Functional MRI can do more than you think

As an almost radiologist, it’s exciting to see how MRI technology is making these strides.

Another area that seems to be coming into its own is using hyperpolarized isotope Carbon 13 as a contrast agent. It can be incorporated into metabolites like pyruvate and show tissue with rapid uptake. This is used in the detection of cancer, where the cells are extremely hungry for glucose/pyruvate, a phenomenon known as the Warburg effect.

https://hyperpolarizedmri.ucsf.edu/

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warburg_effect_(oncology)