Size-controlled synthesis of dextran sulfate coated iron oxide nanoparticles for magnetic resonance imaging

In the generation of nanoparticles for biological applications, the control over synthetic parameters influencing the particles' physicochemical properties are of great interest due to the strong influence of particle size and surface properties on cellular uptake and biodistribution. We have synthesized dextran sulfate coated particles and systematically evaluated synthetic parameters that may influence the properties of these nanoparticles as potential magnetic resonance (MR) contrast agents. The amount of base, polysaccharide content, ratio of iron salts, and reaction time were optimized to yield approximately 30 nm particles as determined by dynamic light scattering with good MR properties (r₁ = 14.46 mM⁻¹ s⁻¹ and r₂ = 72.55 mM⁻¹ s⁻¹) and in good yield (50%). Particle sizes and relaxivities are compared with clinically available dextran coated particles and the resulting physical properties of the dextran sulfate coated particles show these particles could be used as potential MR contrast agents for cardiovascular imaging.