IVIM perfusion parameters for non-invasive characterization and radionuclide response assessment in a neuroendocrine tumor model

Motivation: IVIM MRI potentially offers non-invasive, non-contrast-based quantification of tumor perfusion parameters, which would facilitate tumor tissue characterization and longitudinal assessment of radionuclide therapy. Goal(s): The goal was to study the feasibility of using IVIM metrics for spatiotemporal tissue characterization in the context of radionuclide therapy in a neuroendocrine tumor model. Approach: Mice with human neuroendocrine tumors were imaged before and repeatedly after radionuclide treatment and parametric maps of perfusion-related parameters from IVIM and DCE were compared and studied longitudinally. Results: Interesting spatiotemporal variations that revealed similarities between techniques show promise for further in-depth analysis using spatial image registration techniques and histopathological validation. Impact: Non-invasive, spatiotemporally resolved tumor perfusion characterization using intravoxel incoherent motion MRI would benefit preclinical optimization and understanding of radionuclide treatment with possible rapid translation into the clinics due to the widespread use of MRI in both research and clinical practice.