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An Aptamer-based Sensor for Unchelated GadoliniumIII

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Gadolinium Pollution-A Future Forward Perspective on Human and Environmental Impact.

Makayla R Long¹, Nir A Dayan², Meicai Xu³

¹Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA.

Magnetic Resonance in Medicine

|October 28, 2025

Summary

Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) used in MRI can lead to gadolinium pollution, posing risks to human and environmental health. This review highlights concerns and proposes mitigation strategies for safer medical imaging practices.

Keywords:

contrast media environmental environmental pollutants gadolinium magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)remediation waste disposal

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Area of Science:

Environmental Science
Toxicology
Medical Imaging

Background:

Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) are widely used in MRI, enhancing diagnostic accuracy.
Concerns are rising regarding gadolinium pollution and its potential health and environmental impacts.
Gadolinium retention in animals is documented, but its biological effects remain uncertain.

Purpose of the Study:

To review current knowledge on gadolinium pollution concerning human and environmental health.
To raise awareness about the risks associated with GBCA accumulation.
To propose strategies for mitigating environmental gadolinium contamination.

Main Methods:

Literature review of existing studies on GBCA use, gadolinium retention, and pollution.
Analysis of documented health effects, including nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF).
Assessment of environmental concerns such as water contamination and bioaccumulation.

Main Results:

GBCA degradation releases gadolinium, with varying dechelation depending on the agent.
Human health risks include NSF in patients with renal insufficiency and potential neural deposition.
Environmental risks involve water system contamination, bioaccumulation, and ecological harm.

Conclusions:

Gadolinium pollution from GBCAs presents significant human and environmental health challenges.
Limiting GBCA exposure to clinical necessity is recommended.
Mitigation strategies include reducing GBCA use, improving waste management, and researching microbial remediation.