A Microwave System for Medicinal Chemistry and Radiochemistry Research

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The research programs of Drs. Hou, Campbell and Jiang have been searching for novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools by bringing together organic synthesis, radiochemistry, medicinal chemistry, computational chemistry and biochemistry. Successful discovery of novel therapeutic tools and diagnostic tools will significantly improve prevention, early diagnosis and management of diseases. The quality of life of many people will be improved if diseases are detected earlier, treated sooner, and monitored more effectively. It will lead to improved quality of health care and a reduced burden on the health care system. Dr. Hou's research focuses on the discovery of Fluorine-18 labelled molecular imaging agents for potential use in the imaging of cancer using Positron Emission Tomography (PET), and the development of radio-fluorination methods. Dr. Campbell's research group is focused on the development of new synthetic procedures for radiochemistry and applying them to the development of new imaging agents. Dr. Jiang's research involves the synthesis of compounds derived from peptides and carbohydrates for targeted cancer therapy. The microwave reactor system requested in this application is a versatile synthesizer that can perform rapid microwave assisted organic synthesis, and is a standard piece of equipment used throughout academic chemistry research labs and in the pharmaceutical industries. It offers several advantages including improved yield, shorter reaction times from days or hours down to minutes, and facilitates access to new chemical space as compared to conventional reflux heating using oil baths and hot plates. It has become an essential tool in synthetic organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry and radiochemistry and a key element in the research programs of Drs. Hou, Campbell and Jiang in the development of therapeutic and diagnostic molecular tools. The research programs supported by the requested equipment will benefit Canada in many ways. Firstly, the research would lead to the discovery of imaging probes for prevention, early diagnosis and management of diseases. Secondly, the invention of novel methods for radio-transformations and imaging tracers will enhance the competitivity of Canadian (radio)pharmaceutical industry. Lastly, the students who are involved in the proposed research programs will receive in-depth training on the most advanced microwave-assisted synthesis and will gain comprehensive knowledge and hands-on skills for drug/imaging agent synthesis and discovery. The equipment, along with the research programs, will allow for the training of next generation scientists to better prepare for a successful career in academia or pharmaceutical industry.