The use of hyperpolarized agents for perfusion imaging or tissue-retention imaging for diagnostic MRI is a new technology that does not exist today. We have laid the foundation for such a technology by providing the contrast agents, the means to increase their MR signal (hyperpolarisation technologies), and the routes for MR imaging of these signals on clinical MRI scanners.
Society will gain by having access to medical imaging that does not leave potentially toxic deposits in the bodies of children and adults undergoing MRI examinations and does not contaminate the environment.
Our results have the potential to access new markets for medical imaging and contrast media companies, whether established or young start-ups. There is clearly a market for new contrast agents that are free of the undesirable properties of GBCAs.
European scientists in academia and industry have been at the forefront of the fields of molecular imaging and contrast media for many years. AlternativesToGd has established new contrast mechanisms for contrast enhanced MRI. The outcomes of AlternativesToGd have the potential to build a new medical application, thereby building new leadership capacity in the field of novel non Gd-based contrast agents through collaboration of the key actors in related fields, ambitious biotech industries, as well as through contributions from excellent young researchers.
Other substantial impacts include:
• Build nascent European industry focused on betterment of MRI diagnostics and efficient hyperpolarisation.
• Provide tailored diagnostic tools for coronary heart disease, ischemic stroke, and cancer.
• Introduce long lived hyperpolarized nitrogen-15 compounds for clinical use.
• Introduce hyperpolarized water to clinical use in MRI diagnostics.
• Revolutionise PHIP technologies for generating contrast agents on the spot, for clinical use.
• New encapsulation technologies for use in hyperpolarized MRI for enhanced performance of medical imaging.
