NYU Abu Dhabi Develops MRI Molecules That May Detect & Treat Cancer

Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have developed a new class of molecules capable of both detecting and treating cancer within a single MRI-based system.
The study, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, explores how magnetic resonance imaging can be extended beyond diagnosis into therapeutic use. Conventional MRI contrast agents are typically used to identify tumours, but do not play a role in treatment.
The newly developed molecules combine manganese with organic components and remain inactive in healthy tissue. They activate in the slightly acidic environment of tumours, releasing manganese ions that enhance MRI contrast while also triggering a therapeutic effect that damages cancer cells.
The compounds were synthesised by Thirumurugan Prakasam, a research scientist working within the Trabolsi research group. According to the research team, the molecules are capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier and accumulating in glioblastoma tumours, allowing for clearer imaging compared to existing contrast agents.
The system was tested in models of aggressive brain cancer, where it demonstrated both improved imaging and a therapeutic effect.