Current concepts on hyperpolarized molecules in MRI

Hyperpolarization provides a strong enhancement of the MR signal and allows the acquisition of images from nuclei other than protons. Besides vascular imaging and perfusion studies the use of hyperpolarized molecules has allowed the visualization of real-time substrate uptake and metabolism in vivo. Metabolic imaging is an outstanding field of research that aims at providing the clinicians with the possibility of interrogating real-time complex metabolic pathways that give a direct insight into the cellular state and activity.