PHIP-X: efficient hyperpolarization of small molecules in solution using proton exchange

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Jan-Bernd Hövener
• Subject Area: Analytical Chemistry ; Medical Physics, Biomedical Technology
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 537840895

The hyperpolarization of nuclear spins is an extremely interesting field of research that has developed rapidly in recent years. So far, however, there is no method that allows molecules to be polarized easily, quickly, and generically in solution; all known hyperpolarization techniques are restricted to particular molecules or states of matter (e.g., gases, solids, unsaturated or Ir-exchanging compounds). A comparatively broadly applicable method for the liquid state would be extremely valuable, for example, for high-resolution magnetic resonance spectroscopy. An interesting approach to address this problem is the exchange of polarized protons. That this method works in principle has already been shown - but only with quite low polarizations, or after relatively slow polarizations (DNP). Recently, we have introduced a new method that allows exchanging protons to be highly polarized within a few seconds. Here, the spin order of parahydrogen is transferred from a transfer molecule to a third molecule via proton exchange. This method combines the simplicity and high polarization yields of hydrogenative parahydrogen induced polarization (PHIP) with the broad applicability of polarization transfer via proton exchange. The goal of this proposal is to explore and optimize this method with respect to chemical and biological applications. For this purpose, we first want to analyze the method in detail, and then apply the gained insights experimentally.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants