Gd-complex labeled magnetite nanoparticles as fluorescent and targeted magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent

A novel and facile strategy was firstly developed to synthesize an efficient magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent via linking the Gd-complex (Gd-DTPA) onto the surfaces of ferroferric oxide nanoparticles. The new contrast agent is easily soluble in water media and shows better targeting ability on the liver organ. In addition, the synthesized contrast agent shows excellent magnetic resonance contrast behavior with longitudinal relaxivity value of 62.58 mM−1 s−1 and emits strong bright fluorescence in the cellular environment. Furthermore, the new magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent is superparamagnetic at room temperature and has no apparent cytotoxicity on human HeLa cells.

Graphical AbstractThe contrast agent was prepared by linking Gd-complex onto Fe3O4 NPs surface, which exhibits excellent MR contrast behavior with longitudinal relaxivity value of 62.58 mM−1 s−1 and bright fluorescence in cellular environment.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► A new strategy was developed to synthesize a contrast agent based on Fe3O4 nanoparticles.
► The contrast agent shows a higher relaxation value than the previous traditional contrast agents, and strong selectivity on the liver organ in mice.
► The contrast agent has no cytotoxicity and can emit bright fluorescence in cellular environment.