C12402: Novel Class of Organic MRI Contrast Agents
Novelty: Group of organic compounds as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents for detecting pH changes in vivo.
Value Proposition: The most commonly used MRI contrast agents contain the metal gadolinium which been associated with Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis. Therefore, organic agents serve to be a safer alternative. This invention comprises of a group of organic azole heterocycles that are synthesized as MRI contrast agents. Other advantages include:
• Potentially lower toxicity due to the absence of lanthanide metals
• Can be used to determine extracellular pH, encapsulated cell pH and kidney pH
• Ease of modification
• Clearance through breakdown during natural biochemical processes
• Can be used for targeted imaging studies through conjugation of a receptor ligand or antigen
• Safety trends can be monitored
• Monitor the delivery of chemotherapeutics
Technical Details: Johns Hopkins researchers have synthesized and tested a group of azole heterocycles as MRI contrast agents. Specifically, these contrast agents produce significantly improved contrast in MR images in a pH-dependent manner detectable through CEST or frequency labeled exchange (FLEX) imaging.
Looking for Partners: To develop & commercialize the technology as injectable, pH-sensitive MRI contrast agents.
Stage of Development: Proof of Concept
Data Availability: Animal data
Patent Status: Pending US Application US 2016-0075667 A1
