X-ray contrast properties of bismuth-based nanoformulations

The possibility of using elemental bismuth nanoparticles as sensitizers for radiation therapy and computed tomography contrast agents is investigated. A comparative analysis of the X-ray contrast properties of bismuth nanoparticles with classical gold nanoparticles and bismuth oxychloride nanosheets is carried out. It is shown that laser-synthesized bismuth nanoparticles demonstrate higher X-ray contrast efficiency compared to traditional gold nanoparticles; they also have X-ray contrast properties similar to those of chemically synthesized analogues based on bismuth oxychloride nanosheets. Unique physicochemical characteristics in combination with high radiopaque properties of laser-synthesized bismuth nanoparticles form a new promising alternative to traditional sensitizers for radiation theranostics of oncological diseases.