A Liposomal Nanoscale Contrast Agent for Preclinical CT in Mice

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Abstract
OBJECTIVE. The goal of this study was to determine if an iodinated, liposomal contrast agent could be used for high-resolution, micro-CT of low-contrast, small-size vessels in a murine model.MATERIALS AND METHODS. A second-generation, liposomal blood pool contrast agent encapsulating a high concentration of iodine (83–105 mg I/mL) was evaluated. A total of five mice weighing between 20 and 28 g were infused with equivalent volume doses (500 μL of contrast agent/25 g of mouse weight) and imaged with our micro-CT system for intervals of up to 240 min postinfusion. The animals were anesthetized, mechanically ventilated, and vital signs monitored allowing for simultaneous cardiac and respiratory gating of image acquisition.RESULTS. Initial enhancement of about 900 H in the aorta was obtained, which decreased to a plateau level of approximately 800 H after 2 hr. Excellent contrast discrimination was shown between the myocardium and cardiac blood pool (650–700 H). No significant nephrogram was identified, indic...