Synthesis of Gd-DTPA-cholesterol: a new lipophilic gadolinium complex as a potential MRI contrast agent

A straightforward and efficient synthesis of Gd-DTPA-cholesterol is reported. This new lipophilic gadolinium complex can be easily incorporated into mixed micelles in order to achieve MRI contrast agents with increased relaxivity. These supramolecular systems can find potential application in magnetic resonance angiography (MRA).