Figure 1. Imaging oxidative stress in vivo using HP [1-¹³C] DHA.

The probe is polarized using the dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) technique, in a concentrated solution containing an unpaired electron source. Following dissolution and intravenous injection, HP [1-¹³C] DHA is transported rapidly into cells via glucose (GLUT) transporters. Enzyme mediated two-electron reduction of [1-¹³C] DHA to [1-¹³C] VitC is detected spectroscopically. This conversion depends on cellular reducing capacity, which is diminished in the setting of oxidative stress.