Hyperpolarized MRI for studying tumor metabolism

Abstract

Hyperpolarized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to detect real-time in vivo tumor metabolism. Dissolution dynamic nuclear polarization method increases polarization of 13C-labeled molecules, typically [1-13C]pyruvate, which can be injected into an animal during MRI scanning. Increased polarization leads to a higher observed signal, which allows for the detection and imaging of the transfer of 13C-label between the injected marker molecule, pyruvate, and its metabolic products, most importantly lactate. This information can be used to assess the metabolic status of the tumor, for example, during therapy. Here, the basic methodology and data analysis for a preclinical hyperpolarized pyruvate experiment are described.