Superoxide-responsive MRI contrast agent for inflammation detection and drug delivery
Abstract
Inflammatory diseases contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality, yet inflammation remains elusive to MRI, highlighting the potential of a dual-function system that detects inflammation and releases therapeutic drugs in a single, efficient platform. We developed IPC- SPIOs, iron oxide nanoparticle-based contrast agents that activate upon superoxide exposure, enhancing MRI contrast. In vitro MRI studies showed that activated IPC-SPIOs generate higher contrast than uncoated IONPs. Additionally, curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound, was encapsulated within IPC-SPIOs for targeted delivery. Encapsulation efficiency reached 20-50%, with 24% drug loading at optimal conditions. Superoxide presence may enhance curcumin release, which will be tested for its impact on inflammatory cytokine reduction in macrophages and monocytes.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Amritanshu Pandey
Status
Graduate
Student College
College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences
Program/Major
Biomedical Engineering
Primary Research Category
Engineering and Math Science
Superoxide-responsive MRI contrast agent for inflammation detection and drug delivery
Inflammatory diseases contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality, yet inflammation remains elusive to MRI, highlighting the potential of a dual-function system that detects inflammation and releases therapeutic drugs in a single, efficient platform. We developed IPC- SPIOs, iron oxide nanoparticle-based contrast agents that activate upon superoxide exposure, enhancing MRI contrast. In vitro MRI studies showed that activated IPC-SPIOs generate higher contrast than uncoated IONPs. Additionally, curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound, was encapsulated within IPC-SPIOs for targeted delivery. Encapsulation efficiency reached 20-50%, with 24% drug loading at optimal conditions. Superoxide presence may enhance curcumin release, which will be tested for its impact on inflammatory cytokine reduction in macrophages and monocytes.