Discovery of magnetic resonance imaging: Paul Lauterbur and Peter Mansfield. The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2003

Abstract

The 2003 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to two researchers, Paul Lauterbur and Peter Mansfield, for their discovery of magnetic resonance imaging. This discovery enabled the creation of two-dimensional images of structures that could not be visualized by other methods. Paul Lauterbur found a way to generate two-dimensional images using magnetic field gradients. By analyzing­ the characteristics of the emitted radio waves, he could determine their origin. Peter Mansfield further developed the use of magnetic field gradients and demonstrated how the signals could be mathematically analyzed, which allowed the development of new effective imaging equipment. In modern medicine, magnetic resonance imaging is of great importance in diagnosing and finding the best treatment for many diseases. Keywords: MRI, Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, Paul Lauterbur, Peter Mansfield