Multi-modal MRI for tumor diagnosis enabled by unfunctionalized 3 nm ultra-small manganese ferrite nanoparticles (UMFNPs)

Motivation: Ultra-small manganese ferrite nanoparticles (UMFNPs) have achieved promising outcomes in tumor detection and diagnosis as T1 contrast agents. Given the unique molecular composition, we posit that UMFNPs also hold considerable promise for T2WI and SWI. Goal(s): This study aims to systematically investigate the application potential of unfunctionalized 3 nm UMFNPs in tumor multi-modal MR imaging. Approach: Using a breast cancer subcutaneous tumor model, we employed T1WI, T2WI and SWI to evaluate the effectiveness of 3 nm UMFNPs in tumor imaging. Results: We successfully detected signal alterations across all three imaging modalities in tumor regions following intratumoral or intravenous injection of 3 nm UMFNPs. Impact: Multi-modal tumor imaging with a single administration provides more comprehensive information and will enhance the accuracy and reliability of tumor diagnosis. This research highlights the potential of 3 nm UMFNPs as a versatile and powerful tool for MRI-based cancer diagnostics.