Compressible multi-scale magnetic constructs: decorating the outer surface of self-assembled microbubbles with iron oxide nanoparticles

This paper reports the elaboration of size-controlled resilient echogenic micron-size bubbles that have a soft shell made from self-assembled perfluoroalkylated phosphates and iron oxide nanoparticles grafted on their external surface. The high echogenicity, characteristic of compressible gas bubbles, is retained. These hybrid constructs have potential as bimodal contrast agents for ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging.