Iron oxide nanoparticles as multimodal imaging tools

Abstract

In medicine, obtaining simply a resolute and accurate image of an organ of interest is a real challenge.

Enhancement of T2* Weighted MRI Imaging Sensitivity of U87MG Glioblastoma Cells Using γ-Ray Irradiated Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid-Conjugated Iron Nanoparticles

“… 42 In actuality, the major effect of particle size of IONP on MRI imaging is to determine suitability for application as a negative or positive contrast agent. 3 It has been reported that a large nanoparticle size can enhance negative contrast while a small analog can enhance the positive contrast of MR images. 3 Because the HA used in this study did not involve the imaging process, it is reasonable to suggest that the IONPs fabricated in this study are adequate for the fabrication of MRI contrast agent.…”

“… 1 Contrast agents used for MRI can be broadly divided into two main types: T1 and T2. 2 , 3 T1 contrast agents change the T1 relaxation time of the tissue, and thus increase image contrast by strengthening the signal. Hence, T1 contrast agents are often referred to as positive contrast agents.…”

“…Among these materials, magnetite (ferrous-ferric oxide, Fe 3 O 4 ) and maghemite (ferrous oxide, Fe 2 O 3 ) have attracted particular attention. 3 , 4 , 8 , 9 Since, for diameters less than 30 nm, they not only exhibit superparamagnetic properties but also have excellent biocompatibility and magnetic susceptibility. 10 Furthermore, through appropriate surface modification, iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) can be made to target specific ligands on the cell membrane.…”

“… 11–13 Therefore, they have many potential applications in medicine, including hyperthermia treatment, 14–17 drug delivery, 3 , 9 , 18 biochemical sensing, 9 tissue repair, 19 and MRI sensitivity enhancement. 3 , 4 , 9 In such applications, the surfaces of IONPs are generally modified using a suitable material in order to enhance their stability and biocompatibility. 9 , 13 , 15 , 18 …”

“…10 Furthermore, through appropriate surface modification, iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) can be made to target specific ligands on the cell membrane. [11][12][13] Therefore, they have many potential applications in medicine, including hyperthermia treatment, [14][15][16][17] drug delivery, 3,9,18 biochemical sensing, 9 tissue repair, 19 and MRI sensitivity enhancement. 3,4,9 In such applications, the surfaces of IONPs are generally modified using a suitable material in order to enhance their stability and biocompatibility.…”