A novel MRI contrast agent synthesized by ion exchange method

Objective: In this study, the zeolite-coated iron oxide nanoparticles were evaluated as MRI contrast agent and effect of the nanocomposite synthesis method on MRI contrast was tested. Materials and Methods: Ion exchange method was used for synthesis of iron oxide-zeolite and the as prepared nanocomposite was characterized by XRD, FESEM and TEM. The nanocomposite toxicity in the cell culture, and then their effect on MRI contrast were investigated. Results: The results showed a properly crystallized nanocomposite with the size of 120-180 nm. Iron oxide nanoparticles were capsulated in the pores of the zeolite. A very small amount of the nanoparticles were placed on the composite outer surface that led to enough free space on the zeolite surface. The nanocomposite was not toxic for the cell line and its MRI r2 relaxivity was calculated 127.14 mM-1s-1. Conclusion: Iron oxide-zeolite nanocomposite synthesized by ion exchange method is introduced as an MRI T2 contrast agent with a great potential for drug loading purposes.