Synthesis and characterization of multifunctional hyperbranched polyesters as prospective contrast agents for targeted MRI

Based on a commercially available hyperbranched aliphatic polyester, novel multifunctional gadolinium complexes were prepared bearing protective PEG chains, a folate targeting ligand and EDTA or DTPA chelate moieties. Their relatively high water relaxivity values coupled with biodegradability of the hyperbranched scaffold, folate receptor specificity render these non-toxic dendritic polymers promising candidates for MRI applications. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.