Silvio Aime Professore al Molecular Biotechnology Center High sensitivity MR imaging reporters (paramagnetic complexes, CEST, hyperpolarized molecules) Via Nizza 52, Torino /(taly) Telephone: +39 011 6706451 Fax: +39 011 6706487 E-mail: silvio.aime@unito.it

The main lines of activities of the Molecular Imaging Center of the University of Torino are the following: 1) synthesis and MRI assessment of high-relaxivity Gd-based chelates (including multimeric derivatives and nano-sized assemblies); 2) synthesis and MRI assessment of novel agents based on chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST); 3) development of MRI 13C-hyperpolarised molecules via the formation of para-hydrogenated substrates; 4)Imaging reporters responsive to specific physicochemical and biological parameters of the cellular microenvironment (pH, temperature, metabolites' concentration, enzymatic activity) 5) Cellular labelling (stem cells, leukocytes, tumour cells, etc.) by the internalisation of paramagnetic metal chelates; 6) Tumor “targeting” (AA, LDL, Anionic and cationic transporters, Adhesion molecules, Hyperexpressed receptors, fibrin…) 7) Targeting thrombi and plaques with suitably functionalised nanocarriers bearing different types of imaging reporters; 8) Multiple Sclerosis; 9) Assessment of changes in Vascular Permeability in neo-formed vessels