Spin polarization-induced nuclear Overhauser effect: An application of spin-polarized xenon and helium

Abstract

Spin polarization-induced nuclear Overhauser effect (SPINOE) is a recent experimental finding that accomplishes the transfer of spin polarization of laser-polarized xenon and helium to other nuclei. With this method, cross-relaxation rates between xenon and molecules can be measured to investigate molecular interactions and to probe the chemical and structural environment of the binding sites selectively. In this article, we review the theory of spin relaxation in coupled spin systems in liquids, the basis for understanding the nuclear Overhauser effect (NOE) and SPINOE. We establish the framework for describing inter-and intramolecular NOE in solution including the effects of molecular binding. Experimental methods and results of SPINOE are reviewed. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.