Quantitative DCE MRI of vascular perfusion in preclinical breast cancer:Comparative analysis of LRRM and Tofts models

Motivation: The study is motivated by the need to evaluate the vascular perfusion of tumors and the effects of vascular disrupting agents (VDAs) using DCE MRI. Goal(s): This research aims to compare the sensitivity of the Tofts and Linear Reference Region Model (LRRM)in assessing vascular perfusion changes following CA4P administration in a 4T1 murine breast cancer model. Approach: DCE MRI scans were conducted at three time points to monitor changes in vascular permeability and perfusion, with analysis focusing on the volume transfer constant Ktrans and T1 relaxation times. Results: LRRM had greater sensitivity to early perfusion changes compared to the Tofts model. Impact: These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the LRRM for evaluating DCE MRI when monitoring vascular changes induced by VDAs in tumors. Future studies may explore the use of LRRM for DCE MRI to evaluate other anti-cancer treatments.