Imaging method for model-based control of tumor diseases

Modern approaches of cancer therapies have specific effect on the typical mechanisms of uncontrollably growing and multiplying tumor cells. These targeted therapies can be more efficient than commonly applied methods in clinical practice. Antiangiogenic therapy prevents tumors from forming new blood vessels to ensure sufficient oxygen and nutrients. Without appropriate vascularization, the development of the tumor is inhibited, thus metastasis formation is blocked. In this paper we briefly review the importance of antiangiogenic therapy. To improve mathematical models of tumor growth under angiogenic inhibitors, the process of tumor development must be analyzed. We have chosen Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to follow up the dynamics of tumor growth and monitor the effect of angiogenic inhibitors. T1-weighted images have been acquired using gradient-echo, spin echo and fast spin echo sequences to examine subcutaneous mouse tumors. We have found that fast spin echo results the best solution: short data acquisition time and good contrast without contrast agent.