Biological performance of a size-fractionated core-shell tantalum oxide nanoparticle x-ray contrast agent.

Objectives: Metal-containing nanoparticles show great promise as x-ray contrast media and could enable reduced radiation dose, increased contrast, and the visualization of smaller anatomic features. In this study, we report progress toward these goals using a size-fractionated core-shell tantalum oxide nanoparticle contrast agent.

Materials And Methods: A core-shell tantalum oxide nanoparticle contrast agent was synthesized and size fractionated for preclinical investigation of biodistribution, blood half-life, organ retention, and histopathology.

Synthesis, characterization, and computed tomography imaging of a tantalum oxide nanoparticle imaging agent.

Water-soluble ≤6 nm tantalum oxide nanoparticles have been synthesized and characterized in solution using HPLC-ICP, DLS, and multinuclear NMR. Nanoparticle formulation permitted intravenous injection, in vivo imaging, and subsequent renal clearance. A clinical CT scanner provided excellent resolution following agent injection, and distribution to the arterial system was visualized.