Molecular fMRI probes that have been applied in vivo
| MRI probe | Architecture | Demonstrated result | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neurotransmitter sensors | |||
| Engineered BM3h dopamine sensor | Metalloprotein-based T1 agent | Stimulus-responsive fMRI in injected animals | Lee et al., 2014 |
| Mn-(DPA-C2)2-TPPS3 Zn2+ sensor | Small-molecule T1 agent | Static contrast after injection in animals | Lee et al., 2010b |
| GluCEST glutamate contrast | Endogenous CEST signals | Static whole-brain contrast in humans | Cai et al., 2012 |
| Calcium probes | |||
| Mn2+ neural activity label | Ionic T1 agent | Whole-brain noninvasive mapping in animals | Lin and Koretsky, 1997 |
| SCA-USRP extracellular Ca2+ probe | T1 agent-nanoparticle hybrid | Proof of principle study in kidney | Moussaron et al., 2015 |
| Genetic reporters | |||
| LRP lysine-rich protein | Intracellular CEST agent | Detection in brain-implanted cells | Gilad et al., 2007 |
| DMT1 metal transporter | Plasma membrane Mn2+ pump | Detection of ectopic expression in brain | Bartelle et al., 2013 |
| Ferritin protein nanoparticle | Intracellular T2 agent | Contrast in genetically modified cells and animals | Genove et al., 2005; Cohen et al., 2007 |