Analysis of in vivo redox status with magnetic resonance technique

In vivo redox reaction is involved in processes of oxidative diseases. The redox imaging technique is important to diagnose redox-induced diseases and to assess cure effects of pharmaceutical drugs. A group of nitroxyl radicals is sensitive to redox reactions and we have investigated mechanisms of oxidative diseases, including diabetes, ischemia reperfusion injuries and gastric ulcer. ESR technique has been utilized in analysis of free radicals, which is generated through imbalance of in vivo redox status. We have been developing magnetic resonance approaches for imaging free radicals/redox status in living animals. Overhauser enhanced MRI (OMRI) is a new technique for imaging in vivo redox status in animals via Overhauser effect. We have developed nanometer-scale imaging and simultaneous assessment of redox processes by using OMRI with ¹⁴N- and ¹⁵N- labeled nitroxyl probes with different distribution properties. We also developed a home-built OMRI imager based on an electromagnet for L-band ESRI. This OMRI technique with dual probes may become a powerful tool to clarify mechanisms of disease and to monitor pharmaceutical therapy.