DF/HCC Program Affiliation

Neuro-Oncology

Research Abstract

Angiogenesis is a critical process for solid tumors to grow leading to the formation of a high density hyperpermeable network of microvessels with abnormal geometry. The chaotic proliferation of tumor vessels causes regional changes in blood volume and tissue perfusion that can be mapped with magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Currently, we are using ultrafast MR imaging techniques, such as echo-planar imaging (EPI), to investigate the dynamics of the MR signal associated with the first pass of an exogenous contrast agent (i.e., gadolinium diethylenetriaminepentaacetate, Gd-DTPA) and obtain information about relevant tissue physiologic parameters, including blood volume and blood flow, as well as microvessel morphology. Using physiologic models of tissue perfusion, we have shown that: 1) magnetic susceptibility-based MRI techniques are sensitive to the geometry of tissue microvasculature, i.e., size of capillaries; and 2) the rate of signal enhancement in tissue associated with the first pass of a contrast agent correlates with an increase in vascular permeability. We have demonstrated the application of MR-EPI techniques for the study of tumors in animal models and the detection and characterization of malignant tissues in humans, in particular brain and breast cancer. Also, we are applying these MR-EPI techniques to assess the tumor response to treatment (i.e., radiation and chemotherapy).

Publications

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