Abstract: Paramagnetic sodium NMR biosensors and associated methods are described herein. In one embodiment, a method for detecting sodium ion irregularities in a patient can include administering a volume of metallic biosensors to a region of the patient; and detecting a volume of compartmentalized sodium ions within the region based on the administered volume of metallic biosensors, which comprises a paramagnetic cation (such as, but not limited to, a lanthanide (III) metal ion and/or a transition (II) metal ion) as the core bound to an anionic macrocyclic chelate. In some cases, the volume of compartmentalized sodium ions can further include a volume of intracellular sodium ions, a volume of interstitial sodium ions, a volume of blood sodium ions, or a combination thereof.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Spectroscopic Imaging (MRSI) agent wherein the agent comprises a polyazamacrocyclic ligand coordinated to a first row transition metal ion. In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a method of using the MRI/MRSI agents of the present disclosure to monitor tissue temperature and/or pH in a patient in need thereof. In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a method of using the MRI/MRSI agents of the present disclosure to monitor the efficacy of a cancer treatment in a patient in need thereof.