New MRI contrast agent detects cancers before they spread to the brain

A team of German-led researchers has developed a new imaging contrast agent that can detect certain cancers before they metastasize in the brain.

Leif Schroeder, with Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut fuer Molekulare Pharmakologie in Germany, and colleagues designed their new material so that magnetic resonance imaging could detect small, abnormal tissue changes indicative of cancer. Their agent is 16,000-times more efficient than some fluorine contrast-based alternatives, the authors wrote.

"The new contrast agent could be used for the safe and minimally invasive detection of early-stage cerebral metastases,” Schroeder and colleagues said in a statement. “This could have significant advantages, particularly in the diagnosis of breast cancer, because dangerous tumors can be detected much earlier, improving therapy outcomes.”

After working on the project for years, the German-led team finally landed on a structure that is temporarily filled with xenon. These molecules, shaped like a “hollow soccer ball,” allow the researchers to visualize the development of new small blood vessels in early tissue changes. This is important, they said, because as metastasis begins, certain brain regions produce new capillaries that are necessary to feed tumor tissue.

It’s a process that traditional imaging is not sensitive enough to observe.

"For this, we need a contrast agent that considerably increases the sensitivity of MRI by greatly improving the contrast structure, and that is only needed in tiny amounts,” Schroeder and colleagues noted.

Going forward, the group says it wants to use xenon-based contrast agents for additional medical functions.  

""

Matt joined Chicago’s TriMed team in 2018 covering all areas of health imaging after two years reporting on the hospital field. He holds a bachelor’s in English from UIC, and enjoys a good cup of coffee and an interesting documentary.

Around the web

GE HealthCare designed the new-look Revolution Vibe CT scanner to help hospitals and health systems embrace CCTA and improve overall efficiency.

Clinicians have been using HeartSee to diagnose and treat coronary artery disease since the technology first debuted back in 2018. These latest updates, set to roll out to existing users, are designed to improve diagnostic performance and user access.

The cardiac technologies clinicians use for CVD evaluations have changed significantly in recent years, according to a new analysis of CMS data. While some modalities are on the rise, others are being utilized much less than ever before.