Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 18, 2026
07:26
Synthesis of 68Ga Core-doped Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Dual Positron Emission Tomography /T1Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Published on: November 20, 2018
7.0K
Gold nanoparticles as contrast agents in x-ray imaging and computed tomography
Lisa E Cole1, Ryan D Ross, Jennifer Mr Tilley
1Department of Aerospace & Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering Graduate Program, 148 Multidisciplinary Research Building, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA.
Nanomedicine (London, England)
|January 21, 2015
Summary
Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) show promise as computed tomography contrast agents due to high x-ray attenuation and low toxicity. Strategic design of AuNP structure optimizes their function for various medical imaging applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Imaging
- Nanotechnology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Computed tomography (CT) requires contrast agents for visualizing tissues with low X-ray attenuation.
- Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) offer high X-ray attenuation, low toxicity, and versatile surface functionalization.
- AuNPs are explored for various CT imaging applications, including blood pool, passive, and active targeting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the current knowledge on AuNP X-ray contrast agents.
- To provide guidance on designing AuNPs based on structure-property-function relationships.
- To highlight design trade-offs for specific imaging applications.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on gold nanoparticle contrast agents for CT.
- Analysis of structure-property-function relationships in AuNP design.
- Examination of functional requirements for contrast agent applications.
Main Results:
- AuNPs demonstrate high X-ray attenuation and tunable properties through controlled structural characteristics.
- Surface functionalization allows for colloidal stability and targeted delivery of AuNPs.
- Design choices involve trade-offs between delivery, toxicity, targeting, and contrast enhancement.
Conclusions:
- AuNPs are a promising class of X-ray contrast agents for computed tomography.
- Strategic control over AuNP size, shape, composition, and surface chemistry is crucial for optimizing imaging performance.
- Further research into design trade-offs will facilitate the development of advanced molecular imaging agents.
Keywords:
computed tomographycontrast agentdeliverygold nanoparticlessurface functionalizationtargetingx-ray imagingMore Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:24X-ray Imaging
11.2K
German physicist Wilhelm Röntgen (1845–1923) was experimenting with electrical current when he discovered that a mysterious and invisible "ray" would pass through his flesh but leave an outline of his bones on a screen coated with a metal compound. In 1895, Röntgen made the first durable record of the internal parts of a living human: an "X-ray" image (as it came to be called) of his wife’s hand. Scientists worldwide quickly began their own experiments with...
11.2K
01:30Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT
1.7K
Radiological investigations, including X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans, are critical for diagnosing and evaluating various medical conditions. These imaging techniques provide valuable insights into the body's internal structures, aiding in the detection of abnormalities, assessment of disease progression, and development of treatment strategies. This article delves into two primary radiological investigations, chest X-rays and CT scans, outlining their purpose, procedures, and...
1.7K
01:10Computed Tomography
9.7K
Tomography refers to imaging by sections. Computed tomography (CT) is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses computers to analyze several cross-sectional X-rays to reveal minute details about structures in the body.
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
9.7K
01:27Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
825
DefinitionComputed Tomography (CT) of the genitourinary (GU) tract is a non-invasive imaging modality that utilizes X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and adjacent structures such as the adrenal glands.PurposeCT scans of the GU tract serve several diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Diseases: Detects kidney stones, tumors, cysts, and congenital...
825
01:14Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
1.3K
Introduction: MRI and CT scans are crucial advancements in medical imaging techniques, playing a vital role in diagnosing conditions related to the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Each scan serves distinct purposes, targets specific areas, and requires unique nursing duties.
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
1.3K
01:25Imaging Studies II: Positron Emission Tomography and Scintigraphy
794
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a medical imaging technique that provides crucial insights into the body's physiological functions at a molecular level. It is an indispensable resource for diagnosing, staging, and monitoring various illnesses, notably cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular conditions.
Fundamental Principles of PET
Fundamental Principles of PET
794