COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR CHEMICAL EXCHANGE SATURATION TRANSFER (CEST) MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI)

摘要

The invention features novel heterocyclic compounds that are useful as MRI contrast agents. Specifically, the invention relates to a novel class of MRI contrast agents that produce significantly improved contrast in MR images that is detectable through chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) or frequency labeled exchange (FLEX) imaging. The MRI contrast agents of the invention include those delineated in the formulae provided herein. The invention also relates to various methods in which the MRI contrast agents are employed. Kits and pharmaceutical compositions thereof are also provided.