Preclinical MRI experience in imaging angiogenesis

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides a range of non-invasive measures for visualization of tumor angiogenesis in the clinic as well as in experimental tumor models. MRI methods were developed for assessment of spatial and temporal changes in perfusion, blood volume fraction, vascular permeability, vascular function, vascular maturation, vessel diameter and tortuosity. Molecular targeted contrast agents were used for mapping specific markers of neovasculature. These approaches were applied for analysis of a number of regulatory mechanisms controlling tumor angiogenesis and for preclinical evaluation of tumor response to antiangiogenic agents.