Novel Contrast Agents for CT and MRI Scans

A team of researchers led by Prof. Rachela Popovtzer from the Alexander Kofkin Faculty of Engineering at Bar Ilan University, developed unique nanoparticles comprised of an iron oxide core and coated with gold shell (Fe₃O₄@Au) which could be used as a single contrast agent for both CT and MRI scans. CT and MRI scans are very important for oncology and allow imaging of the internal anatomical structures, however, the obtained diagnostic information is quite different. Using mice, the researchers demonstrated that after the injection of these nanoparticles, clear imaging results were obtained in both CT and MRI of a tumor and tumor blood vessels, even several days after the injection and without any signs of toxicity. Currently, CT and MRI scans require separate contrast agents. The use of Fe₃O₄@Au nanoparticles will reduce the number of injections for patients and will likely provide better-quality images. Furthermore, Fe₃O₄@Au nanoparticles have therapeutic potential as well - due to their unique composition, they can be used as a radiosensitizer - a substance that increases the effect of radiation on tumor cells.

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