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. Introduction: Gene expression profiles in tumors vary with temporal progression and spatial distribution. In this study, contrast-enhanced MRI was used to non-invasively characterize solid tumors, to delineate the spatial heterogeneity and temporal changes of tumor progression, and to guide tissue sampling for genomic analysis. Genes identified with expression level among different stages of tumor progression can be potential targets for diagnostics and therapeutics. Methods and Discussion: C3H/K mice bearing squamous cell carcinoma VII were imaged with GE clinical 1.5T MR using spin-echo (T1-weighted) and fast spin echo (T2-weighted) pulse sequence. Images were obtained pre- and post-contrast agent (Gd(DTPA)) injection starting 2 weeks after tumor implantation. Tumors show differential contrast uptake and distinct imaging patterns in T1 and T2-wt images spatially and temporally. Three different stages were defined based on changes in the T1- and T2-wt MRI features. Rim and center regions from Stage 1 tumors, and regions with contrast enhancing and non-enhancing from Stage 2 and 3 tumors were collected for H&E staining and genomic study. Two sets of comparison for (1) rim/CE and (2) center/NE regions across the 3 stages were conducted to obtain genes with statistically significant changes. Genes from comparisons for rim/CE and center/NE regions with differential expression level (fold change) among the three stages to be larger than approximately 2 fall into 6 different function categories. Total of 5 genes have significant changes on both comparisons.
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