Selective sensing of zinc ions with a PARACEST contrast agent

Abstract

A europium complex capable of selectively binding zinc (see picture) has been developed as a new paramagnetic chemical exchange saturation transfer (PARACEST) imaging agent for use in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A hydroxide group on the bound Zn ion increases the rate of water exchange on the Eu ion. (Chemical Equation Presented) © 2005 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.