Detecting tumor response to treatment using hyperpolarized 13C magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy

Sam E Day ¹, Mikko I Kettunen , Ferdia A Gallagher

⁰Cancer Research UK, Cambridge Research Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK.

Nature Medicine +

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October 30, 2007

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This study shows that measuring the (13)C-pyruvate to (13)C-lactate flux in tumors using magnetic resonance can detect early chemotherapy responses in mice. This flux inhibition predicts treatment outcome and tumor cell death.

Area Of Science

Biophysics
Oncology
Medical Imaging

Background

Early assessment of tumor response to therapy is crucial for predicting treatment outcomes.
Current methods for monitoring treatment efficacy can be limited in their ability to provide rapid, mechanistic insights.

Purpose Of The Study

To develop and validate a novel method for measuring early tumor response to chemotherapy.
To investigate the metabolic changes occurring in tumors following treatment using hyperpolarized (13)C-pyruvate.

Main Methods

Utilized hyperpolarized [1-(13)C]pyruvate in lymphoma-bearing mice.
Employed (13)C magnetic resonance spectroscopy and spectroscopic imaging to measure metabolic flux.
Quantified the lactate dehydrogenase-catalyzed flux of (13)C label between pyruvate and lactate.

Main Results

Demonstrated the ability to measure the pyruvate-to-lactate metabolic flux in vivo.
Observed significant inhibition of this flux within 24 hours of chemotherapy administration.
Correlated flux reduction with decreased lactate and enzyme concentrations and increased tumor cell death.

Conclusions

The measured metabolic flux serves as an early indicator of tumor response to chemotherapy.
This technique offers a potential non-invasive method for assessing treatment effectiveness in clinical settings.
Understanding metabolic shifts provides insights into treatment resistance and therapeutic strategies.

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