D-Tyrosine, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-, trifluoroacetate (CAS# 223463-90-9), also known as D-FETFA, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-D-tyrosine trifluoroacetate, or D-FET free base, is a fluorinated chiral amino acid derivative with the molecular formula C₁₃H₁₅F₄NO₅ and a molecular weight of 341.25 g/mol. Its molecular structure consists of a D-tyrosine scaffold bearing a 2-fluoroethoxy substituent at the para-hydroxyl position of the aromatic ring, combined with a trifluoroacetate counterion. This unique architecture—incorporating both the D-configuration amino acid backbone and a fluorine-containing side chain—confers exceptional utility in positron emission tomography (PET) imaging and neurological research. As a colourless to pale yellow solid with a purity typically ≥95% to 98% by HPLC, D-FETFA serves as the indispensable non-radioactive reference standard and precursor backbone for the radiosynthesis of O-(2-[¹⁸F]fluoroethyl)-D-tyrosine ([¹⁸F]FET), a leading PET tracer for brain tumor diagnostics. The compound’s D-configuration is of particular significance, as the D-enantiomer of [¹⁸F]FET exhibits distinct pharmacokinetic properties compared to its L-counterpart, making it valuable for specific research applications. Based on its chemical characteristics and biomedical significance, this article systematically analyzes the key properties, core application areas, global market structure, regulatory landscape, and future outlook of this strategically important fluorinated amino acid derivative.
Core Application Fields and Demand
Market demand for D-Tyrosine, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-, trifluoroacetate (CAS# 223463-90-9) is concentrated in three primary sectors: PET radiopharmaceutical precursor synthesis (approximately 50–60% of global consumption), neurological drug discovery and research (approximately 25–30%), and pharmaceutical impurity reference standards (approximately 10–15%). Its unique combination of D-chirality, fluoroethoxy substitution, and stable trifluoroacetate salt form serves as the core driver of sustained demand.
In PET radiopharmaceutical precursor synthesis, D-FETFA serves as the essential non-radioactive reference standard and precursor backbone for the radiosynthesis of O-(2-[¹⁸F]fluoroethyl)-D-tyrosine ([¹⁸F]FET). [¹⁸F]FET is a well-established amino acid PET tracer that has demonstrated exceptional diagnostic potential in brain tumor imaging over the past two decades. The tracer is taken up by amino acid transporters (LAT1/LAT2) that are overexpressed in gliomas and other brain tumors, providing high-contrast visualization of tumor tissue with minimal background uptake in normal brain parenchyma. Commercial radiopharmaceuticals based on [¹⁸F]FET, such as IASOglio® developed by Curium Pharma, have been successfully transferred to clinical practice. The synthesis of [¹⁸F]FET typically involves a two-step procedure: ¹⁸F-fluoroethylation of a protected D-tyrosine precursor followed by deprotection, or direct nucleophilic radiofluorination using a tosylate-protected precursor. D-FETFA functions as the cold (non-radioactive) reference standard essential for quality control and analytical method validation, ensuring the chemical and radiochemical purity of the final [¹⁸F]FET product. Reference standards for D-[¹⁸F]FET hydrochloride are commercially available, with D-FET free base (CAS 223463-90-9) serving as the foundational reference material.
In neurological drug discovery and research, D-FETFA shows remarkable application prospects. Current research suggests that it may play a key role in the treatment of neurological disorders. For Parkinson’s syndrome, the compound is expected to improve patients’ motor coordination ability by regulating the metabolic process of specific neurotransmitters in the brain, reducing typical symptoms such as tremor and stiffness. In the treatment of depression and other mental disorders, it may act on the neural signaling network, regulating emotion-related neural pathways and helping alleviate patients’ low mood while improving psychological vitality. Beyond these applications, the compound serves as a valuable research tool for investigating amino acid transport mechanisms, studying the structure-activity relationships of fluorinated amino acid derivatives, and developing novel therapeutic agents targeting neurotransmitter systems.
In pharmaceutical impurity reference standards, D-FETFA is utilized as a reference standard for the identification and quantification of related substances in pharmaceutical formulations containing fluorinated amino acid derivatives. The compound’s well-characterized structure and high purity make it suitable for use in analytical method development and quality control in the pharmaceutical industry.
Major Market Participants
The global supply system for D-Tyrosine, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-, trifluoroacetate (CAS# 223463-90-9) features a pattern of “specialized radiopharmaceutical chemical suppliers, research-grade chemical distributors, and Chinese manufacturers serving distinct market segments.” As a highly specialized chiral building block rather than a commodity chemical, the market is characterized by a limited number of suppliers catering to the radiopharmaceutical, pharmaceutical R&D, and academic research communities.
In the global radiopharmaceutical and high-purity segment, key suppliers include specialized radiochemical companies that serve the PET tracer manufacturing and nuclear medicine communities. ABX advanced biochemical compounds offers D-FET hydrochloride as a reference standard for D-[¹⁸F]FET, with D-FET free base (CAS 223463-90-9) serving as the foundational reference material. Other international suppliers include BOC Sciences, which offers L-tyrosine, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-, trifluoroacetate and related fluorinated tyrosine derivatives. These suppliers typically offer the compound at ≥95% to 98% purity with full analytical documentation, catering to demanding radiopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical research applications.
In the industrial and research-grade segment, Chinese manufacturers have emerged as important players in the global supply chain. XinChem is a notable supplier offering D-Tyrosine, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-, trifluoroacetate CAS 223463-90-9. Nanjing Xienuo Bio Co., Ltd. is another Chinese supplier of fluorinated tyrosine derivatives. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at various purity grades and packaging options, serving both domestic and export markets with competitive pricing.
European and North American suppliers focus on high-purity and GMP-compliant grades for radiopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical research applications, while Chinese producers serve the broader research and industrial markets with competitive pricing and flexible supply options.
Regional Market Dynamics
The global D-Tyrosine, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-, trifluoroacetate market exhibits distinct regional characteristics, with production and distribution spanning Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe, aligned with the radiopharmaceutical, pharmaceutical, and academic research industries in these regions.
The Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a significant production hub for fluorinated amino acid derivatives, with China hosting manufacturers such as XinChem and Nanjing Xienuo Bio. The region’s competitive advantages include established chemical infrastructure, cost-effective manufacturing, and proximity to rapidly growing pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at various purity grades and packaging options, serving both domestic and export markets. The growing pharmaceutical R&D and radiopharmaceutical sectors in China, Japan, South Korea, and other Asia-Pacific countries continue to drive regional consumption growth.
North America remains a key market for high-purity and research-grade D-FETFA, driven by demand from the radiopharmaceutical industry, pharmaceutical companies, and academic research institutions. The United States hosts numerous research organizations, PET tracer manufacturing facilities, and pharmaceutical companies that require high-quality chiral building blocks for drug discovery and radiopharmaceutical development. The region’s well-established regulatory framework and emphasis on product quality support demand for high-grade research chemicals and pharmaceutical intermediates.
Europe is characterized by stringent regulatory requirements and a strong focus on quality in radiopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical research. European radiopharmaceutical manufacturers and research institutions demand high-purity chiral building blocks with comprehensive documentation. The region’s advanced nuclear medicine infrastructure and strong academic research base support steady demand for fluorinated amino acid derivatives for PET tracer development and neurological research.
Regulatory and Safety Considerations
As a research chemical, radiopharmaceutical precursor, and pharmaceutical reference standard, D-Tyrosine, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-, trifluoroacetate (CAS# 223463-90-9) is subject to regulatory oversight in major global economies. Compliance with relevant regulations is essential for market access and trade.
In the United States, D-FETFA is used for research purposes only and is not intended for therapeutic or veterinary use. For radiopharmaceutical applications, manufacturers must comply with relevant FDA regulations and quality standards for PET tracer production. The compound is not a controlled substance.
In the European Union, the compound must comply with REACH registration requirements for import and use. Manufacturers and suppliers must provide comprehensive Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and maintain appropriate documentation.
GHS classification and handling: D-FETFA is classified as a research compound for industry use only. Standard laboratory safety practices should be followed during handling, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, protective clothing, and eye/face protection). The compound should be stored in a cool, dry place in tightly closed containers, protected from moisture and light.
For international transport, D-FETFA is not classified as hazardous material for transport purposes. Proper packaging, labeling, and documentation are nevertheless required for international shipping in compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code) and other transport regulations.
Future Outlook
The market outlook for D-Tyrosine, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-, trifluoroacetate is positive, supported by several key growth drivers across its major application segments. While the compound remains a relatively niche specialty chemical within the broader fluorinated amino acid market, its unique properties and essential role in PET tracer development position it for steady growth in the coming years.
Key growth drivers include:
- Expansion of the PET imaging market: The growing global demand for PET imaging in oncology, neurology, and cardiology drives demand for high-quality PET tracers and their precursors, including [¹⁸F]FET and its reference standards.
- Growth in brain tumor diagnostics: The increasing incidence of brain tumors and the need for non-invasive diagnostic tools support continued demand for [¹⁸F]FET PET imaging, sustaining demand for D-FETFA as a reference standard and precursor.
- Neurological drug discovery: Ongoing research into Parkinson’s disease, depression, and other neurological disorders drives demand for fluorinated amino acid derivatives as research tools and potential therapeutic candidates.
- Expansion of radiopharmaceutical R&D: Increasing investment in the development of novel radiopharmaceuticals and PET tracers supports demand for high-quality chiral building blocks and reference standards.
- Growth in pharmaceutical quality control: The increasing stringency of pharmaceutical quality control requirements drives demand for well-characterized impurity reference standards.
Challenges and considerations:
- Regulatory compliance: Increasingly stringent pharmaceutical and radiopharmaceutical regulations may require ongoing investment in quality systems and documentation.
- Limited scale: As a highly specialized compound, the market for D-FETFA is smaller than that of commodity chemicals, which may limit investment in large-scale production capacity.
- Competition from alternative tracers: The market faces competition from other PET tracers and imaging modalities for brain tumor diagnosis.
- Technical complexity: The synthesis and handling of fluorinated amino acid derivatives require specialized expertise and equipment.
To succeed in this evolving market landscape, suppliers must focus on product quality (particularly enantiomeric purity and batch-to-batch consistency), supply chain reliability, regulatory compliance, and responsive customer service. Companies that can offer high-purity products, flexible packaging options, and technical support for radiopharmaceutical and neurological research applications will be well-positioned to capture growing demand.
Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem)
As a world-leading supplier of organic chemicals and pharmaceutical intermediates, Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem) is dedicated to meeting the innovative needs of the radiopharmaceutical, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and fine chemical industries. Leveraging extensive experience and advanced manufacturing capabilities, XinChem provides high-quality D-Tyrosine, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-, trifluoroacetate (CAS# 223463-90-9) to customers worldwide. As a trusted manufacturer and supplier based in China, XinChem combines competitive pricing, reliable supply, and exceptional service to establish itself as a preferred partner for businesses and research institutions seeking this essential fluorinated chiral building block.
1. Technical Advantages
Advanced Synthesis and Purification Processes
XinChem utilizes state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and rigorous quality control measures to ensure the purity, consistency, and safety of its D-FETFA products. The production process incorporates advanced synthetic technologies—including chiral synthesis, fluoroethylation, and trifluoroacetate salt formation—enabling the delivery of products with purity ≥95% and ≥98% (HPLC) to meet diverse application requirements. Strict process control ensures consistent enantiomeric purity (D-configuration), minimal impurities, and batch-to-batch reproducibility, providing customers with reliable performance in radiopharmaceutical precursor synthesis, neurological research, and pharmaceutical quality control.
Full-Chain Quality Control
The production process strictly adheres to international quality standards, with comprehensive quality control covering raw material sourcing, in-process monitoring, and finished product testing. Each batch is accompanied by a detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting physical and chemical properties, purity data (HPLC), optical rotation, and impurity profiles. This commitment to quality ensures that XinChem’s D-FETFA meets the stringent requirements of radiopharmaceutical, pharmaceutical, and research applications.
2. Product Advantages
High Purity and Consistent Quality
XinChem offers D-Tyrosine, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-, trifluoroacetate with purity ≥98% (HPLC), ensuring optimal performance in PET tracer synthesis, neurological research, and pharmaceutical quality control applications. The product’s high purity minimizes the risk of unwanted side reactions and impurities, making it suitable for demanding applications in radiopharmaceutical precursor synthesis and analytical reference standards.
Comprehensive Specifications
Key specifications include:
- CAS Number: 223463-90-9
- Molecular Formula: C₁₃H₁₅F₄NO₅
- Molecular Weight: 341.25 g/mol
- Synonyms: D-FETFA; D-Tyrosine, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-, trifluoroacetate; O-(2-Fluoroethyl)-D-tyrosine trifluoroacetate
- Appearance: Colourless to pale yellow solid
- Purity: ≥98% (HPLC)
- Storage: Cool, dry place, tightly closed, protected from moisture and light
Flexible Packaging Solutions
XinChem provides a range of packaging options to accommodate diverse customer needs, from laboratory-scale quantities to industrial-scale packaging and bulk shipments. Customized packaging solutions are available upon request, ensuring safe handling, storage, and transportation.
3. Application Fields
As a versatile fluorinated chiral building block, D-Tyrosine, O-(2-fluoroethyl)-, trifluoroacetate (CAS# 223463-90-9) exhibits wide application value across multiple industries:
PET Radiopharmaceuticals:
- Non-radioactive reference standard for O-(2-[¹⁸F]fluoroethyl)-D-tyrosine ([¹⁸F]FET)
- Precursor backbone for the radiosynthesis of [¹⁸F]FET
- Quality control reference material for PET tracer manufacturing
- Analytical standard for method development and validation
Neurological Research:
- Research tool for studying neurotransmitter metabolism in Parkinson’s disease
- Investigation of neural signaling pathways in depression and mental disorders
- Tool for studying amino acid transport mechanisms (LAT1/LAT2)
- Probe for investigating the structure-activity relationships of fluorinated amino acids
Pharmaceutical Research:
- Building block for drug discovery programs targeting neurological disorders
- Reference standard for pharmaceutical impurity identification and quantification
- Reagent for studying the metabolic stability of fluorinated amino acid derivatives
Academic Research:
- Valuable tool for investigating amino acid transport and metabolism
- Reagent for studying the biological effects of fluorinated amino acid derivatives
4. Service Support
Technical Expertise and Customized Solutions
XinChem’s team of experienced chemists and pharmaceutical scientists provides full technical support throughout the customer journey—from product selection and specification development to application guidance and troubleshooting. Whether customers require optimization of radiopharmaceutical synthesis parameters, guidance on handling and storage, or assistance with regulatory documentation, XinChem’s technical experts are ready to help.
Global Logistics and Reliable Supply
With established supply chains serving markets across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and beyond, XinChem ensures timely delivery and consistent product availability. The company’s logistics team manages all aspects of international shipping, including customs clearance and documentation.
Regulatory Support
XinChem provides comprehensive documentation to support regulatory compliance, including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Certificates of Analysis (COA), and other required certificates. The company stays current with evolving regulatory requirements in major markets, helping customers navigate the complexities of global trade.
5. Reasons to Choose XinChem
- Professionalism: Extensive experience and deep expertise in fluorinated chiral compound synthesis and supply.
- Quality: Rigorous quality control, consistent enantiomeric purity, and adherence to international standards.
- Reliability: Stable supply, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
- Flexibility: Customized solutions to meet diverse customer needs, including custom synthesis and packaging.
- Service: Responsive technical support and comprehensive documentation.
Contact us today to start your partnership with XinChem!
Website: www.xinchem.com
Email: sales1@xinchem.com
WhatsApp: +86 18049800532
Post time: Aug-26-2026