Rapid Relaxation Analyzer for Measuring the Relaxation Rate of Magnetic Nanoparticles

MRI Contrast Agents:

Depending on whether the primary magnetic effect influences T1- or T2-weighted imaging, contrast agents are generally classified as T1 or T2 agents. Research in this field has been highly active abroad, with multiple agents already in production and clinical use. At present, seven gadolinium-based contrast agents have been approved by the FDA. Meanwhile, demand for nanoparticle-based contrast agents continues to rise rapidly. As such, the design and development of new-generation agents is of great importance and long-term significance.

Measuring the Relaxivity of Magnetic Nanoparticles with a Rapid Relaxometry System

Relaxivity is one of the key performance indicators for superparamagnetic iron oxide contrast agents. A high-relaxivity agent achieves optimal effect with minimal dosage. In contrast agent R&D, Niumag’s rapid relaxometry analyser allows convenient measurement of T1 and T2 relaxation times, as well as imaging of test-tube samples. It provides both quantitative and qualitative data—offering researchers a fast and reliable solution for the evaluation and optimisation of new contrast agents.

Contrast agent r1 testing:

Longitudinal relaxation times are measured using the inversion recovery (IR) sequence. Recovery times (t) and their corresponding amplitude values M(t) are obtained. By fitting the curve of t—M(t) with the mono-exponential model M(t) = M(0)(1 − 2e^−t/T1), the longitudinal relaxation time T1 can be derived.