Bridging the translational gap: Implementation of multimodal small animal imaging strategies for tumor burden assessment in a co-clinical trial

摘要: In designing co-clinical cancer studies, preclinical imaging brings unique challenges that emphasize the gap between man and mouse. Our group is developing quantitative methods for arm of a trial studying immunotherapy radiotherapy in soft tissue sarcoma model. line with treatment patients enrolled clinical SU2C-SARC032, primary mouse sarcomas are imaged multi-contrast micro-MRI (T1 weighted, T2 T1 contrast) before after immune checkpoint inhibition pre-operative radiation therapy. Similar to patients, surgery mice will be screened lung metastases micro-CT using respiratory gating. A systems evaluation was undertaken establish baseline both MR against which others might compared. We have constructed protocols provide clinically-relevant resolution contrast genetically engineered model sarcoma. employed tools 3D Slicer semi-automated segmentation images measure tumor volumes efficiently reliably large number animals. Assessment burden resulting precise, repeatable, reproducible. Furthermore, we implemented publicly accessible platform sharing data collected during study, as well protocols, supporting information, analyses. doing so, aim improve relevance small animal begin establishing standards tumors from perspective trial.