Kurzfassung

This project aims to enhance the NMR signal intensity for MRI applications by means of Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP) at a magnetic field strength of 1.5 T. In contrast to other approaches the hyperpolarization of the nuclear spins of metabolites will be achieved with a microwave resonator situated inside the bore of the MRI magnet. Therefore, we will develop a 42 GHz frequency resonance structure for aqueous samples, which can be operated under continuous flow conditions. The minimized...This project aims to enhance the NMR signal intensity for MRI applications by means of Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP) at a magnetic field strength of 1.5 T. In contrast to other approaches the hyperpolarization of the nuclear spins of metabolites will be achieved with a microwave resonator situated inside the bore of the MRI magnet. Therefore, we will develop a 42 GHz frequency resonance structure for aqueous samples, which can be operated under continuous flow conditions. The minimized distance to the point of injection will allow a faster transfer of the contrast agent bolus. Additionally, our approach of polarizing directly in the MRI magnet will avoid polarization losses, which usually occur during passage of the bolus through low magnetic fields, which arise if the sample is transferred from a separate polarizing magnet into the MRI magnet. Our approach differs from others, in which the target is polarized at very low temperatures and transferred to the MRI magnet after a fast dissolution process. Whereas much higher polarizations can be achieved by such an approach, the polarization buildup is very slow. In our approach, the polarization will be achieved on a second time scale allowing a continuous production of the hyperpolarized target, which is necessary for many MRI and MRS applications. In this project we will develop this new method and examine its potential advantages with respect to sensitivity and contrast for MRI and MRS applications. » weiterlesen» einklappen