T1ρ as a biomarker for IDH1 mutation status in a glioma mouse model

Motivation: The aggressiveness of glioma depends on IDH mutation type, classification of which requires genetic analysis following a biopsy. This is an invasive procedure which can have lengthy wait times to receive results. Goal(s): Explore quantitative T1ρ imaging as a noninvasive biomarker for IDH1 mutation typing in a glioma mouse model. Approach: Mice with were implanted with IDH1-wildtype and IDH1-mutant glioma tumours and imaged weekly for five weeks with T1ρ and CEST as tumours developed. Results: T1ρ can distinguish IDH1-mutant glioma from healthy brain tissue, whereas T1ρ values of IDH1-wildtype tumors are not significantly different from healthy brain. Impact: T1ρ quantitative imaging shows promise as a noninvasive biomarker to determine IDH1 mutation status in glioma. Such a biomarker would allow faster classification, eliminating the wait time for biopsy results and potentially improving patient outcome through more personalized treatment.