Hyperpolarization methods, systems and compositions

Abstract

The invention provides various methods and systems for providing hyperpolarized materials as well as the hyperpolarized materials so provided. In addition, a method of providing hyperpolarized materials, such as agents, to end users from a remote location is also provided.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 775,196 filed Feb. 21, 2006 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 802,699 filed May 23, 2006. This application is also a continuation of International Application No. PCT / US2007 / 004654, filed Feb. 21, 2007. The disclosure of each of the aforementioned patent applications is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates to hyperpolarization methods, systems and compositions of hyperpolarizable materials suitable for various applications. Particularly, the present invention is directed to hyperpolarization methods, systems and compositions that facilitate magnetic resonance imaging (“MRI”) and nuclear magnetic resonance (“NMR”) analysis.[0004]2. Description of Related Art[0005]A variety of techniques are known in the art for providi...

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Benefits of technology

[0058]In accordance with a further aspect, the porosity of the encapsulating medium may substantially permit passage of gas through the encapsulating medium to the core material. For example, the porosity of the encapsulating medium may substantially permit passage of helium through the encapsulating medium, but may also substantially prohibit passage of gas molecules through the encapsulating medium larger than helium.

[0066]In accordance with a further aspect, the encapsulating medium may be porous. The porosity of the encapsulating medium may substantially permit passage of gas through the encapsulating medium to the core material. For example, the porosity of the encapsulating medium may substantially permits passage of helium through the encapsulating medium, and if desired, may substantially prohibit passage of gas molecules through the encapsulating medium larger than helium.

[0081]In accordance with a further aspect, the core material may be exposed to 4He to displace the 3He from the core material, thus preserving the hyperpolarization of the core material, but removing the 3He. In accordance with one embodiment, the hyperpolarized encapsulated material may be maintained at a low temperature and / or in a magnetic field for an extended period of time. Maintaining the hyperpolarized material in such a manner facilitates storage and / or transport of the material, and minimizes loss of hyperpolarization from the material. The extended period of time can be any suitable time period, between about one tenth of a second and about one week, for example, and in any suitable time increment. If transporting the material for an end use at another location, the hyperpolarized encapsulated material may be transported in a suitable container from a first location to a second location, preferably at a low temperature and in the presence of a magnetic field.

[0082]If desired, the encapsulated material may be maintained at a low temperature and in a magnetic field for an extended period of time, such as between about one tenth of a second and about one week. The encapsulated hyperpolarized material may be transported in a container from a first location to a second location. Prior to using the encapsulated hyperpolarized material, the temperature of the encapsulated material may first be increased in a manner such that substantial loss of hyperpolarization is avoided. The encapsulated hyperpolarized material may then be introduced into a region of interest to be analyzed. For example, magnetic resonance images of the region of interest may be generated. By way of further example, NMR spectra of an in vitro or in vivo target or sample may be analyzed.

[0083]In accordance with still another aspect, the hyperpolarized encapsulated material may be increased in temperature for use. Preferably, the temperature of the encapsulated material is increased in a manner that minimizes a substantial loss of the material's hyperpolarization. The encapsulated hyperpolarized material may then be introduced into a region of interest to be analyzed. If desired, magnetic resonance images may then be generated of the region of interest. By way of further example, NMR spectra of an in vitro or in vivo sample or target may be analyzed using the hyperpolarized material.

Problems solved by technology

Moreover, if desired, materials as described herein may be hyperpolarized while they are being mixed.

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