New metal-free molecules glow deep red in water and boost MRI contrast in test images

AI Summary

Researchers have developed metal-free molecules that emit deep-red fluorescence in water and may improve MRI contrast in test images. The approach could combine fluorescence imaging’s cellular detail with MRI’s ability to image deep within the body, while avoiding potential risks associated with metal-based contrast agents.

Bioimaging technologies, such as fluorescence imaging (FI) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are powerful tools in basic research and clinical medicine. But they have drawbacks. FI allows researchers to visualize cells and other biological processes at high resolution, but it lacks imaging depth. MRI can capture images deep within the body, but it lacks the single-cell resolution provided by FI. Furthermore, MRI contrast agents contain paramagnetic metals, such as gadolinium, that can potentially cause adverse side effects.