Metabolizable dopamine-coated gold nanoparticle aggregates: preparation, characteristics, computed tomography imaging, acute toxicity, and metabolism in vivo

values of MSA AuNPs@DPA and MSA AuNPs@DPA aggregates were 24.28 and 43.68 h, respectively, meaning that MSA AuNPs@DPA aggregates had a much longer circulation time. Similarly, the CT absorption value of MSA AuNPs@DPA aggregates was much higher than that of the commonly used nonionic iodinated CT contrast agent iohexol and CA AuNPs at the same concentration. Thus, MSA AuNPs@DPA aggregates possess characteristics such as ease of fabrication, long circulation time, hypotoxicity, and excellent CT absorption value, which suggest their great potential applications in vivo.