This invention discloses a water-soluble
melanin CEST contrast agent, its preparation method, and its application, relating to the field of
magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent technology. This contrast agent, its preparation method, and its application aim to solve the technical problem that existing contrast agents containing paramagnetic metals can
damage liver and
kidney function. This water-soluble
melanin CEST contrast agent comprises the following components by weight: 2-3 parts
ammonia, 40 parts
ethanol, 100 parts deionized water, and 0.5 parts reaction substrate. The
chemical shift corresponding to this contrast agent preparation method is 4.0 ppm, exhibiting good adaptability to acidic environments and suitability for use in the
tumor microenvironment. It is polymerized using
dopamine hydrochloride or 3,4-
dihydroxyphenylalanine, with inexpensive, simple, and readily available raw materials, simple synthesis, and easy large-scale preparation. It achieves
tumor imaging without the need for paramagnetic
metal ions, avoiding the damage to
liver and kidney function caused by heavy
metal ions.