NMR relaxometry for biomedicine and advanced materials: FC-RELAX
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Aberdeen
Department Name: Sch of Medicine, Medical Sci & Nutrition
Abstract
This project aims to better exploit the role of Field-cycling (FC) relaxometry in biology, medicine and innovative materials by extending the breadth of molecular dynamics models that are available as a tool for the users. The modelling themes included here focus on specific challenges to which Fast FC relaxometry can provide major contributions, namely MRI contrast agents, medical diagnosis and batteries/supercapacitors. This cross-disciplinary approach stimulates strong interconnections between the theme leaders to explore domains ranging from nanosystems for medical applications to the imaging of cancer, and from the development of spin relaxation theories to the description of dynamics of biomolecules. For instance, the investigation of the relaxometry profiles of complex systems, as for instance nanogels, nanoparticles and nanomaterials with multiple water pools, will allow for the characterization of their mobility and for the evaluation of the exchange rate of water molecules from one pool to another, thus paving the way for improving their efficiency as diagnostic, pharmaceutical and medical devices.
Organisations
People |
ORCID iD |
Lionel Broche (Principal Investigator) |
Description | This project has determined the origin of the signals observed by field-cycling NMR in a in-vitro biological sample of fibrin. This sample is a simplified model of a biological tissue, and it is the first time that such a complex system is completely understood with this technology. This is relevant for our research since it paves the way to better models of more complex biological systems, with the aim to understand field-cycling signals obtained in-vivo in human patients with our new whole-body system. |
Exploitation Route | This outcome will be further explored during the last year of this project, and will be extended into a more advanced project that will aim to complexify the model in an effort to bring it closer to biological tissues. |
Sectors | Healthcare |