Improved Methods of Assessing Metabolic Function

摘要

The present invention relates to improved methods for determining metabolic function in tissues of an animal. In particular, the invention relates to methods for determining the penumbra in ischaemic tissues using MRI techniques in association with hyperoxic conditions and an oxygen carrier. The invention also relates to systems adapted to perform the methods.

主权项

1. A method of imaging metabolic function in a target region of an animal using magnetic resonance imaging, the method comprising the steps of:
i) administering oxygen to said animal such that the animal is hyperoxic; ii) obtaining a baseline measurement of a signal indicative of deoxyhaemoglobin level in a target region of the animal; iii) administering an oxygen carrier to the subject such that it will enter the blood supply of the animal; iv) obtaining at least a second measurement of a signal indicative of deoxyhaemoglobin level in the target region of the animal following administration of the oxygen carrier; and, v) comparing said baseline and second measurements to obtain data relating to the relative amounts of deoxyhaemoglobin present in said target region in the baseline measurement and following administration of the oxygen carrier, and correlating said data to the metabolic function of the target region.