Identifying renal intra-voxel compartment based on the diffusion-relaxation profiles and their correlation to pathology

Motivation: Renal pathology is essential in the diagnosis and treatment procedure of chronic kidney disease, including lupus nephritis (LN). However, it relies on percutaneous biopsy, which is invasive. Goal(s): To identify renal intra-voxel compartment fractions based on the diffusion-relaxation profiles and their correlation to LN activity and chronicity index. Approach: Diffusion-relaxation correlated 2D spectrum imaging (DR-CSI) & a novel compartment segmentation strategy based on correlation between spectral intensity and pathologic indices. Results: Four compartments were identified. Significant difference exists for the fractions between impaired and normal function groups. Impact: This explorative study raised a new spectral segmentation strategy of DR-CSI based on post-hoc correlation to pathology, suggesting four compartments with specific diffusion and relaxation properties. The findings provide insights for further research on renal DR-CSI.