Advances in nano-scale metal-based contrast agents for computed tomography: A systematic review

In the realm of nanoscale contrast agents (CAs) for computed tomography (CT), this systematic review aims to shed light on the current state of research. Through the comprehensive evaluation of relevant studies, we have summarized the key findings and elucidated the advantages, challenges, and future prospects of nanoscale contrast materials in the domain of X-ray CT. Our investigation entailed a meticulous literature search utilizing electronic databases such as PubMed/Medline, Embase, ProQuest, Scopus and Cochrane to identify pertinent studies, which were subsequently subjected to critical analysis in terms of methodology, risk of bias, results, and implications. Furthermore, within this systematic review, we have delved into the impact of various factors such as size, concentration, surface modification, and cytotoxicity in relation to nanoparticles (NPs) composed of gold, bismuth, titanium, lanthanum, tungsten oxide, cerium oxide, gadolinium, and yttrium as CT contrast materials. Additionally, we have explored the progress made in the development of non-targeted, targeted, and cell-tracking CT nano-CAs. The demand for novel CT CAs has arisen due to the rising population of patients with renal impairment and those who exhibit sensitivity to iodinated CAs. NPs offer distinct advantages over small molecule CT CAs, including prolonged retention time in the blood reservoir, as well as potential applications in cell tracking and targeted imaging. However, it is imperative to conduct thorough investigations into the long-term effects of nanoscale CAs on the human body to ensure their safety and efficacy in clinical settings. Nanoscale contrast materials hold great promise for advancing CT imaging, but further research, standardization, and safety assessments are necessary for their successful translation into clinical practice. •Recent advances in nano-scale metal-based contrast agents in the computed tomography method have been reviewed.•This systematic review explores the current research on nanoscale contrast agents for CT, highlighting their advantages, challenges, and future prospects.•The main factors affectingNPs as CT contrast materials, including size, concentration, surface modification, cytotoxicity, and advances in non-targeted, targeted, and cell-tracking CT nano-CAs have been reviewed.•Size, concentration, surface modification, and antigen coating of the NPs would create ideal contrast media for cancer, opening new diagnostic trends in CT scanni