Synthesis of Multimeric MR Contrast Agents for Cellular Imaging

Abstract
We have prepared a series of molecular multimeric MR contrast agents for cell labeling that are easy to synthesize, relatively low molecular weight, and biocompatible. The relaxivities of the agents range from 17 to 85 mM–1 s–1. Cellular uptake is concentration dependent and viability is excellent. MR images of cell pellets reveal a marked increase in observed signal intensity.