Phosphorus metabolites in human skin and muscle obtained by phosphorus-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy

Background/aims: Characterization of skin phosphometabol-ism in vivo by non-invasive magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) might allow assessment of ischemic or irradiative damage. Methods: Based on a study of 17 healthy volunteers, we present statistical analyses for intra- and inter-tissue metabolite concentration ratios, as well as for pH and [Mg2+]. Results: Results contrasted steady-state energy metabolism in skin and muscle, showing lower phosphocreatine/ATP, higher percentage of inorganic phosphate, phosphodiesters and phos-phomonoesters, and higher pH and [Mg2+] in skin than in muscle. Conclusion: Results were consistent with known skin physiology and structure and suggested an inverse relationship between skin phosphodiester levels and melanin.