Spin hyperpolarization in NMR to address enzymatic processes in vivo

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy are powerful techniques but have a relatively low sensitivity. Signal enhancement in NMR and MRI by several orders of magnitude can be provided by the so-called hyperpolarization methods. Recent achievements in the development of the dissolution dynamic nuclear polarization technique and its use in the studies of enzymatic processes in vivo and in vitro and other applications are presented. Parahydrogen-induced polarization is also briefly discussed. Finally, recent progress in extending the lifetime of nuclear spin hyperpolarization beyond the relaxation limit is mentioned.