Researchers at the University of Michigan are developing nanoprobes that can be used with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Nanoparticles with a magnetic core are attached to a cancer antibody that attracts cancer cells. The nanoparticles are also linked with a dye which is highly visible on an MRI. When these nanoprobes latch onto cancer cells they can be detected on the MRI. The cancer cells can then be destroyed by laser or low dosage killing agents that attack only the diseased cells.

In brain tumors, the presence of cancer can weaken the blood-brain barrier. Research is being conducted to have nanoprobes cross the weakened barrier to the tumor but not cross into healthy brain tissue.

Another group at Washington University is using nanoparticles to attract to proteins emitted from newly forming capillaries that deliver blood to solid tumors. The nanoparticles circulate through the bloodstream and attach to blood vessels containing their complementary protein. Once attached, chemotherapy is released into the capillary membrane. The nanoparticles traveling in the bloodstream would be able to locate additional cancer sites which may have spread to other parts of the body.

Nanotechnology can also be used to improve the contrast agents for MRI`s. Using fullerenes to encapsulate contrast agents such as gadolinium, Luna Innovations claims that traditional images can be enhanced by 50 times. If successful, this can result in the use of lower magnetic fields through smaller, cheaper and portable imaging equipment. Alternatively, smaller amounts of contrast agents could be used which would reduce the risk of allergic reaction in some patients.