Collective Activation of MRI Agents via Encapsulation
and Disease-Triggered Release
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Abstract
An activation mechanism based on
encapsulated ultrasmall gadolinium
oxide nanoparticles (Gd oxide NPs) in bioresponsive polymer capsules
capable of triggered release in response to chemical markers of disease
(i.e., acidic pH, H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub>) is presented. Inside
the hydrophobic polymeric matrices, the Gd oxide NPs are shielded
from the aqueous environment, silencing their ability to enhance water
proton relaxation. Upon disassembly of the polymeric particles, activation
of multiple contrast agents generates a strong positive contrast enhancement
of >1 order of magnitude