Superparamagnetic Nanoparticles as High Efficiency Magnetic Resonance Imaging T₂ Contrast Agent

Nanoparticle-based magnetic resonance imaging T₂ negative agents are of great interest, and much effort is devoted to increasing cell-loading capability while maintaining low cytotoxicity. Herein, two classes of mixed-ligand protected magnetic-responsive, bimetallic gold/iron nanoparticles (Au/Fe NPs) synthesized by a two-step method are presented. Their structure, surface composition, and magnetic properties are characterized. The two classes of sulfonated Au/Fe NPs, with an average diameter of 4 nm, have an average atomic ratio of Au to Fe equal to 7 or 8, which enables the Au/Fe NPs to be superparamagnetic with a blocking temperature of 56 K and 96 K. Furthermore, preliminary cellular studies reveal that both Au/Fe NPs show very limited toxicity. MRI phantom experiments show that r₂/r₁ ratio of Au/Fe NPs is as high as 670, leading to a 66% reduction in T₂ relaxation time. These nanoparticles provide great versatility and potential for nanoparticle-based diagnostics and therapeutic applications and as imaging contrast agents.