Project Details
Projekt
ParaHydrOgEN-based hyperpolarization for molecular ultralow-field MRI eXploration (PHOENIX)
Subject Area
Medical Physics, Biomedical Technology
Radiology
Radiology
Term
since 2026
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 576441817
Hyperpolarization has the potential to revolutionize metabolic imaging by providing unparalleled insights into in vivo metabolic pathways, leading the way for numerous clinical trials. Among the existing techniques, Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP) has been the most successful in generating hyperpolarized metabolic imaging. However, its adoption is limited due to the high cost and low throughput of the technology, with only a few centers worldwide equipped to perform DNP-based imaging, making it less ideal for routine radiological practice. Recently, a new modality—ultralow-field (ULF) MRI—has emerged, offering the promise of democratizing MRI to many countries due to its low cost and compact nature. However, achieving sufficient contrast to rival conventional high-field MRI remains a significant challenge. In this proposal, we seek to overcome these limitations by combining ULF imaging with advanced hyperpolarization techniques, specifically focusing on Signal Amplification by Reversible Exchange (SABRE). The team selected in this proposal has demonstrated that higher levels of polarization can be achieved by leveraging rapid physicochemical methods in conjunction with parahydrogen-aided SABRE to increase polarization of key metabolites at ULF. Additionally, we have developed a unique ULF platform capable of accurately tracking hyperpolarized signals from various labeled metabolites (e.g., 13C, 15N), successfully applying these methods in vivo using this ULF MRI system. To date, there are no reports of parahydrogen-hyperpolarized metabolites with applications at ULF MRI, which makes this project particularly groundbreaking. Our work will focus initially on hyperpolarized [1-13C]pyruvate to demonstrate ULF metabolic imaging, with plans to expand this research into glioma models to explore altered cancer metabolism. Additionally, optimization of hyperpolarization for other substrates, such as singlet-state [1,2-13C2]pyruvate, will further broaden the potential for metabolic imaging in oncology by ULF MRI. The successful demonstration of these experiments will open up new possibilities for metabolic imaging in the ULF regime, leveraging unique features such as low cost, lightweight equipment, and open systems. This could significantly expand the accessibility and application of metabolic imaging technologies in both research and clinical settings.
DFG Programme
Research Grants
