hyperpolarized xenon gas

Hyperpolarized xenon gas refers specifically to the isotope xenon-129 that has been magnetically aligned (hyperpolarized) using a laser-based process. This dramatically increases its magnetic resonance signal and enables its use as an inhaled contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), particularly of the lungs. After inhalation, the gas distributes throughout pulmonary airspaces and dissolves into lung tissue and blood, allowing detailed visualization of ventilation and regional lung function. Unlike conventional MRI agents or CT scans, it provides non-invasive functional imaging without ionizing radiation. The unique solubility of xenon in tissues also allows assessment of gas exchange at the alveolar-capillary interface and even imaging beyond the lungs (e.g., brain perfusion). Its mechanism is physical signal enhancement via nuclear spin alignment; it does not act on biological targets but serves as a tracer for MRI signal amplification[1][2][3][4][9]. Hyperpolarized xenon MRI is FDA-approved for clinical use in some regions as of late 2023/2024[8].

Brand names

Xenoview

Other names

hyperpolarized 129Xehyperpolarized129Xehyperpolarized-129Xehyperpolarised xenon-129HP Xe-129