Exceedingly small iron oxide nanoparticles as T1 MRI contrast agents

Less toxic contrast agents

This project aims to produce a contrast agent with similar properties to GBCA (gadolinium based contrast agents) but with less toxicity. These new contrast agents will allow patients with impaired kidney function, who are unable to use GBCA, to receive the diagnostic benefits of contrast enhanced MR imaging. Ultimately, this research could have a potentially large impact with regards to broadening the use of MR images in diagnostics (Renewal from 2014 grant round).