Synthesis of isotopomers of dopamine labeled with deuterium or tritium

The synthesis of four isotopomers of dopamine labeled with deuterium or tritium is reported. The ring labeled [2',5',6'-H-2(3)]-, and [2',5',6'-H-3(3)]-dopamine were obtained using acid catalyzed isotopic exchange between dopamine and heavy or tritiated water respectively. Two selectively labeled isotopomers, i.e. [1R-H-2]-, and [1R-H-3]dopamine were synthesized by enzymatic decarboxylation of L-DOPA using the enzyme tyrosine decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.25) from Streptococcus faecalis. Copyright (c) 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.