Review demonstrates distance-dependent magnetic resonance tuning mechanisms in molecular diagnostics, highlighting their ability to turn dynamic cellular events into detectable MRI signals.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) represents a cornerstone of non‐invasive diagnostics, yet conventional contrast agents often lack the molecular specificity required to resolve dynamic biochemical processes. Distance‐dependent magnetic resonance tuning (MRET) addresses this limitation by exploiting controllable dipolar coupling between paramagnetic enhancers and superparamagnetic quenchers. This mechanism underpins the development of activatable, adaptive, and quantitatively tunable MRI sensors that decode molecular interactions into measurable magnetic responses. In this Review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the physical principles, design strategies, and classification of MRET sensors, highlighting key strategies for tuning intercomponent interactions and modulating MRI signals. We further discuss representative biomedical applications of MRET sensors in biomarker‐driven diagnostics, early lesion detection, longitudinal therapy monitoring, imaging‐guided interventions, and in situ drug screening, enabling the direct visualization of dynamic biological events rather than merely anatomical changes. This Review aims to highlight the transformative potential of MRET sensors for advancing precision theranostics, inspiring further innovation in intelligent contrast agents and solidifying MRET as a cornerstone for next‐generation functional and precision MRI.
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Wu et al. (2026) studied this question.
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