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Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Editor-in-Chief

ISSN (Print): 1389-2010
ISSN (Online): 1873-4316

Activated MR Contrast Agents

Author(s): Mark P. Lowe

Volume 5, Issue 6, 2004

Page: [519 - 528] Pages: 10

DOI: 10.2174/1389201043376562

Price: $65

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.

Keywords: oxygen, MR Contrast Agents


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