Gadolinium Effects on Liposome Fluidity and Size Depend on the Headgroup and Side Chain Structure of Key Mammalian Brain Lipids.

The lanthanide metal gadolinium has been used in the healthcare industry as a paramagnetic contrast agent for years. Gadolinium deposition in brain tissue and kidneys has been reported following gadolinium-based contrast agent administration to patients undergoing MRI. This study demonstrates the detrimental effects of gadolinium exposure at the level of the cell membrane.

Benefits and Detriments of Gadolinium from Medical Advances to Health and Ecological Risks.

Gadolinium (Gd)-containing chelates have been established as diagnostics tools. However, extensive use in magnetic resonance imaging has led to increased Gd levels in industrialized parts of the world, adding to natural occurrence and causing environmental and health concerns. A vast amount of data shows that metal may accumulate in the human body and its deposition has been detected in organs such as brain and liver.