We tested the hypothesis that MRE can inform on collagenase-induced matrix degradation in orthotopic BT474 breast carcinoma xenografts in vivo. An acute reduction in the absolute value of the complex shear modulus |G*| was detected in tumour just 5 hours after collagenase administration, mostly likely a consequence of both collagen degradation and reduction of interstitial fluid pressure. The study highlights the utility of MRE-derived quantitation of tumour viscoelasticity for monitoring the response of stromal rich tumours to modification of the extracellular matrix.
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