Detection of Transgene Expression Using Hyperpolarized C-13 Urea and Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

作者：Patrick P Stephen; Kettunen Mikko I; Tee Sui Seng; Rodrigues Tiago B; Serrao Eva; Timm Kerstin N; McGuire Sarah; Brindle Kevin M^*

来源：Magnetic Resonance in Medicine, 2015, 73(4): 1401-1406.

DOI：10.1002/mrm.25254

• gene reporter
• urea transporter
• hyperpolarization
• C-13 MRS

PurposeTo assess the potential of a gene reporter system, based on a urea transporter (UTB) and hyperpolarized [C-13]urea.
MethodsMice were implanted subcutaneously with either unmodified control cells or otherwise identical cells expressing UTB. After injection of hyperpolarized [C-13]urea, a spin echo sequence was used to measure urea concentration, T-1, and diffusion in control and UTB-expressing tissue.
ResultsThe apparent diffusion coefficient of hyperpolarized urea was 21% lower in tissue expressing UTB, in comparison with control tissue (P<0.05, 1-tailed t-test, n=6 in each group). No difference in water apparent diffusion coefficient or cellularity between these tissues was found, indicating that they were otherwise similar in composition.
ConclusionExpression of UTB, by mediating cell uptake of urea, lowers the apparent diffusion coefficient of hyperpolarized C-13 urea in tissue and thus the transporter has the potential to be used as a magnetic resonance-based gene reporter in vivo. Magn Reson Med 73:1401-1406, 2015.

• 出版日期2015-4