VISE Spring Seminar – Junzhong Xu, PhD
VISE Spring Seminar
to be led by
Junzhong Xu, PhD,
Assistant Professor of Radiology and Radiological Sciences,
VUIIS, VUMC
Date: February 13, 2020
Location: Stevenson Center 5326,
Time: 12:15 p.m. lunch, with a 12:25 p.m. start
Title: Where physics meets medicine: non-invasive assessment of tumor therapeutic response using cell size MR imaging
Abstract: Biological tissue microstructural information (e.g. cell density, cell size, etc.) plays an important role in the 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. Based on the diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) that provides a unique means to probe tissue microstructure by detecting the degree of restriction and/or hindrance of water molecules in tissues, we have developed advanced DWI methods to provide quantitative information on tumor microstructure such as cell size and density non-invasively. This cell size MRI technique enables an earlier and more specific assessment of tumor therapeutic response.
Short Bio: Junzhong Xu, PhD., obtained his PhD in MRI Physics from Vanderbilt University and joined the faculty as a research instructor, research assistant professor and assistant professor of Radiology and Radiological Sciences of Vanderbilt University Medical Center and is currently a member of Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. His primary research interests focus on the development, implementation, and evaluation of advanced magnetic resonance imaging methods in various diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. His specific research projects include mathematical modeling, computer simulation, pre-clinical development and validation, and clinical application, thereby spanning the gamut of MR imaging.