Developing safer metal-based agents for medical imaging

Safer Metal Based Imaging Agents

NIH-funded research Portland State University · NIH-10709659

This study is working on making safer metal-based substances for medical imaging, like MRI and PET scans, so that patients can get clearer pictures of their health without worrying about harmful effects.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPortland State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Portland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10709659 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating safer metal-based imaging agents that can be used in various diagnostic imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans. The approach involves using specific ligands to safely encapsulate metal ions, preventing toxicity while allowing for effective imaging. By ensuring that these metals can be excreted from the body, the research aims to enhance the safety and efficacy of imaging procedures for patients. The project explores both essential and xenobiotic metals to find optimal solutions for medical applications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who require diagnostic imaging and may benefit from improved safety in the use of metal-based contrast agents.

Not a fit: Patients who do not require imaging procedures or have contraindications to metal-based agents may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer imaging procedures with reduced risk of metal ion toxicity for patients undergoing diagnostic imaging.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of metals in imaging is well-established, the specific approach of developing safer metal-based agents with ligands is innovative and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Portland, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.