Abstract
The role of Zn(2+) ions in proper storage of insulin in β-cell granules is well-established so when insulin is secreted from β-cells stimulated by an increase in plasma glucose, free Zn(2+) ions are also released. This local increase in Zn(2+) can be detected in the pancreas of rodents in real time by the use of a zinc-responsive MR contrast agent. This method offers the opportunity to monitor β-cell function longitudinally in live rodents. The methods used in our lab are fully described in this short report and some MR images of a rat pancreas showing clearly enhanced hot spots in the tail are presented.