Entropy of MRI T1 mapping as a novel biomarker to evaluate heart diastolic function and stiffness

Motivation: Cardiac T1 maps are a promising choice for texture analysis due to their pixel values originating from fitting, making them less prone to variations. Entropy of T1 map as a measure of myocardial tissue heterogeneity may reflect the disruption of myocardial fiber structure and/or the infiltration of extracellular matrix. Goal(s): We aim to investigate the relationship between myocardial tissue properties and diastolic function, as well as myocardium stiffness. Approach: We applied TA on native T1 maps of a pressure-overload rat model 12 weeks after the operation. Results: Entropy exhibited a strong correlation with both chamber stiffness and diastolic function biomarkers. Impact: Our data indicates that impaired diastolic function may be due to disorganized/disrupted myocardium, rather than increased fibrosis solely. Our research sheds new light on understanding the relationship between extracellular matrix and cardiac function.