Self-assembled USPIO clusters in biodegradable matrix for MRI contrast
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents, such as ultrasmall particles of iron oxide (USPIO) and microparticles of iron oxide (MPIO), face limitations in sensitivity, specificity, and biocompatibility, with USPIO having low iron content and MPIO being rapidly eliminated from circulation, while clinically compatible MPIOs are not biodegradable.
Innovation Solution
Development of self-assembled submicrometric clusters of USPIO embedded in a polycathecolamine or polyserotonine matrix, which allows for efficient functionalization with targeting moieties and provides biocompatibility and biodegradability, enhancing sensitivity and specificity for molecular imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If USPIO are used as contrast agents, then biocompatibility and safety profile are improved, but sensitivity is worsened due to low iron content
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple USPIO nanoparticles into larger submicrometric clusters (200-2000 nm) while maintaining the biocompatible USPIO core. This clustering approach increases the total iron content and signal intensity (improving sensitivity) while preserving the favorable safety profile of USPIO, resolving the contradiction between biocompatibility and sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite structure with USPIO nanoparticles embedded in a polycathecolamine or polyserotonine matrix. This composite approach combines the biocompatibility of USPIO with the enhanced iron content and signal intensity provided by the clustered arrangement and organic matrix, achieving both high sensitivity and biocompatibility simultaneously.
2Measurement precision
If MPIO are used to increase sensitivity, then sensitivity is improved, but duration of action is worsened due to rapid elimination from circulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the size parameter of iron oxide particles from traditional MPIO (micrometer scale) to submicrometric clusters (200-2000 nm), and modifies the surface properties through polycathecolamine or polyserotonine coating. These parameter changes reduce rapid elimination by the reticulo-endothelial system while maintaining high iron content for sensitivity, thereby extending circulation time.
3Measurement precision
If MPIO are coated to improve targeting, then specificity is improved, but biocompatibility is worsened due to non-biodegradable polystyrene matrix
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the material composition parameter of the particle matrix from non-biodegradable polystyrene to biodegradable polycathecolamine or polyserotonine. This material substitution maintains the capability for targeting and functionalization while improving biocompatibility and enabling metabolic degradation, resolving the contradiction between specificity and biocompatibility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The new contrast agent achieves high sensitivity and specificity for molecular imaging, particularly in inflammation detection in the brain, kidneys, and intestinal mucosa, with improved biocompatibility and prolonged imaging capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
USPIO with a diameter ranging from 10 to 50 nm have been the primary focus of molecular MRI studies
Implementation Method 2
self-assembled submicrometric clusters of USPIO using a polycathecolamine or polyserotonine, in particular polydopamine (PDA), as an embedding matrix
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a biocompatible particle comprising nanoparticles of iron oxide embedded in a polycathecolamine or polyserotonine matrix, a suspension of said particles, a process for preparing said suspension of particles, a conjugate comprising said particle and the use of said particle and said conjugate in imaging techniques.