Multi‐modal magnetic resonance imaging and histology of vascular function in xenografts using macromolecular contrast agent hyperbranched polyglycerol (HPG‐GdF)

This study is the first to relate low and high molecular weight contrast agents with matched whole‐tumor histological sections. These detailed comparisons identified tumor regions that appear distinct from each other using the HPG‐GdF biomarkers related to perfusion and vessel leakiness, while Gadovist‐imaged parameter measures in the same regions were unable to detect variation in vascular function. We have established HPG‐GdF as a biocompatible multi‐modal high molecular weight contrast agent with application for examining vascular function in both MR and histological modalities. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. HPG‐GdF (583 kDa) is a largely intravascular macromolecular contrast agent that selectively extravasates from permeable vessels and is doubly labeled for MR (left) and histological (right) visibility. Comprehensive comparisons were performed for Gadovist and HPG‐GdF in the same tumors with matched histological sections. MR‐derived biomarkers for fractional plasma volume (fPV) and apparent permeability surface area product (aPS) (centre) were calculated in voxels with HPG‐GdF enhancement using a screen for bolus arrival time (BAT) that excludes necrotic tissues. HPG‐GdF (aPS) was the most sensitive MR measure for detecting histologically measured variability in vascular function between HCT116 and HT29 colorectal xenografts.
Source: Contrast Media and Molecular Imaging - Category: Radiology Authors: Tags: Full paper Source Type: research