Measurement of Radiation Effects in Tumor Tissues using MR-based Conductivity Imaging

Motivation: Ionizing radiation produces ions inside the human body that can kill cancerous tissues by damaging DNA directly or creating charged particles that damage DNA. Goal(s): Contrast mechanism of electrical conductivity is determined by the concentration and mobility of ions that make up tissues. Approach: We applied MR-based conductivity imaging to mouse brain tumors to evaluate the responses in irradiated and non-irradiated tissues during the peri-irradiation period. Results: MR-based conductivity images effectively showed acute response after irradiation in glial tumors. Impact: High-frequency conductivity images can differentiate each brain tissues including viable tumors, tumor necrosis, and normal brain. It shows potential as a tool to differentiate the therapeutic effect of radiation by measuring absolute values and calculating percentage changes.