Ion beam induced F-radiofluorination: straightforward synthesis of gaseous radiotracers for the assessment of regional lung ventilation using positron emission tomography

A simple, straightforward and efficient method for the synthesis of [ 18 F]CF 4 and [ 18 F]SF 6 based on an ion beam-induced isotopic exchange reaction is presented. Positron emission tomography ventilation studies in rodents using [ 18 F]CF 4 showed a uniform distribution of the radiofluorinated gas within the lungs and rapid elimination after discontinuation of the administration. [ 18 F]CF 4 and [ 18 F]SF 6 are produced in a cyclotron target under proton irradiation. [ 18 F]CF 4 is suitable for assessing lung ventilation.