Predicting Pain caused by the Intervertebral Disc Degeneration in Large Animal Model Using CEST MRI Data

Motivation: Use MRI CEST data to predict lower back pain scores in porcine model. Goal(s): To use a porcine model to correlate MRI-based biomarkers with backpain associated with IVD degeneration. Approach: IVD injury was induced in the lower three lumbar discs while keeping the upper two intact. MRI scans were performed every 4 weeks upto 16 weeks post injury. Pearson Correlations were used for data analysis. Results: MTR and Exchange rate signal clearly separate the injured and the healthy disks. There is a positive correlation between higher exchange rate signal and higher back pain while a negative correlation between MTR and pain scores. Impact: The study bridges the gap between small animal models and human clinical studies by employing a clinically relevant large animal model. The development of MRI-based pain assessment biomarkers is a critical step toward advancing our understanding of lower back pain.