Synthesis and evaluation of potential CT (computer tomography) contrast agents for bone structure and microdamage analysis.

The design and synthesis of several novel X-ray contrast agents 1-3, developed for targeting bone structures, and in particularly microcracks in bones, using CT (Computer Tomography) detection is described. These contrast agents are based on the use of the well known triiodobenzene platform, which was conjugated into one or more phenyliminodiacetate moieties, which can be used to 'lock' onto bone matrices. Compounds 1-3 were all tested for their ability to visualise cracks in bone structures (bovine bones) using micro-CT imaging.