Preparation, characterization and evaluation of DMPE as a myocardial imaging agent.

A method for the preparation of 99mTc labeled bis(1,2-dimethylphosphino) ethane, ([99mTc]DMPE) is described. More than one positively charged compound produced were separated. Two of the compounds were evaluated as agents for myocardial imaging. Only one was taken up by myocardium. In three normal dogs, the total cardiac uptake measured 2.7 +/- 0.5% of the administered dose. The administration of 74-111 MBq (2-3 mCi) of the compound allowed scintigraphic detection of normal myocardium in a characteristic doughnut shape. The distribution of the compound in healthy as well as infarcted myocardium had an excellent correlation to the regional myocardial blood flow as measured with 85Sr microspheres (r = 0.85), and 201Tl (r = 0.8). The agent is worthy of further investigation.