APT-CEST properties of a new biocompatible copolymer p(MPC-AE)5-5 hydrogel phantom: a preliminary study

Motivation: Biocompatible materials with detectable APT effects are lacking for biomedical applications. Goal(s): To validate the APT properties of a new synthesised biocompatible copolymer p(MPC-AE)55 hydrogel which has potential exchange between its MPC and AE cross-linkage. Approach: An experimental phantom with variable copolymer concentration and existing egg protein model was imaged with a research application APT-CEST sequence at 3T and analysed both inline and using CEST-EVAL software. Results: APT of the new hydrogel increased accordingly with its concentration and this was validated by results for egg protein which agreed with previous work. Both analysis methods were in agreement. Impact: Understanding the properties of newly synthesized copolymer hydrogel extends its value in biomedical applications including potential for phantoms that could support translation of APT-CEST.