小粒径磁共振成像超敏感纳米对比剂的研制及初步动物实验

Objective To synthesize a small size and super-sensitive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) nano-contrast agent for preliminary animal experiment and to explore the feasibility for its use in molecular imaging studies.Methods Polyethylene glycol (PEC) was used for ring-opening polymerization of ε-caprolactone(CL), and amphiphilic PEG-b-PCL block polymer was prepared by self-assembly technique.Single particle superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) was loaded at the hydrophobic core of PEG-b-PCL to develop a nano-contrast agent.The particle diameter and SPIO-loading density were respectively determined by transmission electron microscope and atomic absorption spectroscopy.Echo multiplanar sequence was used for T2 value test, with transverse relaxation rate R2 computed.Meanwhile, magnetic properties were tested.After intravenous injection via caudal vein of Balb/c nude mice, the distributions and circulation time of this nano- particle were analyzed using MRI scanner at before injection and lh, 3h, 6 h, 12 h and 24 h after injection.Results The micelle diameter was around (38+3) nm and the content of Fe3O4 (wt%) was 37.0%.The transverse relaxation rate R2 was 110 Fe(mmol/L)-1 ·s-1.Superparamagnetism was observed in magnetic property test.After intravenous injection, the nano-particles were mainly distributed in the liver with a long circulation time.Signal intensity at 1 h decreased significantly when compared with that of before injection (120±32 vs 4986±0, P＜0.05) , and then decreased to (88±28) at 24 h (P＜0.05).Conclusion The nanometer micelle loaded with single SPIO particle demonstrates its potential as a powerful MRI contrast agent for molecular imaging studies because of its small size and high sensitivity.

Preparation and preliminary animal experiment of a small size and super-sensitive magnetic resonance imaging nano-contrast agent