Project description
Unlocking the potential of hyperpolarisation to revolutionise magnetic resonance imaging
In the realms of analytical chemistry and medical diagnostics, nuclear magnetic resonance and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have become invaluable tools over the last five decades. However, despite significant advancements, the sensitivity of magnetic resonance has inherent limitations. While hyperpolarisation techniques offer a promising solution to enhance sensitivity, their widespread adoption is hindered by high costs and technical complexities. In this context, the ERC-funded TRYP project aims to revolutionise this field by overcoming the cost and technical barriers. TRYP extends hyperpolarisation lifetimes of certain targets, enabling their storage and transport at low temperatures. This breakthrough promises to democratise hyperpolarisation benefits, allowing easy introduction into MRI systems and facilitating long-distance transport to medical centres.
Objective
"Over the last five decades, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) have become indispensable in analytical chemistry and medical diagnostics. Progress in high magnetic fields has elevated resolution and sensitivity, enabling faster data collection at minimal concentrations. However, the sensitivity of magnetic resonance has bounds. Hyperpolarization techniques, particularly Dissolution Dynamic Nuclear Polarization, are gaining attention for enhancing sensitivity. The downside is that hyperpolarization equipment is costly, operationally expensive, and technically challenging, hindering its widespread adoption in MRI facilities. A promising solution involves using transient photoexcited agents like triplets or photogenerated radicals. Our recent innovation leverages phase separation to extend hyperpolarization lifetimes of certain 13C-labelled targets to several hours. This facilitates the storage and transport of hyperpolarized molecules at 4.2 K. The upcoming TRYP validation will adapt this phase-separation approach to various samples, such as molecules and biological fluids, without using contaminating solvents. This method could democratize hyperpolarization benefits for the broader NMR and MRI communities. Specialized centers could produce and distribute hyperpolarized ""consumables"" that can be easily introduced into NMR or MRI systems. These matrices can polarize almost any water-based molecular solution for extended periods, enabling their long-distance transport to MRI centers, and can be easily filtered using conventional technologies."
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2023-POC
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
69622 Villeurbanne Cedex
France
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