Research & Innovation

A central focus of our platform is the development of next-generation hyperpolarizable ¹³C probes to expand the metabolic scope of MRI. While [1-¹³C]pyruvate remains the flagship probe, its coverage is largely limited to glycolysis and pyruvate dehydrogenase pathways. Broadening the probe repertoire is essential to interrogate additional metabolic nodes relevant to cancer, neurobiology, and systemic disease.

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We design and optimize probes with high polarization efficiency, prolonged T₁ relaxation times, biochemical specificity, and translational feasibility. Our work includes amino acid–based substrates, keto-acid derivatives, and pathway-specific intermediates, alongside optimization of polarization conditions and dissolution strategies to maximize signal while maintaining biological compatibility.

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Expanding probe chemistry enables direct, in vivo assessment of metabolic pathways previously accessible only through invasive or ex vivo methods. Translationally, it enhances biomarker discovery in tumor anabolism, amino acid metabolism, mitochondrial function, and therapy-induced metabolic rewiring.

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By advancing probe development in parallel with imaging methodology, we aim to move hyperpolarized ¹³C MRI from proof-of-concept toward a robust, pathway-resolved modality with meaningful clinical impact.