Overview
Investigators propose to develop hyperpolarized \[13C\]-labeled pyruvate as potential imaging probes to assess two essential in vivo processes in cerebral metabolism: oxidative metabolism and synthesis of a neurotransmitter in this observational study.
Description
Investigators will perform a pilot study to test the translational feasibility by evaluating sensitivity and repeatability of hyperpolarized \[1-13C\]pyruvate and \[2-13C\]pyruvate in healthy human subjects (n =10 each). Each subject will be imaged twice using the same hyperpolarized substrate with an interval (\<45min) between the injections to evaluate repeatability. Finally, eight subjects will be imaged with both hyperpolarized \[1-13C\]pyruvate and \[2-13C\]pyruvate for comparison.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- 18 through 60 years of age.
- Healthy, with no neurological abnormalities.
- Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent.
- All races and ethnicities will be included; subjects must be able to read and speak the English language.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Metallic foreign bodies on the scalp or cranium which may interfere with MRI acquisitions
- Major debilitating neurological disease including, but not limited to, stroke, CVA, dementia and tumor that would limit compliance with study requirements
- Under influence of illicit drugs which are known to alter brain physiology/metabolism including, but not limited to cocaine, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and marijuana at the time of MRI/MRSI scanning.
- Under influence of antiepileptic drugs at the time of MRI/MRSI scanning.
- Any contraindication per MRI Screening Form including
- Implants contraindicated at 3T, pacemakers
- Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)
- Claustrophobia
- Medically unstable including
- Heart failure
- Severe left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction
- Unstable angina
- Pregnancy
- Lactating
