NU 2004-090

Inventors

Steve Bull

Thomas Meade*

Samuel Stupp*

Short Description

Contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging based on self-assembled peptide amphiphiles for high contrast imaging

Abstract

Northwestern University researchers have developed novel contrast agents for MRI imaging that incorporate peptide amphiphiles (PAs). These versatile, biocompatible molecules have been exploited for tissue engineering and drug delivery purposes in the past. Because of their ability to self-assemble in vivo, PAs are also attractive as MRI contrast agents. The relaxivity of the PA-based contrast agents is proportional to the molecular weight of the self-assembled complex, which produces increased contrast in MRI images. In addition, these contrast agents are highly sensitive in vivo, allowing for imaging of various biological processes. Due to their chemical properties, PAs can be easily modified to allow for incorporation of multiple bioactive functions further enhancing their range of applications. PA-based contrast agents are expected to contribute to the field of magnetic resonance imaging, as well as enable future improvements in diagnostic imaging techniques.

Applications

• MRI in clinical and research settings

Advantages

• Increased sensitivity and contrast
• Established bioactivity and biocompatibility
• Customizable

Publications

Bull SR, Guler MO, Bras RE, Meade TJ, Stupp SI (2005) Self-Assembled Peptide Amphiphile Nanofibers Conjugated to MRI Contrast Agents, Nano Letters. 5: 1-4.

IP Status

Issued US patent number 8,834,840