A METHOD OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING FOR DETECTING CALCIUM

摘要

Methods and compositions for magnetic resonance spectroscopy (e.g., imaging) of calcium ions in samples such as physiologic media and tissues both in vitro and in vivo, utilizing superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles coated with an alginate, are provided. The superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles coated with an alginate form aggregates with calcium ions, and the formation and/or level of such aggregates are indicative for the presence and/or level, respectively, of calcium ions in the sample. The methods and compositions can be used for monitoring a presence and/or progression of a medical condition associated with calcium ions.