Encapsulation of 99mTc within Fullerenes: a novel radionuclidic carrier

The nature of fullerenes as miniature ‘isolation chambers’ suggests the possibility of unstable atoms carried within the interior of the molecular cage forming endofullerenes which could isolate potentially reactive atoms from their environment. We have produced, characterized by various techniques including thin layer chromatography, and purified endofullerenes containing gamma-ray emitting 99mTc, the first direct encapsulation of a radionuclide during fullerene formation. Identification of 99mTc@C60 and 99mTc@C70 has been accomplished by application of ultra-low level radiation detection methods. Appropriately derivatized, 99mTc ‘radioendofullerenes’ could eventually be used as a radiopharmaceutical for medical imaging.