Magnetic resonance for in vitro medical diagnostics: superparamagnetic nanoparticle-based magnetic relaxation switches

Advances in magnetic resonance (MR) miniaturization, along with nanoparticles and biotechnology, are extending MR applications in diagnostics to beyond the medical imaging regime. The principles behind magnetic resonance switch (MRSw) biosensors, as well as a summary of rapidly developing fields including MR miniaturization and MRSw demonstrations, are presented here. Due to the range of applications of MRSw biosensor tests and the breakthroughs in downsized instruments, continued development will enable the deployment of MRSw biosensors in a wide variety of settings and with potentially unlimited targets.