Daijiworld Media Network - Albuquerque
Albuquerque (US), Apr 6: Scientists at the University of New Mexico have uncovered a troubling link between a toxic rare earth metal used in MRI scans and the formation of nanoparticles in human tissues a discovery that could have serious health implications.
The study, recently published in the journal Magnetic Resonance Imaging, highlights how gadolinium, a toxic rare earth metal commonly used in MRI contrast agents, can be transformed into harmful nanoparticles in the body due to interaction with oxalic acid – a compound found in many everyday foods.
Led by Dr. Brent Wagner, professor in the department of Internal Medicine, the research focuses on the mystery of how gadolinium particles, which are usually bound to stabilising agents and excreted safely, become unbound and infiltrate organs such as the kidneys, heart, lungs, and even the brain.
“The worst disease caused by MRI contrast agents is nephrogenic systemic fibrosis,” Dr. Wagner explained. “People have succumbed after just a single dose.” The condition causes severe thickening of skin, joint contractures, and damage to internal organs.
While most patients experience no side effects, the persistence of gadolinium in the body has puzzled scientists for years. Wagner’s team sought to understand why some patients develop severe complications even after a single exposure.
Their research turned to oxalic acid, a compound abundant in spinach, rhubarb, berries, nuts, and even chocolate – and also formed during the digestion of Vitamin C. In test-tube studies, they found that oxalic acid can cause gadolinium to separate from its contrast agent and form toxic nanoparticles that infiltrate tissue cells.
“Almost half the patients had been exposed only once, which means something is amplifying the disease signal,” Wagner said. “I wouldn't take vitamin C if I needed to have an MRI with contrast, because of the reactivity of the metal.”
The findings could pave the way for new safety recommendations and better protection for patients undergoing MRI scans.