T2* Mapping to Characterize the Hypoxia - Microenvironment of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma

Motivation: The study explores the correlation between T2* mapping values and pathological features in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), specifically examining the relationship with Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) expression. Goal(s): To assess the validity of T2* values as a quantitative metric for evaluating hypoxia severity in PDAC. Approach: T2* mapping was used to quantify the hypoxic microenvironment in PDAC, correlating T2* values with HIF-1α expression and pathological characteristics. Results: Significant differences in HIF-1α expression were observed across PDAC differentiation grades, with a negative correlation between T2* values and HIF-1α expression. Impact: T2* mapping provides a non-invasive method for assessing hypoxia in PDAC, potentially aiding in the early identification of aggressive tumors and enabling more personalized treatment approaches.