Electron paramagnetic resonance-based pH mapping using spectral-spatial imaging of sequentially scanned spectra

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Accurate in vivo pH quantification is crucial for diagnosing diseases and monitoring treatment efficacy.
• Current diagnostic imaging methods have limitations in precisely mapping physiological pH.
• Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) shows promise for non-invasive pH assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate an improved EPR-based method for pH mapping.
• To enhance the precision and accuracy of EPR-based pH measurements.
• To enable spatial monitoring of pH changes relevant to pathological conditions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized spectral-spatial imaging with sequentially scanned spectra for EPR-based pH mapping.
• Optimized gradient rotation angles to improve data acquisition without expanding the field of view.
• Conducted in vitro experiments using pH phantom tubes for validation.

Main Results:

• Achieved higher precision in hyperfine coupling constant (HFC) measurements compared to prior EPR methods.
• Demonstrated mean pH values with accuracy better than 0.1 pH.
• Validated performance across a range of physiologically relevant pH values.

Conclusions:

• The developed EPR spectral-spatial imaging technique provides a precise method for pH mapping.
• This advancement holds potential for improved diagnostic imaging and therapeutic monitoring.
• The enhanced accuracy facilitates better assessment of various in vivo conditions.