MRI T2 relaxation time reflects the inflammatory changes in a arthritis rat model at multiple time points

The results of T1, T2 and proton density (PD) calculation using the measured intensity of MR (magnetic resonance) images of soft tissue in rat ankle joints at nine time points are reported. All three parameters reflected the changes in soft tissue due to an inflammatory process. T2 relaxation time did not show much variation, but T1 and proton density showed great variability. The results for every parameter were consistent in all rats. The T2 relaxation time was compared with joint score, a physical measurement criterion for joint swelling, and showed great similarity in pattern during the progress of the disease. This indicates that the T2 relaxation time obtained from MRI can be used to assess the progression of inflammatory disease and its regression due to drug therapy