| Popis: |
Gadolinium-based chelates are a mainstay of contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the clinic. However, their toxicity elicits severe side effects and the Food and Drug Administration has issued many warnings about their potential retention in patients’ bodies, which causes safety concerns. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) are a potentially attractive alternative, because of their non-toxic and biodegradable nature. Studies in developing IONPs as T(1) contrast agents have generated promising results, but the complex, interrelated parameters influencing contrast enhancement make the development difficult, and IONPs suitable for T(1) contrast enhancement have yet to make their way to clinical use. Here we discuss the fundamental principles of MRI contrast agents and review the current status of MRI contrast agents with a focus on the advantages and limitations of current T(1) contrast agent and the potential of IONPs serving as safe and improved alternative to gadolinium-based chelates. We present the past advances and current challenges in developing IONPs as T(1) contrast agent from a materials science perspective and assess how each of the key material properties and environment variables affects the performance of IONPs. Finally, we discuss some potential approaches to develop high-performance and clinically relevant T(1) contrast agents. The fundamentals of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) as T(1) contrast agents, the past advances and current challenges in developing IONPs are reviewed. The key material properties and environmental variables influencing T(1) and T(2) contrast, and their relationships are discussed. Strategies for improving T(1) contrast enhancement and directions for future research are provided. |
Plný text