By combining the properties of inorganic and organic molecules in one material, researchers at the Carolina Center of Cancer Nanotechnology Excellence have developed a new class of nanomaterials that can be used to create multifunctional nanoparticles, says a report at nanotechwire.

In a first demonstration of the versatility of these new materials, the investigators created nanoparticles by attaching metal atoms to a framework of organic molecules. The resulting nanoparticles enhance image quality in both fluorescence microscopy and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.

The degree of MR signal enhancement was at least 10-fold greater than that produced by imaging agents now used in human clinical imaging applications.

The investigators also note that the organic framework of these new nanomaterials provides a ready attachment point for tumor targeting agents and anticancer drugs.