Strengthening radiopharmacy research and clinical production with Synthera®+ Platform
UZ Gent needed a reliable in-house radiotracer production solution, ensuring continuity from research to clinical use.
To address their needs, the UZ Gent hospital selected IBA and its Synthera®+ Platform. The hospital was looking for a solution combining reliability, regulatory compliance, and flexibility for evolving scientific requirements.
The hospital adopted a complete Synthera® configuration, including three synthesis modules, an IFP™ automated cassette loader, an HPLC and an extension module. This set up is used daily for the production of fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) and other fluorine-18 labelled radiopharmaceuticals.
The Synthera®+ Platform supports radiopharmacy activities across the entire value chain, from tracer research and development to routine clinical production.
A long-term partnership with IBA enabled seamless integration of the Synthera® + Platform into UZ Gent’s radiopharmacy workflow.
Through close collaboration, IBA supported the UZ Gent in integrating the Synthera®+ Platform into daily radiopharmacy operations and optimizing production workflows. This partnership ensured efficient use of the equipment for both routine clinical production and research.
By combining technical expertise with hands-on support, IBA helped UZ Gent maximize the performance and flexibility of the Synthera®+ Platform while maintaining high standards of reliability, safety and regulatory compliance.
Our journey together
Universitair Ziekenhuis Gent – UZ Gent
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Phase 1
Project conception
The production scope was defined collaboratively. The module installation was planned to meet laboratory needs while ensuring compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices and all relevant safety standards. -
Phase 2
Equipment integration
The chemistry module was installed, connected, and configured. All components were carefully checked to ensure proper operation. -
Phase 3
Validation & operation
Synthesis protocols and production processes were validated in accordance with quality standards, enabling safe, compliant and reliable routine operations. -
Phase 4
Optimization & longevity
Maintenance keeps the equipment reliable and up to date. Training supports safe and efficient system operation and long-term performance.
The Synthera®+ Platform boosted UZ Gent’s tracer production while supporting research and innovation.
With the Synthera®+ Platform, UZ Gent successfully produced more than 1.000 batches of fluorodeoxyglucose to date, all fully compliant with the European Pharmacopoeia monograph.
It highlights the value of an integrated, end-to-end chemistry platform. The solution ensures operational reliability, supports high-quality production, and offers scalability for future research needs, while maintaining high patient care standards.
The Synthera®+ Platform supports reliable radiopharmaceutical production and research through a long-term partnership with IBA.
"The Synthera®+ Platform is a key element of our radiopharmacy operations at UZ Gent. Its reliability and performance support the routine production of fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), and other fluorine-18 labelled radiopharmaceuticals for clinical use and study.
The multi-run capability enabled by the automated cassette loader allows us to optimize laboratory capacity and support efficient daily production. At the same time, the flexibility of the Synthera®+ chemistry modules supports our research activities and the development of new tracers and fluorine-18 labelling techniques.
Our long-standing collaboration with IBA is built on trust and technical expertise. This close partnership ensures that the Synthera®+ Platform continues to meet our operational and research requirements over time."
Thanks to the Synthera®+ Platform, UZ Gent has a robust chemistry set up to produce radiotracers reliably and advance research.
"IBA is proud to support UZ Gent with the Synthera®+ Platform, enabling reliable and high-quality radiotracers production while supporting ongoing research and innovation. This long-term partnership illustrates how IBA solutions help hospitals deliver excellent patient care and advance scientific research."
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