Non-invasive assessment of tumor neovasculature: techniques and clinical applications
Rodolfo Perini1, Regine Choe, Arjun G Yodh
1Department of Radiology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. rodolfo.perini@uphs.upenn.edu
Abstract:
The ability to induce and sustain angiogenesis is regarded as one of the hallmarks of cancer growth and metastasis. Marked advances in understanding vascular physiology and mechanisms of angiogenesis have led to the development of vascularly-targeted anti-cancer therapies. Two broad subclasses of agents are in clinical use currently: those with anti-angiogenic activity (i.e. those that target angiogenic pathways) and those that have direct cytotoxic activity against proliferating endothelial cells (i.e. vascular disruptive agents (VDAs)). This article reviews the various imaging modalities, including magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, photon emission imaging (positron emission tomography and single photon emission computed tomography), ultrasound and optical (near-infrared absorption and scattering) techniques that have been used in an attempt to assess the status of tumor neovasculature in vivo. In each case, we describe the basic imaging methodology, methods for image quantification, technical standardization and reproducibility, and current and potential clinical applications for monitoring the status of tumor neovasculature before and during treatment with vascular targeted agents.
Insights
This review explores imaging techniques for assessing tumor neovasculature, crucial for cancer growth. It covers methods to monitor tumor blood vessels during anti-cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Vascular Biology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Angiogenesis is vital for cancer growth and metastasis.
- Vascularly-targeted therapies, including anti-angiogenic agents and vascular disruptive agents (VDAs), are key in cancer treatment.
- Monitoring tumor neovasculature is essential for evaluating treatment efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review various imaging modalities for assessing tumor neovasculature in vivo.
- To discuss the application of these techniques in monitoring patients undergoing vascular-targeted cancer therapies.
- To highlight methods for image quantification, standardization, and reproducibility.
Main Methods:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Photon Emission Imaging (PET, SPECT)
- Ultrasound
- Optical Imaging (NIR absorption and scattering)
Main Results:
- Each imaging modality offers unique insights into tumor neovasculature.
- Quantification, standardization, and reproducibility are critical for reliable assessment.
- These techniques show potential for monitoring treatment response in real-time.
Conclusions:
- Advanced imaging techniques are crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of vascular-targeted cancer therapies.
- Standardized imaging protocols are needed for reproducible assessment of tumor neovasculature.
- Future applications include personalized treatment monitoring and optimization.
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