Molecular Imaging Basics: CEST Contrast Agents
Kannie WY Chan1,2
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China, 2Russell H Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States

Synopsis

Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI has shown many promising biomedical applications. Many natural compounds and clinical agents have inherent CEST contrast. This course will cover the basic principles of CEST and CEST contrast agents, focusing on non-metallic exogenous contrast agents. Target audience: Students, researchers and physicians who are interested in using CEST contrast agents in their applications.

CEST detects exchangeable protons of molecules. In this talk, we will discuss various types of CEST contrast agents, starting from small molecules to macromolecules. First, we will discuss small molecular contrast agents, such as glucose, drugs and CT contrast agents. Second. we will discuss large particles and biomaterials, such as liposomes, nanoparticles and hydrogels. The design of these particles and biomaterials could enhance the detectability of CEST in vivo. Finally, recent developments in CEST acquisition and data processing to facilitate CEST clinical application will be highlighted.

Acknowledgements

No acknowledgement found.

References

No reference found.
Proc. Intl. Soc. Mag. Reson. Med. 29 (2021)