5-Amino-2,4,6-triiodoisophthaloyl dichloride is a triiodinated compound that has been shown to bind to the receptor for asialoglycoprotein. It is used in the diagnosis of liver and kidney diseases. 5-Amino-2,4,6-triiodisophthaloyl acid dichloride is taken up by tissues and organs and causes damage to these tissues. The chloride ion binds to the molecule, making it more water soluble. The lactobionic acid residue is then cleaved off by an enzyme in the cell called beta-galactosidase. This leaves a molecule containing iodine which can be detected with a diagnostic technique such as X-ray crystallography or nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
