METHODS FOR IN VIVO EVALUATION OF PHYSIOLOGICAL CONDITIONS AND/OR ORGAN OR SYSTEM FUNCTION INCLUDING METHODS TO EVALUATE CARDIOPULMONARY DISORDERS SUCH AS CHRONIC HEART FAILURE USING POLARIZED 129XE

摘要

NMR spectroscopy concerning the behavior of parlarized 129Xe at a selected site(s) in selected environments in vivo. The gas exchange signal data can be used to evaluate: (a) the thickness of a barrier, such as a membrane, lining, wall or width of a lumen; (b) the operational condition or function of a membrane, body system or portion thereof; (c) cerebral perfusion; and/or (d) the efficacy of a therapeutic treatment used to treat a diagnosed disorder, disease, or condition. Thus, methods are provided for screening and/or diagnosing a disorder or disease, and/or for monitoring the efficacy of therapeutics administered to a subject to treat a disorder or disease.