This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. The goal of this research is to gain a comprehensive understanding of tumor physiology as related to tumor growth, development and response to therapy (R01 CA79515-EB002762-05). In particular, we focus on oxygen tension and the dynamic response to interventions, perfusion and transmembrane pH. Oxygen dynamics are detected using FREDOM, a 19F MRI method using hexafluorobenzene as a reporter molecule, which we have developed over the past several years. This allows us to generate quantitative maps of tumor oxygen tension and to assess local response to interventions. Most significantly, we have now shown that measured changes in oxygen tension accompanying interventions correctly predict enhanced therapeutic outcome (radiation induced growth delay). Tumor perfusion is assessed by dynamic contrast enhancement and BOLD (Blood Oxygen Level Dependant contrast) 1H MRI. Correlative studies have shown a close association between these parameters, but as expected a lack of correlation with pO2. In addition, we are initiating electrode, fluorescent fiber optic and near infrared studies of tumor vasculature providing correlative data to aid in interpreting the MRI
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