically equivalent fluorine atoms for 19F MRI purposes. The structure of the nanogels is based on amphiphilic copolymers containing two blocks, a hydrophilic poly[N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide] (PHPMA) or poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) (PMeOx) block, and a thermoresponsive poly[N(2,2difluoroethyl)acrylamide] (PDFEA) block. The thermoresponsive properties of the PDFEA block allow us to control the process of nanogel self-assembly upon its heating in an aqueous solution. Particle size depends on the copolymer composition, and the most promising copolymers with longer thermoresponsive blocks form nanogels of suitable size for angiogenesis imaging or the labeling of cells (appr...

H(3)nota derivatives are among the most studied macrocyclic ligands and are widely used for metal ion binding in biology and medicine. Despite more than 40 years of chemical research on H(3)nota, the comprehensive study of its solution chemistry has been overlooked. Thus, the coordination behavior of H(3)nota with several divalent metal ions was studied in detail with respect to its application as a chelator for copper radioisotopes in medical imaging and therapy. In the solid-state structure of the free ligand in zwitterionic form, one proton is bound in the macrocyclic cavity through a strong intramolecular hydrogen-bond system supporting the high basicity of the ring amine groups (log K-a = 13.17). The high stability of the [Cu(nota)](-) complex (log K-ML = 23.33) results in quantitative complex formation, even at pH Na(I) > K(I)). Thus, H(3)nota shows high selectivity for small metal ions. The [Cu(nota)](-) complex is hexacoordinated at neutral pH, and the equatorial N2O2 interaction is strengthened by complex protonation. Detailed kinetic studies showed that the Cu(II) complex is formed quickly (millisecond time scale at c(Cu) approximate to 0.1 mM) through an out-of-cage intermediate. Conversely, conductivity measurements revealed that the Zn(II) complex is formed much more slowly than the Cu(II) complex. The Cu(II) complex has medium kinetic inertness (tau(1/2) 46 s; pH 0, 25 degrees C) and is less resistant to acid-assisted decomplexation than Cu(II) complexes with H(4)dota and H(4)teta. Surprisingly, [Cu(nota)](-) decomplexation is decelerated in the presence of Zn(II) ions due to the formation of a stable dinuclear complex. In conclusion, H(3)nota is a good carrier of copper radionuclides because the [Cu(nota)](-) complex is predominantly formed over complexes with common impurities in radiochemical formulations, Zn(II) and Ni(II), for thermodynamic and, primarily, for kinetic reasons. Furthermore, the in vivo stability of the [Cu(nota)](-) complex may be increased due to the formation of dinuclear complexes when it interacts with biometals.

The coordination behaviour of tris(aminomethyl)phosphine oxide ( tampo ) to selected transition metal ions was studied. In the case of Co(III), Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes with metal-to-ligand 1:2 stoichiometry, bis(tripodal) tampo coordinations forming octahedral coordination spheres (in the case of Cu(II) complex with significant Jahn-Teller distortion) were found by X-ray diffraction analysis. Based on the potentiometric study, the tripodal coordination of the title ligand is also expected in solution. The stability of the metal complexes follows the Irving-Williams trend. Compared with the structurally “parent” 1,1,1-tris(aminomethyl)ethane ( tame ) ligand, the complexation of tampo occurs at a lower pH as the consequence of low ligand basicity [log K 1 = 6.72(1), log K 2 = 5.34(1) and log K 3 = 3.82(1)], although the values of the stability constants of the metal complexes are relatively low.

Four dipicolylamine (DPA) derivatives bearing methylphosphonic or methylphosphinic acid (P–R; R = H, Me, CH2PO2H2) groups were synthesized. Their acid–base and coordination properties were studied by potentiometry, UV-Vis and NMR measurements. The phosphonate derivative shows increased basicity (log K1 = 8.39), whereas the phosphinate derivatives show decreased basicity (log K1 = 6–7) compared to the parent dipicolylamine. Consequently, the stability constants of the phosphonate complexes are 3 to 4 orders of magnitude higher than those of the phosphinate complexes. All ligands show excellent selectivity for Zn(II) over Ca(II) and Mg(II) ions. The structures of several Cu(II) and Ni(II) complexes in the solid state were determined by X-ray diffraction analysis. The complexes mostly show dimeric or polymeric structures and the two metal ions induce a different coordination geometry of the DPA group. The coordination geometry is always (pseudo)octahedral. The DPA fragment is bound in mer geometry in the Cu(II) complexes, whereas the Ni(II) complexes have fac geometry. In conclusion, the phosphonate and phosphinate derivatives of DPA are efficient complexing agents for divalent transition metal ions and the DPA-phosphinate grouping is a suitable fragment for sensing Zn(II) ions.

Selectivity and rate of complex formation with metal radionuclides are crucial parameters for the utilization of ligating systems in nuclear medicine. One of the very suitable metals used in these applications is copper, which has a number of radioisotopes with useful properties. The thermodynamic and kinetic properties of Cu(II) complexes with 10 macrocyclic 1,4,8-trimethylcyclam-based ligands having one coordinating acid pendant arm (Me3cyclam–R) were investigated in solution, allowing a direct comparison of the influence of the particular pendant arm on the properties of the complexes. They include the derivative with R = CH2CO2H (HL1) and a family containing various phosphorus acids R = CH2P(O)(OH)–X, where X = OEt (HL2); X = OH (H2L3); X = H (HL4); X = CH2CH2CO2H (H2L5); X = CH2P(O)(H)OH (H2L6); X = CH2P(O)(OH)2 (H3L7); X = CH2N(CH2C6H5)2 (HL8); X = CH2NH2 (HL9) and X = CH2N(CH2CO2H)2 (H3L10). For comparison, 1,4,8,11-tetramethylcyclam (TMC: R = Me) was used. The formation kinetics showed that ligands endowed with a coordinating pendant arm bind Cu(II) ions much faster when compared to TMC. At pH < 4, the fastest complexation was observed for acetate derivative HL1. At higher pH and, especially, at pH relevant for living and biocompatible systems (pH ≈ 6–7), the ligands with methylene(phosphonatomethyl)phosphinate and methylenephosphonate pendant arms (H3L7 and H2L3) showed the fastest complexation. Acid-assisted dissociation of Cu(II) complexes with the ligands endowed with a coordinating pendant arm is similar for all studied systems (τ1/2 = 7–35 min, 1 M HClO4, 25 °C). In contrast, the inertness of the Cu(II)–TMC complex is much lower (τ1/2 = 22 s under the same conditions). Potentiometric study of the selected ligands has confirmed a high thermodynamic selectivity of the studied ligands for Cu(II) binding over complexation of Ni(II) and Zn(II) (the differences between the stability constants reach 6–7 orders of magnitude). Fast complexation of Cu(II) at radio-level concentrations was observed, showing that the best ligands for potential in vivo use are those containing phosphonate or mixed geminal phosphinate–phosphonate pendant groups. One of the ligands (H2L3) and three Cu(II) complexes (of H2L5, H3L7 and H3L10) were structurally characterized by means of X-ray diffraction study. The predicted conformation I of the macrocycle was confirmed in all three complexes.

1,8-Bis(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)cyclam (te2f) derivatives with two coordinating pendant arms involving methylenecarboxylic acid (H2te2f2a), methylenephosphonic acid (H4te2f2p), (2-pyridyl)methyl (te2f2py), and 2-aminoethyl arms (te2f2ae) in 4,11-positions were prepared, and their nickel(II) complexes were investigated as possible 19F MR tracers. The solid-state structures of several synthetic intermediates, ligands, and all complexes were confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. The average Ni···F distances were determined to be about 5.2 A. All complexes exhibit a trans-III cyclam conformation with pendant arms bound in the apical positions. Kinetic inertness of the complexes is increased in the ligand order te2f2ae ≪ te2f < te2f2py ≈ H4te2f2p ≪ H2te2f2a. The [Ni(te2f2a)] complex is the most kinetically inert Ni(II) complex reported so far. Paramagnetic divalent nickel caused a shortening of 19F NMR relaxation time down to the millisecond range. Solubility, stability, and cell toxicity were only satisfactor...

A new facile synthetic strategy was developed to prepare bifunctional monophosphinic acid Ln-DOTA derivatives, Gd-DO2AGAPNBn and Gd- DO2AGAPABn. The relaxivities of the Gd-complexes are enhanced compared to Gd-DOTA. Monophosphinic acid arm of these Gd-complexes affords enhancement of inner sphere water exchange rate due to its steric bulkiness. The different functionalities of DO2AGAPNBn were appended in trans positions and are designed to conjugate identical or different vectors according to the potential applications. The conjugation of Gd-DO2AGAPABn with E3 peptide known to target apoptosis was successfully performed and in vivo MRI allowed cell death detection in a mouse model.

A new DOTA-like ligand H5do3aNP with a 2-[amino(methylphosphonic acid)]ethyl-coordinating pendant arm was prepared, and its coordinating properties were studied by NMR spectroscopy and potentiometry. The study revealed a rare slow exchange (on the 1H and 31P NMR time scale) between protonated and unprotonated complex species with a corresponding acidity constant pKA ∼ 8.0. This unusually slow time scale associated with protonation is caused by a significant geometric change from square-antiprismatic (SA) arrangement observed for protonated complex SA-[Eu(Hdo3aNP)]− to twisted-square-antiprismatic (TSA) arrangement found for deprotonated complex TSA-[Eu(do3aNP)]2–. This behavior results in simultaneous occurrence of the signals of both species in the 31P NMR spectra at approximately −118 and +70 ppm, respectively. Such an unprecedented difference in the chemical shifts between species differing by a proton is caused by a significant movement of the principal magnetic axis and by a change of phosphorus atom...

Gadolinium deposition in the brain following administration of gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) has led to health concerns. We show that some clinical GBCAs form Gd3+–ferritin nanoparticles at (sub)nanomolar concentrations of Gd3+ under physiological conditions. We describe their structure at atomic resolution and discuss potential relevance for clinical MRI.

Protonation of a distant, noncoordinated group of metal-based magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents potentially changes their relaxivity. The effect of a positive charge of the drug on the human serum albumin (HSA)-drug interaction remains poorly understood as well. Accordingly, a (dibenzylamino)methylphosphinate derivative of 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA) was efficiently synthesized using pyridine as the solvent for a Mannich-type reaction of tBu3DO3A, formaldehyde, and Bn2NCH2PO2H2 ethyl ester. The ligand protonation and metal ion (Gd3+, Cu2+, and Zn2+) stability constants were similar to those of the parent DOTA, whereas the basicity of the side-chain amino group of the complexes (log KA = 5.8) was 1 order of magnitude lower than that of the free ligand (log KA = 6.8). The presence of one bound water molecule in both deprotonated and protonated forms of the gadolinium(III) complex was deduced from the solid-state X-ray diffraction data [gadolinium(III) and dysprosium(III)], from the square antiprism/twisted square antiprism (SA/TSA) isomer ratio along the lanthanide series, from the fluorescence data of the europium(III) complex, and from the 17O NMR measurements of the dysprosium(III) and gadolinium(III) complexes. In the gadolinium(III) complex with the deprotonated amino group, water exchange is extremely fast (τM = 6 ns at 25 °C), most likely thanks to the high abundance of the TSA isomer and to the presence of a proximate protonable group, which assists the water-exchange process. The interaction between lanthanide(III) complexes and HSA is pH-dependent, and the deprotonated form is bound much more efficaciously (∼13% and ∼70% bound complex at pH = 4 and 7, respectively). The relaxivities of the complex and its HSA adduct are also pH-dependent, and the latter is approximately 2-3 times increased at pH = 4-7. The relaxivity for the supramolecular HSA-complex adduct ( r1b) is as high as 52 mM-1 s-1 at neutral pH (at 20 MHz and 25 °C). The findings of this study stand as a proof-of-concept, showing the ability to manipulate an albumin-drug interaction, and thus the blood pool residence time of the drug, by introducing a positive charge in a side-chain amino group.

A macrobicyclic cyclen-based ligand containing a geminal bis(phosphinate) N,N′-bridge was synthesized via a Mannich-type reaction. The other two macrocycle amine groups were modified with two acetate pendants, yielding ligand H4L. The cyclen-bis(phosphinate) intermediate, the ligand salt Na0.5(H5L)(H3.5L)Cl·20H2O and CuII complex Li2[Cu(L)]·4H2O were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The ligand protonation constants and the stability constants of H4L complexes with Cu(II) and Zn(II) and lanthanide(III) ions were determined by potentiometry. The ligand protonation constants and the stability constants of H4L complexes with Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions are similar to those of H4dota. Conversely, the stabilities of its Ln(III) complexes are ~ 7–10 orders of magnitude lower than those of H4dota complexes due to steric restrictions of the methylene-bis(phosphinate) side bridge. Therefore, these findings indicate that the ligand H4L is suitable for the complexation of transition metal ions.

A novel macrocyclic DO3A derivative containing a linear diamine pendant arm, H3do3aNN, was prepared and its protonation and complexation properties were studied by means of potentiometry. It determined ligand consecutive protonation constants log K(An) = 12.62, 10.28, 9.67, 8.30, 3.30 and 1.58 and stability constants of selected lanthanide (Eu(iii), Yb(iii)) complexes log K(EuL) = 23.16 and log KYbL = 22.76. The complexes could be protonated on the pendant amino group(s) with log K(HLM) ≈ 5.6 and log K(H2LM) ≈ 4.8. Solution structures of both complexes were studied by NMR spectroscopy. The study revealed that the complex species exist exclusively in the form of twisted-square-antiprismatic (TSA) isomers. The complexes show significant pH dependence of the Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CEST) between their amino groups and the bulk water molecules in the pH range of 5-8. Thus, the pH dependence of the magnetization transfer ratio of CEST signals can be used for pH determination using magnetic resonance imaging techniques in a pH range relevant for in vivo conditions.

Magnetic resonance imaging using fluorinated contrast agents (

Objective 19F MRI requires biocompatible and non-toxic soluble contrast agents with high fluorine content and with suitable 19F relaxation times. Probes based on a DOTP chelate with 12 magnetically equivalent fluorine atoms (DOTP-tfe) and a lanthanide(III) ion shortening the relaxation times were prepared and tested. Methods Complexes of DOTP-tfe with trivalent paramagnetic Ce, Dy, Ho, Tm, and Yb ions were synthetized and characterized. 19F relaxation times were determined and compared to those of the La complex and of the empty ligand. In vitro and in vivo 19F MRI was performed at 4.7 T. Results 19F relaxation times strongly depended on the chelated lanthanide(III) ion. T1 ranged from 6.5 to 287 ms, T2 from 3.9 to 124.4 ms, and T2* from 1.1 to 3.1 ms. All complexes in combination with optimized sequences provided sufficient signal in vitro under conditions mimicking experiments in vivo (concentrations 1.25 mM, 15-min scanning time). As a proof of concept, two contrast agents were injected into the rat muscle; 19F MRI in vivo confirmed the in vivo applicability of the probe. Conclusion DOTP-based 19F probes showed suitable properties for in vitro and in vivo visualization and biological applications. The lanthanide(III) ions enabled us to shorten the relaxation times and to trim the probes according to the actual needs. Similar to the clinically approved Gd3+ chelates, this customized probe design ensures consistent biochemical properties and similar safety profiles.

Phototherapy was introduced in the early 1950’s, and is the primary treatment of severe neonatal jaundice or Crigler-Najjar syndrome. Nevertheless, the potential biological effects of the products generated from the photodegradation of bilirubin during phototherapy remain unknown. This is very relevant in light of recent clinical observations demonstrating that the use of aggressive phototherapy can increase morbidity or even mortality, in extremely low birthweight (ELBW) infants. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of bilirubin, lumirubin (LR, its major photo-oxidative product), and BOX A and B (its monopyrrolic oxidative products) on the central nervous system (CNS) using in vitro and ex vivo experimental models. The effects of bilirubin photoproducts on cell viability and expression of selected genes were tested in human fibroblasts, three human CNS cell lines (neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y, microglial HMC3, and glioblastoma U-87 cell lines), and organotypic rat hippocampal slices. Neither bilirubin nor its photo-oxidative products affected cell viability in any of our models. In contrast, LR in biologically-relevant concentrations (25 μM) significantly increased gene expression of several pro-inflammatory genes as well as production of TNF-α in organotypic rat hippocampal slices. These findings might underlie the adverse outcomes observed in ELBW infants undergoing aggressive phototherapy.

H4dota and its analogues are routinely used for complexation of lanthanide radioisotopes in nuclear medicine. Many of the radioisotopes have short half-lives and, thus, the complexation rate plays an important role. Notwithstanding that, the relationship between ligand structures and complexation rates is not well understood. Here we report a complexation study of H4dota and its analogues bearing one phosphonate or phosphinate pendant arm. The substituents on the phosphinate group were non-coordinating (–H) or contained another coordinating group (–CH2N(CH2COOH)2, –CH2PO2H2 or –CH2NH2). The basicity of ligands, stability of reaction intermediates, formation rates of CeIII complexes, and 177LuIII radiolabelling were studied. The complexation rates and labelling yields do not show any correlation with ligand basicity. In contrast, the additional chelating group attached to the pendant arm plays an important role. A decreased complexation rate and lower labelling yield were found for compounds bearing an additional amino group, whereas improved properties were found for the compound bearing a geminal bis(phosphinate) pendant arm. It indicates that the introduction of chelating pendant arms with acidic coordinating groups might be a promising strategy to improve radiolabelling of macrocyclic carriers with metal radioisotopes.

1,8-Bis(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)cyclam (te2f) derivatives with two coordinating pendant arms involving methylenecarboxylic acid (H

The new ligand H6do3aPida combines the macrocyclic DOTA-like cavity and the open-chain iminodiacetate group connected through a coordinating phosphinate spacer. Its acid–base and coordination properties in solution were studied by potentiometry. Thermodynamic coordination characteristics of both chelating units are similar to those reported for H4dota and iminodiacetic acid themselves, respectively, so, macrocyclic and iminodiacetate units behave independently. The formation kinetics of the Ce(III)–H6do3aPida complex was studied by UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Various out-of-cage intermediates were identified with 1 : 1, 1 : 2 and 2 : 1 ligand-to-metal ratios. The presence of the strongly coordinating iminodiacetate group significantly slows down the metal ion transfer into the macrocyclic cavity and, so, the formation of the in-cage complex is two orders of magnitude slower than that reported for the Ce(III)–H4dota system. The kinetic inertness of the [Ce(do3aPida)]3– complex towards acid-assisted dissociation is comparable to that of the [Ce(dota)]− complex. The coordination modes of the ligand are demonstrated in the solid-state structure of [Cu4(do3aPida)(OH)(H2O)4]Cl·7.5H2O.

Development of multifunctional nanoscale sensors working under physiological conditions enables monitoring of intracellular processes that are important for various biological and medical applications. By attaching paramagnetic gadolinium complexes to nanodiamonds (NDs) with nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centres through surface engineering, we developed a hybrid nanoscale sensor that can be adjusted to directly monitor physiological species through a proposed sensing scheme based on NV spin relaxometry. We adopt a single-step method to measure spin relaxation rates enabling time-dependent measurements on changes in pH or redox potential at a submicrometre-length scale in a microfluidic channel that mimics cellular environments. Our experimental data are reproduced by numerical simulations of the NV spin interaction with gadolinium complexes covering the NDs. Considering the versatile engineering options provided by polymer chemistry, the underlying mechanism can be expanded to detect a variety of physiologically relevant species and variables., The use of nanoscale sensors capable of detection of biological parameters is of great interest in diagnosis. Here, the authors use experimental and theoretical methods to develop a nanodiamond sensor with nitrogen vacancy defects for detection of pH and redox in a microfluidic device.

Four geminal bis(phosphinic acids), namely, aminomethylbis(H-phosphinic acid) (H2L1) and 4-aminobutyl-1-hydroxy-1,1-bis(R-phosphinic acid) with R = H (H2L2), Me (H2L3) and CH2CH2COOH (H4L4), were studied. Their acid–base properties and coordination ability towards Cu2+, Ni2+ and Zn2+ ions were studied by potentiometry, UV/Vis spectroscopy and NMR spectroscopy. The amine group in H2L1 has a lower protonation constant (log Ka = 6.79) than those found for other studied bisphosphinates (log Ka = 10.75–11.05) with distant amine groups. The structure of [Ca(H2L2-O,O′)(HL2-O,O′)]Cl revealed an octahedral arrangement of the metal coordination sphere and a linear polymeric structure, which forms through eight-membered Ca(–O–P–O–)2Ca rings. The structure of [Cu(HL3-O,O′)2(H2O)]·5H2O shows two chelating bisphosphinate groups in an equatorial O4 environment. The structure of [Cu(H0.5L3-O,O′)(NO3)0.5]·2.25H2O shows two different coordination environments, one is an elongated tetragonal pyramid, and the other is a trigonal bipyramid with a bidentate nitrate ion.

Thermodynamic and kinetic properties of Cu(II) complexes with macrocyclic cyclen-based ligands having four phosphonic acid monoester (H4dotpOEt = 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetrakis(methylphosphonic acid monoethylester)) or four phosphinic acid (H4dotpH = 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetrakis(methylphosphinic acid and H4dotpPh = 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetrakis[methyl(phenyl)phosphinic acid]) pendant arms were investigated. The formation kinetics carried out in pH range 1–5.5 (t = 25 °C, I = 0.1 M KCl) shows that reactive species are (H2L)2− and (HL)3− anions and their reactivity differs by 4–5 orders of magnitude. Among studied ligands, H4dotpH is the most reactive one. Dissociation of these copper(II) complexes was investigated in the presence of perchloric acid (I = 5 M (Na,H)ClO4, proton concentration range 0.1–5.0 M) and in temperature range 10–35 °C. All studied complexes are less kinetically inert than the [Cu(dota)]2− complex and the Cu(II) complex of H4dotpH is the least kinetically inert among the studied complexes, probably due to the lowest thermodynamic stability. These results show that the ligands probably cannot be employed for copper radioisotopes complexation but the data will be utilized in design of other macrocyclic ligands intended to be used in medicinal chemistry.

Preparation of two benzylic bis(phosphonic acids) modified with primary amine or carboxylic acid groups on the benzene ring is described. These compounds were prepared and characterized in the form of both bis(phosphonate) tetraesters and corresponding free acids. The phosphonic acid esters are suitable for further derivation, mainly for conjugation through the amide bond. Mild conversion of the bis(phosphonate) esters to free acids using trimethylsilylbromide allowed to work with functional groups sensitive to conditions of acidic and/or alkaline hydrolysis. Three bis(phosphonate)-containing fluorescent probes were prepared from the building blocks, utilizing amide and sulfamide bonds as spacers. Dyes containing the dansyl group, rhodamine B, and fluorescein were chosen due to their common availability and low cost. The prepared bis(phosphonate)-building blocks and modified fluorescent probes were used for adsorption studies with hydroxyapatite, the commonly used model of bone tissue. Sorption ability of the prepared bis(phosphonate) compounds was similar to that of pamidronate.

Three magnetic resonance (MR)/fluorescence imaging probes were tested for visualization, cellular distribution, and survival of labeled pancreatic islets in vitro and following transplantation. As T(1) contrast agents (CAs), gadolinium(III) complexes linked to β-cyclodextrin (Gd-F-βCD) or bound to titanium dioxide (TiO2 @RhdGd) were tested. As a T(2) CA, perovskite manganite nanoparticles (LSMO@siF@si) were examined. Fluorescein or rhodamine was incorporated as a fluorescent marker in all probes. Islets labeled with gadolinium(III) CAs were visible as hyperintense spots on MR in vitro, but detection in vivo was inconclusive. Islets labeled with LSMO@siF@si CA were clearly visible as hypointense spots or areas on MR scans in vitro as well as in vivo. All CAs were detected inside the islet cells by fluorescence. Although the vitality and function of the labeled islets was not impaired by any of the tested CAs, results indicate that LSMO@siF@si CA is a superior marker for islet labeling, as it provides better contrast enhancement within a shorter scan time.

Introduction: Monitoring of Pancreatic Islets (PIs) after their transplantation could provide important data related to diabetes treatment; however their visualization is conditioned by the contrast agent use. The aim of this study was to label and visualize PIs labeled by the contrast agents based on Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CEST) owing an advantage of contrast switching on/off and simultaneous visualization of differently treated cell population in one MR experiment. 1.2 Material and methods: Two paramagnetic chelates with europium Eu-DO3A-ae and ytterbium Yb-DO3A-ae were tested for labeling of PIs by pinocytosis and microporation. The toxicity, labeling efficacy and detection threshold were assessed for each agent. In vitro MR imaging of the labeled islets was performed on a 4.7 T scanner using a modified turbo spin-echo (RARE) sequence. 1.3 Results: The sufficient labeling efficacy was observed only by using high agent concentration compromising islet viability. The microporation procedure was not effective for islet labeling because of its invasive nature. The islets labeled by pinocytosis were visualized in a phantom by CEST imaging, however, after a long acquisition time at 4.7 T. 1.4 Conclusion: The low sensitivity of detection and impaired cellular viability of the pancreatic islets labeled by the novel CEST contrast agents represent a challenge for the further implementation of these probes as exogenous cellular labels.

Three compounds that are based on cyclen and contain three methylphosphonate pendant arms ? (1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7-triyl)tris(methylene)trip hosphonic acid (H6do3p), 3-{4,7,10-tris[(dihydroxyphosphoryl)methyl]-1,4,7,10-tetraazacy clododecan-1-yl}propanoic acid (H7do3p1pr) and [10-(3-hydroxypropyl)-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7-triy l]tris(methylene)triphosphonic acid (H6do3p1ol) ? were synthesized and characterized. X-ray crystal structures were determined for H6do3p and for the complex [Cu(H2O)6]2+[Cu(H2O)(H4dotp)]2 of a related ligand H8dotp [H8dotp = (1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetrayl)tetrakis(methy lene)tetraphosphonic acid]. They show the copper(II) centre coordinated only to the four amines of the macrocycle and one water molecule in the apical position. The acidbase properties of the three compounds were studied in aqueous solution by potentiometry and 31P NMR spectroscopy. All ligands exhibit very high basicity and their protonation schemes are dominated by proton relocations between the basic sites and intramolecular hydrogen bonding. The thermodynamic stability constants for complexes of the three ligands with Cu2+ and Zn2+ metal ions were determined by potentiometry and exhibit very high values for the complexes of Cu2+. UV/Vis spectroscopy was used to assess the acid-assisted dissociation of the Cu2+ complexes and showed that the dissociation rates are faster than for the corresponding complex of H8dotp, whereas the [Cu(do3p1ol)]4 complex is the most inert one in this series.

A synthesis of 1-hydroxy-1,1-bis(H-phosphinates) from acylchlorides is described. Solid-state structures of two bis(phosphinates) determined by X-ray diffraction showed variations in the PC distances. The compounds show negligible sorption on hydroxyapatite and an intermediate chemical stability in aqueous solution. The hydrolysis occurs in acidic as well as alkaline media. Hydrolysis rates of four derivatives show the lowest stability for aromatic derivatives as a result of the electron-withdrawing effect. Main products of hydrolysis are 1-hydroxy-(H-phosphinates) and phosphorous acid. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 23:195–201, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/hc.21003

International audience; Enzyme-responsive MRI-contrast agents containing a "self-immolative" benzylcarbamate moiety that links the MRI-reporter lanthanide complex to a specific enzyme substrate have been developed. The enzymatic cleavage initiates an electronic cascade reaction that leads to a structural change in the Ln(III) complex, with a concomitant response in its MRI-contrast-enhancing properties. We synthesized and investigated a series of Gd(3+) and Yb(3+) complexes, including those bearing a self-immolative arm and a sugar unit as selective substrates for β-galactosidase; we synthesized complex LnL(1), its NH(2) amine derivatives formed after enzymatic cleavage, LnL(2), and two model compounds, LnL(3) and LnL(4). All of the Gd(3+) complexes synthesized have a single inner-sphere water molecule. The relaxivity change upon enzymatic cleavage is limited (3.68 vs. 3.15 mM(-1) s(-1) for complexes GdL(1) and GdL(2), respectively; 37 °C, 60 MHz), which prevents application of this system as an enzyme-responsive T(1) relaxation agent. Variable-temperature (17)O NMR spectroscopy and (1)H NMRD (nuclear magnetic relaxation dispersion) analysis were used to assess the parameters that determine proton relaxivity for the Gd(3+) complexes, including the water-exchange rate (k(ex)(298), varies in the range 1.5-3.9×10(6) s(-1)). Following the enzymatic reaction, the chelates contain an exocyclic amine that is not protonated at physiological pH, as deduced from pH-potentiometric measurements (log K(H)=5.12(±0.01) and 5.99(±0.01) for GdL(2) and GdL(3), respectively). The Yb(3+) analogues show a PARACEST effect after enzymatic cleavage that can be exploited for the specific detection of enzymatic activity. The proton-exchange rates were determined at various pH values for the amine derivatives by using the dependency of the CEST effect on concentration, saturation time, and saturation power. A concentration-independent analysis of the saturation-power-dependency data was also applied. All these different methods showed that the exchange rate of the amine protons of the Yb(III) complexes decreases with increasing pH value (for YbL(3), k(ex)=1300 s(-1) at pH 8.4 vs. 6000 s(-1) at pH 6.4), thereby resulting in a diminution of the observed CEST effect.

Multimodal imaging-therapeutic nanoprobe TiO(2)@RhdGd was prepared and successfully used for in vitro and in vivo cell tracking as well as for killing of cancer cells in vitro. TiO(2) nanoparticles were used as a core for phosphonic acid modified functionalities, responsible for contrast in MRI and optical imaging. The probe shows high (1)H relaxivity and relaxivity density values. Presence of fluorescent dye allows for visualization by means of fluorescence microscopy. The applicability of the probe was studied, using mesenchymal stem cells, cancer HeLa cells, and T-lymphocytes. The probe did not exhibit toxicity in any of these systems. Labeled cells were successfully visualized in vitro by means of fluorescence microscopy and MRI. Furthermore, it was shown that the probe TiO(2)@RhdGd can be changed into a cancer cell killer upon UV light irradiation. The above stated results represent a valuable proof of a principle showing applicability of the probe design for diagnosis and therapy.

The first systematic study of chemical adsorption/desorption of phosphonic acid and geminal bis(phosphonic acid) on/from the surface of anatase nanoparticles is reported. Stable TiO2 colloidal nanodispersions were used in the study. The colloidal stability is preserved upon nanoparticle modification. A macrocyclic lanthanide(III) complex, attached through a phosphonic/bis(phosphonic) group to the TiO2 surface allowed precise quantification of sorption parameters by means of inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES). Results show different behavior of phosphonate and bis(phosphonate) groups. For phosphonate, a monomolecular layer formation was observed, and the desorption rate depends on the sorption conditions. It is probably caused by different phosphonate binding modes on the surface. Excess amounts of phosphate in the washing media accelerates the desorption rate of the phosphonate. The bis(phosphonate) is adsorbed on the surface in large quantities forming multilayers that resist desorption even in the presence of phosphate ions and, thus, the bis(phosphonate) moiety is a suitable group for anchoring other molecules on the TiO2 particle surface.

The present study reveals the potential of magnetic nanoparticles based on the La0.75Sr0.25MnO3 perovskite manganite for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Moreover, it describes the development of the dual imaging probe where the magnetic cores are combined with a fluorescent moiety while the improved colloidal stability is achieved by a two-ply silica shell. At first, the magnetic cores of La0.75Sr0.25MnO3 are coated with a hybrid silica layer, comprising a covalently attached fluorescein moiety that is subsequently covered by a pure silica layer providing the enhanced stability. The detailed characterization of the intermediate and the final product reveals the importance of the complex two-ply shell. Viability tests show that the complete particles are suitable for biological studies. Internalization of the particles and their presence in intracellular vesicles are observed by fluorescence microscopy in different cell types. Further experiments prove no fatal interference with the vitality and insulin releasing ability of labeled pancreatic islets. Relaxometric measurements confirm high spin–spin relaxivities at magnetic fields of B0 = 0.5–3 T, while visualisation of in vitro labeled pancreatic islets by MRI is successfully tested.

A new cyclam-based ligand, [4,8,11-tris(phosphonomethyl)-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradec-1-yl]acetic acid (H7te3p1a) was synthesised and characterised. The potentiometricand 31P NMR spectroscopic titrations of the complexes inan aqueous solution at an ionic strength of 0.10 or0.50 mol dm–3 in [N(CH3)4]NO3, respectively, indicated that the ligand is highly basic. The stepwise protonations were dominated by extensive proton relocations and were influenced by the intramolecular hydrogen bonds. The thermodynamic stability constants for the complexes formed by H7te3p1a in the presence of metal ions were determined by potentiometric titrations. The Cu2+ complexes exhibited very high stability, those of Zn2+, Cd2+, Pb2+, La3+, Sm3+, Gd3+, Ho3+ and Lu3+ presented high stability while that of Ca2+ had lower stability, as expected. The ligand and its complexes behaviour is similar to that of the tetrakis(phosphonomethyl)cyclam derivative, H8tetp. The NMR spectroscopic studies of the Zn2+ and Cd2+ complexes pointed to the involvement of the three phosphonate moieties in the coordination of the latter ion, while several isomer species were generally present in solution for the Zn2+ complex. A major isomer was stabilised in solution upon heating. In this isomer only one of the methylphosphonate arms was coordinated to the metal centre and this isomer probably adopts a distorted square pyramidal geometry with the macrocyclic ring in the type I conformation.