Preclinical magnetic resonance imaging in mouse cancer models

The use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in humans and animal models has been rapidly growing. MRI provides high spatial resolution, excellent tissue contrast, and outstanding definition of the anatomical structure of normal organs and tumors. Because MRI does not require genetically encoded reporters, it can be used for tumor surveillance and the assessment of treatment effects in a variety of mouse cancer models. MRI systems for preclinical imaging typically operate at higher magnetic field strength, ranging from 4.7 to 15 T, as opposed to clinical MRI scanners, which range from 1.5 to 3 T. The higher field strength of dedicated preclinical systems provides higher spatial resolution and higher signal-to-noise ratios. MRI of mouse cancer models requires optimization of numerous parameters, including pulse sequences and radio frequency coils. Here, we describe a protocol covering the general procedures for MRI.