In vivo MEMRI characterization of brain metastases using a 3D Look-Locker T1-mapping sequence

Sci Rep. 2016 Dec 20:6:39449. doi: 10.1038/srep39449.

Abstract

Although MEMRI (Manganese Enhanced MRI) informations were obtained on primary tumors in small animals, MEMRI data on metastases are lacking. Thus, our goal was to determine if 3D Look-Locker T1 mapping was an efficient method to evaluate Mn ions transport in brain metastases in vivo. The high spatial resolution in 3D (156 × 156 × 218 μm) of the sequence enabled to detect metastases of 0.3 mm3. In parallel, the T1 quantitation enabled to distinguish three populations of MDA-MB-231 derived brain metastases after MnCl2 intravenous injection: one with a healthy blood-tumor barrier that did not internalize Mn2+ ions, and two others, which T1 shortened drastically by 54.2% or 24%. Subsequent scans of the mice, enabled by the fast acquisition (23 min), demonstrated that these T1 reached back their pre-injection values in 24 h. Contrarily to metastases, the T1 of U87-MG glioma remained 26.2% shorter for one week. In vitro results supported the involvement of the Transient Receptor Potential channels and the Calcium-Sensing Receptor in the uptake and efflux of Mn2+ ions, respectively. This study highlights the ability of the 3D Look-Locker T1 mapping sequence to study heterogeneities (i) amongst brain metastases and (ii) between metastases and glioma regarding Mn transport.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Brain Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Chlorides / metabolism
  • Contrast Media / metabolism
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / methods
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Manganese / metabolism
  • Manganese Compounds / metabolism
  • Mice
  • Mice, Nude
  • Reproducibility of Results

Substances

  • Chlorides
  • Contrast Media
  • Manganese Compounds
  • Manganese
  • manganese chloride