New Fullerene Technique Promises sharper MRI Scans, Reduced Costs
TOKYO, JAPAN - Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a novel method using specially designed fullerenes – spherical carbon molecules – to substantially enhance the detail and clarity of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans, while simultaneously lowering equipment costs. The breakthrough, dubbed “triplet-DNP,” could pave the way for earlier and more accurate disease detection and perhaps expand the range of detectable compounds within the body.
Conventional MRI technology has limitations in detecting certain substances and often requires expensive, complex equipment cooled by liquid helium. This new technique bypasses both hurdles. The fullerenes, referred to as trans-3a isomers, are polarized with light, then used to transfer spin polarization to nearby nuclei within a sample, amplifying the signal received by MRI sensors. Crucially, the fullerenes are removed before any potential request in a patient, addressing safety concerns.
“the polarization of the targets is done outside the body. After polarization, the sample is dissolved, and the fullerene, which could be harmful, is removed before injection into a hypothetical patient,” explained Keita Sakamoto, a graduate student involved in the research. Triplet-DNP’s ability to function without liquid helium dramatically reduces operational costs, making advanced MRI technology more accessible.
Beyond cost reduction, the technique allows for the “bulk-polarization” of diagnostic chemical probes like pyruvate and anticancer drugs – substances currently undetectable by conventional MRI.Researchers are now focused on developing biocompatible matrices to “hyperpolarize” these medically important molecules,with initial animal trials planned.
If successful, and following clinical trials, the University of Tokyo team anticipates this technology could be implemented in medical settings within 10 to 20 years.
