Advancing the Application of Magnetic Resonance in Cancer: Structural, Functional and Molecular Studies of Tumours and
Lead Research Organisation:
Institute of Cancer Research
Department Name: Division of Radiotherapy and Imaging
Abstract
This proposal aims to establish a leading edge 3T magnetic resonance facility to support major
programmes of research in cancer imaging that focus on tumour detection, assessment of
disease extent and aggressiveness, and evaluation of new cancer therapies. The proposal will
build on 20 years of experience in applying magnetic resonance to cancer at The Institute of
Cancer Research and the Royal Marsden Hospital enhancing major research programmes
funded through Cancer Research UK and through NHS research and development activities.
The increased signal available at 3T allows high-resolution images for improved tumour
detection, but also enables functional information to be acquired, which may not be possible at
conventional field strengths. Much of the planned research uses functional images, where the
behaviour and characteristics of tumour are measured, in addition to their extent. The higher
field strength provides increased sensitivity to signals from MR contrast agents, allowing more
accurate assessment of tumour blood supply. The water composition and viability of cells within
a tumour will also be assessed more easily and the detailed interrogation of biochemical
pathways will be made possible using multi-nuclear MR spectroscopy. This will enable
assessment of the action of new anti-cancer drugs on specific processes in cells.
programmes of research in cancer imaging that focus on tumour detection, assessment of
disease extent and aggressiveness, and evaluation of new cancer therapies. The proposal will
build on 20 years of experience in applying magnetic resonance to cancer at The Institute of
Cancer Research and the Royal Marsden Hospital enhancing major research programmes
funded through Cancer Research UK and through NHS research and development activities.
The increased signal available at 3T allows high-resolution images for improved tumour
detection, but also enables functional information to be acquired, which may not be possible at
conventional field strengths. Much of the planned research uses functional images, where the
behaviour and characteristics of tumour are measured, in addition to their extent. The higher
field strength provides increased sensitivity to signals from MR contrast agents, allowing more
accurate assessment of tumour blood supply. The water composition and viability of cells within
a tumour will also be assessed more easily and the detailed interrogation of biochemical
pathways will be made possible using multi-nuclear MR spectroscopy. This will enable
assessment of the action of new anti-cancer drugs on specific processes in cells.
Technical Summary
Support for 3T clinical MRI scanner to add to existing state of art CT, PET-CT and SPECT facilities. System to be integrated within current MR unit within Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust at Sutton which is jointly operated with ICR.
Provide a multi-modality molecular imaging resource to probe tumor biology: identify metabolic signatures of tumors; develop functional imaging (tumour vascularity, perfusion, oxygenation and cellularity) to monitor treatment response & guide treatment strategies in adult & paediatric patients;characterize tumour heterogeneity and link to prognosis; improve tumour staging; develop biomarkers of drug action.
Provide a multi-modality molecular imaging resource to probe tumor biology: identify metabolic signatures of tumors; develop functional imaging (tumour vascularity, perfusion, oxygenation and cellularity) to monitor treatment response & guide treatment strategies in adult & paediatric patients;characterize tumour heterogeneity and link to prognosis; improve tumour staging; develop biomarkers of drug action.
People |
ORCID iD |
| Martin Leach (Principal Investigator) |