Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans use a combination of radio waves and magnetic fields to create an image of tissues within the body. Using contrast agents in MRI, it is possible to gain enhanced detail in acquired images. Two issues with current contrast agents is their lack of specificity and toxicity at relatively low doses. Recently, a new a gadolinium-based nanoparticle (GdNP) has been developed. GdNP is approximately ten times stronger than typical contrast agents allowing it to provide the same contrast enhancement with ten percent of the typically required concentration. Targeting agents further decrease the molecules needed for desired image enhancement by binding to specific areas. This research is based around developing and evaluating nanoparticle-targeting agents as contrast enhancing probes with tissue specificity.