Hyperpolarized xenon in NMR and MRI

Area of Science:

• Physics and Chemistry
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Hyperpolarized gases are increasingly used in Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and NMR Imaging (MRI).
• They serve as novel MR contrast agents, improving temporal resolution for diverse applications.
• This review focuses on hyperpolarized xenon (129Xe).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the physics of hyperpolarization production.
• To discuss the NMR-relevant properties of 129Xe.
• To explore applications of hyperpolarized xenon in biology, medicine, and materials science.

Main Methods:

• Discussion of hyperpolarization physics.
• Analysis of 129Xe NMR properties.
• Overview of specific MRI techniques for hyperpolarized gases.
• Exploration of polarization transfer mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Hyperpolarized gases significantly enhance NMR/MRI sensitivity and temporal resolution.
• 129Xe exhibits unique properties making it suitable for various imaging applications.
• Polarization transfer enables hyperpolarization of other nuclear species.

Conclusions:

• Hyperpolarized xenon is a versatile tool with expanding applications in biomedicine and materials science.
• Advanced MRI methods facilitate the use of hyperpolarized gases.
• Future directions include low-field imaging and broader applications of polarization transfer.