Contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) is a widely used medical imaging technique that relies on the use of a contrast agent to provide enhanced visualization of tissues. We are evaluating a new positively charged tantalum-oxide nanoparticle (NP) based contrast agent for CECT assessment of cartilage health and integrity. Articular cartilage is a biphasic material comprised of a poroelastic collagen network coupled with a hydrated matrix of negatively charged sulfated and carboxylated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). A decline in GAG content is an early sign of osteoarthritis (OA). To date, early diagnosis of OA remains nearly impossible. Tantalum oxide was incorporated into the core-shell of nanoparticles, with positively charged tetra-ammonium ligands to bind the anionic GAGs and a short polyethylene glycol shell layer to concur biocompatibility. The tantalum oxide (Ta2O5) core was formed by hydrolysis of tantalum (V) ethoxide, Ta(OEt)5 and the size of the NPs was controlled by the amount of deuterated water and isobutyric acid added to n-propanol (Figure 1). We have successfully imaged naturally occurring osteoarthritic defects in ex vivo human metacarpal phalangeal joints using CECT and our nanoparticles. We will be presenting the use of these NPs to predict the biochemical and biomechanical state of cartilage, as GAG content correlates with mechanical performance of the tissue.

Tantalum oxide nanoparticles for use in contrast enhanced computed tomography

256th National Meeting (2018)

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