The state-of-the-art of carbon-11 and fluorine-18 radiochemistry for positron
emission tomography (PET) is presented. From the latest developments in labelling
methodology, a picture of future challenges is drawn. The exploration of novel
reactivity to allow 11C-labelling, alongside a particular focus in making such reaction
compatible for clinical production, is presented to be key in 11C-tracer discovery. 18F is
envisioned to be at the heart of further development in PET. Broadening imaging
strategies towards pre-targeting approaches, together with the use of modified
antibodies or peptides, constantly challenges the field of radiofluorination for new and
efficient labelling methods applicable to complex molecules. Translation of
biorthogonal reactions into radiolabelling methods appears as a valuable option to
address these issues and is expected to be a significant advance in upcoming 18F-tracer
developments.
Keywords: Carbon-11, Fluorine-18, Positron emission tomography, Radiochemistry.
