The feasibility of imaging human brain tissue-perfusion using inhaled hyperpolarized 129Xe magnetic resonance imaging is demonstrated. Enhancement of 129Xe gas polarization and a custom brain RF coil array have together enabled imaging of hyperpolarized 129Xe dissolved in the human brain at 1.5 T with a quality and signal-to-noise hitherto unseen. The images clearly demonstrate the uptake and washout of 129Xe in the brain with time and could provide novel insights into cerebral perfusion and blood brain barrier permeability without the use of intravenous contrast.
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