Method of contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging and compounds useful therefor

A method of contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of a sample, said method comprising:

• a) administering a hyperpolarised MR contrast agent comprising non-zero nuclear spin nuclei into said sample for fluid dynamic investigations of the vasculature,
• b) exposing said sample or part of the sample to radiation of a frequency selected to excite nuclear spin transitions in said non-zero nuclear spin nuclei,
• c) detecting, MR signals from said sample using any suitable manipulation method including pulse sequences,
• d) optionally ensuring that the execution of the pulse sequence and/or the administration of the contrast agent are gated against heart rhythm and/or the respiration rhythm of the body,
• e) optionally, generating an image, spectroscopic data, dynamic flow data, perfusion data, blood volume data and/or any other suitable physiological data from said detected signals.