Activated MR Contrast Agents

Title: Activated MR Contrast Agents

Volume: 5 Issue: 6

Author(s): Mark P. Lowe

Affiliation:

Keywords: oxygen, MR Contrast Agents

Abstract: The relative non-specificity of the first generation MR contrast agents has meant that a new approach to their design is required. This review focuses on a new class of more specific or functional agents. These are the so-called “activated”, “smart” or “responsive” contrast agents. The relaxivity of an activated contrast agent is responsive to (or can be modulated by) a particular in vivo stimulus such as a change in biological environment or activity. More specifically, a “switching on” of contrast in response to an event such as a change in physiological pH, metal ion concentration, enzyme activity or partial pressure of oxygen is sought. The current generation of activated MR contrast agents is discussed herein.

Cite this article as:

Lowe P. Mark, Activated MR Contrast Agents, Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology 2004; 5 (6) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1389201043376562