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MR imaging of microvasculature
1Department of Radiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
|August 5, 2000
Summary
This study introduces a novel imaging method correlating contrast to small blood vessel morphology. The technique accurately reflects histologic vessel density, aiding in tumor angiogenesis characterization.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Imaging
- Medical Physics
- Radiology
Background:
- Assessing microvasculature is crucial for understanding tissue physiology and pathology.
- Existing imaging techniques may have limitations in resolving fine vascular structures and their functional properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a new imaging technique that quantifies microvascular morphology.
- To correlate imaging contrast with capillary and small blood vessel characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Proposed an imaging technique based on measuring relaxation rates (1/T(2) and 1/T*(2)) before and after contrast agent injection.
- Developed a quantitative mapping of the parameter Q = delta R(2)/(delta R*(2))(2/3) to represent changes in relaxation rates.
- Utilized a rat glioma model and normal cerebral cortex for experimental validation.
Main Results:
- The quantity Q is sensitive to histologic vessel density, reflecting intrinsic properties of the vascular network.
- Theoretical predictions for Q showed consistency with experimental data.
- The imaging technique demonstrated potential in characterizing tumor angiogenesis.
Conclusions:
- The developed imaging technique provides a sensitive measure of microvascular morphology.
- This method shows promise for non-invasive characterization of tumor angiogenesis and other vascular pathologies.