Hyperpolarized Long-\emph T$\bf_1$ Silicon Nanoparticles for Magnetic Resonance Imaging

ORAL

Abstract

Nanoparticles are currently being widely investigated as targetable contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Silicon is a promising material system for use as a magnetic resonance imaging agent due to its long bulk (T$\bf_1$) times and receptivity to hyperpolarization. We present studies of the nuclear relaxation (T$\bf_1$) times of silicon nanoparticles as a function of particle size, dopant concentration and fabrication method. The T$\bf_1$ times of these particles are found to be remarkably long (depending on size and dopant concentration), allowing for them to be transported and administered on practical time scales. In addition, we discuss the particles' receptivity to hyperpolarization, via low temperature microwave induced dynamic nuclear polarization.

*This work is supported by the NIH under grant no. 1 R21 EB007486-01A1 and the Harvard NSEC.

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Authors

  • Maja Cassidy

    • SEAS, Harvard University, MA

  • Jacob Aptekar

    • Department of Physics, Harvard University, MA

  • Alexander Johnson

    • Department of Physics, Harvard University, MA

  • Robert Barton

    • Department of Physics, Harvard University, MA

  • Menyoung Lee

    • Department of Physics, Harvard University, MA

  • Alexander Ogier

    • Department of Physics, Harvard University, MA

  • Chinh Vo

    • Department of Physics, Harvard University, MA

  • Chandrasekhar Ramanathan

    • Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    • Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering, MIT, MA

  • David Cory

    • Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering, MIT, MA

  • Alison Hill

    • Harvard-Smithsonian CfA, MA

  • Ross Mair

    • Harvard-Smithsonian CfA, MA

  • Matthew Rosen

    • Harvard-Smithsonian CfA, MA

  • Ronald Walsworth

    • Harvard-Smithsonian CfA, MA

  • Charles Marcus

    • Harvard University
    • Department of Physics, Harvard University, MA