Ioversol is a nonionic iodinated contrast medium for animal imaging research

**Background**

Contrast media (CM) are essential tools in diagnostic radiology, used to enhance the visibility of internal structures during CT scans and X-ray imaging. In animal experiments, the selection of a contrast agent is critical, as the agent must provide high-quality imaging without compromising the physiological integrity of the subject. A primary concern in neurological and systemic research is the maintenance of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), as many contrast agents can inadvertently damage this barrier, leading to confounding results. Therefore, there is a need for nonionic agents that offer high safety profiles and minimal toxicity. In this context, we will introduce a nonionic iodinated contrast medium – Ioversol.

**Definition**

Ioversol is a nonionic iodinated contrast medium with the molecular formula C18H24I3N3O9 and a molecular weight of 807.11. According to the Ioversol description, it is primarily utilized during CT scans or X-ray procedures in animal models.

**In Vitro and In Vivo Studies**

The Ioversol biological activity has been extensively evaluated across various models. In vitro studies using NRK-52E cells demonstrated that exposure to Ioversol (100 mg iodine/ml) induces a significant increase in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release and a decrease in 3-(4,5-dimethyldiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) conversion. Furthermore, Ioversol treatment significantly increases apoptosis, caspase-3 protein expression, intracellular ROS, and [Ca2+]i in NRK-52E cells.

Regarding Ioversol in vivo applications, research indicates that Ioversol does not damage the blood-brain barrier in animal models. When compared with iothalamate, Ioversol exhibits a greatly reduced propensity to stimulate the release of endothelin in both cultured cells and anesthetized rats. Additionally, Ioversol produces less renal vasoconstriction than iothalamate in both control and USIC rats. This profile allows for the large-scale avoidance of radiocontrast nephropathy, as assessed by morphologic damage to the renal medulla and creatinine clearance. In conclusion, Ioversol is a nonionic iodinated contrast medium that provides effective imaging capabilities while minimizing renal vasoconstriction and preserving the blood-brain barrier.

Keywords

Ioversol, 87771-40-2, MP-328, MP328, MP 328, Biochemical Assay Reagents, contrast, medium, CT, scan, x-ray, Inhibitor, inhibitor, inhibit

References

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[2] Heyman SN, et al. Effects of ioversol versus iothalamate on endothelin release and radiocontrast nephropathy. Invest Radiol. 1993 Apr;28(4):313-8.
[3] J Ueda, et al. Elimination of ioversol by hemodialysis. Acta Radiol. 1996 Sep;37(5):826-9.
[4] N Motoji , et al. Comparison of the effects of ioversol and other contrast media on the blood-brain barrier. Biol Pharm Bull. 1994 Feb;17(2):257-61.