What is the initial precursor molecule used in the production of 18F-FDG?

The initial precursor molecule for the production of 18F-FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose) is mannose triflate. In the synthesis of 18F-FDG, mannose triflate serves as a glycosylation agent to which the radioactive fluorine-18 is attached, allowing for the creation of the fluorinated glucose analog. This compound is crucial because 18F-FDG is widely used in PET imaging for its ability to mimic glucose, which is highly relevant in metabolic studies and oncological imaging.

The chemical processes involved in this production rely on the targeting of specific chemical characteristics of mannose triflate. The selective reaction leads to a favorable yield of 18F-FDG, making it a key component in the radiolabeled glucose synthesis pathway used in various PET applications. The other compounds listed, while relevant in chemical contexts, do not serve as the initial precursor in the formation of 18F-FDG.