Metal-free molecules glow deep red in water and boost MRI contrast

Researchers developed metal-free molecules that glow deep red in water and enhance MRI contrast in test images. The approach could combine high-resolution fluorescence imaging with deep-tissue MRI while avoiding side effects of gadolinium-based contrast agents.

• Molecules contain no paramagnetic metals such as gadolinium
• They emit deep red fluorescence in water
• They improved contrast in test MRI images
• Could merge benefits of fluorescence imaging and MRI