Hyperpolarized Carbon-13 Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Technical Considerations and Clinical Applications

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Biochemistry
• Metabolic Imaging

Background:

• Hyperpolarized (HP) carbon-13 (¹³C) MRI is a novel technique for noninvasive metabolic flux assessment.
• The [1-¹³C]pyruvate to [1-¹³C]lactate conversion is a key metabolic pathway studied using this method.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of HP ¹³C-MRI establishment and clinical applications.
• To bridge technical aspects with clinical utility and highlight ongoing advancements.

Main Methods:

• Review of multidisciplinary team collaboration, hardware, probe preparation, and hyperpolarization techniques.
• Discussion of imaging acquisition and data analysis protocols for HP ¹³C-MRI.
• Exploration of clinical applications across diverse anatomical regions.

Main Results:

• HP ¹³C-MRI establishment involves coordinated efforts in technical setup and data handling.
• Successful application of HP ¹³C-MRI demonstrated across brain, heart, skeletal muscle, breast, liver, kidney, pancreas, and prostate.
• Specific findings and applications are detailed for each anatomical region.

Conclusions:

• HP ¹³C-MRI is a versatile tool with significant potential for routine clinical integration.
• The review consolidates technical knowledge and clinical findings, paving the way for future advancements.
• Ongoing developments promise to further enhance the capabilities and clinical impact of HP ¹³C-MRI.