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Updated: Mar 26, 2026

Dynamic Contrast Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging of an Orthotopic Pancreatic Cancer Mouse Model
Published on: April 18, 2015
Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI for oncology drug development
Yu Sub Sung1,2, Bumwoo Park1,2, Yoonseok Choi2
1Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) shows promise for assessing tumor vascularity. However, standardizing DCE-MRI methods and understanding parameter meanings are crucial for its reliable use in drug development and clinical trials.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Imaging
- Radiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) offers functional and quantitative insights into tumor vascularity.
- DCE-MRI parameters are being explored as potential biomarkers for anti-cancer therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the validation and qualification of DCE-MRI parameters as surrogate endpoints in drug development.
- To address limitations and propose strategies for optimizing DCE-MRI implementation.
Main Methods:
- Review of biophysical principles, data acquisition, and analysis techniques for DCE-MRI.
- Detailed examination of discrepancies and challenges in preclinical and clinical DCE-MRI trials.
Main Results:
- While DCE-MRI shows accuracy in detecting treatment-induced vascular changes, its limitations as a surrogate endpoint are increasingly recognized.
- Disagreements and confusion exist regarding the interpretation and application of DCE-MRI parameters.
Conclusions:
- Standardized evaluation methods and clear therapeutic interpretations for DCE-MRI parameters are necessary.
- Optimizing DCE-MRI implementation requires addressing current limitations to enhance its role in drug development.
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