Learning outcomes

After studying this course, you should be able to:

• state the different types of imaging used in medicine, and describe how X-rays are exploited in anatomical imaging

• explain how signals from living tissue can be converted into images useful for diagnostic medicine

• explain what a MRI contrast agent is and describe how the properties of metal complexes be applied to this role

• describe the role of metals in pharmaceutical science

• explain how aspects of the coordination chemistry of cisplatin underpin its effectiveness as an anticancer treatment, and describe the shortcomings of this drug which have necessitated the search for alternatives.