Nanoparticles improve imaging techniques by increasing the contrast and resolution of imaging modalities. For example, gold nanoparticles are used in CT scans to enhance the visibility of tumors. Similarly, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are used in MRI to provide clearer images of cancerous tissues. These nanoparticles can be functionalized with targeting ligands that bind to specific cancer cells, ensuring that the imaging agents accumulate in the tumor site and provide detailed images.