Localization of metabolites in animals using 31P topical magnetic resonance

Abstract

High-resolution phosphorous (³¹P)-NMR spectra of biological molecules provide detailed information about the metabolism of living systems^1–4. Although the NMR method is non-destructive, all studies so far, with two exceptions^5,6, have been carried out on excised, perfused organs and tissues or have required some form of surgery² for in situ measurements. The use of ‘Surface’ radiofrequency coils⁵ does not require surgery but is best suited for tissues close to the surface of the animals. We describe here ‘topical magnetic resonance’—a new, non-surgical method for acquiring ³¹P-NMR spectra from a selected, localized place deep within an animal by modifying the main magnetic field, B₀, using only static-field gradients. The method is conceptually similar to one spin-imaging method⁷ but primarily provides biochemical rather than spatial information. This new technique can be used in fundamental investigations into living systems, clinical diagnosis and the estimation of the efficacy of drug therapy.