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Novel Gadolinium-Free MRI Contrast Agents

Technology Application: These nanoparticles have the potential to be used for various applications in diagnostic radiology and imaging, due to their enhanced relaxivity, and long-term stability in biological media. Moreover, this technology enhances positive contrast of MR imaging in uptake by Hela cells.

Detailed Technology Description: Researchers from UC San Diego have developed new polycatechol nanoparticles potentially suitable for pre-clinical investigations as gadolinium-free, safe, and effective imaging agents for MRI contrast enhancement. This technology comprises a new class of biocompatible MRI contrast agents based on micellar nanoparticles formed by amphiphilic poly(Fe(III)-catecholate)-based copolymers. Compared with established natural and synthetic melanin-based T1 agents, this new approach of using well-defined amphiphilic tri-block copolymers via a controlled living polymerization method could generate different self-assembled shaped nanoparticles with rigorously controlled physical parameters. This technology exhibits good r1, low r1/r2 ratio, superior stability in blood serum, and excellent in vitro MRI performance in cells.

Others: State Of Development
UC San Diego is seeking licensees to develop this promising technology into commercial applications in diagnostic radiology and nanoprobe imaging

Related Materials
Li Y, Huang Y, Wang Z, Carniato F, Xie Y, Patterson JP, Thompson MP, Andolina CM, Ditri TB, Millstone JE, Figueroa JS, Rinehart JD, Scadeng M, Botta M, Gianneschi NC. Polycatechol Nanoparticle MRI Contrast Agents. Small. 2016 Feb 3;12(5):668-77

Tech ID/UC Case
25928/2015-295-0

Related Cases
2015-295-0

*Abstract: Current FDA contrast agents usually involve heavy metals such as gadolinium (Gd).
However, the slow clearance of Gd-based chelates may induce several severe diseases (i.e. nephrogenic systemic fibrosis). Many labs are looking for alternatives that don't involve this metal.

*IP Issue Date: Dec 29, 2016

*Principal Investigator: Name: Nathan Gianneschi
Department:

Name: Yuran Huang
Department:

Name: Yiwen Li
Department:

Name: Miriam Scadeng
Department:

Country/Region: USA

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