Surface impact on nanoparticle-based magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most widely used diagnostic tools in the clinic. To improve imaging quality, MRI contrast agents, which can modulate local T(1) and T(2) relaxation times, are often injected prior to or during MRI scans. However, clinically used contrast agents, including Gd(3+)-based chelates and iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), afford mediocre contrast abilities. To address this issue, there has been extensive research on developing alternative MRI contrast agents with superior r(1) and r(2) relaxivities. These efforts are facilitated by the fast progress in nanotechnology, which allows for preparation of magnetic nanoparticles (NPs) with varied size, shape, crystallinity, and composition. Studies suggest that surface coatings can also largely affect T(1) and T(2) relaxations and can be tailored in favor of a high r(1) or r(2). However, the surface impact of NPs has been less emphasized. Herein, we review recent progress on developing NP-based T(1) and T(2) contrast agents, with a focus on the surface impact.