Abstract

Magnetic Nanoparticles in Medical Imaging

Author(s): Ehsan Kianfar1,2*

Unique Features and Benefits of Magnetic Nanoparticles The superiority of these particles as contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI is based on the interaction between a magnetic field and tissue protons. Studies have shown that the use of magnetic nanoparticles in MRI provides better contrast of images and allows imaging at the cellular and molecular levels. This article gives a brief description of how MRI works, also compares magnetic nanoparticles and other contrast agents, and discusses the reason for the superiority and increased contrast of magnetic nanoparticles. First, the required properties for these particles are named Factors affecting these properties are discussed, including particle size and its effect on image contrast, particle preparation method and its effect on their physical and chemical properties, and the types of coatings used and the benefits. In the following, the types of nanoparticles used are briefly introduced and finally the way of transfer of particles to the target tissue is passively investigated. The study of inflamed tissue, angiogenesis, apoptosis, gene expression, cancer, and cellular tracing is described, and a brief explanation of how and applications of surface comfort modification is given, as well as a major discussion on the properties and characteristics of magnetic nanoparticles in medical imaging.