In vivo detection of cucurbit[6]uril, a hyperpolarized xenon contrast agent for a xenon magnetic resonance imaging biosensor

Francis T. Hane, Lakehead University
Tao Li, Lakehead University
Peter Smylie, Lakehead University
Raiili M. Pellizzari, Lakehead University
Jennifer A. Plata, Lakehead University
Brenton Deboef, University of Rhode Island
Mitchell S. Albert, Lakehead University

Abstract

The Hyperpolarized gas Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (HyperCEST) Magnetic Resonance (MR) technique has the potential to increase the sensitivity of a hyperpolarized xenon-129 MRI contrast agent. Signal enhancement is accomplished by selectively depolarizing the xenon within a cage molecule which, upon exchange, reduces the signal in the dissolved phase pool. Herein we demonstrate the in vivo detection of the cucurbit[6]uril (CB6) contrast agent within the vasculature of a living rat. Our work may be used as a stepping stone towards using the HyperCEST technique as a molecular imaging modality.