Biomedical applications of macrocyclic ligand complexes

Macrocyclic chelators can form highly stable complexes with transition metals and lanthanides. In this review, the recent advances towards biomedical applications of macrocyclic complexes are outlined. The use of such complexes in imaging as MRI contrast agents, radiopharmaceuticals and luminescent probes is discussed. The considerable scope for future development of novel metal based therapeutics based on protein binding, targeting of radioisotopes or dual function agents is also highlighted. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.