Macromolecular MRI Contrast Agents
- Technology Benefits
- Easy tosynthesizeCost-effectiveBiocompatibleIncreasedcontrast
- Detailed Technology Description
- Simple method to generate high molecular weight contrast agents with multiple gadolinium complexes for cellular imaging studies and clinical use #healthcare #imaging #MRI #researchtool #method #reagent
- *Abstract
-
Northwestern University scientists have developed a novel method to generate contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging that contain multiple gadolinium (Gd) complexes. Many researchers avoid using Gd-based contrast agents because of their lack of sensitivity compared to current alternatives. The innovative method for generating highly sensitive Gd-containing contrast agents from the Meade Lab employs click chemistry to produce large molecular weight compounds with 3-7 Gd complexes. Each Gd ion is covalently linked to the rest of the molecule, which ensures the longevity of this reagent in vivo. Furthermore, these novel reagents are biocompatible, easily taken up by cells and inexpensive to produce. With their many favorable traits, these new contrast agents could be useful in both the clinical and research arenas.
- *Inventors
- Ying SongEllen KohlmeirThomas J Meade*
- *Publications
- Song Y, Kohlmeir EK, MeadeTJ (2008) Synthesis of multimeric MR contrast agents for cellular imaging, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 130: 6662-6663.
- Country/Region
- USA
