Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a very effective clinical diagnostic technique. However, most paramagnetic contrast agents (PCA) enhance image contrast purely on the basis of nonspecific bio- distribution properties, which is sometimes enough to visualize some biochemical events. Currently, there are some gaps in understanding of the structure-function relationship of PCA, molecular mechanism of reversible binding of PCA to biological micromolecules, and the effect of biological environment on relaxivity of PCA. The broad objectives of the proposed project are to understand molecular aspects of binding and interactions of PCA molecules developed for clinical MRI applications with several key biomolecules, such as plasma proteins and phospholipids, and the relationship between binding and relaxation enhancement. The goal will be achieved by characterization of binding interaction and by investigating effects of these interactions on structure and electronic properties of PCA's through systematic study of several classes Gd3+ complexes by a variety of spectroscopic techniques, including fluorescence, nuclear magnetic resonance, and electron paramagnetic resonance at multiple and high frequencies. This key information is essential to guide development of new, more effective contrast agents with enhanced relaxivity and selectivity.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32CA073156-03
Application #
2895815
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG7-DMG (01))
Program Officer
Lohrey, Nancy
Project Start
1999-06-01
Project End
Budget Start
1999-06-01
Budget End
2000-05-31
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
1999
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Department
Veterinary Sciences
Type
Schools of Veterinary Medicine
DUNS #
041544081
City
Champaign
State
IL
Country
United States
Zip Code
61820
Smirnova, T I; Smirnov, A I; Belford, R L et al. (1999) Interaction of Gd(III) MRI contrast agents with membranes: a review of recent EPR studies. MAGMA 8:214-29