Targeting multimeric imaging agents through multiocus binding and improving the efficacy of in vivo contrast agents

摘要

Multimeric contrast agent compounds which exhibit improved relaxivity properties upon binding to endogenous proteins or other physiologically relevant sites for diagnostic imaging are disclosed. These compounds consist of: a) two or more Image Enhancing Moieties (IEMs) (or signal-generating moiety) comprising multiple subunits; b) two or more Target Binding Moieties (TBMs), providing for in vivo localization and multimer rigidification; c) a scaffold framework for attachment of the above moieties; and d) optional linkers for attachment of the IEMs to scaffold. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds and methods of using the compounds and compositions for contrast enhancement of diagnostic imaging are also disclosed.