Iodinated NanoClusters as an inhaled computed tomography contrast agent for lung visualization

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Medical Imaging
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Thoracic computed tomography (CT) requires effective contrast media for accurate disease evaluation.
• Delivering contrast media to the lungs non-invasively is challenging.
• Existing methods like intrapleural injections are invasive.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate NanoCluster technology for formulating inhaled contrast media for thoracic CT.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of N1177 NanoClusters for lung contrast enhancement.
• To determine if inhaled NanoClusters can improve thoracic CT imaging accuracy.

Main Methods:

• NanoCluster technology was used to formulate N1177, a diatrizoic acid derivative, into nanoparticle agglomerates with aerodynamic diameters <= 5 microm.
• Excipient-free N1177 NanoCluster powders were administered to rats via insufflation or inhalation.
• Rats were scanned using CT up to 1 hour post-administration, and lung tissue histology was performed.

Main Results:

• Inhaled N1177 NanoClusters resulted in a ~120 Hounsfield units (HU) contrast increase in the lungs.
• This contrast enhancement was sufficient for effective thoracic CT imaging.
• Histological examination showed no lung damage from N1177 NanoClusters.

Conclusions:

• NanoCluster particle engineering is a novel and safe method for delivering high concentrations of contrast agents to the lung periphery.
• Inhaled NanoCluster contrast media can significantly improve thoracic CT imaging accuracy and effectiveness.
• This technology offers a promising non-invasive approach for lung disease evaluation.