Biocompatible Gadolinium-free contrast agents for molecular targeted MR imaging
Duration:
January 2021–June 2026
Project summary
Ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxides (USPIOs) with intrinsic superparamagnetic properties are emerging safer alternatives in MRI scans but technological improvements are required to allow for their clinical use. Through this project, I will bring new skills to the development of next-generation USPIOs by incorporating precisely-defined polymeric nanomedicine that will provide them with prolonged blood circulation, cell/tissue specificity and enhanced retention, in order to improve the accumulation of USPIOs at pathological sites for obtaining enhanced sensitivity/contrast in MR imaging.