Gain of a 500-fold sensitivity on an intravital MR contrast agent based on an endohedral gadolinium-cluster-fullerene-conjugate: a new chance in cancer diagnostics.
Among the applications of fullerene technology in health sciences the expanding field of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of molecular processes is most challenging. Here we present the synthesis and application of a Gd(x)Sc(3-x)N@C(80)-BioShuttle-conjugate referred to as Gd-cluster@-BioShuttle, which features high proton relaxation and, in comparison to the commonly used contrast agents, high signal enhancement at very low Gd concentrations. This modularly designed contrast agent represents a new tool for improved monitoring and evaluation of interventions at the gene transcription level. Also, a widespread monitoring to track individual cells is possible, as well as sensing of microenvironments. Furthermore, BioShuttle can also deliver constructs for transfection or active pharmaceutical ingredients, and scaffolding for incorporation with the host's body. Using the Gd-cluster@-BioShuttle as MRI contrast agent allows an improved evaluation of radio- or chemotherapy treated tissues.
Braun
Klaus
K
Department of Medical Physics in Radiology, German Cancer Research Center, INF 280, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany. k.braun@dkfz.de
Dunsch
Lothar
L
Pipkorn
Ruediger
R
Bock
Michael
M
Baeuerle
Tobias
T
Yang
Shangfeng
S
Waldeck
Waldemar
W
Wiessler
Manfred
M
D003287:Contrast Media / Q000138:chemical synthesis / Q000737:chemistry*; D037741:Fullerenes / Q000737:chemistry*; D005682:Gadolinium / Q000737:chemistry*; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*
D003287:Contrast Media; D037741:Fullerenes; D005682:Gadolinium