Tracing the metabolism of tumor cells using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has not been feasible in routine clinical settings hitherto. Now, an interdisciplinary research team including our lab and others from the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is working to advance the development of a quantum-based hyperpolarizer so that it can be deployed in clinical applications. The goal is to significantly improve MRI imaging of metabolic processes – for example, to allow earlier and more accurate assessment of tumors, as well as to improve the selection and monitoring of tumor therapies.

Quantum mechanics describes physical phenomena at the smallest of scales – in the domain of molecules, atoms, atomic nuclei, and even smaller units. The drive to revolutionize diverse domains of our daily lives using quantum technology like quantum computing or quantum sensors surfaced well before this year’s Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to three scientists for their work in this field. How can these new technologies be deployed in the field of medicine?

More information can be found in our press release.