Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Alginate Beads Containing Pancreatic Beta Cells and Paramagnetic Nanoparticles.

Microencapsulation is being investigated as a means to avoid rejection of transplanted pancreatic islets. Monitoring bead distribution and stability in vivo is an important step toward improving microencapsulated islet transplantation strategies. Islet co-encapsulation with gadolinium-labeled mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Gd-MSNs) could allow bead visualization while immobilizing and limiting the potential internalization of the contrast agent.