Reporter gels to identify macromolecular structure, enzymes, and cells using MRI

Arizona State University (AzTE)
posted on 06/03/2009

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Invention Description
Hydrogel matrices have been developed to promote tissue regeneration after injury or to deliver drugs to a specific location. The interaction of the hydrogel with the surrounding tissue is complex and unique to each individual’s biochemistry, thus making it important to monitor the molecular structure and degradation rate of the gels once implanted. Present techniques used to observe hydrogels and their intended progress are limited in resolution and depth.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a biocompatible hydrogel matrix that incorporates superparamagnetic nanoparticles allowing the hydrogel to be imaged using a common and highly resolved MRI technique. The nature of this hydrogel allows for the nanoparticles to be fined tuned for sensitivity to various target molecules. This technology can be used to image the progress of a hydrogel used for tissue regeneration; the successful delivery of timed release of medication; and to detect the presence of enzymes that are detrimental to the three dimensional structure of the implanted hydrogel

Potential Applications

Drug delivery 
Clinical practice 
Surgery

Benefits and Advantages

Noninvasive and improved resolution of hydrogel imaging using common MRI technology 
Sensitively detects the presence of toxins or enzymes harmful to the hydrogel structure post implantation 
Monitors the actual rate of timed-release drugs present in hydrogels