“Hearing the shape of a drum: quantitative characterization of biological tissue microstructure using diffusion-weighted MRI”

Background:  Biological tissue microstructural information (e.g. cell density, cell size, etc.) plays an important role in diagnosis of various diseases and guiding therapeutic decisions. Currently, such information can only be obtained via destructive biopsy, which is well-known to suffer major clinical complications. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) provides a unique means to probe tissue microstructure by detecting the degree of restriction and/or hindrance of water molecules in tissues. Advanced DWI methods have been developed to provide more accurate and specific information capable of quantitatively characterizing microstructure such as measuring cell size and density in tumors non-invasively. In his talk, Dr. Xu will provide an overview of the development of DWI methods, and then focus on several applications of advanced DWI methods, such as enhancing tumor conspicuity and delineation and monitoring tumor therapeutic response.

Neuroimaging and Informatics Analysis Center (NIAC) seminars 

For inquiries contact Cathy Gezella.