Cyclotrons

The McMaster University Medical Centre is home to an 11 MeV Siemens RDS-112 negative ion cyclotron designed for the production of short-lived positron-emitting isotopes such as F-18, C-11 and N-13. Operation of the cyclotron is currently overseen by the Center for Probe Development and Commercialization. At the present time, the cyclotron is primarily used for the production of fluorine-18 which is then incorporated into the radiopharmaceutical [F-18]-FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose) using automated synthesis protocols. The [F-18]-FDG is used in the clinic for imaging various disease states by Positron Emission Tomography (PET). Cyclotron-produced F-18 is also utilized for research purposes, particularly the development of novel molecular imaging agents. For more information, please contact the CPDC.

A recent (2009) Knowledge Infrastructure Program grant to McMaster University has allowed for the purchase of a new GE PETtrace cyclotron, which was installed in the Spring of 2011. The 10-ton, $2-million cyclotron is housed in the Tandem Accelerator Building adjacent to a suite of hot cells and a “clean room” facility dedicated to the production and quality assurance of sterile, clinical grade radiopharmaceuticals. For further information about this cyclotron, contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

^{The new GE PETtrace cyclotron installed in 2011.}