Innovative magnetic resonance imaging diagnostic agents based on paramagnetic Gd(III) complexes

Gd(III) complexes are under intense scrutiny v as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). They act by enhancing tissutal proton relaxation rates. Much has already been done in order to get an in-depth understanding of the relationships between structure, dynamics, and contrastographic ability of these paramagnetic complexes. Their potential in the assessment of flow, perfusion, and capillary permeability has already been established. The next challenges are in the field of molecular imaging applications, which would allo v the attainment of early diagnosis based on the recognition of specific reporters of the onset of the pathological state. To this end, Gd(III) complexes have to be endowed with improved targeting capabilities by conjugating suitable recognition synthons on their surfaces. Small peptides are candidates of choice for the attainment of this goal. Moreover, the intrinsic low sensitivity of the NMR techniques implies the need to deliver large amounts of contrast agents to the target in order to get its visualization in the resulting images. Highly efficient delivery systems have been identified, which bring a great promise for the development of innovative diagnostic agents based on Gd(III) complexes. (C) 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.