Characterisation of newly developed ligands for the adenosine receptor systems A1 and A2A. The spectrum of methods ranges from receptor and enzyme assays to autoradiographic procedures and chemical analytical methods for the elucidation of metabolism (LCMS).

The INM-5 produces radiotracers (also known as radiopharmaceuticals) for positron emission tomography (PET) and supplies both the FZJ's internal institutes and external university hospitals.

Radiotracer development begins with the identification of molecular targets and the search for suitable lead structures that interact specifically with these targets. These can be receptor ligands or enzyme substrates, for example, which are then labelled with a radionuclide.

Determination and measurement of nuclear reaction data. In addition to the measurement of production data of the corresponding radionuclides, this also includes the development of suitable target systems and sample preparation, including the recovery of the partially enriched target material.

With the growing importance of positron emission tomography in diagnostic nuclear medicine, the demand for innovative non-standard radionuclides such as 64Cu, 73Se, 76Br or 120I is constantly increasing.

Development of radiotracers that are suitable for investigating and clarifying the brain. To this end, new effective methods are to be established in order to further expand the range of neurotracers.

Characterisation of newly developed ligands for the adenosine receptor systems A1 and A2A. The spectrum of methods ranges from receptor and enzyme assays to autoradiographic procedures and chemical analytical methods for the elucidation of metabolism (LCMS).