Facilitating Discovery with Multi-Parameter Physiologic Imaging of Brain Tumors

Facilitating the translation of advanced, multi-functional brain tumor magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tools into the clinic

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Full Project Name:Facilitating Discovery with Multi-Parameter Physiologic Imaging of Brain TumorsPrincipal Investigator:Kathleen M Schmainda, PhD, RadiologyCo-Investigator:John Ulmer, MD, Radiology; Edgar DeYoe, PhD, Radiology; Robert Prost, PhD, RadiologyAward Amount:$249,995

Award Date

July2004

Project Duration:24 months

Project Description Narrative:

Currently, the MRI techniques that are used to guide surgical resection and radiation therapy for patients with brain tumors are woefully inadequate. These MRI techniques, whose development dates back to the 1980s, provide information about brain anatomy, but little information about tumor physiology and function. Also lacking is a comprehensive understanding of the interrelationships between primary and secondary tumor pathology, brain function, treatment effects and outcomes.

The key to realizing the full clinical and research potential of powerful new MRI techniques is to be able to integrate multi-parameter physiologic information into one integrated display and analysis platform.

Researchers in this project aim to integrate existing MRS, fMRI, rCBV and DTI image analysis methods into one integrated image processing and display platform and to perform preliminary clinical studies to test and optimize the initial prototype in order to better meet the needs of end-users.