Florida State University researcher Naresh Dalal and other researchers have developed a magnetic molecule identified as “Fe8” which contains all of the preferred attributes. This single molecule magnet has eight ion bonds, is water-soluble and non-toxic.
Recently published papers describe testing completed on the molecule which shows that Fe8 provides good contract in non-clinical MRI studies over a specific range of concentrations, dispelling an earlier confusion about the value of Fe8 in medical imaging. The earlier research had resulted in conflicting results because the concentration of Fe8 had not been accounted for during testing.
These advances are due in part to advances in the field of nanotechnology. Nanotechnology involves working with particles that are one billionth of a meter thick. The techniques that are available to measure and manipulate such small particles of matter will support additional research on materials such as FE8. Researchers are hoping that these newer medical imaging contrast media will be able to be manipulated for even greater benefit than this initial research suggests. For example, researchers are seeking ways to “turn on” and “turn off” the medical imaging contrast qualities by synthesizing contrast media that binds only to certain other molecules or does so only when subject to specific conditions that can be monitored and managed.
Although this breakthrough in contrast media for medical imaging is extremely promising and may well provide a great leap forward in the quality of magnetic resonance imaging, there is still a great deal of testing and research to be accomplished before Fe8 can be made available for use in human population medical imaging studies.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Fe8 – Breakthrough for Medical Imaging
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