Bio


Tarik Massoud is a Professor of Neuroradiology and Molecular Imaging in the Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, where he directs LEMNI (the Laboratory of Experimental and Molecular Neuroimaging), and is an Attending Neuroradiologist in Stanford Health Care. He qualified from the Medical School of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and then served as intern to two inspirational medical giants of their days, Dr. William H. (Willie) Bisset at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh, UK, and Professor Sir Raymond (Bill) Hoffenberg, PRCP, at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, UK. He trained in Radiology and Neuroradiology in Oxford, UCLA, and the University of Michigan, and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Radiologists in London. He holds a research MD degree (NUI) in experimental neuroimaging (work conducted at UCLA), and a University of Cambridge PhD in molecular imaging (work conducted at the Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging at UCLA, and the Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Gambhir laboratory). From 2000 to 2013 he was a University Lecturer and Honorary Consultant in Neuroradiology at the University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine and Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, UK. Formerly, he was an Assistant and Associate Professor of Radiology at UCLA.

Tarik has published extensively and won numerous awards at scientific meetings. His papers in experimental interventional neuroradiology and molecular imaging are widely cited. He has been a peer reviewer for dozens of international medical journals, as well as other medical charities and governmental funding agencies. From 2008 to 2023 he was founding Editor-in-Chief of the journal Reports in Medical Imaging, and is an editorial board member for numerous biomedical journals. He is the senior author or editor of 10 books, including "Glioblastoma: State-of-the-Art Clinical Neuroimaging", "Basilar Artery: A Clinical Review", "Glioblastoma Resistance to Chemotherapy: Molecular Mechanisms and Innovative Reversal Strategies", "Neuroimaging Anatomy: Parts 1 and 2", "What Radiology Residents Need to Know: Neuroradiology", and "The Subarachnoid Space: Percutaneous Access for Diagnosis and Image-Guided Therapies". In 2016 he was awarded a Special Faculty Permit ('eminent physician license') by the Medical Board of the state of California. In 2022, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland School of Medicine.

Clinical Focus


  • Neuroradiology
  • Diagnostic Neuroimaging

Academic Appointments


Administrative Appointments


  • Professor of Radiology (Neuroradiology and Molecular Imaging), Stanford University School of Medicine (2013 - Present)
  • Director, Laboratory of Experimental and Molecular Neuroimaging (LEMNI), Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS) (2013 - Present)
  • Director, SIMITAR, Stanford Initiative for Multimodality neuro-Imaging in Translational Anatomy Research (SIMITAR) (2019 - Present)
  • Head of Academic Training (Associate Chair) in Radiology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine and Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK (2007 - 2013)
  • University Lecturer and Consultant in Neuroradiology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine and Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK (2000 - 2013)
  • Associate Professor, Neuroradiology, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles (1997 - 1999)
  • Assistant Professor, Neuroradiology, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles (1993 - 1997)

Honors & Awards


  • Lifetime Achievement Award, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland School of Medicine (2022)
  • Summa Cum Laude Award for education and training, American Society of Neuroradiology (2022)
  • Certificate of Merit Award for education and training, American Society of Neuroradiology (2022)
  • Summa Cum Laude Award for education and training, American Society of Neuroradiology (2020)
  • Certificate of Merit Award for education and training, American Society of Neuroradiology (2020)
  • Distinguished Investigator Award, Academy of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging Research (2019)
  • Guerbet Scientific Cum Laude Award, XXI Symposium Neuroradiologicum (2018)
  • Sigma Xi, nominated and elected member, Sigma Xi (2018)
  • Special Faculty Permit ('eminent physician license'), Medical Board of California (2016)
  • Mid-Career Award for Established Practitioners, The Health Foundation, UK (2002)
  • Wormald Grant Award, Royal College of Radiologists, UK (2001)
  • Magna Cum Laude Award for research, American Society of Neuroradiology (1995)
  • Cum Laude Award (on 5 occasions) for research, American Society of Neuroradiology (1994-2001)
  • Magna Cum Laude Award for research, American Society of Neuroradiology (1993)
  • William Cook Interventional Fellow, Royal College of Radiologists, UK (1993)
  • Kodak Scholar, Royal College of Radiologists, UK (1992)
  • J. J. Fitzsimons Gold Medal and Prize in Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland School of Medicine (1984)
  • Stoney Memorial Gold Medal in Anatomy (Neuroanatomy), Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland School of Medicine (1981)

Professional Education


  • PhD, University of Cambridge (Emmanuel College), UK, Molecular Imaging and Biology (2007)
  • MD (research doctorate), National University of Ireland, Neuroradiology (2003)
  • MA, University of Cambridge, UK (2003)
  • Fellowship and Clinical Lecurer, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Neuroradiology (clinical) (2000)
  • Fellowship, UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, Neuroradiology (research) (1993)
  • FRCR (board certification), Royal College of Radiologists, UK, Radiology (1992)
  • Residency and Fellowship, John Radcliffe Hospital and Radcliffe Infirmary, Oxford, UK, Radiology and Neuroradiology (1992)
  • MB BCh BAO LRCPI LRCSI, Medical School of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, and the National University of Ireland, Medicine (1984)

Current Research and Scholarly Interests


My current interests are in molecular and translational imaging of the brain especially in neuro-oncology and cerebrovascular diseases, experimental aspects of neuroimaging, clinical neuroradiology, neuroradiological anatomy, and research education and academic training of radiologists and scientists.

2024-25 Courses


Graduate and Fellowship Programs


  • Neuroradiology (Fellowship Program)

All Publications


  • Dural Punctures Through Sacral Posterior Vertebral Arch Fusion Defects: CT Morphometric Assessment and Application in Patients With Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Radiology Dhawan, S. S., Lanzman, B., Massoud, T. F. 2024; 310 (2): e231520

    View details for DOI 10.1148/radiol.231520

    View details for PubMedID 38319161

  • A New Nrf2 Inhibitor Enhances Chemotherapeutic Effects in Glioblastoma Cells Carrying p53 Mutations. Cancers Afjei, R., Sadeghipour, N., Kumar, S. U., Pandrala, M., Kumar, V., Malhotra, S. V., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2022; 14 (24)

    Abstract

    TP53 tumor suppressor gene is a commonly mutated gene in cancer. p53 mediated senescence is critical in preventing oncogenesis in normal cells. Since p53 is a transcription factor, mutations in its DNA binding domain result in the functional loss of p53-mediated cellular pathways. Similarly, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is another transcription factor that maintains cellular homeostasis by regulating redox and detoxification mechanisms. In glioblastoma (GBM), Nrf2-mediated antioxidant activity is upregulated while p53-mediated senescence is lost, both rendering GBM cells resistant to treatment. To address this, we identified novel Nrf2 inhibitors from bioactive compounds using a molecular imaging biosensor-based screening approach. We further evaluated the identified compounds for their in vitro and in vivo chemotherapy enhancement capabilities in GBM cells carrying different p53 mutations. We thus identified an Nrf2 inhibitor that is effective in GBM cells carrying the p53 (R175H) mutation, a frequent clinically observed hotspot structural mutation responsible for chemotherapeutic resistance in GBM. Combining this drug with low-dose chemotherapies can potentially reduce their toxicity and increase their efficacy by transiently suppressing Nrf2-mediated detoxification function in GBM cells carrying this important p53 missense mutation.

    View details for DOI 10.3390/cancers14246120

    View details for PubMedID 36551609

  • Neuroimaging Anatomy, Part 2: Head, Neck, and Spine. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Massoud, T. F. 2022; 32 (4): xv-xvii

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2022.07.019

    View details for PubMedID 36244732

  • A rationally identified panel of microRNAs targets multiple oncogenic pathways to enhance chemotherapeutic effects in glioblastoma models. Scientific reports Sadeghipour, N., Kumar, S. U., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2022; 12 (1): 12017

    Abstract

    Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignant brain tumor. Available treatments have limited success because most patients develop chemoresistance. Alternative strategies are required to improve anticancer effects of current chemotherapeutics while limiting resistance. Successful targeting of microRNAs (miRNAs) as regulators of gene expression can help reprogram GBM cells to better respond to chemotherapy. We aimed to identify a panel of miRNAs that target multiple oncogenic pathways to improve GBM therapy. We first identified differentially expressed miRNAs and tested if their target genes play central roles in GBM signaling pathways by analyzing data in the Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas databases. We then studied the effects of different combinations of these miRNAs in GBM cells by delivering synthetic miRNAs using clinically compatible PLGA-PEG nanoparticles prior to treatment with temozolomide (TMZ) or doxorubicin (DOX). The successful miRNA panel was tested in mice bearing U87-MG cells co-treated with TMZ. We identified a panel of five miRNAs (miRNA-138, miRNA-139, miRNA-218, miRNA-490, and miRNA-21) and their oncogenic targets (CDK6, ZEB1, STAT3, TGIF2, and SMAD7) that cover four different signaling pathways (cell proliferation and apoptotic signaling, invasion and metastasis, cytokine signaling, and stemness) in GBM. We observed significant in vitro and in vivo enhancement of therapeutic efficiency of TMZ and DOX in GBM models. The proposed combination therapy using rationally selected miRNAs and chemotherapeutic drugs is effective owing to the ability of this specific miRNA panel to better target multiple genes associated with the hallmarks of cancer.

    View details for DOI 10.1038/s41598-022-16219-x

    View details for PubMedID 35835978

  • Neuroimaging Anatomy, Part 1: Brain and Skull. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Massoud, T. F. 2022; 32 (3): xvii-xix

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2022.05.004

    View details for PubMedID 35843671

  • Comparison of embolization strategies for mixed plexiform and fistulous brain arteriovenous malformations: a computational model analysis of theoretical risks of nidus rupture. Journal of neurointerventional surgery Jain, M. S., Telischak, N. A., Heit, J. J., Do, H. M., Massoud, T. F. 2021

    Abstract

    BACKGROUND: High-flow fistulas related to plexiform nidi are found in 40% of large brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Endovascular occlusion of intranidal fistulas before plexiform components is empirically considered safe, but potential ensuing dangerous re-routing of flow through plexiform vessels may in theory raise their rupture risk. It remains unclear whether it is safer to embolize plexiform or fistulous vessels initially. We used a novel biomathematical AVM model to compare theoretical hemodynamic changes and rupture risks on sequential embolizations of both types of nidus vessels.METHODS: We computationally modeled a theoretical AVM as an electrical circuit containing a nidus consisting of a massive stochastic network ensemble comprising 1000 vessels. We sampled and individually simulated 10000 different nidus morphologies with a fistula angioarchitecturally isolated from its adjacent plexiform nidus. We used network analysis to calculate mean intravascular pressure (Pmean) and flow rate within each nidus vessel; and Monte Carlo analysis to assess overall risks of nidus rupture when simulating sequential occlusions of vessel types in all 10000 nidi.RESULTS: We consistently observed lower nidus rupture risks with initial fistula occlusion in different network morphologies. Intranidal fistula occlusion simultaneously reduced Pmean and flow rate within draining veins.CONCLUSIONS: Initial occlusion of AVM fistulas theoretically reduces downstream draining vessel hypertension and lowers the risk of rupture of an adjoining plexiform nidus component. This mitigates the theoretical concern that fistula occlusion may cause dangerous redistribution of hemodynamic forces into plexiform nidus vessels, and supports a clinical strategy favoring AVM fistula occlusion before plexiform nidus embolization.

    View details for DOI 10.1136/neurintsurg-2021-018067

    View details for PubMedID 34893533

  • Gold-Nanostar-Chitosan-Mediated Delivery of SARS-CoV-2 DNA Vaccine for Respiratory Mucosal Immunization: Development and Proof-of-Principle. ACS nano Kumar, U. S., Afjei, R., Ferrara, K., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2021

    Abstract

    The COVID-19 pandemic is caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (SC2). A variety of anti-SC2 vaccines have been approved for human applications, including those using messenger RNA (mRNA), adenoviruses expressing SC2 spike (S) protein, and inactivated virus. The protective periods of immunization afforded by these intramuscularly administered vaccines are currently unknown. An alternative self-administrable vaccine capable of mounting long-lasting immunity via sterilizing neutralizing antibodies would be hugely advantageous in tackling emerging mutant SC2 variants. This could also diminish the possibility of vaccinated individuals acting as passive carriers of COVID-19. Here, we investigate the potential of an intranasal (IN)-delivered DNA vaccine encoding the S protein of SC2 in BALB/c and C57BL/6J immunocompetent mouse models. The immune response to IN delivery of this SC2-spike DNA vaccine transported on a modified gold-chitosan nanocarrier shows a strong and consistent surge in antibodies (IgG, IgA, and IgM) and effective neutralization of pseudoviruses expressing S proteins of different SC2 variants (Wuhan, beta, and D614G). Immunophenotyping and histological analyses reveal chronological events involved in the recognition of SC2 S antigen by resident dendritic cells and alveolar macrophages, which prime the draining lymph nodes and spleen for peak SC2-specific cellular and humoral immune responses. The attainable high levels of anti-SC2 IgA in lung mucosa and tissue-resident memory T cells can efficiently inhibit SC2 and its variants at the site of entry and also provide long-lasting immunity.

    View details for DOI 10.1021/acsnano.1c05002

    View details for PubMedID 34705425

  • A Critical Appraisal of Monro's Erroneous Description of the Cerebral Interventricular Foramina: Age-Related MRI Spatial Morphometry and a Proposed New Terminology. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Matys, T. n., Brown, F. n., Zaccagna, F. n., Kirollos, R. W., Massoud, T. F. 2020

    Abstract

    Anatomic connections between the cerebral lateral and third ventricles have been mischaracterized since Monro's original erroneous description of his eponymous foramina (FoMs) as being only one T-shaped passage. Accurate knowledge of the in vivo three-dimensional (3D) configuration of FoM has important clinical neuroendoscopic, neurosurgical, and neuroimaging implications. We retrospectively analyzed volumetric high-resolution brain MRIs of 100 normal individuals to characterize the normal spatial anatomy and morphometry for each FoM. We measured the true anatomical 3D angulations of FoMs relative to standard neuroimaging orthogonal planes, and their minimum width, depth, and distance between the medial borders of bilateral FoMs. The right and left FoMs were separate, distinct, and in a V-shaped configuration. Each FoM was a round, oval, or crescent-shaped canal-like passage with well-defined borders formed by the semicircular concavity of the ipsilateral forniceal column. The plane of FoM was angeled on average 56.8° ± 9.1° superiorly from the axial plane, 22.5° ± 10.7° laterally, and 37.0° ± 6.9° anteriorly from the midsagittal plane; all these angles changing significantly with increasing age. The mean narrowest diameter of FoM was 2.8 ± 1.2 mm, and its depth was 2.5 ± 0.2 mm. Thus, the true size and orientation of FoM differs from that depicted on standard neuroimaging. Notably, in young subjects FoM has a diameter smaller than its depth, a configuration akin to a short, small canal. We propose that the eponym "Monro" no longer be associated with this structure, and the term "foramen" be abandoned. Instead, FoM should be more appropriately re-named as the "interventricular canaliculus", or IVC, for short. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.23560

    View details for PubMedID 31944414

  • Intranasal delivery of targeted polyfunctional gold-iron oxide nanoparticles loaded with therapeutic microRNAs for combined theranostic multimodality imaging and presensitization of glioblastoma to temozolomide. Biomaterials Sukumar, U. K., Bose, R. J., Malhotra, M., Babikir, H. A., Afjei, R., Robinson, E., Zeng, Y., Chang, E., Habte, F., Sinclair, R., Gambhir, S. S., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2019; 218: 119342

    Abstract

    The prognosis for glioblastoma (GBM) remains depressingly low. The biological barriers of the brain present a major challenge to achieving adequate drug concentrations for GBM therapy. To address this, we explore the potential of the nose-to-brain direct transport pathway to bypass the blood-brain barrier, and to enable targeted delivery of theranostic polyfunctional gold-iron oxide nanoparticles (polyGIONs) surface loaded with therapeutic miRNAs (miR-100 and antimiR-21) to GBMs in mice. These nanoformulations would thus allow presensitization of GBM cells to the systemically delivered chemotherapy drug temozolomide (TMZ), as well as in vivo multimodality molecular and anatomic imaging of nanoparticle delivery, trafficking, and treatment effects. First, we synthesized GIONs coated with beta-cyclodextrin-chitosan (CD-CS) hybrid polymer, and co-loaded with miR-100 and antimiR-21. Then we decorated their surface with PEG-T7 peptide using CD-adamantane host-guest chemistry. The resultant polyGIONs showed efficient miRNA loading with enhanced serum stability. We characterized them for particle size, PDI, polymer functionalization, charge and release using dynamic light scattering analysis, TEM and qRT-PCR. For in vivo intranasal delivery, we used U87-MG GBM cell-derived orthotopic xenograft models in mice. Intranasal delivery resulted in efficient accumulation of Cy5-miRNAs in mice treated with T7-targeted polyGIONs, as demonstrated by in vivo optical fluorescence and MR imaging. We measured the therapeutic response of these FLUC-EGFP labelled U87-MG GBMs using bioluminescence imaging. Overall, there was a significant increase in survival of mice co-treated with T7-polyGIONs loaded with miR-100/antimiR-21 plus systemic TMZ, compared to the untreated control group, or the animals receiving non-targeted polyGIONs-miR-100/antimiR-21, or TMZ alone. Once translated clinically, this novel theranostic nanoformulation and its associated intranasal delivery strategy will have a strong potential to potentiate the effects of TMZ treatment in GBM patients.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2019.119342

    View details for PubMedID 31326657

  • The protean world of non-coding RNAs in glioblastoma. Journal of molecular medicine (Berlin, Germany) Paulmurugan, R., Malhotra, M., Massoud, T. F. 2019

    Abstract

    Non-coding ribonucleic acids (ncRNAs) are a diverse group of RNA molecules that are mostly not translated into proteins following transcription. We review the role of ncRNAs in the pathobiology of glioblastoma (GBM), and their potential applications for GBM therapy. Significant advances in our understanding of the protean manifestations of ncRNAs have been made, allowing us to better decipher the molecular complexity of GBM. A large number of regulatory ncRNAs appear to have a greater influence on the molecular pathology of GBM than thought previously. Importantly, also, a range of therapeutic approaches are emerging whereby ncRNA-based systems may be used to molecularly target GBM. The most successful of these is RNA interference, and some of these strategies are being evaluated in ongoing clinical trials. However, a number of limitations exist in the clinical translation of ncRNA-based therapeutic systems, such as delivery mechanisms and cytotoxicity; concerted research endeavors are currently underway in an attempt to overcome these. Ongoing and future studies will determine the potential practical role for ncRNA-based therapeutic systems in the clinical management of GBM. These applications may be especially promising, given that current treatment options are limited and prognosis remains poor for this challenging malignancy.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s00109-019-01798-6

    View details for PubMedID 31129756

  • A protein folding molecular imaging biosensor monitors the effects of drugs that restore mutant p53 structure and its downstream function in glioblastoma cells. Oncotarget Paulmurugan, R., Afjei, R., Sekar, T. V., Babikir, H. A., Massoud, T. F. 2018; 9 (30): 21495–511

    Abstract

    Misfolding mutations in the DNA-binding domain of p53 alter its conformation, affecting the efficiency with which it binds to chromatin to regulate target gene expression and cell cycle checkpoint functions in many cancers, including glioblastoma. Small molecule drugs that recover misfolded p53 structure and function may improve chemotherapy by activating p53-mediated senescence. We constructed and optimized a split Renilla luciferase (RLUC) complementation molecular biosensor (NRLUC-p53-CRLUC) to determine small molecule-meditated folding changes in p53 protein. After initial evaluation of the biosensor in three different cells lines, we engineered endogenously p53P98L mutant (i.e. not affecting the DNA-binding domain) Ln229 glioblastoma cells, to express the biosensor containing one of four different p53 proteins: p53wt, p53Y220C, p53G245S and p53R282W. We evaluated the consequent phenotypic changes in these four variant cells as well as the parental cells after exposure to PhiKan083 and SCH529074, drugs previously reported to activate mutant p53 folding. Specifically, we measured induced RLUC complementation and consequent therapeutic response. Upon stable transduction with the p53 biosensors, we demonstrated that these originally p53P98L Ln229 cells had acquired p53 cellular phenotypes representative of each p53 protein expressed within the biosensor fusion protein. In these engineered variants we found a differential drug response when treated with doxorubicin and temozolomide, either independently or in combination with PhiKan083 or SCH529074. We thus developed a molecular imaging complementation biosensor that mimics endogenous p53 function for use in future applications to screen novel or repurposed drugs that counter the effects of misfolding mutations responsible for oncogenic structural changes in p53.

    View details for PubMedID 29765555

  • Targeted nanoparticle delivery of therapeutic antisense microRNAs presensitizes glioblastoma cells to lower effective doses of temozolomide in vitro and in a mouse model. Oncotarget Malhotra, M., Sekar, T. V., Ananta, J. S., Devulapally, R., Afjei, R., Babikir, H. A., Paulmurugan, R., Massoud, T. F. 2018; 9 (30): 21478–94

    Abstract

    Temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy for glioblastoma (GBM) is generally well tolerated at standard doses but it can cause side effects. GBMs overexpress microRNA-21 and microRNA-10b, two known oncomiRs that promote cancer development, progression and resistance to drug treatment. We hypothesized that systemic injection of antisense microRNAs (antagomiR-21 and antagomiR-10b) encapsulated in cRGD-tagged PEG-PLGA nanoparticles would result in high cellular delivery of intact functional antagomiRs, with consequent efficient therapeutic response and increased sensitivity of GBM cells to lower doses of TMZ. We synthesized both targeted and non-targeted nanoparticles, and characterized them for size, surface charge and encapsulation efficiency of antagomiRs. When using targeted nanoparticles in U87MG and Ln229 GBM cells, we showed higher uptake-associated improvement in sensitivity of these cells to lower concentrations of TMZ in medium. Co-inhibition of microRNA-21 and microRNA-10b reduced the number of viable cells and increased cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase upon TMZ treatment. We found a significant increase in expression of key target genes for microRNA-21 and microRNA-10b upon using targeted versus non-targeted nanoparticles. There was also significant reduction in tumor volume when using TMZ after pre-treatment with loaded nanoparticles in human GBM cell xenografts in mice. In vivo targeted nanoparticles plus different doses of TMZ showed a significant therapeutic response even at the lowest dose of TMZ, indicating that preloading cells with antagomiR-21 and antagomiR-10b increases cellular chemosensitivity towards lower TMZ doses. Future clinical applications of this combination therapy may result in improved GBM response by using lower doses of TMZ and reducing nonspecific treatment side effects.

    View details for PubMedID 29765554

  • Restoring guardianship of the genome: Anticancer drug strategies to reverse oncogenic mutant p53 misfolding. Cancer treatment reviews Babikir, H. A., Afjei, R. n., Paulmurugan, R. n., Massoud, T. F. 2018; 71: 19–31

    Abstract

    p53 is a transcription factor that activates numerous genes involved in essential maintenance of genetic stability. P53 is the most frequently mutated gene in human cancer. One third of these mutations are structural, resulting in mutant p53 with a disrupted protein conformation. Here we review current progress in a relatively underexplored aspect of p53-targeted drug development, that is, strategies to reactivate wild-type function of misfolded mutant p53. Unfortunately, most p53-targeted drugs are still at early stages of development and many of them are progressing slowly toward clinical implementation. Significant challenges need to be addressed before clinical translation of new anti-misfolding p53-targeted drugs.

    View details for PubMedID 30336366

  • Tailored Nanoparticle Codelivery of antimiR-21 and antimiR-10b Augments Glioblastoma Cell Kill by Temozolomide: Toward a "Personalized" Anti-microRNA Therapy. Molecular pharmaceutics Ananta, J. S., Paulmurugan, R., Massoud, T. F. 2016; 13 (9): 3164-3175

    Abstract

    Glioblastoma remains an aggressive brain malignancy with poor prognosis despite advances in multimodal therapy that include standard use of Temozolomide. MicroRNA-21 (miR-21) and microRNA-10b (miR-10b) are oncomiRs overexpressed in glioblastoma, promoting many aspects of cancer biology. We hypothesized that PLGA nanoparticles carrying antisense miR-21 (antimiR-21) and antisense miR-10b (antimiR-10b) might beneficially knockdown endogenous miR-21 and miR-10b function and reprogram cells prior to Temozolomide treatment. PLGA nanoparticles were effective in intracellular delivery of encapsulated oligonucleotides. Concentrations of delivered antimiR-21 and antimiR-10b were optimized and specifically tailored to copy numbers of intracellular endogenous microRNAs. Coinhibition of miR-21 and miR-10b significantly reduced the number of viable cells (by 24%; p < 0.01) and increased (2.9-fold) cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase upon Temozolomide treatment in U87 MG cells. Cell-tailored nanoparticle-assisted concurrent silencing of miR-21 and miR-10b prior to Temozolomide treatment is an effective molecular therapeutic strategy in cell culture, warranting the need for further studies prior to future in vivo "personalized" medicine applications.

    View details for DOI 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.6b00388

    View details for PubMedID 27508339

  • A molecular imaging biosensor detects in vivo protein folding and misfolding JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR MEDICINE-JMM Sheahan, A. V., Sekar, T. V., Chen, K., Paulmurugan, R., Massoud, T. F. 2016; 94 (7): 799-808

    Abstract

    Aberrant protein folding represents the molecular basis of many important human diseases. Although the discovery of new anti-misfolding drugs is a major priority in molecular therapeutics, there is currently no generalizable protein folding assay for use in cell-based high throughput screening (HTS) of chemical libraries, or for in vivo imaging. We molecularly engineered a bioluminescence-based biosensor composed of rationally split Firefly luciferase reporter fragments flanking a test protein, and used this in a protein-fragment complementation assay to quantitatively measure folding of the test protein. We comprehensively validated this biosensor in vitro, in cells, and by optically imaging protein folding and misfolding in living mice using several test proteins including enhanced green fluorescent protein, Renilla luciferase, Gaussia luciferase, and SIRT1. Applications of this novel biosensor are potentially far-reaching in both cell-based HTS approaches to discover new anti-misfolding drugs, and when using the same biosensor in validation studies of drug candidates in small animal models.Novel anti-misfolding drugs are needed as molecular therapeutics for many diseases. We developed first in vivo imaging protein folding biosensor to aid drug discovery. Biosensor created by flanking a test protein with rationally split Firefly luciferase. Biosensor validated by detecting folding of test proteins EGFP, Rluc, Gluc, and SIRT1. Generalizable molecular biosensor for translational applications in drug screening.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s00109-016-1437-9

    View details for PubMedID 27277823

  • Temozolomide-loaded PLGA nanoparticles to treat glioblastoma cells: a biophysical and cell culture evaluation NEUROLOGICAL RESEARCH Ananta, J. S., Paulmurugan, R., Massoud, T. F. 2016; 38 (1): 51-59

    Abstract

    Current chemotherapies for brain glioblastoma do not achieve sufficient drug concentrations within tumors. Polymeric nanoparticles have useful physicochemical properties that make them promising as nanoparticle platforms for glioblastoma drug delivery. Poly[lactic-co-glycolic acid] (PLGA) nanoparticles encapsulating temozolomide (TMZ) could improve localized delivery and sustained drug release to glioblastomas.We investigated three different procedures to encapsulate TMZ within PLGA nanoparticles. We studied the biophysical features of optimized nanocarriers, including their size, shape, surface properties, and release characteristics of TMZ. We evaluated the antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects of TMZ-loaded PLGA nanoparticles on U87 MG glioblastoma cells.A single emulsion technique using a TMZ saturated aqueous phase produced nanoparticles ≤200 nm in size allowing a maximal drug loading of 4.4% w/w of polymer. There was a bi-phasic drug release pattern, with 80% of TMZ released within the first 6 h. Nanoparticles accumulated in the cytoplasm after effective endocytosis. There was no significant difference in cytotoxic effect of TMZ encapsulated within PLGA nanoparticles and free TMZ.PLGA nanoparticles are not suitable as carriers of TMZ for glioblastoma drug delivery on account of the overall high IC50 values of glioblastoma cells to TMZ and poor loading and encapsulation efficiencies. Further biotechnological developments aimed at improving the loading of TMZ in PLGA nanoparticles or co-delivery of small molecule sensitizers to improve the response of human glioblastoma cells to TMZ are required for this approach to be considered and optimized for future clinical translation.

    View details for DOI 10.1080/01616412.2015.1133025

    View details for PubMedID 26905383

  • Nanoparticle-Delivered Antisense MicroRNA-21 Enhances the Effects of Temozolomide on Glioblastoma Cells MOLECULAR PHARMACEUTICS Ananta, J. S., Paulmurugan, R., Massoud, T. F. 2015; 12 (12): 4509-4517

    Abstract

    Glioblastoma (GBM) generally exhibits high IC50 values for its standard drug treatment, temozolomide (TMZ). MicroRNA-21 (miR-21) is an oncomiR overexpressed in GBM, thus controlling important aspects of glioma biology. We hypothesized that PLGA nanoparticles carrying antisense miR-21 to glioblastoma cells might beneficially knock down endogenous miR-21 prior to TMZ treatment. PLGA nanoparticles encapsulating antisense miR-21 were effective in intracellular delivery and sustained silencing (p < 0.01) of miR-21 function in U87 MG, LN229, and T98G cells. Prior antisense miR-21 delivery significantly reduced the number of viable cells (p < 0.001), and increased (1.6-fold) cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase upon TMZ treatment in U87 MG cells. There was overexpression of the miR-21 target genes PTEN (by 67%) and caspase-3 (by 15%) upon cotreatment. This promising PLGA nanoparticle-based platform for antisense miR-21 delivery to GBM is an effective cotherapeutic strategy in cell culture, warranting the need for further studies prior to future clinical translation.

    View details for DOI 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.5b00694

    View details for PubMedID 26559642

  • Transvenous Retrograde Nidus Sclerotherapy Under Controlled Hypotension (TRENSH): Hemodynamic Analysis and Concept Validation in a Pig Arteriovenous Malformation Model NEUROSURGERY Massoud, T. F. 2013; 73 (2): 332-343

    Abstract

    BACKGROUND:: Transvenous retrograde nidus sclerotherapy under controlled hypotension (TRENSH) is a proposed novel concept for endovascular treatment of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). OBJECTIVE:: To assess the experimental hemodynamic feasibility of TRENSH in a pig AVM model. METHODS:: We surgically constructed carotid-jugular fistula-type AVM models in eight pigs. In five pigs (Group 1) we hemodynamically assessed the AVM through the main arterial feeder (AF) and draining vein (DV) at systemic normotension (Systnorm). We then performed retrograde nidus angiography through the DV at progressively deeper levels of hemorrhagic systemic hypotension (Systhypo), and graded and correlated these angiograms with the degree of Systhypo. In another three pigs (Group 2) we correlated the effects of temporary balloon occlusion of the main AF with the angiographic extent of retrograde nidus filling. RESULTS:: In Group 1 pigs, the drop in AF pressure correlated strongly (r=0.93-0.99) with the drop in DV pressure at progressively deeper Systhypo. Minimal retrograde nidus filling occurred at Systnorm. We observed progressively greater extents of retrograde nidus filling as the transnidal pressure gradients fell with deeper Systhypo. Near-complete retrograde permeation of the nidus was possible as the transnidal gradients approached zero mmHg. As more of the nidus filled, its concurrent emptying was documented through a greater number of DVs. Temporary AF occlusion resulted in improved retrograde nidus filling in all Group 2 pigs. CONCLUSION:: Endovascular TRENSH appears feasible in a pig AVM model. Further experimental investigations of TRENSH are necessary to assess its full potential prior to future clinical applications.

    View details for DOI 10.1227/01.neu.0000430765.80102.77

    View details for Web of Science ID 000330383100050

    View details for PubMedID 23670033

  • A molecularly engineered split reporter for imaging protein-protein interactions with positron emission tomography NATURE MEDICINE Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R., Gambhir, S. S. 2010; 16 (8): 921-U123

    Abstract

    Improved techniques to noninvasively image protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are essential. We molecularly engineered a positron emission tomography (PET)-based split reporter (herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase), cleaved between Thr265 and Ala266, and used this in a protein-fragment complementation assay (PCA) to quantify PPIs in mammalian cells and to microPET image them in living mice. An introduced point mutation (V119C) markedly enhanced thymidine kinase complementation in PCAs, on the basis of rapamycin modulation of FKBP12-rapamycin-binding domain (FRB) and FKBP12 (FK506 binding protein), the interaction of hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha with the von Hippel-Lindau tumor suppressor, and in an estrogen receptor intramolecular protein folding assay. Applications of this unique split thymidine kinase are potentially far reaching, including, for example, considerably more accurate monitoring of immune and stem cell therapies, allowing for fully quantitative and tomographic PET localization of PPIs in preclinical small- and large-animal models of disease.

    View details for DOI 10.1038/nm.2185

    View details for Web of Science ID 000280649200033

    View details for PubMedID 20639890

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC2917476

  • Noninvasive molecular neuroimaging using reporter genes: Part II, experimental, current, and future applications AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Singh, A., Gambhir, S. S. 2008; 29 (3): 409-418

    Abstract

    In this second article, we review the various strategies and applications that make use of reporter genes for molecular imaging of the brain in living subjects. These approaches are emerging as valuable tools for monitoring gene expression in diverse applications in laboratory animals, including the study of gene-targeted and trafficking cells, gene therapies, transgenic animals, and more complex molecular interactions within the central nervous system. Further development of more sensitive and selective reporters, combined with improvements in detection technology, will consolidate the position of in vivo reporter gene imaging as a versatile technique for greater understanding of intracellular biologic processes and underlying molecular neuropathology and will potentially establish a future role in the clinical management of patients with neurologic diseases.

    View details for DOI 10.3174/ajnr.A0863

    View details for Web of Science ID 000254066700002

    View details for PubMedID 18272565

  • Noninvasive molecular neuroimaging using reporter genes: Part I, principles revisited AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Singh, A., Gambhir, S. S. 2008; 29 (2): 229-234

    Abstract

    In this first article, we review the basic principles of using reporter genes for molecular imaging of the brain in living subjects. This approach is emerging as a valuable tool for monitoring gene expression in diverse applications in laboratory animals, including the study of gene-targeted and trafficking cells, gene therapies, transgenic animals, and more complex molecular interactions within the central nervous system. Further development of more sensitive and selective reporters, combined with improvements in detection technology, will consolidate the position of in vivo reporter gene imaging as a versatile method for greater understanding of intracellular biologic processes and underlying molecular neuropathology and will potentially establish a future role in the clinical management of patients with neurologic diseases.

    View details for DOI 10.3174/ajnr.A0864

    View details for Web of Science ID 000253345200011

    View details for PubMedID 18024575

  • Integrating noninvasive molecular imaging into molecular medicine: an evolving paradigm TRENDS IN MOLECULAR MEDICINE Massoud, T. F., Gambhir, S. S. 2007; 13 (5): 183-191

    Abstract

    Molecular imaging is a rapidly emerging field, providing noninvasive visual quantitative representations of fundamental biological processes in intact living subjects. Fundamental biomedical research stands to benefit considerably from advances in molecular imaging, with improved molecular target selection, probe development and imaging instrumentation. The noninvasiveness of molecular imaging technologies will also provide benefit through improved patient care. Molecular imaging endpoints can be quantified, and therefore are particularly useful for translational research. Integration of the two disciplines of molecular imaging and molecular medicine, combined with systems-biology approaches to understanding disease complexity, promises to provide predictive, preventative and personalized medicine that will transform healthcare.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.molmed.2007.03.003

    View details for Web of Science ID 000247166100002

    View details for PubMedID 17403616

  • Reporter gene imaging of protein-protein interactions in living subjects CURRENT OPINION IN BIOTECHNOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R., De, A., Ray, P., Garnbhir, S. S. 2007; 18 (1): 31-37

    Abstract

    In the past few years there has been a veritable explosion in the field of reporter gene imaging, with the aim of determining the location, duration and extent of gene expression within living subjects. An important application of this approach is the molecular imaging of interacting protein partners, which could pave the way to functional proteomics in living animals and might provide a tool for the whole-body evaluation of new pharmaceuticals targeted to modulate protein-protein interactions. Three general methods are currently available for imaging protein-protein interactions in living subjects using reporter genes: a modified mammalian two-hybrid system, a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) system, and split reporter protein complementation and reconstitution strategies. In the future, these innovative approaches are likely to enhance our appreciation of entire biological pathway systems and their pharmacological regulation.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.copbio.2007.01.007

    View details for Web of Science ID 000244593000006

    View details for PubMedID 17254764

  • Molecular imaging of homodimeric protein-protein interactions in living subjects. FASEB journal Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R., Gambhir, S. S. 2004; 18 (10): 1105-1107

    Abstract

    Homodimeric protein interactions are potent regulators of cellular functions, but are particularly challenging to study in vivo. We used a split synthetic renilla luciferase (hRLUC) complementation-based bioluminescence assay to study homodimerization of herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase (TK) in mammalian cells and in living mice. We quantified and imaged homodimerization of TK chimeras containing N-terminal (N-hRLUC) or C-terminal (C-hRLUC) fragments of hRLUC in the upstream and downstream positions, respectively (tail-to-head homodimer). This was monitored using luminometry (68-fold increase, and was significantly [P<0.01] above background light emission) and by CCD camera imaging of living mice implanted with ex vivo transfected 293T cells (2.7-fold increase, and is significantly [P<0.01] above background light emission). We also made a mutant-TK to generate N-hRLUC mutant TK and mutant TK-C-hRLUC by changing a single amino acid at position 318 from arginine to cysteine, a key site that has previously been reported to be essential for TK homo-dimerization, to support the specificity of the hRLUC complementation signal from TK homodimerization. Ex vivo substrate (8-3H Penciclovir) accumulation assays in 293T cells expressing the TK protein chimeras showed active TK enzyme. We also devised an experimental strategy by constructing variant TK chimeras (possessing extra N-hRLUC or C-hRLUC 'spacers') to monitor incremental lack of association of the tail-to-head TK homodimer. Application of this potentially generalizable assay to screen for molecules that promote or disrupt ubiquitous homodimeric protein-protein interactions could serve not only as an invaluable tool to understand biological networks but could also be applied to drug discovery and validation in living subjects.

    View details for PubMedID 15132989

  • Molecular imaging in living subjects: seeing fundamental biological processes in a new light GENES & DEVELOPMENT Massoud, T. F., Gambhir, S. S. 2003; 17 (5): 545-580

    View details for DOI 10.1101/gad.1047403

    View details for Web of Science ID 000181502300001

    View details for PubMedID 12629038

  • Laboratory evaluation of a microangioscope for potential percutaneous cerebrovascular applications AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Murayama, Y., Vinuela, F., Utsumi, A. 2001; 22 (2): 363-365

    Abstract

    A laboratory-based study of the physical and performance characteristics of a new 0.25-mm-thin microangioscope was performed. The microangioscope tested was compatible with currently available microcatheters, but its tip was considerably stiff and of limited radiopacity. Poor image quality and difficult image interpretation were further drawbacks. Intensive efforts are directed at addressing current limitations and testing further innovations that could pave the way for future performance in neurovascular endoscopy.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000167049300027

    View details for PubMedID 11156784

  • Experimental radiosurgery simulations using a theoretical model of cerebral arteriovenous malformations STROKE Massoud, T. F., Hademenos, G. J., De Salles, A. A., Solberg, T. D. 2000; 31 (10): 2466-2476

    Abstract

    A novel biomathematical arteriovenous malformation (AVM) model based on electric network analysis was used to investigate theoretically the potential role of intranidal hemodynamic perturbations in elevating the risk of rupture after simulated brain AVM radiosurgery.The effects of radiation on 28 interconnected plexiform and fistulous AVM nidus vessels were simulated by predefined random or stepwise occlusion. Electric circuit analysis revealed the changes in intranidal flow, pressure, and risk of rupture at intervals of 3 months during a 3-year latency period after simulated partial/complete irradiation of the nidus using doses <25 and >/=25 Gy. An expression for risk of rupture was derived on the basis of the functional distribution of the critical radii of component vessels. The theoretical effects of radiation were also tested on AVM nidus vessels with progressively increasing elastic modulus (E:) and wall thickness during the latency period, simulating their eventual fibrosis.In an AVM with E=5. 0x10(4) dyne/cm(2), 4 (14.3%) of a total 28 sets of AVM radiosurgery simulations revealed theoretical nidus rupture (risk of rupture >/=100%). Three of these were associated with partial nidus coverage and 1 with complete treatment. All ruptures occurred after random occlusion of nidus vessels in AVMs receiving low-dose radiosurgery. Intranidal hemodynamic perturbations were observed in all cases of AVM rupture; the occlusion of a fistulous component resulted in intranidal rerouting of flow and escalation of the intravascular pressure in adjacent plexiform components. Risk of rupture was found to correlate with nidus vessel wall strength: a low E: of 1.9x10(4) dyne/cm(2) resulted in a 92.8% incidence of AVM rupture, whereas a higher E: of 7.0x10(4) dyne/cm(2) resulted in only a 3.6% incidence of AVM rupture. A dramatic reduction in rupture incidence was observed when increasing fibrosis of the nidus was modeled during the latency period.It was found that the theoretical occurrence of AVM hemorrhage after radiosurgery was low, particularly when radiation-induced fibrosis of nidus vessels was considered. When rupture does occur, it would appear from a theoretical standpoint that the occlusion of intranidal fistulas or larger-caliber plexiform vessels could be a significant culprit in the generation of critical intranidal hemodynamic surges resulting in nidus rupture. The described AVM model should serve as a useful research tool for further theoretical investigations of cerebral AVM radiosurgery and its hemodynamic sequelae.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000089655900033

    View details for PubMedID 11022081

  • Histopathologic characteristics of a chronic arteriovenous malformation in a swine model: Preliminary study AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Vinters, H. V., CHAO, K. H., Vinuela, F., Jahan, R. 2000; 21 (7): 1268-1276

    Abstract

    The experimental induction of histologic transformations in microvessels of similar caliber to those of nidus vessels of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) has not been attempted previously. Our goal was to examine preliminarily the histopathologic characteristics of nidus vessels and the angiographic features of a chronic AVM model in swine.AVM models were fashioned from bilateral carotid retia mirabilia of seven swine after the surgical formation of large unilateral carotid-jugular fistulas. One AVM model was made for immediate use, whereas in the other six, follow-up angiography was obtained at varying intervals (2 to 180 days) after model creation. Light and electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry (using monoclonal antibodies against smooth muscle actin and PC10 against proliferating cell nuclear antigen), and histometry were performed on the nidus vessels of three swine: one acutely created, one 2 months old, and one 6 months old.Vascular dilatation and tortuosity of the main arterial feeder and draining vein were evident angiographically as early as 4 days after AVM creation, and were maximal in the 6-month-old model. Compared with the acutely created nidus vessels, those in the two chronic models revealed disrupted and attenuated elastica and intimal hyperplasia that was focal ("cushions") or generalized, leading to luminal occlusion. Variable numbers of cells in the tunica media of chronic nidus vessels contained smooth muscle actin. PC10/proliferating cell nuclear antigen immunoreactivity was observed in the endothelium and subendothelial layers. Histometry showed increases in intimal hyperplasia and medial thickness in the chronic vessels.Nidus vessels in this chronic swine AVM model exhibited striking histologic changes similar to those seen in cerebral AVMs. The induced vessel growth seen angiographically and histologically in components of the chronic AVMs was consistent with the presence of persistently raised intravascular hemodynamic loads. This preliminary feasibility study suggests that the realistic histologic characteristics of this chronic AVM model are an attractive feature, and if confirmed in future, more comprehensive, studies would be of benefit in accurate histopathologic interpretation of the effects of superimposed experimental embolotherapy or radiosurgery. This model may provide a useful experimental tool to study the dynamic cellular and tissue events that dictate the development and natural history of AVMs.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000165054800018

    View details for PubMedID 10954279

  • Can induction of systemic hypotension help prevent nidus rupture complicating arteriovenous malformation embolization?: analysis of underlying mechanisms achieved using a theoretical model AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Hademenos, G. J., Young, W. L., Gao, E. H., Pile-Spellman, J. 2000; 21 (7): 1255-1267

    Abstract

    Nidus rupture is a serious complication of intracranial arteriovenous malformation (AVM) embolotherapy, but its pathogenetic mechanisms are not well described. An AVM model based on electrical network analysis was used to investigate theoretically the potential role of hemodynamic perturbations for elevating the risk of nidus vessel rupture (Rrupt) after simulated AVM embolotherapy, and to assess the potential benefit of systemic hypotension for preventing rupture.Five separate hypothetical mechanisms for nidus hemorrhage were studied: 1) intranidal rerouting of blood pressure; 2) extranidal rerouting of blood pressure; 3) occlusion of draining veins with glue; 4) delayed thrombosis of draining veins; and 5) excessively high injection pressures proximal to the nidus. Simulated occlusion of vessels or elevated injection pressures were implemented into the AVM model, and electrical circuit analysis revealed the consequent changes in intranidal flow, pressure, and Rrupt for the nidus vessels. An expression for Rrupt was derived based on the functional distribution of the critical radii of component vessels. If AVM rupture was observed (Rrupt > or = 100%) at systemic normotension (mean pressure [P] = 74 mm Hg), the theoretical embolization was repeated under systemic hypotension (minor P = 70 mm Hg, moderate P = 50 mm Hg, or profound P = 25 mm Hg) to assess the potential benefit of this maneuver in reducing hemorrhage rates.All five pathogenetic mechanisms under investigation were able to produce rupture of AVMs during or after embolotherapy. These different mechanisms had in common the capability of generating surges in intranidal hemodynamic parameters resulting in nidus vessel rupture. The theoretical induction of systemic hypotension during and after treatment was shown to be of significant benefit in attenuating these surges and reducing Rrupt to safer levels below 100%.The induction of systemic hypotension during and after AVM embolization would appear theoretically to be of potential use in preventing iatrogenic nidus hemorrhage. The described AVM model should serve as a useful research tool for further theoretical investigations of AVM embolotherapy and its hemodynamic sequelae.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000165054800017

    View details for PubMedID 10954278

  • Transvenous retrograde nidus sclerotherapy under controlled hypotension (TRENSH): A newly proposed treatment for brain arteriovenous malformations-concepts and rationale NEUROSURGERY Massoud, T. F., Hademenos, G. J. 1999; 45 (2): 351-363

    Abstract

    An alternative endovascular treatment to conventional transarterial embolization of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) is proposed.According to this proposed treatment, selected AVMs could undergo transvenous retrograde nidus sclerotherapy under controlled hypotensive anesthesia (TRENSH).It is hypothesized that TRENSH may provide the means of avoiding delivery of embolic agents via arterial feeders (thus preventing ischemic complications), in addition to a possible more complete permeation of an AVM nidus with a sclerosant than can otherwise be obtained with current agents via arterial feeders.Instead of relying on access to an AVM nidus from the arterial side (with its usual complexity), TRENSH would require retrograde access to the lesion via much larger and anatomically simpler draining veins. Retrograde permeation of the AVM nidus may then be possible with a liquid sclerosant (to effect a "chemical embolization") provided that the arterial inflow is reduced sufficiently by temporary controlled systemic hypotension, with or without the aid of temporary balloon occlusion of the main arterial feeder(s). Retrograde spread of sclerosant within the nidus that falls short of filling arterial feeders and their branches to normal brain tissue may then be possible. Angioarchitectural and hemodynamic considerations are addressed, as are the potential role and limitations of TRENSH in the management of cerebral pial AVMs. Future implementation of this new technique in some specific selected cases in which the anatomic configuration of the AVM and its draining veins might be favorable could prove to be a potentially useful addition to the armamentarium of AVM therapies, which currently includes microsurgery, radiosurgery, and transarterial embolotherapy. Experimental studies directed at assessing the feasibility of TRENSH before potential future clinical application seem justified.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000081906200034

    View details for PubMedID 10449081

  • Principles and philosophy of modeling in biomedical research FASEB JOURNAL Massoud, T. F., Hademenos, G. J., Young, W. L., Gao, E. Z., Pile-Spellman, J., Vinuela, F. 1998; 12 (3): 275-285

    Abstract

    Despite widespread applications in biomedical research, the role of models and modeling is often controversial and ill understood. It is usual to find that fundamental definitions, axioms, and postulates used in the modeling process have become tacit assumptions. What is essential, however, is a clear vision of the fundamental principles of modeling. This is even more compelling for new and emerging interdisciplinary fields that use techniques from previously separate scientific disciplines. This article outlines and reviews the central nature and philosophy of modeling, the rules that govern it, and its underlying key integral relationship to the 'scientific method'. A comprehensive understanding of these issues is indispensable to successful research and meaningful progress in all facets of biomedicine.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000072305500016

    View details for PubMedID 9580086

  • Image-Guided Percutaneous Access of the Subarachnoid Space Comes of Age. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Lanzman, B. A., Massoud, T. F. 2025; 35 (1): xv-xvi

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2024.08.027

    View details for PubMedID 39521531

  • Imaging Anatomy of the Cerebrospinal Fluid Spaces. Neuroimaging clinics of North America van Staalduinen, E. K., Massoud, T. F. 2025; 35 (1): 1-13

    Abstract

    The cerebrospinal fluid spaces of the spine and brain are an intricate network of tissues with complex anatomic relationships. Understanding the normal imaging anatomy and variants of these spaces is crucial for accessing the spinal subarachnoid space and evaluating patients with suspected CSF leaks. This article reviews the imaging anatomy of the cerebrospinal fluid spaces in the spine and brain with emphasis on clinically relevant anatomy for percutaneous needle access to the spinal subarachnoid space and management of patients with CSF leak.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2024.08.001

    View details for PubMedID 39521518

  • Intrathecal Contrast-enhanced Computed Tomography and MR Cisternography for Skull Base Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks and Other Intracranial Applications. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Scoffings, D. J., Massoud, T. F. 2025; 35 (1): 105-121

    Abstract

    Acquired skull base cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks can result from trauma, tumors, iatrogenic causes, or may be spontaneous. Spontaneous skull base CSF leaks are likely a manifestation of underlying idiopathic intracranial hypertension. The initial assessment of rhinorrhea or otorrhea, which may be suspected owing to an acquired skull base CSF leak, requires integration of clinical assessment and biochemical confirmation of CSF. When leaks are multiple or if samples of fluid cannot be obtained for testing, then recourse to intrathecal contrast-enhanced cisternography may be necessary. We also review various other applications for diagnosis of intracranial abnormalities using contrast-enhanced cisternography.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2024.08.025

    View details for PubMedID 39521519

  • Standard Fluoroscopic and Computed Tomography-Guided Lumbar Punctures. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Lanzman, B. A., Massoud, T. F. 2025; 35 (1): 15-26

    Abstract

    Image-guided lumbar puncture (LP) remains an important part of the modern practice of neuroradiology. This review outlines the relevant anatomy, safety considerations, and techniques in performing fluoroscopic and computed tomography-guided LPs.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2024.08.013

    View details for PubMedID 39521523

  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Pressure Measurement and Infusion Studies Using Lumbar Puncture. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Matys, T., Massoud, T. F., Czosnyka, M., Czosnyka, Z. 2025; 35 (1): 27-40

    Abstract

    Lumbar puncture provides an easy way of accessing the subarachnoid space. Measuring of the opening cerebrospinal fluid pressure is the most commonly used method of evaluating intracranial pressure but provides basic snapshot information only. Further insights into cerebrospinal fluid dynamics can be obtained through infusion studies, which rely on measurement of the degree of pressure change in response to addition of fluid volume into the subarachnoid space. The authors describe applications of these 2 techniques pertinent to a practicing neuroradiologist, who may be asked to assist with fluoroscopy-guided lumbar puncture in patients with increased body mass index or difficult spine anatomy.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2024.08.002

    View details for PubMedID 39521525

  • Alternative Percutaneous Dural Puncture Routes: Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar, and Sacral. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Massoud, T. F., Lanzman, B. A. 2025; 35 (1): 41-52

    Abstract

    Patients requiring lumbar punctures (LPs) are frequently challenging or may be impossible to do through a standard lower lumbar route. Therefore, if clinically indicated, consideration of alternative anatomic access routes to the spinal subarachnoid space may be necessary. However, some of these approaches are unpopular or seldom used, may be challenging to perform, or are associated with potential significant complications especially when combined with limited operator experience. Here we review the techniques and drawbacks of multiple different approaches for percutaneous insertion of spinal needles into the spinal dural sac as alternatives to standard interlaminar low LPs.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2024.08.020

    View details for PubMedID 39521526

  • Dural Puncture Complications. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Geisbush, T. R., Matys, T., Massoud, T. F., Hacein-Bey, L. 2025; 35 (1): 53-76

    Abstract

    Dural puncture, commonly referred to as lumbar puncture (LP), carries the risk of rare but serious complications including post-dural puncture headache, hemorrhage, herniation, and infection. These complications can lead to suboptimal patient outcomes including significant morbidity and mortality in some instances. This review comprehensively examines potential LP complications, including their incidence, pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical presentations, imaging findings, preventative measures, and treatment strategies. Familiarity with these complications will equip clinicians to effectively manage these complications through prompt recognition, timely diagnosis, and implementation of appropriate preventative measures.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2024.08.015

    View details for PubMedID 39521527

  • Fluoroscopic, Computed Tomographic, and Magnetic Resonance Myelography. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Massoud, T. F., Lanzman, B. A. 2025; 35 (1): 85-104

    Abstract

    Despite all the advantages of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, there still exist contraindications or limitations to its use. Thus, MR imaging has not entirely replaced fluoroscopic or computed tomographic (CT) myelography to depict the outline of the spinal cord and its nerve roots after intrathecal injection of contrast medium. The growing recent interest of neuroradiologists to accurately diagnose and treat cerebrospinal fluid leaks has also driven a resurgent need for familiarity with this image-guided procedure. This article reviews the numerous technical and periprocedural aspects of fluoroscopic and CT myelography, and the use of noninvasive MR myelography in certain clinical scenarios.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2024.08.016

    View details for PubMedID 39521529

  • Rare kissing antra of the maxillary sinuses: clinical implications. Surgical and radiologic anatomy : SRA Mohamed, R. A., Muneer, M. S., Massoud, T. F. 2024; 47 (1): 13

    Abstract

    To report a rare anatomical variant of the maxillary sinuses, with radiological and clinical emphasis.A 40-year-old male with recurrent acute rhinosinusitis presented to our center for clinical management. A computed tomography scan revealed the presence of an incidental anatomical variant of bilateral maxillary sinuses for which we coin the term "kissing antra".Kissing antra appearances on computed tomography consisted of enlarged bilateral palatine recesses of the maxillary antra that met in the midline across a narrow bony septum below the floor of the nasal cavity. The right palatonasal recess angle was markedly acute at 61° instead of the normal 90°.Kissing antra of the maxillary sinuses are important for anatomists, radiologists and surgeons to be aware of, both as rare anatomical variants, as well as for their multiple clinical diagnostic and therapeutic implications that we discuss in this report.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s00276-024-03521-8

    View details for PubMedID 39621078

    View details for PubMedCentralID 6951102

  • CT features of tension neck subcutaneous emphysema (tension pneumocollum). Diagnostic and interventional imaging Muneer, M. S., Mohamed, R. A., Massoud, T. F. 2024

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.diii.2024.10.007

    View details for PubMedID 39496539

  • External auditory canal involvement by nasopharyngeal carcinoma via eustachian tube spread: A case report. Radiology case reports Yoon, W. Y., Massoud, T. F. 2024; 19 (10): 4604-4609

    Abstract

    We present the imaging findings of a 44-year-old female patient who was diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) extending from the nasopharynx to the external auditory canal (EAC) through the Eustachian tube (ET). The patient presented with a left neck submandibular lump on initial presentation that showed NPC upon fine needle aspiration, leading to chemoradiotherapy. Despite treatment, the patient experienced multiple relapses and later presented with aural symptoms, including left ear pain, foul-smelling drainage, and trismus on recurrence, and was subsequently diagnosed through biopsy. CT, MRI, and PET-CT scans revealed an extensive infiltrative nasopharyngeal mass extending into the left ET, involving the EAC. This rare case highlights the importance of considering the extension of NPC into the EAC as a potential etiology in patients who present with aural symptoms.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.radcr.2024.07.077

    View details for PubMedID 39220784

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC11362798

  • Synthesis, characterization, and application of a biocompatible gene delivery nanocarrier constructed from gold nanostars and a chitosan-cyclodextrin-poly(ethylene imine) graft polymer MATERIALS ADVANCES Tabesh, F., Haghverdi, G., Devarakonda, K., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2024

    View details for DOI 10.1039/d4ma00433g

    View details for Web of Science ID 001274030500001

  • Correction to "Tumor Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicle-Coated Nanocarriers: An Efficient Theranostic Platform for the Cancer-Specific Delivery of Anti-miR-21 and Imaging Agents". ACS nano Bose, R. J., Kumar, S. U., Zeng, Y., Afjei, R., Robinson, E., Lau, K., Bermudez, A., Habte, F., Pitteri, S. J., Sinclair, R., Willmann, J. K., Massoud, T. F., Gambhir, S. S., Paulmurugan, R. 2023

    View details for DOI 10.1021/acsnano.3c08363

    View details for PubMedID 37721437

  • Correction to "SP94-Targeted Triblock Copolymer Nanoparticle Delivers Thymidine Kinase-p53-Nitroreductase Triple Therapeutic Gene and Restores Anticancer Function against Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Vivo". ACS applied materials & interfaces Sukumar, U. K., Rajendran, J. C., Gambhir, S. S., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2023

    View details for DOI 10.1021/acsami.3c09905

    View details for PubMedID 37605509

  • Gold-Nanostar-Chitosan-Mediated Delivery of SARS-CoV-2 DNA Vaccine for Respiratory Mucosal Immunization: Development and Proof-of-Principle (vol 15, pg 17582, 2021) ACS NANO Kumar, U. S., Afjei, R., Ferrara, K., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2023

    View details for DOI 10.1021/acsnano.3c07103

    View details for Web of Science ID 001049111100001

    View details for PubMedID 37582219

  • Feasibility of percutaneous dural sac puncture via a posterior trans-sacral foraminal conduit approach: a CT morphometric analysis. Neuroradiology Dhawan, S. S., Necker, F. N., Massoud, T. F. 2023

    Abstract

    We assess the theoretical feasibility of percutaneous posterior sacral foramen (pSF) needle puncture of the sacral dural sac (DS) by studying the three-dimensional imaging anatomy of pSFs relative to the sacral canal (SC). On CT images of 40 healthy subjects, we retrospectively studied sacral alae passageways from SC to pSFs in all three planes to determine if an imaginary spinal needle could theoretically traverse S1 or S2 pSFs in a straight path toward DS. If not straight, we measured multiplane angulations and morphometrics of this route. We found no straight connections between S1 or S2 pSFs and SC. Instead, there were bilateral spatially complex dorsoventral M-shaped "foraminal conduits" (FCs; common, ventral, and dorsal) from SC to anterior SFs and pSFs that would prevent percutaneous straight needle puncture of the DS. This detailed knowledge of the sacral FCs will be useful for accurate imaging interpretation and interventional procedures on the sacrum.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s00234-023-03147-4

    View details for PubMedID 37022486

    View details for PubMedCentralID 7959916

  • Caudolenticular Gray Bridges of the Brain: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Dang, B., Necker, F. N., Dhawan, S. S., Murty, T., Massoud, T. F. 2023

    Abstract

    The caudolenticular (or transcapsular) gray bridges (CLGBs) connect the caudate nucleus (CN) and putamen across the internal capsule. The CLGBs function as the main efferent terminus from premotor and supplementary motor area cortex to the basal ganglia (BG). We conjectured if inherent variations in numbers and sizes of CLGBs could contribute to abnormal cortical-subcortical connectivity in Parkinson's disease (PD), a neurodegenerative disorder featuring a hindrance of BG processing. However, there are no literature accounts of normative anatomy and morphometry of CLGBs. We therefore retrospectively analyzed axial and coronal 3T FSPGR MRIs of 34 healthy individuals for bilateral CLGBs symmetry, their numbers, dimensions of thickest and longest bridge, and axial surface areas of CN head and putamen. We calculated Evans' index (EI) to account for any brain atrophy. We statistically tested associations between sex or age and measured dependent variables, and linear correlations between all measured variables (significance at p<.05). Study subjects were F:M=23:11 with mean age 49.9 years. All EI's were normal (<.3). All but three CLGBs were bilaterally symmetrical with a mean 7.4 CLGBs per side. Mean CLGBs thickness and lengths were 1.0mm and 4.6mm, respectively; CN head and putamen areas were 205mm2 and 382.0mm2 , respectively. Females had thicker CLGBs (p=.02) but we found no significant interactions between sex or age and measured dependent variables, and no correlations between CN head or putamen areas and CLGBs dimensions. These normative MRI dimensions of the CLGBs will help guide future studies on the possible role of CLGBs morphometry in PD predisposition.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.24026

    View details for PubMedID 36795325

  • Time to Rectify Colorblindness in Medical Research with Standardized Cohort Reporting. The American journal of medicine Wen, J. T., Massoud, T. F. 2023

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.amjmed.2023.01.019

    View details for PubMedID 36754131

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC9901225

  • Atavistic and vestigial anatomical structures in the head, neck, and spine: an overview. Anatomical science international Dhawan, S. S., Yedavalli, V., Massoud, T. F. 2023

    Abstract

    Organisms may retain nonfunctional anatomical features as a consequence of evolutionary natural selection. Resultant atavistic and vestigial anatomical structures have long been a source of perplexity. Atavism is when an ancestral trait reappears after loss through an evolutionary change in previous generations, whereas vestigial structures are remnants that are largely or entirely functionless relative to their original roles. While physicians are cognizant of their existence, atavistic and vestigial structures are rarely emphasized in anatomical curricula and can, therefore, be puzzling when discovered incidentally. In addition, the literature is replete with examples of the terms atavistic and vestigial being used interchangeably without careful distinction between them. We provide an overview of important atavistic and vestigial structures in the head, neck, and spine that can serve as a reference for anatomists and clinical neuroscientists. We review the literature on atavistic and vestigial anatomical structures of the head, neck, and spine that may be encountered in clinical practice. We define atavistic and vestigial structures and employ these definitions consistently when classifying anatomical structures. Pertinent anatomical structures are numerous and include human tails, plica semilunaris, the vomeronasal organ, levator claviculae, and external ear muscles, to name a few. Atavistic and vestigial structures are found throughout the head, neck, and spine. Some, such as human tails and branchial cysts may be clinically symptomatic. Literature reports indicate that their prevalence varies across populations. Knowledge of atavistic and vestigial anatomical structures can inform diagnoses, prevent misrecognition of variation for pathology, and guide clinical interventions.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s12565-022-00701-7

    View details for PubMedID 36680662

  • Feasibility of Intrathecal Therapeutic Injections in Spinal Muscular Atrophy Patients via a Percutaneous Trans-Sacral Hiatus Route: An Initial Neuroimaging Morphometric Study. Muscle & nerve Dhawan, S. S., Trinh, A., Massoud, T. F. 2022

    Abstract

    INTRODUCTION/AIMS: Standard fluoroscopic lumbar puncture (LP) can be impossible in patients with severe spinal deformities from spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) who require intrathecal nusinersen therapy. There usually exists a straight trajectory in the lower sacral canal (SC) that could allow image-guided percutaneous trans-sacral hiatus puncture of the lumbosacral dural sac. Here, we determine if sacra are comparatively straighter in SMA patients (SMAps) versus healthy controls (HCs), which may facilitate unhindered trans-sacral hiatus spinal needle insertion for intrathecal nusinersen therapy.METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed lumbosacral spine computed tomograms (CTs) or CT-myelogram images of 38 SMAps and age- and sex-matched HCs. We digitally measured ventrodorsal sacral curvatures, SC surface areas, dural sac termination levels, and distances from sacral hiatus to the most caudad aspects of dural sacs ('needle distance').RESULTS: Mean ages of HCs and SMAps were 32.7 and 31.7years, respectively, with dural sacs terminating at similar levels. Mean values for morphometrics were: (a) Midsagittal SC surface area for HCs=701.2mm2 , and for SMAps=601.5mm2 (ns). (b) Using a 'line method', sacral curvature for HCs=61.9°, and SMAp=35.7° (p =0.0009), and was similar when using an 'angle summation method'. (c) Width of sacral hiatus for HCs=14.9mm, and SMAps=15.0mm (ns). (d) 'Needle distance' for HCs=54.7mm, and SMAps=49.9mm (ns).DISCUSSION: SMAps have significantly straighter sacra compared to HCs, which theoretically renders them more amenable to percutaneous trans-sacral hiatus puncture of the dural sac. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/mus.27782

    View details for PubMedID 36576208

  • Thoracic and Lumbosacral Spine Anatomy. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Hashmi, S. S., Seifert, K. D., Massoud, T. F. 2022; 32 (4): 889-902

    Abstract

    We review anatomy of the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine. Knowledge of normal anatomy is vital when reviewing imaging of the spine because it allows for the detection of abnormal findings. We emphasize the normal appearance of the thoracic and lumbosacral spine on imaging, focusing on the most common imaging techniques of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, as well as highlighting a few less common and emerging imaging techniques that can evaluate the spine.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2022.07.024

    View details for PubMedID 36244729

  • Oral Cavity and Salivary Glands Anatomy. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Famuyide, A., Massoud, T. F., Moonis, G. 2022; 32 (4): 777-790

    Abstract

    Knowledge of anatomy is essential to the understanding of disease and conditions of the oral cavity and salivary glands. This article is intended to serve as an overview of the oral cavity, its subsites, and that of the neighboring salivary glands. The authors cover the anatomy of the lips, tongue, floor of mouth, hard palate, teeth, various mucosal areas, and salivary ducts. When appropriate, radiological imaging along with figures serves as a companion to highlight the clinical relevance and practical applications of specific anatomic locations.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2022.07.021

    View details for PubMedID 36244723

  • Anatomy of the Orbit. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Reinshagen, K. L., Massoud, T. F., Cunnane, M. B. 2022; 32 (4): 699-711

    Abstract

    Each orbit is a complex structure housing the globe, multiple cranial nerves, muscles, vascular structures, which support the visual sense. Many of these structures have been delineated in careful detail by anatomists but remain beyond the resolution of conventional imaging techniques. With the advances of higher resolution MR, surface coil usage, and thinner section computed tomographic images, the ability to resolve these small structures continues to improve, allowing radiologists to provide more detailed anatomic descriptions for preoperative and pretreatment planning.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2022.07.020

    View details for PubMedID 36244718

  • Anatomy of the Spinal Cord, Coverings, and Nerves. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Hashmi, S. S., van Staalduinen, E. K., Massoud, T. F. 2022; 32 (4): 903-914

    Abstract

    The spinal cord is an elegant structure that serves as a conduit for the transfer of information between the brain and the peripheral nervous system. To enable the reader to understand its complex microstructural anatomy, we have created a detailed yet approachable anatomic reference for clinicians. We review gross and structural features of the spinal cord, its coverings, and nerves while also discussing spinal cord development, microscopic organization, and common anatomic variants. We detail how this anatomy appears on current neuroimaging techniques, with special attention to MR imaging.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2022.07.025

    View details for PubMedID 36244730

  • Root of the Neck and Extracranial Vessel Anatomy. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Raslan, O., Massoud, T. F., Hacein-Bey, L. 2022; 32 (4): 851-873

    Abstract

    The root of the neck is the junctional anatomic structure between the thoracic inlet, the axilla, and the lower neck. The detailed radiological anatomy of this critical area is discussed in this review.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2022.07.023

    View details for PubMedID 36244727

  • Anatomy of Intracranial Veins. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Kubo, M., Kuwayama, N., Massoud, T. F., Hacein-Bey, L. 2022; 32 (3): 637-661

    Abstract

    The cerebral venous system is complex and sophisticated and serves various major functions toward maintaining brain homeostasis. Cerebral veins contain about 70% of cerebral blood volume, have thin walls, are valveless, and cross seamlessly white matter, ependymal, cisternal, arachnoid, and dural boundaries to eventually drain cerebral blood either into dural sinuses or deep cerebral veins. Although numerous variations in the cerebral venous anatomic arrangement may be encountered, the overall configuration is relatively predictable and landmarks relatively well defined. A reasonable understanding of cerebral vascular embryology is helpful to appreciate normal anatomy and variations that have clinical relevance. Increasing interest in transvascular therapy, particularly transvenous endovascular intervention provides justification for practitioners in the neurosciences to acquire at least a basic understanding of the cerebral venous system.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2022.05.002

    View details for PubMedID 35843667

  • Inhaled Gold Nano-star Carriers for Targeted Delivery of Triple Suicide Gene Therapy and Therapeutic MicroRNAs to Lung Metastases: Development and Validation in a Small Animal Model. Advanced therapeutics Liu, Y., Sukumar, U. K., Jugniot, N., Seetharam, S. M., Rengaramachandran, A., Sadeghipour, N., Mukherjee, P., Krishnan, A., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2022; 5 (8)

    Abstract

    Pulmonary metastases pose significant treatment challenges for many cancers, including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). We developed and tested a novel suicide gene and therapeutic microRNAs (miRs) combination therapy against lung metastases in vivo in mouse models after intranasal delivery using nontoxic gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) formulated to carry these molecular therapeutics. We used AuNPs coated with chitosan-β-cyclodextrin (CS-CD) and functionalized with a urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) peptide to carry triple cancer suicide genes (thymidine kinase-p53-nitroreductase: TK-p53-NTR) plus therapeutic miRNAs (antimiR-21, antimiR-10b and miR-100). We synthesized three AuNPs: 20nm nanodots (AuND), and 20nm or 50nm nanostars (AuNS), then surface coated these with CS-CD using a microfluidic-optimized method. We sequentially coated the resulting positively charged AuNP-CS-CD core with synthetic miRNAs followed by TK-p53-NTR via electrostatic interactions, and added uPA peptide through CD-adamantane host-guest chemistry. A comparison of transfection efficiencies for different AuNPs showed that the 50nm AuNS allowed ∼4.16-fold higher gene transfection than other NPs. The intranasal delivery of uPA-AuNS-TK-p53-NTR-microRNAs NPs (pAuNS@TK-p53-NTR-miRs) in mice predominantly accumulated in lungs and facilitated ganciclovir and CB1954 prodrug-mediated gene therapy against TNBC lung metastases. This new nanosystem may serve as an adaptable-across-cancer-type, facile, and clinically scalable platform to allow future inhalational suicide gene-miR combination therapy for patients harboring pulmonary metastases.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/adtp.202200018

    View details for PubMedID 36212523

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC9543365

  • Anatomy of the Calvaria and Skull Base. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Matys, T., Scoffings, D. J., Massoud, T. F. 2022; 32 (3): 447-462

    Abstract

    A thorough understanding of the skull anatomy is of key importance to radiologists as well as specialist physicians and surgeons. We describe the anatomy of the neurocranium comprising calvaria (the skull vault) and the skull base and discuss the most common and clinically relevant anatomic variants.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2022.04.011

    View details for PubMedID 35843655

  • Anatomy of the Cerebral Cortex, Lobes, and Cerebellum. Neuroimaging clinics of North America Vachha, B. A., Massoud, T. F., Huang, S. Y. 2022; 32 (3): 463-473

    Abstract

    Strong foundational knowledge of the anatomy of the cerebral cortex, lobes, and cerebellum is key to guide the search for potential lesions based on clinical presentation and known focal neurologic deficits. This article provides an introduction and overview of cerebral cortical anatomy, including the key sulci that divide the 4 lobes of the cerebral cortex, as well as the major gyral and sulcal landmarks within each lobe. The organization of the cerebellum and its major anatomic constituents are also described. Commonly encountered anatomic variants and asymmetries in cerebral cortical anatomy are presented and discussed.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.nic.2022.04.008

    View details for PubMedID 35843656

  • Inhaled Gold Nano-Star Carriers for Targeted Delivery of Triple Suicide Gene Therapy and Therapeutic MicroRNAs to Lung Metastases: Development and Validation in a Small Animal Model ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS Liu, Y., Sukumar, U., Jugniot, N., Seetharam, S., Rengaramachandran, A., Sadeghipour, N., Mukherjee, P., Krishnan, A., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2022
  • Biomimetic nanobubbles for triple-negative breast cancer targeted ultrasound molecular imaging. Journal of nanobiotechnology Jugniot, N., Massoud, T. F., Dahl, J. J., Paulmurugan, R. 2022; 20 (1): 267

    Abstract

    Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly heterogeneous breast cancer subtype with poor prognosis. Although anatomical imaging figures prominently for breast lesion screening, TNBC is often misdiagnosed, thus hindering early medical care. Ultrasound (US) molecular imaging using nanobubbles (NBs) capable of targeting tumor cells holds great promise for improved diagnosis and therapy. However, the lack of conventional biomarkers in TNBC impairs the development of current targeted agents. Here, we exploited the homotypic recognition of cancer cells to synthesize the first NBs based on TNBC cancer cell membrane (i.e., NBCCM) as a targeted diagnostic agent. We developed a microfluidic technology to synthesize NBCCM based on the self-assembly property of cell membranes in aqueous solutions. In vitro, optimal NBCCM had a hydrodynamic diameter of 683±162nm, showed long-lasting US contrast enhancements and homotypic affinity. In vivo, we demonstrated that NBCCM showed increased extravasation and retention in a TNBC mouse model compared to non-targeted NBs by US molecular imaging. Peak intensities and areas under the curves from time-intensity plots showed a significantly enhanced signal from NBCCM compared to non-targeted NBs (2.1-fold, P=0.004, and, 3.6-fold, P=0.0009, respectively). Immunofluorescence analysis further validated the presence of NBCCM in the tumor microenvironment. Circumventing the challenge for universal cancer biomarker identification, our approach could enable TNBC targeting regardless of tumor tissue heterogeneity, thus improving diagnosis and potentially gene/drug targeted delivery. Ultimately, our approach could be used to image many cancer types using biomimetic NBs prepared from their respective cancer cell membranes.

    View details for DOI 10.1186/s12951-022-01484-9

    View details for PubMedID 35689262

  • Correction to: The protean world of non-coding RNAs in glioblastoma. Journal of molecular medicine (Berlin, Germany) Paulmurugan, R., Malhotra, M., Massoud, Z. T., Massoud, T. F. 2022

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s00109-022-02211-5

    View details for PubMedID 35648188

  • FN3 linked nanobubbles as a targeted contrast agent for US imaging of cancer-associated human PD-L1. Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society Kumar, U. S., Natarajan, A., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2022

    Abstract

    PD-L1 (programmed death-ligand 1) targeted therapies may be useful for several cancers. The use of non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic molecular imaging platforms could improve clinical assessment of PD-L1 tumor status during these therapies. Contrast enhanced ultrasound molecular imaging (CE-USMI) techniques may offer versatile and cost-effective ways to detect and quantify the expression levels of cellular targets in vivo. However, conventional use of microbubbles as a blood pool contrast agent for CE-USMI is limited to accessing intravascular biomarkers rather than reflecting the tumor molecular status. Using a microfluidic based reconstruction process we therefore developed ultra-stable nanobubbles (NBs) as a contrast agent for molecular imaging of vascular and extravascular cell surface markers. We then functionalized these NBs by covalently linking to nanobody (FN3hPD-L1) targeting human (h)PD-L1 to measure the expression of human PD-L1 in the tumor microenvironment (TME) in vivo. We showed the specific binding of hPD-L1 targeted NBs in cell culture, and in xenografted mouse models of hPD-L1 expressing CT26 tumors. CE-USMI of hPD-L1 in the TME in vivo showed ~3-fold increase in contrast signal compared to non-targeted NBs. Overall, in vivo use of CE-USMI with hPD-L1 targeted NBs has the potential for clinical translation and imaging of human cancers during immunotherapy, and for prognostic evaluation of patient response to PD-L1 targeted immunotherapy.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.04.030

    View details for PubMedID 35469983

  • Structural Asymmetries in Normal Brain Anatomy: A Brief Overview. Annals of anatomy = Anatomischer Anzeiger : official organ of the Anatomische Gesellschaft Kuo, F., Massoud, T. F. 1800: 151894

    Abstract

    PURPOSE: A fundamental feature in interpreting gross or neuroimaging brain anatomy is reliance on an assumed high degree of morphologic symmetry in bilateral hemispheres. However, the normal brain is not perfectly symmetrical, and subtle inherent structural asymmetries could potentially confound appreciation of pathology-induced asymmetry or how a given brain asymmetry can relate to its function.MATERIAL AND METHODS: We review the literature and provide a brief overview of structural asymmetries in normal brain anatomy.RESULTS: Brain structural asymmetries are either rotational or pure right-left asymmetries, and many are a consequence of unique features linked to the use of human language. Yakovlevian torque is the tendency of the right hemisphere to rotate slightly forward relative to the left, which may make the right frontal lobe bigger and wider, and the left occipital lobe wider and protrude rightward. This makes the left Sylvian fissure longer and flatter, resulting in a larger planum temporale. We also discuss right-left asymmetries in the cortex, white matter structures, deep gray nuclei, and lateral ventricles. Brain asymmetries are not random, but result from distinct patterns in structural design that confer evolutionary functional advantages.CONCLUSION: Minor brain asymmetries are important and should be accounted for as they can be connected to function, and like individual variability, are essential for evolution. This overview will help understand structural brain asymmetries for improved diagnostic neuroimaging interpretation, constructing symmetry-based paradigms for automatic localization, segmentation of brain lesions, and as a reference for studies on possible implications of excessive asymmetry and altered laterality in cognitive, neurological, and psychiatric disorders.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.aanat.2022.151894

    View details for PubMedID 35085705

  • BRET Sensors for Imaging Membrane Integrity of Microfluidically Generated Extracellular Vesicles. Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.) Paulmurugan, R., Liu, Y., Sukumar, U. K., Kanada, M., Massoud, T. F. 2022; 2525: 227-238

    Abstract

    Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from various cell lines have been extensively used as natural nanodelivery vehicles for drug, protein, and nucleic acid deliveries in therapeutic applications for cancer. Recently, we developed a microfluidic-based reconstruction strategy as a novel method to generate microRNA-loaded membrane vesicles for cancer therapy in vivo. We used EVs and cell membranes isolated from different source of cells for this reconstruction process. The microfluidic system produced reconstructed vesicles of uniform sizes with high microRNA loading efficiency independent of input membrane sources (EVs or cell membranes). To address the functional integrity of the membrane structure and of proteins in the reconstructed EVs, we introduce a membrane-insertable bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) sensor system. This sensor, with its membrane-insertable palmitoylation signal peptide sequence derived from a growth-associated protein 43 (GAP43), helps in trafficking the fusion protein to the cell membrane upon its expression in cells and allows for imaging reconstructed membrane vesicles using optical imaging. In this chapter, we detail the stepwise methods used for the engineering of cells using this sensor, isolation of EVs from the engineered cells, preparation of reconstructed EVs by microfluidic processing, and BRET imaging of reconstructed EVs for membrane integrity evaluation.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/978-1-0716-2473-9_17

    View details for PubMedID 35836072

  • Engineered Cell-Derived Vesicles Displaying Targeting Peptide and Functionalized with Nanocarriers for Therapeutic microRNA Delivery to Triple-Negative Breast Cancer in Mice. Advanced healthcare materials Bose, R. J., Kumar, U. S., Garcia-Marques, F., Zeng, Y., Habte, F., McCarthy, J. R., Pitteri, S., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2021: e2101387

    Abstract

    Polymeric nanocarriers (PNCs) can be used to deliver therapeutic microRNAs (miRNAs) to solid cancers. However, the ability of these nanocarriers to specifically target tumors remains a challenge. Alternatively, extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from tumor cells show homotypic affinity to parent cells, but loading sufficient amounts of miRNAs into EVs is difficult. Here, we investigate whether uPAR-targeted delivery of nanococktails containing PNCs loaded with therapeutic antimiRNAs, and coated with uPA engineered extracellular vesicles (uPA-eEVs) can elicit synergistic antitumor responses. The uPA-eEVs coating on PNCs increases natural tumor targeting affinities, thereby enhancing the antitumor activity of antimiRNA nanococktails. The systemic administration of uPA-eEV-PNCs nanococktail showed a robust tumor tropism, which significantly enhanced the combinational antitumor effects of antimiRNA-21 and antimiRNA-10b, and led to significant tumor regression and extension of progression free survival for syngeneic 4T1 tumor-bearing mice. In addition, the uPA-eEV-PNCs-antimiRNAs nanococktail plus low dose doxorubicin resulted in a synergistic antitumor effect as evidenced by inhibition of tumor growth, reduction of lung metastases, and extension of survival of 4T1 tumor-bearing mice. Our targeted combinational nanococktail strategy could be readily translated to the clinical setting by using autologous cancer cells that have flexibility for ex vivo expansion and genetic engineering. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/adhm.202101387

    View details for PubMedID 34879180

  • In and around the pineal gland: a neuroimaging review. Clinical radiology Zaccagna, F., Brown, F. S., Allinson, K. S., Devadass, A., Kapadia, A., Massoud, T. F., Matys, T. 2021

    Abstract

    Lesions arising in or around the pineal gland comprise a heterogeneous group of pathologies ranging from benign non-neoplastic cysts to highly malignant neoplasms. Pineal cysts are frequently encountered as an incidental finding in daily radiology practice but there is no universal agreement on the criteria for, frequency of, and duration of follow-up imaging. Solid pineal neoplasms pose a diagnostic challenge owing to considerable overlap in their imaging characteristics, although a combination of radiological appearances, clinical findings, and tumour markers allows for narrowing of the differential diagnosis. In this review, we describe the radiological anatomy of the pineal region, clinical symptoms, imaging appearances, and differential diagnosis of lesions arising in this area, and highlight the clinical management of these conditions.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.crad.2021.09.020

    View details for PubMedID 34774298

  • Camouflaged Hybrid Cancer Cell-Platelet Fusion Membrane Nanovesicles Deliver Therapeutic MicroRNAs to Presensitize Triple-Negative Breast Cancer to Doxorubicin. Advanced functional materials Liu, Y., Sukumar, U. K., Kanada, M., Krishnan, A., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2021; 31 (41)

    Abstract

    Camouflaged cell-membrane-based nanoparticles have been gaining increasing attention owing to their improved biocompatibility and immunomodulatory properties. Using nanoparticles prepared from the membranes of specific cell types, or fusions derived from different cells membranes, can improve their functional performance in several aspects. Here, we used cell membranes extracted from breast cancer cells and platelets to fabricate a hybrid-membrane vesicle fusion (cancer cell-platelet-fusion-membrane vesicle, CPMV) in which we loaded therapeutic microRNAs (miRNAs) for the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). We used a clinically scalable microfluidic platform for the fusion of cell membranes. The reconstitution process during synthesis allows for efficient loading of miRNAs into CPMVs. We systematically optimized the conditions for preparation of miRNA-loaded CPMVs and demonstrated their property of homing to source cells using in vitro experiments, and by therapeutic evaluation in vivo. In vitro, the CPMVs exhibited significant recognition of their source cells and avoided engulfment by macrophages. After systemic delivery in mice, the CPMVs showed a prolonged circulation time and site-specific accumulation at implanted TNBC-xenografts. The delivered antimiRNAs sensitized TNBCs to doxorubicin, resulting in an improved therapeutic response and survival rate. This strategy has considerable potential for clinical translation to improve personalized therapy for breast cancer and other malignancies.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/adfm.202103600

    View details for PubMedID 34899115

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC8664068

  • A Clinical PET Imaging Tracer ([18F]DASA-23) to Monitor Pyruvate Kinase M2 Induced Glycolytic Reprogramming in Glioblastoma. Clinical cancer research : an official journal of the American Association for Cancer Research Beinat, C., Patel, C. B., Haywood, T., Murty, S., Naya, L., Castillo, J. B., Reyes, S. T., Phillips, M., Buccino, P., Shen, B., Park, J. H., Koran, M. E., Alam, I. S., James, M. L., Holley, D., Halbert, K., Gandhi, H., He, J. Q., Granucci, M., Johnson, E., Liu, D. D., Uchida, N., Sinha, R., Chu, P., Born, D. E., Warnock, G. I., Weissman, I., Hayden Gephart, M., Khalighi, M. M., Massoud, T. F., Iagaru, A., Davidzon, G., Thomas, R., Nagpal, S., Recht, L. D., Gambhir, S. S. 2021

    Abstract

    PURPOSE: Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) catalyzes the final step in glycolysis, a key process of cancer metabolism. PKM2 is preferentially expressed by glioblastoma (GBM) cells with minimal expression in healthy brain. We describe the development, validation, and translation of a novel positron emission tomography (PET) tracer to study PKM2 in GBM. We evaluated 1-((2-fluoro-6-[18F]fluorophenyl)sulfonyl)-4-((4-methoxyphenyl)sulfonyl)piperazine ([18F]DASA-23) in cell culture, mouse models of GBM, healthy human volunteers, and GBM patients.EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN: [18F]DASA-23 was synthesized with a molar activity of 100.47 {plus minus} 29.58 GBq/mol and radiochemical purity >95%. We performed initial testing of [18F]DASA-23 in GBM cell culture and human GBM xenografts implanted orthotopically into mice. Next we produced [18F]DASA-23 under FDA oversight, and evaluated it in healthy volunteers, and a pilot cohort of glioma patients.RESULTS: In mouse imaging studies, [18F]DASA-23 clearly delineated the U87 GBM from surrounding healthy brain tissue and had a tumor-to-brain ratio (TBR) of 3.6 {plus minus} 0.5. In human volunteers, [18F]DASA-23 crossed the intact blood-brain barrier and was rapidly cleared. In GBM patients, [18F]DASA-23 successfully outlined tumors visible on contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The uptake of [18F]DASA-23 was markedly elevated in GBMs compared to normal brain, and it identified a metabolic non-responder within 1-week of treatment initiation.CONCLUSIONS: We developed and translated [18F]DASA-23 as a new tracer that demonstrated the visualization of aberrantly expressed PKM2 for the first time in human subjects. These results warrant further clinical evaluation of [18F]DASA-23 to assess its utility for imaging therapy-induced normalization of aberrant cancer metabolism.

    View details for DOI 10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-21-0544

    View details for PubMedID 34475101

  • Camouflaged Hybrid Cancer Cell-Platelet Fusion Membrane Nanovesicles Deliver Therapeutic MicroRNAs to Presensitize Triple-Negative Breast Cancer to Doxorubicin ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS Liu, Y., Sukumar, U. K., Kanada, M., Krishnan, A., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2021
  • Imaging and treatment of brain tumors through molecular targeting: Recent clinical advances. European journal of radiology Zaccagna, F., Grist, J. T., Quartuccio, N., Riemer, F., Fraioli, F., Caraco, C., Halsey, R., Aldalilah, Y., Cunningham, C. H., Massoud, T. F., Aloj, L., Gallagher, F. A. 2021; 142: 109842

    Abstract

    Molecular imaging techniques have rapidly progressed over recent decades providing unprecedented in vivo characterization of metabolic pathways and molecular biomarkers. Many of these new techniques have been successfully applied in the field of neuro-oncological imaging to probe tumor biology. Targeting specific signaling or metabolic pathways could help to address several unmet clinical needs that hamper the management of patients with brain tumors. This review aims to provide an overview of the recent advances in brain tumor imaging using molecular targeting with positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, as well as the role in patient management and possible therapeutic implications.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ejrad.2021.109842

    View details for PubMedID 34274843

  • Initial Clinical Evaluation of [F-18]DASA-23, a PET Imaging Tracer for Evaluation of Aberrantly Expressed Pyruvate Kinase M2 in Glioblastoma Beinat, C., Patel, C., Haywood, T., Naya, L., Castillo, J., Shen, B., Massoud, T., Iagaru, A., Davidzon, G., Recht, L., Gambhir, S. SOC NUCLEAR MEDICINE INC. 2021
  • Editorial: Advanced Neuroimaging of Brain Metastases. Frontiers in neurology Vachha, B. A., Huang, S. Y., Massoud, T. F. 2021; 12: 668310

    View details for DOI 10.3389/fneur.2021.668310

    View details for PubMedID 33815266

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC8010233

  • Editorial: Advanced Neuroimaging of Brain Metastases FRONTIERS IN NEUROLOGY Vachha, B. A., Huang, S. Y., Massoud, T. F. 2021; 12
  • Ultrasound Triggered Co-Delivery of Therapeutic MicroRNAs and a Triple Suicide Gene Therapy Vector by Using Biocompatible Polymer Nanoparticles for Improved Cancer Therapy in Mouse Models ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS Kumar, S., Wang, H., Telichko, A. V., Natarajan, A., Bettinger, T., Cherkaoui, S., Massoud, T. F., Dahl, J. J., Paulmurugan, R. 2021
  • A Microfluidics-Based Scalable Approach to Generate Extracellular Vesicles with Enhanced Therapeutic MicroRNA Loading for Intranasal Delivery to Mouse Glioblastomas. ACS nano Wang, K., Kumar, U. S., Sadeghipour, N., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2021

    Abstract

    Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes and microvesicles derived from different cell sources, are used as promising nanovesicles for delivering therapeutic microRNAs (miRNAs) and drugs in cancer therapy. However, their clinical translation is limited by the quantity, size heterogeneity, and drug or small RNA loading efficiency. Herein, we developed a scalable microfluidic platform that can load therapeutic miRNAs (antimiRNA-21 and miRNA-100) and drugs while controlling the size of microfluidically processed EVs (mpEVs) using a pressure-based disruption and reconstitution process. We prepared mpEVs of optimal size using microvesicles isolated from neural stem cells engineered to overexpress CXCR4 receptor and characterized them for charge and miRNA loading efficiency. Since the delivery of therapeutic miRNAs to brain cancer is limited by the blood-brain barrier (BBB), we adopted intranasal administration of miRNA-loaded CXCR4-engineered mpEVs in orthotopic GBM mouse models and observed a consistent pattern of mpEVs trafficking across the nasal epithelia, bypassing the BBB into the intracranial compartment. In addition, the CXCR4-engineered mpEVs manifested selective tropism toward GBMs by stromal-derived factor-1 chemotaxis to deliver their miRNA cargo. The delivered miRNAs sensitized GBM cells to temozolomide, resulting in prominent tumor regression, and improved the overall survival of mice. A simple and efficient approach of packaging miRNAs in mpEVs using microfluidics, combined with a noninvasive nose-to-brain delivery route presents far-reaching potential opportunities to improve GBM therapy in clinical practice.

    View details for DOI 10.1021/acsnano.1c07587

    View details for PubMedID 34723509

  • High-Throughput Whole-Plate Imaging of Cells for Multiple Biological Applications. Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.) Sukumar, U. K., Habte, F., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2021; 2274: 367-384

    Abstract

    Advanced multipurpose cell imaging systems along with integrated rapid quantitation software can enhance and expedite cancer cell culture studies in a variety of applications. Though accurate cell culture studies are an important and necessary component of nearly all cancer biomarker detection and therapy studies, the methods we currently use are of low-throughput, time consuming, and lack accuracy. Hence, it is important to improve several features of the assays to increase the accuracy of their quantitative outputs in most studies. In general, we perform cell culture analysis semimanually by counting a small aliquot of suspended cells using a hemocytometer or viewing a small area of cells on a plate using a bright-field microscope, and then extrapolate the counts or observations to estimate the values for the total numbers of cells. The fundamental problem with this process lies in using techniques, such as extrapolation, which inherently introduces intrasample variability while collecting the cells by enzymatic trypsinization for these assays that are affecting cell growth and other downstream assessments. Fluorescence (FL) microscopy-based assays are also used to image and count cells for various applications, including cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, cell death, transfection efficiency, protein expression, stem cell properties, colony formation, cytotoxicity, drug dose-response, and treatment efficacy studies. These methods are not optimal for many researches, as they require real-time visualization under a microscope plus manual analysis to determine the final results. Owing to long exposure times for cells under fluorescent light of a microscope, the cells may be exposed to suboptimal conditions that affect cell growth, and with occasional photobleaching of the expressed FL probes. Alternatively, the use of cell imaging systems that integrate both advanced bright-field and FL imaging for cell counting and quantification can be useful. In this protocol, we discuss the advantages of a high-throughput cell imaging system using a whole-plate imaging format when used in various bioimaging studies by highlighting a few applications of the system. The system is designed to fundamentally improve the accuracy and time of cell culture analysis while also allowing us to perform the assay without trypsinization, thus avoiding the need to replicate multiple wells for monitoring cell growth over time.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/978-1-0716-1258-3_30

    View details for PubMedID 34050486

  • Ambiguous "Olfactory" Terms for Anatomic Spaces Adjacent to the Cribriform Plate: A Publication Database Analysis and Quest for Uniformity. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Bates, N. S., Massoud, T. F. 2021

    Abstract

    A precise nomenclature and terminology is the foundation of communication in Anatomy and related biomedical sciences. The olfactory bulbs and nerves lie above and below the cribriform plate (CP), respectively. Hence, many anatomical landmarks in this region have names adopting the term "olfactory" as qualifiers. Ambiguous use of these "olfactory" terms exists, with some potential repercussions on patient treatments. We performed a publication database analysis to determine the frequency of misuse of names for five anatomical "olfactory" spaces close to the CP and nasal cavity. We searched PubMed® publications having the keyword "olfactory" in their title or abstract, plus one of seven other keywords: "groove", "fossa", "recess", "cleft", "vestibule", "sulcus" and "cistern". We reviewed all abstracts for accuracy of these terms relative to accepted norms or customary definitions. By February 2020, we found all these keywords in 1255 articles. For the terms olfactory "groove" and "fossa", the number of relevant articles (and percentage of those inaccurately using these terms) were 374 (1.1%), and 49 (8.2%), respectively. All 52 abstracts containing "olfactory" and "vestibule" were irrelevant, relating to the "nasal vestibule" and olfactory function, instead of "olfactory vestibule". Overall, terms used to describe "olfactory" spaces near the CP are seldom ambiguous or inaccurate, but the terms olfactory "groove" and "fossa" are occasionally misused, We propose several new "olfactory" terms for inclusion in the Terminologia Anatomica, and stress the need for uniform nomenclature leading to greater consistency and accuracy in clinical use of anatomical terms containing the word "olfactory" as a descriptor. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.23771

    View details for PubMedID 34370888

  • SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Development: An Overview and Perspectives. ACS pharmacology & translational science Liu, Y., Wang, K., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2020; 3 (5): 844–58

    Abstract

    Coronavirus disease 2019, abbreviated as COVID-19, is caused by a new strain of coronavirus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It started in late December 2019 in Wuhan, China, and by mid-March 2020, the disease had spread globally. As of July 17, 2020, this pandemic virus has infected 13.9 million people and claimed the life of approximately 593 000 people globally, and the numbers continue to climb. An unprecedented effort is underway to develop therapeutic and prophylactic strategies against this disease. Various drugs and vaccines are undergoing rapid development, and some of these are already in phase III clinical trials. Although Russia was the first to release a vaccine by skipping phase III clinical trials, there is no evidence of large-scale clinical trials, and the safety and efficacy of the vaccine are still a concern. Nevertheless, critical lessons can be learned and data garnered for developing promising vaccines against this rapidly emerging virus or other similar pathogens in the future. In this overview, we cover the available information on the various vaccine development initiatives by different companies, the potential strategies adopted for vaccine design, and the challenges and clinical impact expected from these vaccines. We also briefly discuss the possible role of these vaccines and the specific concerns for their use in patients with pre-existing disease conditions such as cardiovascular, lung, kidney, and liver diseases, cancer patients who are receiving immunosuppressive medications, including anticancer chemotherapies, and many other sensitive populations, such as children and the elderly.

    View details for DOI 10.1021/acsptsci.0c00109

    View details for PubMedID 33062951

  • Predicting tumour mutational burden from histopathological images using multiscale deep learning NATURE MACHINE INTELLIGENCE Jain, M. S., Massoud, T. F. 2020; 2 (6): 356–62
  • Ossification of the pterygoalar and pterygospinous ligaments: a computed tomography analysis of infratemporal fossa anatomical variants relevant to percutaneous trigeminal rhizotomy JOURNAL OF NEUROSURGERY Matys, T., Ali, T., Zaccagna, F., Barone, D. G., Kirollos, R. W., Massoud, T. F. 2020; 132 (6): 1942–51
  • Imaging Anatomy of the Vertebral Canal for Trans-Sacral Hiatus Puncture of the Lumbar Cistern. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Trinh, A., Hashmi, S. S., Massoud, T. F. 2020

    Abstract

    A standard lumbar puncture may be impossible for many anatomic or technical reasons. Previous accounts of caudal epidural anesthesia and other procedures via the sacral hiatus prompted us to test if image-guided percutaneous trans-sacral hiatus access to the lumbosacral subarachnoid cistern would be anatomically feasible. To study vertebral canal morphometry and curvature, we analyzed midsagittal CT-myelogram images of 40 normal subjects and digitally measured sacral curvatures between S1 to S5 and S2 to S4 using two methods whereby a lower angle signifies a straighter sacrum. We measured midsagittal vertebral canal area, hiatus width, dural sac termination levels, and distance from sacral hiatus to the dural sac tip (needle distance). Subjects were F:M=25:15, with a mean age of 44.9years. The two S1-S5 full sacral curvature mean angles were 57.3° and 60.4°. Almost all sacral hiatuses were at S4, and dural sac terminations were at S1-S2. The mean S2-S4 sacral curvature was 25.1°, and the mean needle distance was 57.7mm. Using two-way ANOVA, there were significant sex differences for needle distances (p=.001), and full and limited sacral curvatures (p=.02, and p=.046, respectively). There were no significant linear regression correlations between age and sacral curvature, needle distance, canal area, or hiatus width. Therefore, despite a frequently prominent full sacral curvature, the combination of S1-S2 dural sac termination plus a relatively straight trajectory of the lower vertebral canal between S2 and S4 support the theoretical feasibility of percutaneous trans-sacral hiatus and vertebral canal access to the lumbosacral cistern using a standard spinal needle. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.23612

    View details for PubMedID 32323367

  • The Mammillothalamic Tracts: Age-Related Conspicuity and Normative Morphometry on Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Niri, S. G., Khalaf, A. M., Massoud, T. F. 2020

    Abstract

    The mammillothalamic tract (MTT, bundle of Vicq d'Azyr) is a white-matter projection from each mammillary body to the anterior nucleus of the thalamus (ANT). Deep brain stimulation of the MTTs or ANTs is a treatment option for medically refractory focal epilepsy. Since the ANTs may be atrophied in epilepsy, targeting of the MTT terminations could be used as a proxy for ANT locations. However, MTT conspicuity and morphometry on MRI have not been evaluated to date. We investigated normative age- and sex-related MRI morphometrics of the MTTs in healthy individuals. We retrospectively analysed magnified axial T2-weighted images of 80 subjects for bilateral MTT conspicuity, diameters, areas, shapes, precise locations, and symmetry. We statistically tested the effects of independent variables (sex and MTT side) on measured dependent variables using two-way ANOVA; and performed linear regressions with age as the independent variable for each of the dependent variables. Subjects were F:M=44:36, with mean age 45.3years. Only one (0.63%) MTT was inconspicuous. Mean MTT diameter was 1.8mm, area was 2.0mm2 , and distance from third ventricle was 3.1mm. MTTs were mostly bilaterally symmetrical in shape, equally round or ovoid. The right MTT diameter was larger than the left, and males had larger MTT areas than females. We found no statistical difference between MTT diameters and areas in young, middle-aged, and older adults. We report normative axial MRI morphometrics of the MTTs to guide neuromodulation treatments. Future detailed analyses will determine if the MTTs atrophy in proportion to the ANTs in refractory epilepsy.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.23595

    View details for PubMedID 32239548

  • Highly sensitive eight-channel light sensing system for biomedical applications. Photochemical & photobiological sciences : Official journal of the European Photochemistry Association and the European Society for Photobiology Kim, S. B., Hori, S. S., Sadeghipour, N., Sukumar, U. K., Fujii, R., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2020

    Abstract

    We demonstrate the potential of an eight-channel light sensing platform system, named Black Box I (BBI), for rapid and highly sensitive measurement of low-level light using a nonradioactive optical readout. We developed, normalized, and characterized the photon sensitivities of the eight channels of the BBI using placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) as a model imaging reporter. We found that the BBI system had a statistically strong linear correlation with the reference IVIS Lumina II system. When we applied normalization constants, we were able to optimize the photomultiplier tubes (PMT) of all eight channels of the BBI (up to r2 = 0.998). We investigated the biomedical utilities of BBI by: (i) determining alkaline phosphatase activities in mouse plasma samples as a diagnostic secretory biomarker of cancer, and (ii) diagnosing cancer metastases in the organs of mice bearing triple negative breast cancer. We provide an important new addition to low-cost biomedical instruments intended for pre-clinical diagnostic imaging with high sensitivity, high sample throughput, portability, and rapid on-site analysis of low-level light.

    View details for DOI 10.1039/d0pp00017e

    View details for PubMedID 32159572

  • SP94-Targeted Triblock Copolymer Nanoparticle Delivers Thymidine Kinase-p53-Nitroreductase Triple Therapeutic Gene and Restores Anticancer Function against Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Vivo. ACS applied materials & interfaces Sukumar, U. K., Rajendran, J. C., Gambhir, S. S., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2020

    Abstract

    Gene-directed enzyme-prodrug therapy (GDEPT) is a promising approach for cancer therapy, but it suffers from poor targeted delivery in vivo. Polyethylenimine (PEI) is a cationic polymer efficient in delivering negatively charged nucleic acids across cell membranes; however, it is highly toxic in vivo. Hence, we efficiently reduced PEI toxicity without compromising its transfection efficiency by conjugating it with poly(d,l-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as triblock copolymers through a multistep synthetic process. The synthesized nanoparticles showed efficient delivery of loaded nucleic acids to tumor cells in vitro and in vivo in mice. We used this nanoparticle to deliver a rationally engineered thymidine kinase (TK)-p53-nitroreductase (NTR) triple therapeutic gene against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), where p53 tumor suppressor gene is mutated in more than 85% of cancers. TK-p53-NTR triple gene therapy restores p53 function and potentiates cancer cell response to delivered prodrugs (ganciclovir (GCV) and CB1954). We used SP94 peptide-functionalized PLGA-PEG-PEI nanoparticles for the optimal delivery of TK-p53-NTR therapeutic gene in vivo. The nanoparticles prepared from the conjugated polymer showed high loading efficiency for the DNA and markedly enhanced TK-NTR-mediated gene therapy upon the simultaneous coexpression of p53 by the concurrent rescue of the endogenous apoptotic pathway in HCC cells of both p53-mutant and wild-type phenotypes in vitro. In vivo delivery of TK-p53-NTR genes by SP94-targeted PLGA-PEG-PEI NP in mice resulted in a strong expression of suicide genes selectively in tumors, and subsequent administration of GCV and CB1954 led to a decline in tumor growth, and established a superior therapeutic outcome against HCC. We demonstrate a highly efficient approach that exogenously supplements p53 to enable synergy with the outcome of TK-NTR suicide gene therapy against HCC.

    View details for DOI 10.1021/acsami.9b20071

    View details for PubMedID 32048820

  • Tortuosity of Superior Cerebral Veins: Comparative MRI Morphometrics in Normal Subjects and Arteriovenous Malformation Patients. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Telischak, N. A., Yedavalli, V. n., Massoud, T. F. 2020

    Abstract

    Blood vessel tortuosity results from increased diameter and length in response to higher hemodynamic loads. Tortuosity metrics have not been determined for abnormal superior cerebral veins (SCVs) draining cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVM). Draining vein (DV) tortuosity may influence safety and efficacy of retrograde microcatheter navigation during transvenous treatment of pial AVMs. Here we quantify SCV tortuosity in normal subjects and AVM patients using two image segmentation methods. We used contrast-enhanced brain magnetic resonance images to define the axis of each SCV through a regularly spaced set of 3D points defining its skeleton curve. We then calculated two metrics: the 'sum of angles metric' (SOAM), which adds all angles of curvature along a vessel and normalizes by vessel length, and the 'distance metric' (DM), a tortuosity measure providing a ratio of vessel length to linear distance between vessel endpoints. We analyzed 168 metrics in 43 veins of eight normal subjects and 41 veins of seven AVM patients. In normal subjects, the mean SOAM and DM for SCVs were 21.34±7.49 and 1.42±0.25 degrees/mm, respectively. In AVM patients, DVs had a significantly higher mean SOAM of 30.43±11.38 (P=0.02) and DM of 2.79±1.77 (P=0.01) degrees/mm than normal subjects. In AVM patients, DVs were significantly more tortuous than matched contralateral uninvolved SCVs, which were similar in tortuosity to normal subject SCVs. We thus report normative tortuosity metrics of brain SCVs, and show that AVM cortical DVs are significantly more tortuous than normal SCVs. Knowledge of these comparative tortuosities is valuable in planning endovenous AVM embolotherapies. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.23589

    View details for PubMedID 32196753

  • Reconstructed Apoptotic Bodies as Targeted "Nano Decoys" to Treat Intracellular Bacterial Infections within Macrophages and Cancer Cells. ACS nano Bose, R. J., Tharmalingam, N. n., Garcia Marques, F. J., Sukumar, U. K., Natarajan, A. n., Zeng, Y. n., Robinson, E. n., Bermudez, A. n., Chang, E. n., Habte, F. n., Pitteri, S. J., McCarthy, J. R., Gambhir, S. S., Massoud, T. F., Mylonakis, E. n., Paulmurugan, R. n. 2020

    Abstract

    Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a highly pathogenic facultative anaerobe that in some instances resides as an intracellular bacterium within macrophages and cancer cells. This pathogen can establish secondary infection foci, resulting in recurrent systemic infections that are difficult to treat using systemic antibiotics. Here, we use reconstructed apoptotic bodies (ReApoBds) derived from cancer cells as "nano decoys" to deliver vancomycin intracellularly to kill S. aureus by targeting inherent "eat me" signaling of ApoBds. We prepared ReApoBds from different cancer cells (SKBR3, MDA-MB-231, HepG2, U87-MG, and LN229) and used them for vancomycin delivery. Physicochemical characterization showed ReApoBds size ranges from 80 to 150 nm and vancomycin encapsulation efficiency of 60 ± 2.56%. We demonstrate that the loaded vancomycin was able to kill intracellular S. aureus efficiently in an in vitro model of S. aureus infected RAW-264.7 macrophage cells, and U87-MG (p53-wt) and LN229 (p53-mt) cancer cells, compared to free-vancomycin treatment (P < 0.001). The vancomycin loaded ReApoBds treatment in S. aureus infected macrophages showed a two-log-order higher CFU reduction than the free-vancomycin treatment group. In vivo studies revealed that ReApoBds can specifically target macrophages and cancer cells. Vancomycin loaded ReApoBds have the potential to kill intracellular S. aureus infection in vivo in macrophages and cancer cells.

    View details for DOI 10.1021/acsnano.0c00921

    View details for PubMedID 32347709

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging Anatomy and Morphometry of Lumbar Intervertebral Foramina to Guide Safe Transforaminal Subarachnoid Punctures. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Khalaf, A. M., Yedavalli, V., Massoud, T. F. 2019

    Abstract

    Percutaneous transforaminal lumbar punctures (TFLPs) offer alternative access routes to the lumbar subarachnoid cistern. Safe fluoroscopic insertion of a needle through a lumbar intervertebral foramen (IVF) should ideally avoid the exiting spinal nerve and surrounding vascular pedicles. A crescentic region in the posterior aspect of IVF is the conventional position for needle placement during TFLP, but the underlying anatomic basis for this has not been evaluated fully. To enhance TFLP safety, we defined the morphometry of normal lumbar IVFs and precise locations of neurovascular structures in the IVF posterior crescent. We retrospectively reviewed high-resolution T2-weighted lumbar spine magnetic resonance images of 40 normal adults to establish normative dimensions of each IVF from L1 to L5 bilaterally. We segmented the IVF posterior crescent into three parts, and within each, measured the areas occupied by neurovascular structures. We statistically correlated the presence or absence of neurovascular structures in each crescent segment using a Chi-square test. The mean morphometrics for all 304 IVFs in 10 males and 30 females of similar ages were: area 115.3±29.5mm2 ; height 18.0±2.4mm; and width at mid-disc level 5.6±2.1mm. We found a significant association between crescent segment and presence or absence of neurovascular structures (chi2 =95.9, p<0.001). A post-hoc calculation of adjusted standardized residuals identified a significant association between the middle crescent segment and absence of neurovascular structures. Thus, the middle segment of the IVF posterior crescent is significantly most devoid of neurovascular structures, and more often would be the safest target for needle placement during TFLP. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.23533

    View details for PubMedID 31837183

  • Three-Dimensional Angles of Confluence of Cortical Bridging Veins and the Superior Sagittal Sinus on MR Venography: Does Drainage of Adjacent Brain Arteriovenous Malformations Alter this Spatial Configuration? Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Yedavalli, V., Telischak, N. A., Jain, M. S., Massoud, T. F. 2019

    Abstract

    Few neuroimaging anatomic studies to date have investigated in detail the point of entry of cortical bridging veins (CBVs) into the superior sagittal sinus (SSS). Although we know that most CBVs join the SSS at an acute angle opposite to the direction of SSS blood flow, the three-dimensional (3-D) spatial configuration of these venous confluences has not been studied previously. This anatomical information would be pertinent to several clinically applicable scenarios, such as in planning intracranial surgical approaches that preserve bridging veins; studying anatomical factors in the pathophysiology of SSS thrombosis; and when planning endovascular microcatheterization of pial veins to retrogradely embolize brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). We used the concept of Euclidean planes in 3-D space to calculate the arccosine of these CBV-SSS angles of confluence. To test the hypothesis that pial AVM draining veins may not be any more acutely angled or difficult to microcatheterize at the SSS than for normal CBVs, we measured 70 angles of confluence on magnetic resonance venography images of 11 normal, and nine AVM patients. There was no statistical difference between normal and AVM patients in the CBV-SSS angles projected in 3-D space (56.2° [SD=22.4°], and 46.2° [SD=22.3°], respectively; P >0.05). Hence, participation of CBVs in drainage of pial AVMs should not confer any added difficulty to their microcatheterization across the SSS, when compared to the acute angles found in normal individuals. This has useful implications for potential choices of strategies requiring endovascular transvenous retrograde approaches to treat AVMs. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.23521

    View details for PubMedID 31749197

  • TARGETED POLYGIONS ENGINEERED WITH SURFACE miRNAs FOR COMBINED MULTIMODALITY IMAGING AND ENHANCEMENT OF TEMOZOLOMIDE TREATMENT: A NOVEL INTRANASALLY-DELIVERED THERANOSTIC STRATEGY AGAINST GLIOBLASTOMA Sukumar, U., Afjei, R., Massoud, T., Paulmurugan, R. OXFORD UNIV PRESS INC. 2019: 87–88
  • PRECEDING p53 STABILIZATION USING DOXORUBICIN AUGMENTS PRIMA-1-MEDIATED p53 REFOLDING AND INCREASED CELLULAR APOPTOSIS: EVALUATION OF A SEQUENTIAL COMBINATION THERAPY AGAINST GLIOBLASTOMA Babikir, H., Afjei, R., Paulmurugan, R., Massoud, T. OXFORD UNIV PRESS INC. 2019: 88
  • Computational Network Modeling of Intranidal Hemodynamic Compartmentalization in a Theoretical Three-Dimensional Brain Arteriovenous Malformation. Frontiers in physiology Jain, M. S., Do, H. M., Massoud, T. F. 2019; 10: 1250

    Abstract

    There are currently no in vivo techniques to accurately study dynamic equilibrium of blood flow within separate regions (compartments) of a large brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM) nidus. A greater understanding of this AVM compartmentalization, even if theoretical, would be useful for optimal planning of endovascular and multimodal AVM therapies. We aimed to develop a biomathematical AVM model for theoretical investigations of intranidal regions of increased mean intravascular pressure (Pmean) and flow representing hemodynamic compartments, upon simulated AVM superselective angiography (SSA). We constructed an AVM model as a theoretical electrical circuit containing four arterial feeders (AF1-AF4) and a three-dimensional nidus of 97 interconnected plexiform and fistulous components. We simulated SSA by increases in Pmean in each AF (with and without occlusion of all other AFs), and then used network analysis to establish resulting increases in Pmean and flow within each nidus vessel. We analyzed shifts in hemodynamic compartments consequent to increasing AF injection pressures. SSA simulated by increases of 10 mm Hg in AF1, AF2, AF3, or AF4 resulted in dissipation of Pmean over 38, 66, 76, or 20% of the nidus, respectively, rising slightly with simultaneous occlusion of other AFs. We qualitatively analyzed shifting intranidal compartments consequent to varying injection pressures by mapping the hemodynamic changes onto the nidus network. Differences in extent of nidus filling upon SSA injections provide theoretical evidence that hemodynamic and angioarchitectural features help establish AVM nidus compartmentalization. This model based on a theoretical AVM will serve as a useful computational tool for further investigations of AVM embolotherapy strategies.

    View details for DOI 10.3389/fphys.2019.01250

    View details for PubMedID 31607956

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC6769414

  • Optic Chiasm Morphometric Changes in Multiple Sclerosis: Feasibility of a Simplified Brain MRI Measure of White Matter Atrophy. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Zaccagna, F., Matys, T., Massoud, T. F. 2019

    Abstract

    Sophisticated volume measurements of brain structures on MRI may improve specificity in determining long-term progression of multiple sclerosis (MS), but these techniques are laborious. The optic chiasm (OC) is a white matter (WM) structure clearly visible on routine MRI and is related to the optic nerves (ONs), which are known to atrophy in MS. We hypothesized that OC morphometric measurements would show OC atrophy in MS compared to normal patients. If so, this could help establish a novel simplified brain MRI measure of WM atrophy in MS patients. We retrospectively evaluated standard brain MRIs of 97 patients with known MS, and 98 normal individuals. We electronically measured eight OC morphometrics on axial T2WIs and midsagittal T1WIs: OC width and antero-posterior (AP) diameter, diameters of each ON and optic tract (OT), and angles between the ONs or OTs. Mean OC width, AP diameter and height in MS patients were 11.83±1.25mm (95%CI 11.58-12.09), 2.99±0.65mm (95%CI 2.85-3.12), and 2.09±0.37mm (95%CI 2-2.19), respectively. In normal individuals they were 12.1±1.4mm (95%CI 11.78-12.34), 3.43±0.63mm (95%CI 3.3-3.58), and 2.15±0.37mm (95%CI 2.07-2.23), respectively. There were statistically significant differences between MS patients and controls for AP diameter (p=0.000), but not for width (p=0.204) or height (p=0.183). The ONs were significantly smaller in MS (p<0.0017), but not the OTs. Thus, the OC is significantly atrophied in an unstratified cohort of MS patients. Future studies may establish an MRI OC morphometric index to evaluate demyelinating disease in the brain. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.23446

    View details for PubMedID 31381196

  • Are high lumbar punctures safe? A magnetic resonance imaging morphometric study of the conus medullaris CLINICAL ANATOMY Yedavalli, V., Jain, M. S., Das, D., Massoud, T. F. 2019; 32 (5): 618–29

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.23359

    View details for Web of Science ID 000469935300003

  • Molecular Imaging of Retinoic Acids in Live Cells Using Single-Chain Bioluminescence Probes ACS COMBINATORIAL SCIENCE Kim, S., Fujj, R., Nishihara, R., Bose, R. C., Citterio, D., Suzuki, K., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2019; 21 (6): 473–81
  • Are High Lumbar Punctures Safe? An MRI Morphometric Study of the Conus Medullaris. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Yedavalli, V., Jain, M. S., Das, D., Massoud, T. F. 2019

    Abstract

    A high lumbar puncture (LP) at L2-L3 or above is often necessary to consider on technical grounds, but complications of conus medullaris (CM) damage during high LP are potentially concerning. We hypothesized that a high LP might be safer than previously thought, by accounting for movements of the CM upon patient positional changes. We retrospectively reviewed standard normal supine lumbar spine MRIs of 58 patients, and used electronic calipers on axial images at the T12-L1, L1-2, and L2-3 disc levels to measure the transverse diameter of the CM relative to the size of the dorsal thecal sac space (DTSS) through which a spinal needle could be inserted. On 142 axial images, the means for CM diameters were 8.2 mm, 6.0 mm, and 2.9 mm at the three levels, respectively. We then used known literature mean CM displacement values in the legs flexed and unflexed lateral decubitus positions (LDP), to factor in CM shifts to the dependent side. We found that at all three levels, the likely positional shift of the CM would be too small and insufficient to displace the entire CM out of the DTSS. However, if needle placement could be confined to the midsagittal plane, an LP in the unflexed LDP would theoretically be entirely safe at both L1-L2 and L2-L3, and almost so at L2-L3 in the legs flexed LDP. Thus, high LPs at L1-L2 and L2-3 are in theory likely safer than considered previously, more so in the legs unflexed than in the flexed LDP. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

    View details for PubMedID 30807670

  • Molecular Imaging of Retinoic Acids in Live Cells Using Single-Chain Bioluminescence Probes. ACS combinatorial science Kim, S. B., Fujii, R. n., Nishihara, R. n., Bose, R. J., Citterio, D. n., Suzuki, K. n., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. n. 2019

    Abstract

    Retinoic acid (RA) is a key metabolite necessary for embryonic development and differentiation in vertebrates. We demonstrate the utility of genetically encoded, ligand-activatable single-chain bioluminescence probes for detecting RAs from different biological sources. We examined 13 different molecular designs to identify an efficient single-chain probe that can quantify RA with significant sensitivity. The optimal probe consisted of four components: the N- and C-terminal fragments of artificial luciferase variant-16 (ALuc16), the ligand binding domain of retinoic acid receptor α (RARα LBD), and an LXXLL interaction motif. This probe showed a 5.2-fold greater bioluminescence intensity in response to RA when compared to the vehicle control in live mammalian cells. The probe was highly selective to all-trans-RA (at-RA), and highly sensitive in determining at-RA levels in cells derived from tumor xenografts created using MDA-MB-231 cells engineered to stably express the probe. We also detected RA levels in serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Using this probe, the detection limit for at-RA was ∼10-9.5 M, with a linear range of two orders. We present a highly useful technique to quantitatively image endogenous at-RA levels in live mammalian cells expressing novel single-chain bioluminescence probes.

    View details for PubMedID 31034200

  • Ligand-activated BRET9 imaging for measuring protein-protein interactions in living mice. Chemical communications (Cambridge, England) Bae Kim, S. n., Fujii, R. n., Natarajan, A. n., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. n. 2019

    Abstract

    Bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) is a commonly used assay system for studying protein-protein interactions and protein folding in vivo. Conventional BRET systems have solely depended on an overlap of the energy donor and acceptor spectra. In this study, we engineered a conceptually unique ligand-activatable BRET system (termed BRET9), where a full-length Artificial Luciferase variant 23 (ALuc23), acting as the energy donor, is sandwiched between a protein pair of interest, FRB and FKBP12, and linked to a fluorescent protein as the energy acceptor. A specific ligand, rapamycin, then activates inter- and intramolecular interactions of FRB and FKBP12, which develop molecular strain in the sandwiched ALuc23 to accelerate further folding. We found that this system greatly enhanced both the total bioluminescence spectrum and the BRET signal in the far-red (FR) region. We characterized the molecular construct by studying 18 different designs categorized into four groups. The best BRET system design allowed an approximately 5-fold enhancement of the bioluminescence intensities in the FR region. This new BRET system provides a robust ligand-activatable platform that efficiently reports FR bioluminescence signals in cells and living animal models.

    View details for DOI 10.1039/c9cc07634d

    View details for PubMedID 31807738

  • Large-scale ensemble simulations of biomathematical brain arteriovenous malformation models using graphics processing unit computation. Computers in biology and medicine Jain, M. S., Do, H. M., Wintermark, M. n., Massoud, T. F. 2019; 113: 103416

    Abstract

    Theoretical modeling allows investigations of cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) hemodynamics, but current models are too simple and not clinically representative. We developed a more realistic AVM model based on graphics processing unit (GPU) computing, to replicate highly variable and complex nidus angioarchitectures with vessel counts in the thousands-orders of magnitude greater than current models.We constructed a theoretical electrical circuit AVM model with a nidus described by a stochastic block model (SBM) of 57 nodes and an average of 1000 plexiform and fistulous vessels. We sampled and individually simulated 10,000 distinct nidus morphologies from this SBM, constituting an ensemble simulation. We assigned appropriate biophysical values to all model vessels, and known values of mean intravascular pressure (Pmean) to extranidal vessels. We then used network analysis to calculate Pmean and volumetric flow rate within each nidus vessel, and mapped these values onto a graphic representation of the nidus network. We derived an expression for nidus rupture risk and conducted a model parameter sensitivity analysis.Simulations revealed a total intranidal volumetric blood flow ranging from 268 mL/min to 535 mL/min, with an average of 463 mL/min. The maximum percentage rupture risk among all vessels in the nidus ranged from 0% to 60%, with an average of 29%.This easy to implement biomathematical AVM model, allowed by parallel data processing using advanced GPU computing, will serve as a useful tool for theoretical investigations of AVM therapies and their hemodynamic sequelae.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2019.103416

    View details for PubMedID 31494430

  • Eponymous "valves" of the nasolacrimal drainage apparatus. I. A historical review CLINICAL ANATOMY Yedavalli, V., Das, D., Massoud, T. F. 2019; 32 (1): 41–45

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.23284

    View details for Web of Science ID 000454304400008

  • Eponymous "valves" of the nasolacrimal drainage apparatus. II. Frequency of visualization on dacryocystography CLINICAL ANATOMY Yedavalli, V., Das, D., Massoud, T. F. 2019; 32 (1): 35–40

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.23283

    View details for Web of Science ID 000454304400007

  • Ossification of the pterygoalar and pterygospinous ligaments: a computed tomography analysis of infratemporal fossa anatomical variants relevant to percutaneous trigeminal rhizotomy. Journal of neurosurgery Matys, T. n., Ali, T. n., Zaccagna, F. n., Barone, D. G., Kirollos, R. W., Massoud, T. F. 2019: 1–10

    Abstract

    OBJECTIVEOssification of pterygoalar and pterygospinous ligaments traversing the superior aspect of the infratemporal fossa results in formation of osseous bars that can obstruct percutaneous needle access to the trigeminal ganglion through the foramen ovale (FO), interfere with lateral mandibular nerve block, and impede transzygomatic surgical approaches. Presence of these ligaments has been studied on dry skulls, but description of their radiological anatomy is scarce, in particular on cross-sectional imaging. The aim of this study was to describe visualization of pterygoalar and pterygospinous bars on computed tomography (CT) and to review their prevalence and clinical significance.METHODSThe authors retrospectively reviewed 200 helical sinonasal CT scans by analyzing 0.75- to 1.0-mm axial images, maximum intensity projection (MIP) reconstructions, and volume rendered (VR) images, including views along the anticipated axis of the needle in percutaneous Hartel and submandibular approaches to the FO.RESULTSOssified pterygoalar and pterygospinous ligaments were readily identifiable on CT scans. An ossified pterygoalar ligament was demonstrated in 10 patients, including 1 individual with bilateral complete ossification (0.5%), 4 patients with unilateral complete ossification (2.0%), and 5 with incomplete unilateral ossification (2.5%). Nearly all patients with pterygoalar bars were male (90%, p < 0.01). An ossified pterygospinous ligament was seen in 35 patients, including 2 individuals with bilateral complete (1.0%), 8 with unilateral complete (4%), 8 with bilateral incomplete (4.0%), 12 with bilateral incomplete (6.0%) ossification, and 5 (2.5%) with mixed ossification (complete on one side and incomplete on the contralateral side). All pterygoalar bars interfered with a hypothetical needle access to the FO using the Hartel approach but not the submandibular approach. In contrast, 54% of complete and 24% of incomplete pterygospinous bars impeded the submandibular approach to the FO, without affecting the Hartel approach.CONCLUSIONSThis study provides the first detailed description of cross-sectional radiological and applied surgical anatomy of pterygoalar and pterygospinous bars. Our data are clinically useful during skull base imaging to predict potential obstacles to percutaneous cannulation of the FO and assist in the choice of approach, as these two variants differentially impede the Hartel and submandibular access routes. Our results can also be useful in planning surgical approaches to the skull base through the infratemporal fossa.

    View details for PubMedID 31075780

  • Restoring guardianship of the genome: Anticancer drug strategies to reverse oncogenic mutant p53 misfolding CANCER TREATMENT REVIEWS Babikir, H. A., Afjei, R., Paulmurugan, R., Massoud, T. F. 2018; 71: 19–31
  • Comparison of cell-based assays to quantify treatment effects of anticancer drugs identifies a new application for Bodipy-L-cystine to measure apoptosis SCIENTIFIC REPORTS Kumar, N., Atjei, R., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2018; 8
  • Comparison of cell-based assays to quantify treatment effects of anticancer drugs identifies a new application for Bodipy-L-cystine to measure apoptosis. Scientific reports Kumar, N., Afjei, R., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2018; 8 (1): 16363

    Abstract

    Cell-based assays that measure anticancer drug effects are essential for evaluating chemotherapeutic agents. Many assays targeting various cellular mechanisms are available, leading to inconsistent results when using different techniques. We critically compared six common assays, as well as a new assay using Bodipy.FL.L-cystine (BFC), to identify the most accurate and reproducible in measuring anticancer drug effects. We tested three common chemotherapies (methotrexate, paclitaxel, and etoposide) in two cell lines (Ln229 and MDA-MB231). Spectroscopic assays such as Cell Titer Blue, and 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFDA) yielded a strong drug dose response, especially for paclitaxel and etoposide (R2=0.9). MTT and Calcein-AM fluorescent dye-based assays were less consistent in that regard. Among three flow cytometry assays, Propidium Iodide (PI)-based DNA content analysis and a new BFC-based glutathione-redox (GSH) assay produced drug dose dependent results. Compared to PI, BFC showed a better correlation (R2=0.7-0.9) in depicting live and apoptotic cells. We found that the combination of Cell Titer Blue spectroscopy and BFC flow cytometry assays were most accurate in assessing anticancer drug effects by clear distinction between live and apoptotic cells, independent of drug mechanism of action. We present a new application of BFC as an agent for measuring cellular apoptosis.

    View details for PubMedID 30397244

  • Tumor Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicle-Coated Nanocarriers: An Efficient Theranostic Platform for the Cancer-Specific Delivery of Anti-miR-21 and Imaging Agents ACS NANO Bose, R. C., Kumar, S., Zeng, Y., Afjei, R., Robinson, E., Lau, K., Bermudez, A., Habte, F., Pitteri, S. J., Sinclair, R., Willmann, J. K., Massoud, T. F., Gambhir, S. S., Paulmurugan, R. 2018; 12 (11): 10817–32
  • Eponymous 'Valves' of the Nasolacrimal Drainage Apparatus: II. Frequency of Visualization on Dacryocystography. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Yedavalli, V., Das, D., Massoud, T. F. 2018

    Abstract

    Developmental remnants may follow segmental canalization of ectodermal epithelial cords forming the nasolacrimal drainage apparatus (NDA). This can result in false luminal 'valves' along the path of the NDA, many of which have been named, but most have not been anatomically identified with consistency. By 1908, eight such 'valves' were documented, those of: Foltz, Bochdalek, Rosenmuller, Huschke, Aubaret, Beraud or Krause, Taillefer, and Hasner or Cruveilhier or Bianchi. Digital subtraction dacryocystography (DS-DCG) is the highest spatial resolution imaging technique available to outline in vivo NDA anatomy, luminal profile, and pathology. We believe this is the first report of the conspicuousness and frequency of these 'valves' on DS-DCG. We retrospectively analyzed routine DS-DCGs with normal findings for the presence and frequency of the eight NDA 'valves.' We examined 92 normal DS-DCGs on patients aged 14-82 y (71% female, 29% male). We observed 'valves' most reliably in the inferior nasolacrimal duct: the inferior valve of Hasner (plica lacrimalis) was present in 98.9% of cases, and more superiorly, the valve of Taillefer (93.5%) and the valve of Krause (79.3%). Contrastingly, we infrequently identified the very superior 'valves': Foltz or Bochdalek in 17.1%, Rosenmuller or Huschke in 46.4%, and Auberat in 40% of cases. Therefore, unlike the inferior NDA valves, these more superior 'valves' were less consistently identified and are presumed to be simple mural mucosal irregularities rather than true structural valves. These findings will be useful in diagnostic interpretation of DS-DCGs and therapeutic planning for patients undergoing luminal procedures on the NDA. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

    View details for PubMedID 30260507

  • Eponymous 'Valves' of the Nasolacrimal Drainage Apparatus: I. A Historical Review. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Yedavalli, V., Das, D., Massoud, T. F. 2018

    Abstract

    The nasolacrimal drainage apparatus (NDA) is of interest to anatomists, radiologists, and opthalmologists alike, owing to its intricate luminal contour, complex surrounding structural morphology, and its clinical relevance. Here we review the history of anatomical descriptions of so-called luminal 'valves' of the NDA, including the numerous historical figures whose eponyms adorn the NDA. By 1908, multiple false 'valves' that are likely no more than mounds of mucosa along the NDA had been recorded. In the modern era, these have all been largely considered speculative in nature and function aside from the consistently described true valve of Hasner (plica lacrimalis). Back then, eight so-called 'valves' were believed to be identifiable. These were the 'valves' of Foltz, Bochdalek, Rosenmuller, Huschke, Aubaret, Beraud or Krause, Taillefer, and Hasner or Cruveilhier or Bianchi. With the advent of detailed characterization through modern high-resolution imaging techniques, such as digital subtraction dacryocystography (DS-DCG), many of these valvular folds have come into question owing to their inconsistent identification. This historical review should be useful for greater understanding and accurate contextual interpretation of 'valves' encountered on DS-DCG studies, and in clinical management and therapeutic planning of patients prior to undergoing luminal procedures on the NDA. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

    View details for PubMedID 30260544

  • The Hemorrhage that Wasn't: Polycythemia Presenting as a Pseudointracranial Hemorrhage in Pedestrian vs Automobile Trauma Alert JOURNAL OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE CASE REPORTS Phillips, A. W., Baird, J. H., Wentland, A. L., Yang, R. L., Massoud, T. F. 2018; 9 (2): 26–29
  • Tumor Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicle-Coated Nanocarriers: An Efficient Theranostic Platform for the Cancer-Specific Delivery of Anti-miR-21 and Imaging Agents. ACS nano Jc Bose, R. n., Uday Kumar, S. n., Zeng, Y. n., Afjei, R. n., Robinson, E. n., Lau, K. n., Bermudez, A. n., Habte, F. n., Pitteri, S. J., Sinclair, R. n., Willmann, J. K., Massoud, T. F., Gambhir, S. S., Paulmurugan, R. n. 2018

    Abstract

    MicroRNAs are critical regulators of cancer initiation, progression, and dissemination. Extensive evidence suggests that the inhibition of over-expressed oncogenic miRNA function can be a robust strategy for anticancer therapy. However, in vivo targeted delivery of miRNA therapeutics to various types of cancers remains a major challenge. Inspired by their natural synthesis and cargo delivery capabilities, researchers have exploited tumor cell-derived extracellular vesicles (TEVs) for the cancer-targeted delivery of therapeutics and theranostics. Here, we investigate a TEV-based nanoplatform for multimodal miRNA delivery and phototherapy treatments as well as the magnetic resonance imaging of cancer. We demonstrated loading of anti-miR-21 that blocks the function of endogenous oncogenic miR-21 over-expressed in cancer cells into and subsequent delivery by TEVs derived from 4T1 cells. We also produced Cy5-anti-miR-21-loaded TEVs from two other cancer cell lines (HepG2 and SKBR3) and confirmed their robust homologous and heterologous transfection efficiency and intracellular Cy5-anti-miR-21 delivery. Additionally, TEV-mediated anti-miR-21 delivery attenuated doxorubicin (DOX) resistance in breast cancer cells with a 3-fold higher cell kill efficiency than in cells treated with DOX alone. We then investigated TEVs as a biomimetic source for the functionalization of gold-iron oxide nanoparticles (GIONs) and demonstrated nanotheranostic properties of TEV-GIONs in vitro. TEV-GIONs demonstrated excellent T2 contrast in in vitro magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and resulted in efficient photothermal effect in 4T1 cells. We also evaluated the biodistribution and theranostic property of anti-miR-21 loaded TEV-GIONs in vivo by labeling with indocyanine green near-infrared dye. We further validated the tumor specific accumulation of TEV-GIONs using MR imaging. Our findings demonstrate that the distribution pattern of the TEV-anti-miR-21-GIONs correlated well with the tumor-targeting capability as well as the activity and efficacy obtained in response to doxorubicin combination treatments. TEVs and TEV-GIONs are promising nanotheranostics for future applications in cancer molecular imaging and therapy.

    View details for PubMedID 30346694

  • CORRELATION OF VASARI-BASED MRI PHENOTYPES WITH MGMT AND IDH STATUS ACROSS GLIOMA GRADES: A STATISTICAL ANALYSIS IN 372 PATIENTS Das, D., Yoon, B., Golden, L., Samghabadi, P., Vogel, H., Yeom, K., Iv, M., Massoud, T. OXFORD UNIV PRESS INC. 2017: 150
  • TREM1-TARGETED PET IMAGING OF TUMOR-ASSOCIATED MACROPHAGES IN AN ORTHOTOPIC GLIOBLASTOMA MOUSE MODEL Johnson, E., Murty, S., Mayer, A., Tsai, C., Mehta, S., Ilovich, O., Massoud, T., Andreasson, K., James, M. OXFORD UNIV PRESS INC. 2017: 249
  • A MOLECULAR IMAGING BIOSENSOR MONITORS THE EFFECTS OF ANTI-MISFOLDING DRUGS THAT RESTORE MUTANT p53 FUNCTION AND ENHANCE COMBINATION CHEMOTHERAPY FOR GLIOBLASTOMA Paulmurugan, R., Afjei, R., Babikir, H., Sekar, T., Massoud, T. OXFORD UNIV PRESS INC. 2017: 62
  • TARGETED NANOPARTICLE DELIVERY OF THERAPEUTIC ANTIMIR-21 AND ANTIMIR-10B PRESENSITIZES GLIOBLASTOMA TO LOWER EFFECTIVE DOSES OF TEMOZOLOMIDE IN CELLS AND XENOGRAFTS Malhotra, M., Sekar, T., Devulapally, R., Afjei, R., Paulmurugan, R., Massoud, T. OXFORD UNIV PRESS INC. 2017: 86
  • THE EFFECT OF PATIENT AGE AT GLIOMA PRESENTATION ON MRI PHENOTYPE: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF VASARI-BASED FEATURE-SET CRITERIA IN 711 PATIENTS Das, D., Yoon, B., Golden, L., Samghabadi, P., Vogel, H., Yeom, K., Iv, M., Massoud, T. OXFORD UNIV PRESS INC. 2017: 158
  • PKM2 activation sensitizes cancer cells to growth inhibition by 2-deoxy-D-glucose ONCOTARGET Tee, S., Park, J., Hurd, R. E., Brimacombe, K. R., Boxer, M. B., Massoud, T. F., Rutt, B. K., Spielman, D. M. 2017; 8 (53): 90959–68
  • PKM2 activation sensitizes cancer cells to growth inhibition by 2-deoxy-D-glucose. Oncotarget Tee, S. S., Park, J. M., Hurd, R. E., Brimacombe, K. R., Boxer, M. B., Massoud, T. F., Rutt, B. K., Spielman, D. M. 2017; 8 (53): 90959-90968

    Abstract

    Cancer metabolism has emerged as an increasingly attractive target for interfering with tumor growth. Small molecule activators of pyruvate kinase isozyme M2 (PKM2) suppress tumor formation but have an unknown effect on established tumors. We demonstrate that TEPP-46, a PKM2 activator, results in increased glucose consumption, providing the rationale for combining PKM2 activators with the toxic glucose analog, 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG). Combination treatment resulted in reduced viability of a range of cell lines in standard cell culture conditions at concentrations of drugs that had no effect when used alone. This effect was replicated in vivo on established subcutaneous tumors. We further demonstrated the ability to detect acute metabolic differences in combination treatment using hyperpolarized magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Combination treated tumors displayed a higher pyruvate to lactate 13C-label exchange 2 hr post-treatment. This ability to assess the effect of drugs non-invasively may accelerate the implementation and clinical translation of drugs that target cancer metabolism.

    View details for DOI 10.18632/oncotarget.19630

    View details for PubMedID 29207616

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC5710897

  • DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF A NEW HIGHLY SPECIFIC TREM1-SPECIFIC PET TRACER FOR IMAGING MALADAPTIVE INFLAMMATION Johnson, E. M., Mayer, A., Wang, Q., Tsai, C., Mehta, S., Habte, B., Ilovich, O., Massoud, T. F., Andreasson, K. I., James, M. L. WILEY. 2017: 15
  • Engineering Intracellularly Retained Gaussia Luciferase Reporters for Improved Biosensing and Molecular Imaging Applications. ACS chemical biology Gaur, S. n., Bhargava-Shah, A. n., Hori, S. n., Afjei, R. n., Sekar, T. V., Gambhir, S. S., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. n. 2017

    Abstract

    Gaussia luciferase (GLUC) is a bioluminescent reporter protein of increasing importance. As a secretory protein, it has increased sensitivity in vitro and in vivo (∼20 000-fold, and ∼1000-fold, respectively) over its competitor, secreted alkaline phosphatase. Unfortunately, this same advantageous secretory nature of GLUC limits its usefulness for many other possible intracellular applications, e.g., imaging signaling pathways in intact cells, in vivo imaging, and in developing molecular imaging biosensors to study protein-protein interactions and protein folding. Hence, to widen the research applications of GLUC, we developed engineered variants that increase its intracellular retention both by modifying the N-terminal secretory signal peptide and by tagging additional sequences to its C-terminal region. We found that when GLUC was expressed in mammalian cells, its N-terminal secretory signal peptide comprising amino acids 1-16 was essential for GLUC folding and functional activity in addition to its inherent secretory property. Modification of the C-terminus of GLUC by tagging a four amino acid (KDEL) endoplasmic reticulum targeting peptide in multiple repeats significantly improved its intracellular retention, with little impact on its folding and enzymatic activity. We used stable cells expressing this engineered GLUC with KDEL repeats to monitor chemically induced endoplasmic reticulum stress on cells. Additionally, we engineered an apoptotic sensor using modified variants of GLUC containing a four amino acid caspase substrate peptide (DEVD) between the GLUC protein and the KDEL repeats. Its use in cell culture resulted in increased GLUC secretion in the growth medium when cells were treated with the chemotherapeutic drugs doxorubicin, paclitaxel, and carboplatin. We thus successfully engineered a new variant GLUC protein that is retained inside cells rather than secreted extracellularly. We validated this novel reporter by incorporating it in biosensors for detection of cellular endoplasmic reticulum stress and caspase activation. This new molecularly engineered enzymatic reporter has the potential for widespread applications in biological research.

    View details for PubMedID 28767220

  • Molecular Imaging Biosensor Monitors p53 Sumoylation in Cells and Living Mice ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY Sekar, T. V., Foygel, K., Devulapally, R., Kumar, V., Malhotra, S., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R. 2016; 88 (23): 11420-11428

    Abstract

    Small molecule mediated stabilization of p53 tumor suppressor protein through sumoylation is a promising new strategy for improving cancer chemotherapy. A molecular tool that monitors p53 sumoylation status and expedites screening for drugs that enhance p53 sumoylation would be beneficial. We report a molecularly engineered reporter fragment complementation biosensor based on optical imaging of Firefly luciferase (FLuc), to quantitatively image p53 sumoylation and desumoylation in cells and living mice. We initially characterized this biosensor by successfully imaging sumoylation of several target proteins, achieving significant FLuc complementation for ERα (p < 0.01), p53 (p < 0.005), FKBP12 (p < 0.03), ID (p < 0.03), and HDAC1 (p < 0.002). We then rigorously tested the sensitivity and specificity of the biosensor using several variants of p53 and SUMO1, including deletion mutants, and those with modified sequences containing the SUMO-acceptor site of target proteins. Next we evaluated the performance of the biosensor in HepG2 cells by treatment with ginkgolic acid, a drug that reduces p53 sumoylation, as well as trichostatin A, a potential inducer of p53 sumoylation by enhancement of its nuclear export. Lastly, we demonstrated the in vivo utility of this biosensor in monitoring and quantifying the effects of these drugs on p53 sumoylation in living mice using bioluminescence imaging. Adoption of this biosensor in future high throughput drug screening has the important potential to help identify new and repurposed small molecules that alter p53 sumoylation, and to preclinically evaluate candidate anticancer drugs in living animals.

    View details for DOI 10.1021/acs.analchem.6b02048

    View details for PubMedID 27934110

  • A transgenic mouse model expressing an ER alpha folding biosensor reveals the effects of Bisphenol A on estrogen receptor signaling SCIENTIFIC REPORTS Sekar, T. V., Foygel, K., Massoud, T. F., Gambhir, S. S., Paulmurugan, R. 2016; 6

    Abstract

    Estrogen receptor-α (ERα) plays an important role in normal and abnormal physiology of the human reproductive system by interacting with the endogenous ligand estradiol (E2). However, other ligands, either analogous or dissimilar to E2, also bind to ERα. This may create unintentional activation of ER signaling in reproductive tissues that can lead to cancer development. We developed a transgenic mouse model that constitutively expresses a firefly luciferase (FLuc) split reporter complementation biosensor (NFLuc-ER-LBDG521T-CFLuc) to simultaneously evaluate the dynamics and potency of ligands that bind to ERα. We first validated this model using various ER ligands, including Raloxifene, Diethylstilbestrol, E2, and 4-hydroxytamoxifen, by employing FLuc-based optical bioluminescence imaging of living mice. We then used the model to investigate the carcinogenic property of Bisphenol A (BPA), an environmental estrogen, by long-term exposure at full and half environmental doses. We showed significant carcinogenic effects on female animals while revealing activated downstream ER signaling as measured by bioluminescence imaging. BPA induced tumor-like outgrowths in female transgenic mice, histopathologically confirmed to be neoplastic and epithelial in origin. This transgenic mouse model expressing an ERα folding-biosensor is useful in evaluation of estrogenic ligands and their downstream effects, and in studying environmental estrogen induced carcinogenesis in vivo.

    View details for DOI 10.1038/srep34788

    View details for PubMedID 27721470

  • Glioblastoma Invoking "Killer" Rabbits of the Middle Ages. World neurosurgery Massoud, T. F., Kalnins, A. 2016; 92: 140-141

    Abstract

    We present the unusual appearance on brain magnetic resonance imaging of a glioblastoma with an uncanny shape of a rabbit. By invoking fearsome "killer" rabbits depicted in the art and literature of the Middle Ages, this image is an eerie reminder of the current lethality of this disease. There is a pressing need for more effective treatments for glioblastoma.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.wneu.2016.04.116

    View details for PubMedID 27157288

  • Folate Receptor-Targeted Polymeric Micellar Nanocarriers for Delivery of Orlistat as a Repurposed Drug against Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Molecular cancer therapeutics Paulmurugan, R., Bhethanabotla, R., Mishra, K., Devulapally, R., Foygel, K., Sekar, T. V., Ananta, J. S., Massoud, T. F., Joy, A. 2016; 15 (2): 221-231

    Abstract

    Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a recalcitrant malignancy with no available targeted therapy. Off target effects and poor bioavailability of the FDA approved anti-obesity drug orlistat hinder its clinical translation as a repurposed new drug against TNBC. Here we demonstrate a newly engineered drug formulation for packaging orlistat tailored to TNBC treatment. We synthesized TNBC-specific folate receptor targeted micellar nanoparticles (NPs) carrying orlistat, which improved the solubility (70-80 μg/ml) of this water insoluble drug. The targeted NPs also improved the delivery and bioavailability of orlistat to MDA-MB-231 cells in culture and to tumor xenografts in nude mouse model. We prepared HEA-EHA copolymer micellar NPs by copolymerization of 2-hydroxyethylacrylate (HEA) and 2-ethylhexylacrylate (EHA), and functionalized them with folic acid and an imaging dye. Fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis of TNBC cells indicated a dose dependent increase in apoptotic populations in cells treated with free orlistat, orlistat NPs, and folate-receptor targeted Fol-HEA-EHA-orlistat NPs in which Fol-HEA-EHA-orlistat NPs showed significantly higher cytotoxicity than free orlistat. In vitro analysis data demonstrated significant apoptosis at nanomolar concentrations in cells activated through caspase 3 and PARP inhibition. In vivo analysis demonstrated significant antitumor effects in living mice after targeted treatment of tumors, and confirmed by fluorescence imaging. Moreover, Folate receptor targeted Fol-DyLight747-orlistat NPs treated mice exhibited significantly higher reduction in tumor volume compared to control group. Taken together, these results indicate that orlistat packaged in HEA-b-EHA micellar NPs is a highly promising new drug formulation for TNBC therapy.

    View details for DOI 10.1158/1535-7163.MCT-15-0579

    View details for PubMedID 26553061

  • Polymer Nanoparticles Mediated Codelivery of AntimiR-10b and AntimiR-21 for Achieving Triple Negative Breast Cancer Therapy ACS NANO Devulapally, R., Sekar, N. M., Sekar, T. V., Foygel, K., Massoud, T. F., Willmann, J. K., Paulmurugan, R. 2015; 9 (3): 2290-2302

    Abstract

    The current study shows the therapeutic outcome achieved in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) by simultaneously antagonizing miR-21-induced antiapoptosis and miR-10b-induced metastasis, using antisense-miR-21-PS and antisense-miR-10b-PS delivered by polymer nanoparticles (NPs). We synthesized the antisense-miR-21 and antisense-miR-10b loaded PLGA-b-PEG polymer NPs and evaluated their cellular uptake, serum stability, release profile, and the subsequent synchronous blocking of endogenous miR-21 and miR-10b function in TNBC cells in culture, and tumor xenografts in living animals using molecular imaging. Results show that multitarget antagonization of endogenous miRNAs could be an efficient strategy for targeting metastasis and antiapoptosis in the treatment of metastatic cancer. Targeted delivery of antisense-miR-21 and antisense-miR-10b coloaded urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) targeted polymer NPs treated mice showed substantial reduction in tumor growth at very low dose of 0.15 mg/kg, compared to the control NPs treated mice and 40% reduction in tumor growth compared to scramble peptide conjugated NPs treated mice, thus demonstrating a potential new therapeutic option for TNBC.

    View details for DOI 10.1021/nn507465d

    View details for PubMedID 25652012

  • Trends in Performance Indicators of Neuroimaging Anatomy Research Publications: A Bibliometric Study of Major Neuroradiology Journal Output Over Four Decades Based on Web of Science Database CLINICAL ANATOMY Wing, L., Massoud, T. F. 2015; 28 (1): 16-26

    Abstract

    Quantitative, qualitative, and innovative application of bibliometric research performance indicators to anatomy and radiology research and education can enhance cross-fertilization between the two disciplines. We aim to use these indicators to identify long-term trends in dissemination of publications in neuroimaging anatomy (including both productivity and citation rates), which has subjectively waned in prestige during recent years. We examined publications over the last 40 years in two neuroradiological journals, AJNR and Neuroradiology, and selected and categorized all neuroimaging anatomy research articles according to theme and type. We studied trends in their citation activity over time, and mathematically analyzed these trends for 1977, 1987, and 1997 publications. We created a novel metric, "citation half-life at 10 years postpublication" (CHL-10), and used this to examine trends in the skew of citation numbers for anatomy articles each year. We identified 367 anatomy articles amongst a total of 18,110 in these journals: 74.2% were original articles, with study of normal anatomy being the commonest theme (46.7%). We recorded a mean of 18.03 citations for each anatomy article, 35% higher than for general neuroradiology articles. Graphs summarizing the rise (upslope) in citation rates after publication revealed similar trends spanning two decades. CHL-10 trends demonstrated that more recently published anatomy articles were likely to take longer to reach peak citation rate. Bibliometric analysis suggests that anatomical research in neuroradiology is not languishing. This novel analytical approach can be applied to other aspects of neuroimaging research, and within other subspecialties in radiology and anatomy, and also to foster anatomical education. Clin. Anat., 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/ca.22360

    View details for Web of Science ID 000346273900005

    View details for PubMedID 24431001

  • No Significant Displacement of Basal Brain Structures upon Head Movement: Kinematic MRI Morphometry Relevant to Neuroendoscopy. Journal of neurological surgery. Part A, Central European neurosurgery Horsburgh, A., Kirollos, R. W., Massoud, T. F. 2014; 75 (2): 98-103

    Abstract

    Background An appreciation of normal intracranial anatomy allows optimal planning of trajectories necessary for safe and effective neuroendoscopy. Little information exists on displacement of the caudal brain relative to the skull upon head movement; this could have important implications for planning and performance of neuroendoscopic procedures. We used kinematic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies to examine the morphometric displacement and changing anatomical relationships between the clivus and basal brain structures, intracranial vessels, and subarachnoid spaces.Patients We retrospectively analyzed 15 patients undergoing sagittal T2 kinematic MRI of the head and neck in modest flexion and extension. The angle between a horizontal axial reference plane and a line between the opisthion and the hard palate defined the degree of flexion and extension. We then measured in flexion and extension (1) the cervicomedullary angle (CMA), (2) displacement of the ventral surface of the brainstem (i.e., depth of the prepontine and premedullary cisterns), (3) total sagittal area of the combined suprasellar and ventral brainstem cisterns, and (4) the basilar tip to tuber cinereum distance.Results Relative to neutral head position, a mean extension angle of -15.8 degrees was achieved in all 15 patients, and a mean flexion angle of +9.9 degrees was achieved in 6 patients. The mean CMA was 146 degrees in flexion and 158 degrees in extension. The mean reduction in prepontine and premedullary cistern depth was 0.7 mm and 0.5 mm, respectively, upon flexion from extension. The combined area of suprasellar and ventral brainstem cisterns was minimally reduced from 402 mm2 in flexion to 399 mm2 in extension. The basilar tip did not move significantly from its position in flexion to extension, 5.3 mm to 5.2 mm respectively from the tuber cinereum.Conclusion Kinematic MRI shows minimal brainstem-to-clivus displacement even within minor physiological changes in head flexion. Importantly, these movements are small and there is no significant shift in the position of the basilar tip in modest flexion or extension. These results should be useful for presurgical planning of optimal patient positioning during neuroendoscopic procedures such as third ventriculostomy and the expanded endonasal transsphenoidal approach to the retroclival space.

    View details for DOI 10.1055/s-0033-1342934

    View details for PubMedID 23797619

  • The aqueduct of Sylvius: applied 3-T magnetic resonance imaging anatomy and morphometry with neuroendoscopic relevance. Neurosurgery Matys, T., Horsburgh, A., Kirollos, R. W., Massoud, T. F. 2013; 73 (2): ons132-40

    Abstract

    BACKGROUND:: The aqueduct of Sylvius (AsSylv) is a structure of increasing importance in neuroendoscopic procedures. However, there is currently no clear and adequate description of the normal anatomy of the AqSylv. OBJECTIVE:: To study in detail hitherto unavailable normal MRI morphometry and anatomical variants of the AqSylv. METHODS:: We retrospectively studied normal midsagittal T1-weighted 3T MR images in 100 patients. We measured widths of the AqSylv pars anterior, ampulla, pars posterior, narrowest point, and its length. We recorded angulation of the AqSylv relative to the third ventricle as multiple deviations of the long axis of the AqSylv from Talairach's bicommissural line. We statistically determined age- and gender-related changes in AqSylv morphometry using Pearson's correlation coefficient. We measured angulation of the AqSylv relative to the fourth ventricle and correlated this to the cervico-medullary angle (CMA, a surrogate for head position). RESULTS:: Patients were aged 13- 83 years (55:45, F:M). Mean morphometrics were: width of pars anterior (1.1 mm), ampulla (1.2 mm), pars posterior (1.4 mm), length (14.1 mm), narrowest point (0.9 mm), and angulation in relation to the third (26°) and fourth (18°) ventricles. Age correlated positively with width and negatively with length of the AqSylv. There was no correlation between AqSylv alignment relative to the foramen magnum, and the CMA. CONCLUSION:: Normative dimensions of the AqSylv in vivo are at variance with published cadaveric morphometrics. The AqSylv widens and shortens with cerebral involution. Awareness of these normal morphometrics is highly useful when stent placement is an option during aqueductoplasty. Reported data are valuable in guiding neuroendoscopic management of hydrocephalus and aqueductal stenosis.

    View details for DOI 10.1227/01.neu.0000430286.08552.ca

    View details for PubMedID 23615083

  • The aqueduct of Sylvius: applied 3-T magnetic resonance imaging anatomy and morphometry with neuroendoscopic relevance. Neurosurgery Matys, T., Horsburgh, A., Kirollos, R. W., Massoud, T. F. 2013; 73 (2): 132-140

    View details for DOI 10.1227/01.neu.0000430286.08552.ca

    View details for PubMedID 23615083

  • Tuber cinereum proximity to critical major arteries: a morphometric imaging analysis relevant to endoscopic third ventriculostomy ACTA NEUROCHIRURGICA Horsburgh, A., Matys, T., Kirollos, R. W., Massoud, T. F. 2013; 155 (5): 891-900

    Abstract

    Arterial bleeding in the interpeduncular fossa is a dreaded complication of endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV). When the "safe zone" of the tuber cinereum (TC) is fenestrated, the basilar artery tip (BT) or its branches may be encountered below the third ventriclular floor. Major arterial injuries might be avoided by careful preoperative planning. We aimed to establish previously unavailable normal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and MR angiographic (MRA) morphometry and configuration of the BT and posterior cerebral artery P1 segments relative to the TC.We analyzed images of 82 patients with non-dilated ventricles (mean Evans' index 0.26), and lying in a neutral head position (mean cervico-medullary angle 141°). We cross-referenced axial MRAs with sagittal MRIs to measure distances of BT and P1 segments from the TC, and to classify the location of the BT in the interpeduncular and suprasellar cisterns. We correlated the sagittal areas of these cisterns and patients' ages with the TC-to-artery distances using regression analysis.The BT, right P1 and left P1 segments were a mean 4.9 mm, 5.5 mm, and 5.7 mm respectively from the TC. Seventy-four percent of BTs were anterior to the mammillary bodies. These distances and locations did not correlate with age (mean 53 years) or size of basal cisterns.The normal BT and P1 segments are anatomically close to the TC and potentially at risk during ETV in adults of all ages. The new morphometric data presented, along with cross-referencing of preoperative multiplanar images, could help reduce vascular complications during ETV.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s00701-013-1661-9

    View details for Web of Science ID 000317679800021

    View details for PubMedID 23468037

  • Normative dimensions and symmetry of the lacrimal drainage system on dacryocystography: statistical analysis of morphometric characteristics FOLIA MORPHOLOGICA Horsburgh, A., Massoud, T. F. 2013; 72 (2): 137-141

    Abstract

    Asymmetric lacrimal flow occurs in females more than males. We hypothesised that the normal lacrimal drainage system (LDS) may show subtle left-rightasymmetry in morphometry when imaged on dacryocystography (DCG).We retrospectively reviewed 60 normal bilateral LDSs.Images were analysed for 7 parameters: (1) combined length of either the superioror inferior canaliculus plus common canaliculus, (2) angle of insertion of common canaliculus into lacrimal sac (LS), (3, 4) length and width of the LS, (5) length of thenasolacrimal duct (NLD), and (6, 7) width of proximal and distal NLD. We testedthe effect of independent variables (age, gender, and side) on each dependentvariable (length, width, or angle) using regression analysis. We used a Studentt-test for independent samples to statistically compare bilateral LDSs.Patient median age was 62 years, and male:female ratio was 27:73. Mean dimensions and angles for all LDSs were: (1) 14.5 mm, (2) 57°,(3) 11.6 mm, (4) 2.1 mm, (5) 20.7 mm, (6) 1.4 mm, and (7) 1.8 mm. No independent variable affected variation in length, width, or angle. No significant difference emerged between dimensions of right and left LDSs in both sexes.Conclusions: A degree of affective lateralisation in the brain is known to result inlacrimal flow asymmetry after mood manipulation. We show that this is not reflected in LDS anatomy. Moreover, our detailed morphometric data can aid in therapeuticplanning of LDS luminal procedures, especially when DCG images of one LDS are used as a road map for contralateral interventions.

    View details for DOI 10.5603/FM.2013.0023

    View details for Web of Science ID 000320777400009

    View details for PubMedID 23740501

  • The circumventricular organs of the brain: conspicuity on clinical 3T MRI and a review of functional anatomy SURGICAL AND RADIOLOGIC ANATOMY Horsburgh, A., Massoud, T. F. 2013; 35 (4): 343-349

    Abstract

    The circumventricular organs (CVOs) occupy seven midline locations around the ventricles. They contain specialized ependymal cells called tanycytes and have an incomplete blood-brain barrier (BBB). We hypothesized that appearances of the lesser known CVOs on contrast-enhanced MRI might lead to confusion in image interpretation whereby they might be mistaken for pathology-related abnormal contrast enhancement. We therefore assessed the normal appearances and prevalence of contrast enhancement of the CVOs on routine clinical brain MRI and reviewed the functional anatomy of the CVOs.We retrospectively reviewed sagittal and coronal pre- and post-contrast T1-weighted brain 3T MR images in 100 adult patients with normal findings. We assessed the presence of the median eminence (ME), neurohypophysis (NH), pineal gland (PG), subforniceal organ (SFO), organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis (OVLT), subcommissural organ (SCO), and the area postrema (AP).The frequency of contrast enhancement of the seven CVOs was as follows: ME in 100 %, NH in 96 %, PG in 84 %, SFO in 1 %, OVLT in 34 %, SCO in 0 %, and AP in 2 %.The main CVOs (ME, NH, and PG) are well known and appreciated on brain imaging. However, there is a little awareness of the minor CVOs among neuroimagers. This is the first study of contrast enhancement prevalence of the SF, OV, SC, and AP on brain MRI. All the latter are small, faint, rarely visualized, and therefore not likely to cause misinterpretation with significant sources of pathology that cause breakdown of the BBB, such as tumor or inflammation.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s00276-012-1048-2

    View details for Web of Science ID 000317978800010

    View details for PubMedID 23247732

  • Lessons Learned From Unintended Sublingual Sialography: Imaging Anatomy, Technical Considerations, and Diagnostic Implications AMERICAN JOURNAL OF ROENTGENOLOGY Horsburgh, A., Massoud, T. F. 2013; 200 (4): 879-883

    Abstract

    Digital subtraction sialography of the sublingual glands has not been reported previously, to our knowledge. We present a case series in which unintended digital subtraction sialography of the sublingual glands occurred during attempts at submandibular digital subtraction sialography. In four of the six cases, a mistaken diagnosis of severe sublingual gland sialectasis was made.Because of the unique histologic characteristics of the sublingual glands, knowledge of the technical aspects of sublingual duct cannulation and the relevant imaging anatomy is necessary to avoid image misinterpretation and clinical mismanagement.

    View details for DOI 10.2214/AJR.12.8841

    View details for Web of Science ID 000316622100042

    View details for PubMedID 23521464

  • Is higher choroid plexus 'load' an aetiologic factor in idiopathic intracranial hypertension? A clinico-imaging morphometric correlative study CEPHALALGIA Horsburgh, A., Massoud, T. F. 2013; 33 (1): 20-24

    Abstract

    Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a condition of raised cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure with normal ventricular size. Although the pathogenesis of IIH remains controversial, increased CSF formation may be important. We hypothesised that if increased CSF formation was an aetiologic factor, it might result in a macroscopic increase in size of the choroid plexus (CP).We retrospectively studied 50 patients with IIH. Total size of the CP was estimated on computed tomography (CT) venograms from the sum of axial areas measured at three locations. Results were compared with the CP load of 50 matched controls on post-contrast head CTs. Evans Index was measured to exclude ventriculomegaly. Results were analysed using a Student's t test for independent samples (p < 0.05), and the effect of ICP was tested on the dependent variable (area of CP) using regression analysis.There was no significant difference in the size of the CP glomus, total axial areas of the CP between IIH patients (183 mm(2)) and controls (178 mm(2)) and no correlation between the 'load' of CP and the degree of intracranial pressure (ICP) (R (2)< 0.02).If increased CSF formation is an aetiologic factor in IIH, this is not reflected in a corresponding raised 'load' of CP.

    View details for DOI 10.1177/0333102412465202

    View details for Web of Science ID 000312305800002

    View details for PubMedID 23136206

  • A c-Myc Activation Sensor-Based High-Throughput Drug Screening Identifies an Antineoplastic Effect of Nitazoxanide Mol Cancer Ther Fan-Minogue, H., Bodapati , S., Solow-Cordero, D., Fan, A., Paulmurugan, R., et al 2013
  • Primary Cerebral Lymphoma Causing Remitting and Relapsing Neurological Symptoms Journal of Medical Cases Stoker, T., Young, A., Massoud, T. F., Patani, R., Manford, M. 2013; 4 (6): 420-423
  • The role of salivary duct morphology in the aetiology of sialadenitis: statistical analysis of sialographic features INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY Horsburgh, A., Massoud, T. F. 2013; 42 (1): 124-128

    Abstract

    Morphologic characteristics of salivary ducts may contribute to stagnation of saliva. The authors hypothesized that some features might contribute to development of submandibular and parotid sialadenitis. 106 digital subtraction sialograms (DSS) were retrospectively reviewed for: degree of sialadenitis, length of Wharton's and Stensen's ducts (SD), and angle of Wharton's duct (WD) genu. Student's t test was used for independent samples to statistically compare normal and sialadenitis groups. The effect of independent variables (age, gender, side, degree of sialadenitis) on the dependent variable (length or angle) were tested using regression analysis. Submandibular duct sialadenitis was mild (67%), moderate (8%), or severe (25%); parotid duct sialadenitis was mild (57%), moderate (18%), or severe (25%). Mean length of normal WD was 58.2 mm, and 56.3 mm with sialadenitis. Mean length of normal SD was 52 mm, and 53 mm with sialadenitis. The mean angle of WD genu was 115° in normal ducts, and 119° with sialadenitis. None of the independent variables affected variation in length or angle. There were no statistical differences in duct length or measured angle between normal and sialadenitis groups. There is a wide variation in salivary duct morphology but this does not appear to be associated with the cause of sialadenitis.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ijom.2012.10.006

    View details for Web of Science ID 000315013500021

    View details for PubMedID 23137733

  • Bochdalek's flower basket: applied neuroimaging morphometry and variants of choroid plexus in the cerebellopontine angles NEURORADIOLOGY Horsburgh, A., Kirollos, R. W., Massoud, T. F. 2012; 54 (12): 1341-1346

    Abstract

    Protrusions of fourth ventricular choroid plexus through the foramina of Luschka are called 'Bochdalek's flower basket' (BochFB). The bulbous terminal expansions (cornucopiae) extend into the cerebellopontine angle (CPA) cisterns. We studied and reviewed the normal imaging anatomy, morphometry and anatomical variants of BochFB.We retrospectively analysed normal brain imaging findings on axial pre- and post-contrast CT scans and enhanced axial T1-weighted MRIs of 200 patients. We assessed BochFB for: (a) calcification, (b) lateral extension, (c) enhancement pattern, (d) cornucopiae shape, (e) symmetry and (f) proximity to tortuous vertebral arteries and morphometry of cornucopiae size and length of BochFB limbs.BochFB calcification was found in 38 % of patients aged over 51 years. Lateral extension of BochFB into the CPA cistern was prominent in 75 % on CT and 96 % on MRI. The mean length of these extensions was 23.6 mm. BochFB enhanced strongly in 47 % on CT and 66 % on MRI. The BochFB cornucopiae were bulbous in 51 % on CT and 54 % on MRI. The mean width of bulbous cornucopiae was 3.5 mm. Bilateral BochFB symmetry was found in 71 % on CT and 80 % on MRI. Six to 8 % of tortuous left vertebral arteries were close to BochFB.The cornucopiae are particularly well demonstrated on post-contrast MRI. However several sources of error in image interpretation may arise when imaging the normal BochFB on routine head CT and MRI. Difficulties in analysis arise especially on CT because of physiologic calcification, asymmetry, and the bulbous cornucopiae being mistaken for aneurysms.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s00234-012-1065-1

    View details for Web of Science ID 000312336700006

    View details for PubMedID 22777194

  • FEASIBILITY OF AN INTRAMOLECULAR COMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY FOR SPLIT-REPORTER GENE IMAGING OF DRUGGABLE PROTEIN MISFOLDING IN BRAIN CANCER 17th Annual Scientific Meeting and Education Day of the Society-for-Neuro-Oncology (SNO) Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R., Gambhir, S. S. OXFORD UNIV PRESS INC. 2012: 11–11
  • Discovery and validation of small-molecule heat-shock protein 90 inhibitors through multimodality molecular imaging in living subjects PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Chan, C. T., Reeves, R. E., Geller, R., Yaghoubi, S. S., Hoehne, A., Solow-Cordero, D. E., Chiosis, G., Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R., Gambhir, S. S. 2012; 109 (37): E2476-E2485

    Abstract

    Up-regulation of the folding machinery of the heat-shock protein 90 (Hsp90) chaperone protein is crucial for cancer progression. The two Hsp90 isoforms (α and β) play different roles in response to chemotherapy. To identify isoform-selective inhibitors of Hsp90(α/β)/cochaperone p23 interactions, we developed a dual-luciferase (Renilla and Firefly) reporter system for high-throughput screening (HTS) and monitoring the efficacy of Hsp90 inhibitors in cell culture and live mice. HTS of a 30,176 small-molecule chemical library in cell culture identified a compound, N-(5-methylisoxazol-3-yl)-2-[4-(thiophen-2-yl)-6-(trifluoromethyl)pyrimidin-2-ylthio]acetamide (CP9), that binds to Hsp90(α/β) and displays characteristics of Hsp90 inhibitors, i.e., degradation of Hsp90 client proteins and inhibition of cell proliferation, glucose metabolism, and thymidine kinase activity, in multiple cancer cell lines. The efficacy of CP9 in disrupting Hsp90(α/β)/p23 interactions and cell proliferation in tumor xenografts was evaluated by non-invasive, repetitive Renilla luciferase and Firefly luciferase imaging, respectively. At 38 h posttreatment (80 mg/kg × 3, i.p.), CP9 led to selective disruption of Hsp90α/p23 as compared with Hsp90β/p23 interactions. Small-animal PET/CT in the same cohort of mice showed that CP9 treatment (43 h) led to a 40% decrease in (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in tumors relative to carrier control-treated mice. However, CP9 did not lead to significant degradation of Hsp90 client proteins in tumors. We performed a structural activity relationship study with 62 analogs of CP9 and identified A17 as the lead compound that outperformed CP9 in inhibiting Hsp90(α/β)/p23 interactions in cell culture. Our efforts demonstrated the power of coupling of HTS with multimodality molecular imaging and led to identification of Hsp90 inhibitors.

    View details for DOI 10.1073/pnas.1205459109

    View details for PubMedID 22895790

  • In Vitro and in Vivo Molecular Imaging of Estrogen Receptor alpha and beta Homo- and Heterodimerization: Exploration of New Modes of Receptor Regulation MOLECULAR ENDOCRINOLOGY Paulmurugan, R., Tamrazi, A., Massoud, T. F., Katzenellenbogen, J. A., Gambhir, S. S. 2011; 25 (12): 2029-2040

    Abstract

    Estrogen receptor (ER) biology reflects the actions of estrogens through the two receptors, ERα and ERβ, although little is known regarding the preference for formation of ER homo- vs. heterodimers, and how this is affected by the level of ligand occupancy and preferential ligand affinity for one of the ER subtypes. In this report, we use a split optical reporter-protein complementation system to demonstrate the physical interaction between ERα and ERβ in response to different ER ligands in cells and, for the first time, by in vivo imaging in living animals. The genetically encoded reporter vectors constructed with the ligand-binding domains of ERα and ERβ, fused to split firefly or Renilla luciferase (Fluc or hRluc) fragments, were used for this study. This molecular proteomic technique was used to detect ERα/ERα or ERβ/ERβ homodimerization, or ERα/ERβ heterodimerization induced by ER subtype-selective and nonselective ligands, and selective ER modulators (SERM), as well as in dimers in which one mutant monomer was unable to bind estradiol. The SERM-bound ERα and ERβ form the strongest dimers, and subtype-preferential homodimerization was seen with ERα-selective ligands (methyl piperidino pyrazole/propyl pyrazole triol) and the ERβ-selective ligands (diarylpropionitrile/tetrahydrochrysene/genistein). We also demonstrated that a single ligand-bound monomer can form homo- or heterodimers with an apo-monomer. Xenografts of human embryonic kidney 293T cells imaged in living mice by bioluminescence showed real-time ligand induction of ERα/ERβ heterodimerization and reversal of dimerization upon ligand withdrawal. The results from this study demonstrate the value of the split luciferase-based complementation system for studying ER-subtype interactions in cells and for evaluating them in living animals by noninvasive imaging. They also probe what combinations of ERα and ERβ dimers might be the mediators of the effects of different types of ER ligands given at different doses.

    View details for DOI 10.1210/me.2011-1145

    View details for PubMedID 22052998

  • Gold Nanoparticles: A Revival in Precious Metal Administration to Patients NANO LETTERS Thakor, A. S., Jokerst, J., Zavaleta, C., Massoud, T. F., Gambhir, S. S. 2011; 11 (10): 4029-4036

    Abstract

    Gold has been used as a therapeutic agent to treat a wide variety of rheumatic diseases including psoriatic arthritis, juvenile arthritis, and discoid lupus erythematosus. Although the use of gold has been largely superseded by newer drugs, gold nanoparticles are being used effectively in laboratory based clinical diagnostic methods while concurrently showing great promise in vivo either as a diagnostic imaging agent or a therapeutic agent. For these reasons, gold nanoparticles are therefore well placed to enter mainstream clinical practice in the near future. Hence, the present review summarizes the chemistry, pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, metabolism, and toxicity of bulk gold in humans based on decades of clinical observation and experiments in which gold was used to treat patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The beneficial attributes of gold nanoparticles, such as their ease of synthesis, functionalization, and shape control are also highlighted demonstrating why gold nanoparticles are an attractive target for further development and optimization. The importance of controlling the size and shape of gold nanoparticles to minimize any potential toxic side effects is also discussed.

    View details for DOI 10.1021/nl202559p

    View details for PubMedID 21846107

  • Bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) imaging of protein-protein interactions within deep tissues of living subjects PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Dragulescu-Andrasi, A., Chan, C. T., De, A., Massoud, T. F., Gambhir, S. S. 2011; 108 (29): 12060-12065

    Abstract

    Identifying protein-protein interactions (PPIs) is essential for understanding various disease mechanisms and developing new therapeutic approaches. Current methods for assaying cellular intermolecular interactions are mainly used for cells in culture and have limited use for the noninvasive assessment of small animal disease models. Here, we describe red light-emitting reporter systems based on bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) that allow for assaying PPIs both in cell culture and deep tissues of small animals. These BRET systems consist of the recently developed Renilla reniformis luciferase (RLuc) variants RLuc8 and RLuc8.6, used as BRET donors, combined with two red fluorescent proteins, TagRFP and TurboFP635, as BRET acceptors. In addition to the native coelenterazine luciferase substrate, we used the synthetic derivative coelenterazine-v, which further red-shifts the emission maxima of Renilla luciferases by 35 nm. We show the use of these BRET systems for ratiometric imaging of both cells in culture and deep-tissue small animal tumor models and validate their applicability for studying PPIs in mice in the context of rapamycin-induced FK506 binding protein 12 (FKBP12)-FKBP12 rapamycin binding domain (FRB) association. These red light-emitting BRET systems have great potential for investigating PPIs in the context of drug screening and target validation applications.

    View details for DOI 10.1073/pnas.1100923108

    View details for PubMedID 21730157

  • The Fate and Toxicity of Raman-Active Silica-Gold Nanoparticles in Mice SCIENCE TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE Thakor, A. S., Luong, R., Paulmurugan, R., Lin, F. I., Kempen, P., Zavaleta, C., Chu, P., Massoud, T. F., Sinclair, R., Gambhir, S. S. 2011; 3 (79)

    Abstract

    Raman spectroscopy is an optical imaging method that is based on the Raman effect, the inelastic scattering of a photon when energy is absorbed from light by a surface. Although Raman spectroscopy is widely used for chemical and molecular analysis, its clinical application has been hindered by the inherently weak nature of the Raman effect. Raman-silica-gold-nanoparticles (R-Si-Au-NPs) overcome this limitation by producing larger Raman signals through surface-enhanced Raman scattering. Because we are developing these particles for use as targeted molecular imaging agents, we examined the acute toxicity and biodistribution of core polyethylene glycol (PEG)-ylated R-Si-Au-NPs after different routes of administration in mice. After intravenous administration, PEG-R-Si-Au-NPs were removed from the circulation by macrophages in the liver and spleen (that is, the reticuloendothelial system). At 24 hours, PEG-R-Si-Au-NPs elicited a mild inflammatory response and an increase in oxidative stress in the liver, which subsided by 2 weeks after administration. No evidence of significant toxicity was observed by measuring clinical, histological, biochemical, or cardiovascular parameters for 2 weeks. Because we are designing targeted PEG-R-Si-Au-NPs (for example, PEG-R-Si-Au-NPs labeled with an affibody that binds specifically to the epidermal growth factor receptor) to detect colorectal cancer after administration into the bowel lumen, we tested the toxicity of the core nanoparticle after administration per rectum. We observed no significant bowel or systemic toxicity, and no PEG-R-Si-Au-NPs were detected systemically. Although additional studies are required to investigate the long-term effects of PEG-R-Si-Au-NPs and their toxicity when carrying the targeting moiety, the results presented here support the idea that PEG-R-Si-Au-NPs can be safely used in living subjects, especially when administered rectally.

    View details for DOI 10.1126/scitranslmed.3001963

    View details for PubMedID 21508310

  • Oxidative Stress Mediates the Effects of Raman-Active Gold Nanoparticles in Human Cells SMALL Thakor, A. S., Paulmurugan, R., Kempen, P., Zavaleta, C., Sinclair, R., Massoud, T. F., Gambhir, S. S. 2011; 7 (1): 126-136

    Abstract

    Polyethylene glycol (PEG)ylated Raman-active gold nanoparticles (PEG-R-AuNPs) consist of an interchangeable Raman organic molecule layer held onto a gold nanocore by a silica shell. PEG-R-AuNPs have been shown preclinically to increase the sensitivity and specificity of Raman spectroscopy, with picomolar sensitivity and multiplexing capabilities. Although clinical trials are being designed to use functionalized PEG-R-AuNPs in various applications (e.g., to target dysplastic bowel lesions during colonoscopy), the effects of these nanoparticles on human cells remain unknown. The occurrence and mechanisms underlying any potential cytotoxicity induced by these nanoparticles (0-1000 PEG-R-AuNPs/cell) are investigated in immortalized human HeLa and HepG2 cell lines at several time points (0-48 h) after exposure. Using fluorometric assays, cell viability (MTT), reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation (dichlorofluorescein diacetate), protein oxidation (protein carbonyl content), and total cellular antioxidant concentrations the concentrations (metmyoblobin-induced oxidation of ABTS) are assessed. Analysis of lipid oxidation using an enzyme immunoassay (8-isoprostane concentrations), gene expression of antioxidant enzymes using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reactions, and the intracellular location of PEG-R-AuNPs using transmission electron microscopy is also undertaken. PEG-R-AuNPs cause no cytotoxicity in either HeLa or HepG2 cells in the acute setting as ROS generation is balanced by antioxidant enzyme upregulation. Following prolonged exposures (48 h) at relatively high concentrations (1000 PEG-R-AuNPs/cell), nanoparticles are found within vesicles inside cells. Under these conditions, a minimal amount of cytotoxicity is seen in both cell lines owing to increases in cellular oxidative stress, most likely due to ROS overwhelming the antioxidant defenses. Evidence of oxidative stress-induced damage includes increased lipid and protein oxidation. Although further in vivo toxicity studies are necessary, these initial encouraging results show that PEG-R-AuNPs cause minimal toxicity in human cells in the acute setting, which bodes well for potential future applications of these nanoparticles in living subjects.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/smll.201001466

    View details for PubMedID 21104804

  • Noninvasive molecular imaging of c-Myc activation in living mice PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Fan-Minogue, H., Cao, Z., Paulmurugan, R., Chan, C. T., Massoud, T. F., Felsher, D. W., Gambhir, S. S. 2010; 107 (36): 15892-15897

    Abstract

    The cytoplasmic Myc protein (c-Myc) regulates various human genes and is dysregulated in many human cancers. Phosphorylation mediates the protein activation of c-Myc and is essential for the function of this transcription factor in normal cell behavior and tumor growth. To date, however, the targeting of Myc as a therapeutic approach for cancer treatment has been achieved primarily at the nonprotein level. We have developed a molecular imaging sensor for noninvasive imaging of c-Myc activity in living subjects using a split Firefly luciferase (FL) complementation strategy to detect and quantify the phosphorylation-mediated interaction between glycogen synthase kinase 3beta (GSK3beta) and c-Myc. This sensor system consists of two fusion proteins, GSK 35-433-CFL and NFL-c-Myc, in which specific fragments of GSK3beta and c-Myc are fused with C-terminal and N-terminal fragments of the split FL, respectively. The sensor detects phosphorylation-specific GSK3beta-c-Myc interaction, the imaging signal of which correlates with the steady-state and temporal regulation of c-Myc phosphorylation in cell culture. The sensor also detects inhibition of c-Myc activity via differential pathways, allowing noninvasive monitoring of c-Myc-targeted drug efficacy in intact cells and living mice. Notably, this drug inhibition is detected before changes in tumor size are apparent in mouse xenograft and liver tumor models. This reporter system not only provides an innovative way to investigate the role of functional c-Myc in normal and cancer-related biological processes, but also facilitates c-Myc-targeted drug development by providing a rapid quantitative approach to assessing cancer response to therapy in living subjects.

    View details for DOI 10.1073/pnas.1007443107

    View details for PubMedID 20713710

  • A Novel Estrogen Receptor Intramolecular Folding-based Titratable Transgene Expression System MOLECULAR THERAPY Paulmurugan, R., Padmanabhan, P., Ahn, B., Ray, S., Willmann, J. K., Massoud, T. F., Biswal, S., Gambhir, S. S. 2009; 17 (10): 1703-1711

    Abstract

    The use of regulated gene expression systems is important for successful gene therapy applications. In this study, ligand-induced structural change in the estrogen receptor (ER) was used to develop a novel ER intramolecular folding-based transcriptional activation system. The system was studied using ER-variants of different lengths, flanked on either side by the GAL4-DNA-binding domain and the VP16-transactivation domain (GAL4(DBD)-ER-VP16). The ER ligands of different types showed efficient ligand-regulated transactivation. We also characterized a bidirectional transactivation system based on the ER and demonstrated its utility in titrating both reporter and therapeutic gene expression. The ligand-regulated transactivation system developed by using a mutant form of the ER (G521T, lacking affinity for the endogenous ligand 17beta-estradiol, whereas maintaining affinity for other ligands) showed efficient activation by the ligand raloxifene in living mice without significant interference from the circulating endogenous ligand. The ligand-regulated transactivation system was used to test the therapeutic efficiency of the tumor suppressor protein p53 in HepG2 (p53(+/+)) and SKBr3 (p53(-/-)/mutant-p53(+/+)) cells in culture and tumor xenografts in living mice. The multifunctional capabilities of this system should be useful for gene therapy applications, to study ER biology, to evaluate gene regulation, ER ligand screening, and ER ligand biocharacterization in cells and living animals.

    View details for DOI 10.1038/mt.2009.171

    View details for PubMedID 19654568

  • Double superior vena cavae. BMJ case reports Thakor, A. S., Massoud, T. 2009; 2009

    View details for DOI 10.1136/bcr.10.2008.1098

    View details for PubMedID 21686460

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC3027315

  • Molecular imaging of reporter gene expression in prostate cancer: An overview 12th Meeting of the International-Scientific-Committee-of-Radionuclides-in-Nephrourology Singh, A., Massoud, T. F., Deroose, C., Gambhir, S. S. W B SAUNDERS CO-ELSEVIER INC. 2008: 9–19

    Abstract

    Prostate cancer remains an important and growing health problem. Advances in imaging of prostate cancer may help to achieve earlier and more accurate diagnosis and treatment. We review the various strategies using reporter genes for molecular imaging of prostate cancer. These approaches are emerging as valuable tools for monitoring gene expression in laboratory animals and humans. Further development of more sensitive and selective reporters, combined with improvements in detection technology, will consolidate the position of reporter gene imaging as a versatile method for understanding of intracellular biological processes and the underlying molecular basis of prostate cancer, as well as potentially establishing a future role in the clinical management of patients afflicted with this disease.

    View details for DOI 10.1053/j.semnuclmed.2007.09.002

    View details for Web of Science ID 000252068300003

    View details for PubMedID 18096460

  • Molecular imaging of homodimeric protein-protein interactions in living subjects FASEB JOURNAL Massoud, T. F., Paulmurugan, R., Gambhir, S. S. 2004; 18 (7): 1105-?
  • Molecular imaging of drug-modulated protein-protein interactions in living subjects CANCER RESEARCH Paulmurugan, R., Massoud, T. F., Huang, J., Gambhir, S. S. 2004; 64 (6): 2113-2119

    Abstract

    Networks of protein interactions mediate cellular responses to environmental stimuli and direct the execution of many different cellular functional pathways. Small molecules synthesized within cells or recruited from the external environment mediate many protein interactions. The study of small molecule-mediated interactions of proteins is important to understand abnormal signal transduction pathways in cancer and in drug development and validation. In this study, we used split synthetic renilla luciferase (hRLUC) protein fragment-assisted complementation to evaluate heterodimerization of the human proteins FRB and FKBP12 mediated by the small molecule rapamycin. The concentration of rapamycin required for efficient dimerization and that of its competitive binder ascomycin required for dimerization inhibition were studied in cell lines. The system was dually modulated in cell culture at the transcription level, by controlling nuclear factor kappaB promoter/enhancer elements using tumor necrosis factor alpha, and at the interaction level, by controlling the concentration of the dimerizer rapamycin. The rapamycin-mediated dimerization of FRB and FKBP12 also was studied in living mice by locating, quantifying, and timing the hRLUC complementation-based bioluminescence imaging signal using a cooled charged coupled device camera. This split reporter system can be used to efficiently screen small molecule drugs that modulate protein-protein interactions and also to assess drugs in living animals. Both are essential steps in the preclinical evaluation of candidate pharmaceutical agents targeting protein-protein interactions, including signaling pathways in cancer cells.

    View details for PubMedID 15026351

  • Recent progress in medical imaging: Molecular imaging in living subjects Journal of the Korean Society of Medical Informatics Min JJ, Massoud TF 2003; 9: 349-373
  • Experimental arteriovenous malformations modeling in laboratory sheep versus swine AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F. 2000; 21 (5): 985-988

    View details for Web of Science ID 000086983400040

    View details for PubMedID 10815687

  • Transvenous Doppler guidewire sonographic monitoring during treatment of a complex vertebral arteriovenous fistula associated with neurofibromatosis Type 1 NEURORADIOLOGY Murayama, Y., Usami, S., Abe, T., Hata, Y., Ganaha, F., Massoud, T. F. 1999; 41 (5): 328-333

    Abstract

    A Doppler sonographic guidewire was used to monitor incremental changes in draining vein (DV) flow during endovascular occlusion of a complex vertebral arteriovenous fistula (AVF) in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1. Transvenous monitoring of average peak velocity (APV) and the maximum-minus-minimum peak velocity (MxPV-MnPV) demonstrated a progression from a highly pulsatile, fast flow before embolization to a nonpulsatile, slow flow indicating a successful occlusion of the AVF (hemodynamic endpoint of treatment). Prior to this, apparent angiographic occlusion of the AVF was thought to signify a successful endpoint; however, persistently elevated values for APV and MxPV-MnPV in the DV signalled the presence of an additional contralateral arterial contribution. Transvenous monitoring of flow velocity appears to be ideally suited to establishing a hemodynamic endpoint of embolotherapy in the presence of complex arteriovenous shunting, as may occur with the vasculopathy of neurofibromatosis.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000080530600004

    View details for PubMedID 10379588

  • Anatomical and morphological factors correlating with rupture of intracranial aneurysms in patients referred for endovascular treatment NEURORADIOLOGY Hademenos, G. J., Massoud, T. F., Turjman, F., Sayre, J. W. 1998; 40 (11): 755-760

    Abstract

    The size of intracranial aneurysms is the only characteristic shown to correlate with their rupture. However, the critical size for rupture has varied considerably among previous accounts and remains a point of controversy. Our goal was to identify statistically significant clinical and morphological factors predictive of the occurrence of rupture and aneurysm size in patients referred for endovascular treatment. We retrospectively recorded the following factors from 74 patients who presented with ruptured (40) or unruptured (34) aneurysms: aneurysm morphology (uni/multilobulated), location (anterior/posterior), maximum diameter, diameter of the neck, and the patient's age and sex. We performed stepwise discriminant, and stepwise and logistic regression analysis to identify factors predicting rupture and the size of the aneurysm at rupture. The mean diameter of the ruptured aneurysms was 11.9+/-6.3 mm, range 3.0-33.0 mm, and that of the unruptured aneurysm 13.5+/-5.8 mm, range 5.0-30 mm. Stepwise discriminant analysis identified aneurysm morphology (P < 0.001) and location in the intracranial circulation (P < 0.001) as statistically significant factors in predicting rupture. Stepwise regression analysis revealed that aneurysm morphology and the size of the neck were predictors of aneurysm size at rupture.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000077198300013

    View details for PubMedID 9860129

  • Theoretical modelling of arteriovenous malformation rupture risk: a feasibility and validation study MEDICAL ENGINEERING & PHYSICS Gao, E. Z., Young, W. L., Hademenos, G. J., Massoud, T. F., Sciacca, R. R., Ma, Q. Y., Joshi, S., Mast, H., Vulliemoz, S., Pile-Spellman, J. 1998; 20 (7): 489-501

    Abstract

    To explore the feasibility of using a theoretical computational model to simulate the risk of spontaneous arteriovenous malformation (AVM) haemorrhage.Data from 12 patients were collected from a prospective databank which documented the angioarchitecture and morphological characteristics of the AVM and the feeding mean arterial pressure (FMAP) measured during initial superselective angiography prior to any treatment. Using the data, a computational model of the cerebral circulation and the AVM was constructed for each patient (patient-specific model). Two model risk (Risk(model)) calculations (haemodynamic- and structural-weighted estimates) were performed by using the patient-specific models. In our previously developed method of haemodynamic-weighted estimate, Risk(model) was calculated with the simulated intranidal pressures related to its maximal and minimal values. In the method of structural-weighted estimate developed and described in this paper, the vessel mechanical properties and probability calculation were considered in more detail than in the haemodynamic-weighted estimate. Risk(model) was then compared to experimentally determined risk which was calculated using a statistical method for determining the relative risk of having initially presented with AVM haemorrhage, termed Risk(exp).The Risk(model) calculated by both haemodynamic- and structural-weighted estimates correlated with experimental risks with chi2 = 6.0 and 0.64, respectively. The risks of the structural-weighted estimate were more correlated to experimental risks.Using two different approaches to the calculation of AVM haemorrhage risk, we found a general agreement with independent statistical estimates of haemorrhagic risk based on patient data. Computational approaches are feasible; future work can focus on specific pathomechanistic questions. Detailed patient-specific computational models can also be developed as an adjunct to individual patient risk assessment for risk-stratification purposes.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000076844900001

    View details for PubMedID 9832025

  • Predictors of aneurysmal occlusion in the period immediately after endovascular treatment with detachable coils: A multivariate analysis Annual Meeting of the American-Society-of-Neuroradiology Turjman, F., Massoud, T. F., Sayre, J., Vinuela, F. AMER SOC NEURORADIOLOGY. 1998: 1645–51

    Abstract

    Complete intracranial aneurysmal occlusion by endovascular techniques is required for successful treatment and is presumably influenced by several parameters. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether operator experience and angiographic characteristics of intracranial aneurysms correspond to the degree of endovascular occlusion in the period immediately after treatment with Guglielmi detachable coils (GDCs).Pre- and posttreatment angiograms of 72 patients undergoing GDC treatment were reviewed retrospectively. The following angiographic characteristics of the aneurysms were evaluated: largest diameter of the sac, volume, neck size, shape, type, cerebrovascular site, surroundings, and likely direction of aneurysmal inflow as judged by a score developed by measuring aneurysm/parent artery angulation. The chronological sequence in which the aneurysms were treated was used as a measure of operator experience. A chi2-test was used to identify parameters that correlated with outcomes of total (100%) or partial (<100%) occlusion. A multivariate analysis was used to determine the factors most predictive of aneurysmal occlusion at therapy.Parameters that correlated with the unsatisfactory result of partial occlusion were large aneurysmal diameter, volume, and neck size, more direct inflow (ie, increasingly obtuse aneurysm/parent artery angulation), and early chronological presentation in the series. The three factors most predictive of partial occlusion were large aneurysmal diameter, more direct inflow, and early chronological order of treatment.Several morphologic features of aneurysms were identified to help predict the immediate outcome of occlusion with GDCs. This study underscores the existence of a steep learning curve associated with GDC use in treating aneurysms and the importance of operator experience in achieving optimal therapeutic results.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000076452600013

    View details for PubMedID 9802486

  • Hemodynamic changes in arterial feeders and draining veins during embolotherapy of arteriovenous malformations: An experimental study in a swine model NEUROSURGERY Murayama, Y., Massoud, T. F., Vinuela, F. 1998; 43 (1): 96-104

    Abstract

    Transcatheter assessment of changes in draining vein (DV) flow velocity has been proposed recently as a potentially useful procedure for hemodynamic monitoring of the progression of embolotherapy in cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). We compared and contrasted changes in hemodynamic parameters of arterial feeders (AFs) and DVs during experimental AVM embolotherapy.Carotid-jugular fistula-type AVM models were surgically created in eight swine. Pre- and postembolization transcatheter mean AF and DV pressures, DV-time average spectral peak velocity, and AF and DV pulsatility indices were assessed. An expression, the peak systolic velocity minus end-diastolic velocity (Vs - Ved), was also used in evaluating the transvenous Doppler spectra. Pre- and postembolization hemodynamic parameters were compared statistically.Pre-embolization DV flow was pulsatile (Vs - Ved, 12 +/- 4.8 cm/s), with a mean DV velocity of 39.3 +/- 11.4 cm per second. Postembolization, this changed to a less/nonpulsatile pattern (Vs - Ved, 5.4 +/- 2.7 cm/s; P = 0.0035) with a lower mean DV-average spectral peak velocity of 7.0 +/- 3.1 cm per second (P = 0.0001). The mean DV pressure was also reduced from 52.0 +/- 8.2 to 45.5 +/- 8.7 mm Hg (P = 0.0023). The mean AF pressure increased from a mean of 79.5 +/- 15.5 to 96.8 +/- 16.2 mm Hg (P = 0.0004). The DV pulsatility index values also increased from a mean of 0.3 +/- 0.2 to 1.1 +/- 0.5 (P = 0.0003). Periembolization objective hemodynamic changes were detected in the DVs earlier than were the visually subjective angiographic changes observed within the nidus.This preliminary study indicates that transvenous assessment of average spectral peak velocity and wave pattern (Vs - Ved) may be useful in the hemodynamic evaluation of AVM shunting. The convergence of these two parameters to a range less than 10 cm per second after nidus embolization may afford a theoretical advantage over AF pressure measurements when used for objective and quantitative monitoring of endovascular embolotherapy.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000074274500057

    View details for PubMedID 9657195

  • Ion Implantation Modifies the Surface of GDCs. An Experimental Study in Swine Aneurysms. Interventional neuroradiology Murayama, Y., Viñuela, F., Suzuki, Y., Massoud, T. F., Guglielmi, G., Iwaki, M., Kamio, M., Abe, T. 1997; 3: 156-161

    Abstract

    Summary: Ion implantation and protein-coatings were utilized to alter the surface properties (endothelial cellular adhesion) and enhance the thrombogenicity of Guglielmi detachable coils (GDCs) for endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms. These modified GDCs were compared with standard GDCs in the treatment of experimental swine aneurysms. Standard GDCs and ion-implanted protein coated GDCs were used to treat 32 aneurysms in 16 swine. GDCs were coated with either proteins, collagen (n=5), vitronectin (n=4), fibrinogen (Fn=3), laminin (n=2), or fibronectin (n=2) and underwent Ne(+) or He(+) implantation with a fluence of 1 x 10(14--) 10(15) ions/cm(2) at an energy of 150 keV. Bilateral experimental swine aneurysms were embolized with standard GDCs (n=16) on one side and with ion-implanted proteincoated GDCs (n=16; total) on the other side. The necks of aneurysms were evaluated macroscopically and histopathologically at autopsy using day 14 posttreatment specimens. Greater fibrous coverage of the necks of aneurysms were observed in the ion-implanted coil group. The results of this experimental study indicate that Ion implantation combined with protein coating of GDCs improved cellular adhesion and proliferation. Future application of this technology may provide early wound healing at the necks of embolized widenecked cerebral aneurysms.

    View details for PubMedID 20678409

  • A nonlinear quasi-static model of intracranial aneurysms NEUROLOGICAL RESEARCH Chitanvis, S. M., Dewey, M., Hademenos, G., Powers, W. J., Massoud, T. F. 1997; 19 (5): 489-496

    Abstract

    Biomathematical models of intracranial aneurysms can provide qualitative and quantitative information on stages of aneurysm development through elucidation of biophysical interactions and phenomena. However, most current aneurysm models, based on Laplace's law, are renditions of static, linearly elastic spheres. The primary goal of this study is to: 1. develop a nonlinear constitutive quasi-static model and 2. derive an expression for the critical size/pressure of an aneurysm, with subsequent applications to clinical data. A constitutive model of an aneurysm, based on experimental data of tissue specimens available in the literature, was incorporated into a time-dependent set of equations describing the dynamic behavior of a saccular aneurysm in response to pulsatile blood flow. The set of differential equations was solved numerically, yielding mathematical expressions for aneurysm radius and pressure. This model was applied to clinical data obtained from 24 patients presenting with ruptured aneurysms. Aneurysm development and eventual rupture exhibited an inverse relationship between aneurysm size and blood pressure. In general, the model revealed that rupture becomes highly probable for an aneurysm diameter greater than 2.0 mm and a systemic blood pressure greater than 125 mmHg. However, an interesting observation was that the critical pressure demonstrated a minimal sensitivity to the critical radius, substantiating similar clinical and experimental observations that blood pressure was not correlated, to any degree, with aneurysm rupture. Undulations in the aneurysm wall, presented by irregular multilobulated morphologies, could play an important role in aneurysm rupture. However, due to the large variation in results, more extensive studies will be necessary for further evaluation and validation of this model.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1997YF24900004

    View details for PubMedID 9329025

  • Biophysical mechanisms of stroke STROKE Hademenos, G. J., Massoud, T. F. 1997; 28 (10): 2067-2077

    Abstract

    Stroke is the third leading cause of death and the leading cause of long-term disability in the United States. Although a host of genetic, biochemical, physiological, anatomic, and histological factors have been implicated, to varying degrees, in the pathogenesis of stroke, biophysical factors are believed to play a significant role in the development, diagnosis, and therapy of stroke. The purpose of this review article is to identify, describe, and illustrate these causes and biophysical and hemodynamic mechanisms predisposing a person to stroke, which often form the basis for novel methods of diagnosis and therapy.This mini-review begins by describing the physical principles that govern the flow of blood through normal and stenosed carotid artery bifurcations. In addition to the tortuosity, curvature, and tensile forces of the carotid artery bifurcation, the effects of biophysical phenomena from flowing blood such as viscous forces, pressure forces, velocity, kinetic energy, momentum, impulse, shear stress, and vibrational displacements exerted by the flowing blood on the vessel wall are conducive to abnormal flow behavior and patterns, degrading the vessel wall and creating the potential for stroke.Recent advances in the treatment of stroke are based on increasing knowledge of its underlying biophysical mechanisms, as well as on better-publicized advances in imaging instrumentation and procedures for the management and treatment of patients.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1997YD02500046

    View details for PubMedID 9341720

  • Experimental study of treatment of aneurysm by vascular endoprosthesis JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Turjman, F., Acevedo, G., Massoud, T. F., Moll, T., Sindou, M., Guglielmi, G., Vinuela, F., Froment, J. C. 1997; 24 (3): 205-211

    Abstract

    Intracranial aneurysms occur frequently with the risk of major damage. Neurosurgery or endovascular techniques can be used for treatment. Current techniques are not well adapted for aneurysms with a wide implantation (or neck). The aim of this experimental work was to study a technique for treating aneurysms which can be used for wide neck aneurysms. A metal stent is implanted facing the neck of the aneurysm to allow occlusion. In the first part of the study, the stent was inserted alone. Ten aneurysms were created surgically in five dogs. The stents were positioned facing seven of the ten aneurysms. The stent led to immediate occlusion of the aneurysm in six of the cases. One aneurysm remained patent despite the correct position of the stent. One dog developed secondary thrombosis of the carotid. Three dogs have been followed for sixty days after insertion of the stent. Two aneurysms thrombosed and one was patent. Since these results were less than satisfactory, a second part of the study was undertaken to cover the stent with a fragment of the autologous vein. Results in five aneurysms, evaluated three and eight weeks after treatment, showed partial or total repermeabilization of the aneurysms. In the third part of the study, we associated stents and detachable coils. Twelve aneurysms of the carotid artery in pigs were thrombosed and two aneurysms were completely occluded after stent implantation. In the nine other cases, the aneurysms were completely occluded after stent implantation. In the nine other cases, the aneurysms remained patent despite the stent and treatment was then completed with a coil. Six of the animals have been followed for thirteen weeks. One carotid artery thrombosed. In the five other cases, the carotid arteries were patent and the aneurysms were occluded at the control angiogram. Histology results showed the presence of a fibromuscular endothelialized neointima at the neck of the aneurysm in four of the five cases. The technique described here could be proposed for the treatment of wide-neck aneurysms implanted low on the carotid artery in man. Improvements should render the system more flexible.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1997YD81000005

    View details for PubMedID 9417478

  • Ion implantation and protein coating of detachable coils for endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms: Concepts and preliminary results in swine models NEUROSURGERY Murayama, Y., Vinuela, F., Suzuki, Y., Do, H. M., Massoud, T. F., Guglielmi, G., Ji, C., Iwaki, M., Kusakabe, M., Kamio, M., Abe, T. 1997; 40 (6): 1233-1243

    Abstract

    Complete anatomic obliteration remains difficult to achieve with endovascular treatment of wide-necked aneurysms using Guglielmi detachable platinum coils (GDCs). Ion implantation is a physicochemical surface modification process resulting from the impingement of a high-energy ion beam. Ion implantation and protein coating were used to alter the surface properties (thrombogenicity, endothelial cellular migration, and adhesion) of GDCs. These modified coils were compared with standard GDCs in the treatment of experimental swine aneurysms.In an initial study, straight platinum coils were used to compare the acute thrombogenicity of standard and modified coils. Modified coils were coated with albumin, fibronectin, or collagen and underwent Ne+ ion implantation at a dose of 1 x 10(15) ions/cm2 and an energy of 150 keV. Coils were placed in common iliac arteries of 17 swine for 1 hour, to evaluate their acute interactions with circulating blood. In a second study, GDCs were used to treat 34 aneurysms in an additional 17 swine. GDCs were coated with fibronectin, albumin, collagen, laminin, fibrinogen, or vitronectin and then implanted with ions as described above. Bilateral experimental swine aneurysms were embolized with standard GDCs on one side and with ion-implanted, protein-coated GDCs on the other side. The necks of aneurysms were evaluated macroscopically at autopsy, by using post-treatment Day 14 specimens. The dimensions of the orifice and the white fibrous membrane that covered the orifice were measured as the fibrous membrane to orifice proportion. Histopathological evaluation of the neck region was performed by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy.Fibronectin-coated, ion-implanted coils showed the greatest acute thrombogenicity (average thrombus weight for standard coils, 1.9 +/- 1.5 mg; weight for fibronectin-coated coils, 8.6 +/- 6.2 mg; P < 0.0001). By using scanning electron microscopy, an intensive blood cellular response was observed on ion-implanted coil surfaces, whereas this was rare with standard coils. At Day 14, greater fibrous coverage of the necks of aneurysms was observed in the ion-implanted coil group (mean fibrous membrane to orifice proportion of 69.8 +/- 6.2% for the ion-implanted coil group, compared with 46.8 +/- 15.9% for the standard coil group; P = 0.0143).The results of this preliminary experimental study indicate that ion implantation combined with protein coating of GDCs improved cellular adhesion and proliferation. Future application of this technology may provide early wound healing at the necks of embolized, wide-necked, cerebral aneurysms.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1997XC45000058

    View details for PubMedID 9179897

  • A new surface modification technique of platinum coils by ion implantation and protein coating: Use in intravascular treatment of brain aneurysms 10th International Conference on Ion Beam Modification of Materials (IBMM-96) Murayama, Y., Suzuki, Y., Vinuela, F., Massoud, T. F., Do, H. M., Guglielmi, G., Iwaki, M., Kamio, M., Abe, T. ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV. 1997: 1015–1018
  • Anatomical variants of the profunda femoris artery: An angiographic study SURGICAL AND RADIOLOGIC ANATOMY Massoud, T. F., Fletcher, E. W. 1997; 19 (2): 99-103

    Abstract

    The bifurcation of the common femoral artery (CFA) into superficial and profunda femoris arteries (PFA) and the branching pattern of the PFA are subject to considerable normal anatomical variation. These variation patterns were assessed on normal lower limb angiograms of 94 adult patients. The main pattern (in 81% of patients) consisted of both medial and lateral circumflex arteries arising directly from a PFA situated lateral or posterolateral to the femoral artery. Previous studies of arterial variations in this region and the relevant embryology are reviewed. Relevance to angiographic procedures of the lower limb is discussed.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1997XF23900009

    View details for PubMedID 9210243

  • An electrical network model of intracranial arteriovenous malformations: Analysis of variations in hemodynamic and biophysical parameters NEUROLOGICAL RESEARCH Hademenos, G. J., Massoud, T. F. 1996; 18 (6): 575-589

    Abstract

    The propensity of intracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) to hemorrhage is correlated significantly with their hemodynamic features. Biomathematical models offer a theoretical approach to analyse complex AVM hemodynamics, which otherwise are difficult to quantify, particularly within or in close proximity to the nidus. Our purpose was to investigate a newly developed biomathematical AVM model based on electrical network analysis in which morphological, biophysical, and hemodynamic characteristics of intracranial AVMs were replicated accurately. Several factors implemented into the model were altered systematically to study the effects of a possible wide range of normal variations in AVM hemodynamic and biophysical parameters on the behavior of this model and its fidelity to physiological reality. The model represented a complex, noncompartmentalized AVM with four arterial feeders, two draining veins, and a nidus consisting of 28 interconnected plexiform and fistulous components. Various clinically-determined experimentally-observed, or hypothetically-assumed values for the nidus vessel radii (plexiform: 0.01 cm-0.1 cm; fistulous: 0.1 cm-0.2 cm), mean systemic arterial pressure (71 mm Hg-125 mm Hg), mean arterial feeder pressures (21 mm Hg-80 mm Hg), mean draining vein pressures (5 mm Hg-23 mm Hg), wall thickness of nidus vessels (20 microns-70 microns), and elastic modulus of nidus vessels (1 x 10(4) dyn/cm2 to 1 x 10(5) dyn/cm2) were used as normal or realistic ranges of parameters implemented in the model. Using an electrical analogy of Ohm's law, flow was determined based on Poiseuille's law given the aforementioned pressures and resistance of each nidus vessel. Circuit analysis of the AVM vasculature based on the conservation of flow and voltage revealed the flow rate through each vessel in the AVM network. An expression for the risk of AVM nidus rupture was derived based on the functional distribution of the critical radii of component vessels. The two characteristics which were used to judge the fidelity of the theoretical performance of the AVM model against the physiological one of human AVMs were total volumetric flow through the AVM (< or = 900 ml/min), and its risk of rupture (< 100%). Applying these criteria, a series of 216 (out of 260) AVM models using different combinations of these hemodynamic and biophysical parameters resulted in a physiologically-realistic conduct of the model (yielding a total flow through the AVM model varying from 449.9 ml/min to 888.6 ml/min, and a maximum risk of rupture varying from 26.4 to 99.9%). The described novel biomathematical model characterizes the transnidal and intranidal hemodynamics of an intracranial AVM more accurately than previously possible. A wide range of hemodynamic and biophysical parameters can be implemented in this AVM model to result in simulation of human AVMs with differing characteristics (e.g. low-flow and high-flow AVMs). This experimental model should serve as a useful research tool for further theoretical investigations of a variety of intracranial AVMs and their hemodynamic sequelae.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1996VZ76500017

    View details for PubMedID 8985962

  • Arteriovenous malformation animal model for radiosurgery: The rete mirabile AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY DeSalles, A. A., Solberg, T. D., Mischel, P., Massoud, T. F., Plasencia, A., Goetsch, S., DeSouza, E., Vinuela, F. 1996; 17 (8): 1451-1458

    Abstract

    To study the effects of single-dose radiation on the porcine rete mirabile, a tangle of microvessels that mimics human arteriovenous malformations of the brain.Eight retia mirabilia received a single dose of radiation under stereotactic location with digital angiography and CT. The following doses were applied: 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, and 90 Gy. The animals were followed up for a period of 7 months. Findings at neurologic examination, serial angiography, and histopathologic examination were analyzed.Progressive occlusion as observed by angiography corresponded to the histopathologic finding of intimal hyperplasia; that is, marked thickening of the vessel wall, progressing to occlusion of the vascular lumen, and associated thrombosis. A direct dose response was noted for these changes. Neurologic findings were related to the dose distribution and to histologic findings in structures adjacent to the rete mirabile.The rete mirabile is an excellent model by which to study the radiologic and histologic effects of single-dose radiation to the microvasculature of the central nervous system.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1996VJ22000008

    View details for PubMedID 8883640

  • Endovascular treatment of arteriovenous malformations with selective intranidal occlusion by detachable platinum electrodes: Technical feasibility in a swine model AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Ji, C., Guglielmi, G., Vinuela, F. 1996; 17 (8): 1459-1466

    Abstract

    The technical feasibility of selective intranidal endovascular occlusion of experimental arteriovenous malformations with detachable superfine platinum electrodes was assessed in a swine model. The delivery and release of electrodes were performed within normal carotid retia mirabilia, the faster-flowing nidus (bilateral retia) of a carotid-jugular fistula-type model of an arteriovenous malformation, and a small-caliber H-type direct arteriovenous fistula. Controllable atraumatic placement of the electrodes was possible deep within each rete and in the middle of the fistula. The devices were soft and flexible, allowing them to conform to the tight turns and branches of rete vessels. Marked diminution of flow was achieved by release of multiple devices within each rete. Migration of the electrode occurred when detached within the larger-caliber arteriovenous fistula. The main advantages of this technique appear to be the controlled delivery and assured release of an occlusive radiopaque embolic agent within the nidus.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1996VJ22000009

    View details for PubMedID 8883641

  • Transvenous hemodynamic assessment of experimental arteriovenous malformations - Doppler guidewire monitoring of embolotherapy in a swine model STROKE Murayama, Y., Massoud, T. F., Vinuela, F. 1996; 27 (8): 1365-1372

    Abstract

    A Doppler guidewire was used to monitor progressive changes in draining vein flow parameters during experimental embolotherapy in a swine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) model.A microcatheter was positioned superselectively in the main arterial feeder and main draining vein in each of 10 AVM models in swine. With use of the Doppler guidewire, preembolization arterial and venous average peak velocities (APVs) and pulsatility indices were recorded. The device was left in the draining vein during transarterial particulate (in 8 swine) or liquid adhesive (in 2 swine) embolization, and continuous transvenous flow during and after treatment was monitored. Periembolization Doppler flow parameters were correlated qualitatively with angiographic changes in the nidus.Preembolization draining vein flow was pulsatile, with a mean APV of 38.9 +/- 13.7 cm/s. After embolization, this changed significantly to a less pulsatile or nonpulsatile pattern, with a lower mean APV of 9.2 +/- 4.9 cm/s (P = .0001). A novel expression, the maximum minus the minimum peak velocity (MxPV-MnPV), was used in evaluating the transvenous Doppler spectra. This was reduced significantly after embolization from a mean of 11.1 +/- 3.5 cm/s to 6.7 +/- 2.5 cm/s (P = .0025). Objective periembolization hemodynamic changes were detected in the draining veins earlier than the visually subjective angiographic changes within the nidus.Transvenous Doppler guidewire assessment of two parameters, APV and MxPV-MnPV, is useful in the hemodynamic evaluation of experimental arteriovenous shunting and may be used for future objective and quantitative monitoring during endovascular AVM embolotherapy.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1996VA09200020

    View details for PubMedID 8711804

  • Risk of intracranial arteriovenous malformation rupture due to venous drainage impairment - A theoretical analysis STROKE Hademenos, G. J., Massoud, T. F. 1996; 27 (6): 1072-1083

    Abstract

    Increased resistance in the venous drainage of intracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) may contribute to their increased risk of hemorrhage. Venous drainage impairment may result from naturally occurring stenoses/occlusions, or if draining veins (DVs) undergo occlusion before feeding arteries during surgical removal, or after surgery in the presence of "occlusive hyperemia." We employed a detailed biomathematical AVM model using electrical network analysis to investigate theoretically the hemodynamic consequences and the risk of AVM rupture due to venous drainage impairment.The AVM model consisted of a noncompartmentalized nidus with 28 vessels (24 plexiform components and 4 fistulous components), 4 arterial feeders, and 2 DVs. An expression for the risk of AVM nidus rupture was derived on the basis of functional distribution of the critical radii of component vessels. Risk was calculated from biomathematical simulations of volumetric flow rate with both DVs patent and for four stages of venous drainage obstruction: (1) 25%, (2) 50%, (3) 75%, and (4) 100%. Each stage of occlusion was applied to each DV while the other DV was patent and then to the patent DV while the other DV was totally occluded.For flow through the AVM when both DVs were unobstructed, the baseline risk of AVM nidus rupture ranged from 4.4% to 91.2%. Theoretical rupture occurred in nidus components proximal to the DVs when the risk exceeded 100%, as was observed with the obstruction of DV1 and a patent DV2. The ranges for risk of rupture across the nidus for the four stages were (1) 4.7% to 90.5%, (2) 5.9% to 86.9%, (3) 0% to 98.4%, and (4) 0% to 106.3%, respectively. Rupture was observed for an 86% occlusion of DV1 (ie, the DV fed by the intranidal fistula) and DV2 patent, primarily because of the dramatic shift in the hemodynamic burden toward the weaker plexiform nidus vessels.On theoretical grounds, venous drainage impairment was predictive of AVM nidus rupture and was strongly dependent on AVM morphology (presence of intranidal fistulas and their spatial relation to DVs) and hemodynamics. Specifically, stenosis/occlusion of a high-flow DV induces a rapid redistribution of blood into the weak plexiform vessels of the opposing region of the nidus, causing a hemodynamic overload and an increased risk of rupture. These findings should be carefully considered among all factors affecting the natural history of intracranial AVMs and the mechanisms implicated in their spontaneous rupture. They may also provide a theoretical rationale for some of the hemorrhagic complications that occur during and after surgical treatment.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1996UP11900010

    View details for PubMedID 8650717

  • A biomathematical model of intracranial arteriovenous malformations based on electrical network analysis: Theory and hemodynamics NEUROSURGERY Hademenos, G. J., Massoud, T. F., Vinuela, F. 1996; 38 (5): 1005-1014

    Abstract

    Hemodynamics play a significant role in the propensity of intracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) to hemorrhage and in influencing both therapeutic strategies and their complications. AVM hemodynamics are difficult to quantitate, particularly within or in close proximity to the nidus. Biomathematical models represent a theoretical method of investigating AVM hemodynamics but currently provide limited information because of the simplicity of simulated anatomic and physiological characteristics in available models. Our purpose was to develop a new detailed biomathematical model in which the morphological, biophysical, and hemodynamic characteristics of an intracranial AVM are replicated more faithfully. The technique of electrical network analysis was used to construct the biomathematical AVM model to provide an accurate rendering of transnidal and intranidal hemodynamics. The model represented a complex, noncompartmentalized AVM with 4 arterial feeders (with simulated pial and transdural supply), 2 draining veins, and a nidus consisting of 28 interconnecting plexiform and fistulous components. Simulated vessel radii were defined as observed in human AVMs. Common values were assigned for normal systemic arterial pressure, arterial feeder pressures, draining vein pressures, and central venous pressure. Using an electrical analogy of Ohm's law, flow was determined based on Poiseuille's law given the aforementioned pressures and resistances of each nidus vessel. Circuit analysis of the AVM vasculature based on the conservation of flow and voltage revealed the flow rate through each vessel in the AVM network. Once the flow rate was established, the velocity, the intravascular pressure gradient, and the wall shear stress were determined. Total volumetric flow through the AVM was 814 ml/min. Hemodynamic analysis of the AVM showed increased flow rate, flow velocity, and wall shear stress through the fistulous component. The intranidal flow rate varied from 5.5 to 57.0 ml/min with and average of 31.3 ml/min for the plexiform vessels and from 595.1 to 640.1 ml/min with an average of 617.6 ml/min for the fistulous component. The blood flow velocity through the AVM nidus ranged from 11.7 to 121.1 cm/s with an average of 66.4 cm/s for the plexiform vessels and from 446.9 to 480 dyne/cm2 with an average of 463.5 dyne/cm2 for the fistulous component. The wall shear stress ranged in magnitude from 33.2 to 342.1 dyne/cm2 with an average of 187.7 dyne/cm2 for the plexiform vessels and from 315.9 to 339.7 cm/s with an average of 327.8 cm/s for the fistulous component. The described novel biomathematical model characterizes the transnidal and intranidal hemodynamics of an intracranial AVM more accurately than was possible previously. This model should serve as a useful research tool for further theoretical investigations of intracranial AVMs and their hemodynamic sequelae.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1996UF56600060

    View details for PubMedID 8727827

  • Endovascular treatment of multiple aneurysms involving the posterior intracranial circulation AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Guglielmi, G., Vinuela, F., Duckwiler, G. R. 1996; 17 (3): 549-554

    Abstract

    The results of surgery on multiple intracranial aneurysms tha involve the vertebrobasilar circulation are poor, and associated patient mortality remains high. We describe the endovascular treatment of four patients with mutiple aneurysms that involved the posterior intracrancial circulation. Satisfactory occlusion of all aneurysms was achieved by using electrolytically detachable coils, and all patients had a good clinical recovery. Our early experience suggests that endovascular coil occlusion may be a particularly suitable method for treating this high-risk condition.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1996UB13900024

    View details for PubMedID 10200108

  • Laboratory simulations and training in endovascular embolotherapy with a swine arteriovenous malformation model AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Ji, C., Vinuela, F., Turjman, F., Guglielmi, G., Duckwiler, G. R., Gobin, Y. P. 1996; 17 (2): 271-279

    Abstract

    We assessed the suitability of a swine experimental arteriovenous malformation model for laboratory simulations and training in endovascular embolotherapy. Embolizations with liquid glue or particles were performed in 10 animals. The parameters of injection (microcatheter position, concentration and volume of embolic agent, injection rate) were deliberately varied to simulate results that may be observed in clinical practice. A range of successful and less desirable therapeutic outcomes or complications was simulated. In one model, intravascular mean blood pressure in the "terminal feeder" rose after "nidus" embolization, consistent with observations in feeders of cerebral arteriovenous malformations. Experience in the technical aspects of embolotherapy was gained by repeated performances using this model. Simplicity of creation, clear angiographic visibility of feeders, a nidus and a draining vein, and hemodynamic similarities with cerebral arteriovenous malformations make this an attractive in vivo experimental model for learning the principles of embolotherapy, testing new embolic agents, and training/gaining experience in embolization techniques.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1996TW23400019

    View details for PubMedID 8938298

  • Treatment of large and giant fusiform intracranial aneurysms with Guglielmi detachable coils JOURNAL OF NEUROSURGERY Gobin, Y. P., Vinuela, F., Gurian, J. H., Guglielmi, G., Duckwiler, G. R., Massoud, T. F., Martin, N. A. 1996; 84 (1): 55-62

    Abstract

    Results in nine patients with large or giant fusiform intracranial aneurysms that were treated with Guglielmi detachable coils (GDCs) are reported. There were six males and three females between the ages of 12 and 63. Four patients presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and four with mass effect; in one patient the aneurysm was asymptomatic and located in an arterial feeder of an arteriovenous malformation. Five aneurysms were supratentorial and four were in the posterior fossa. Five were giant and four were large. Selective occlusion with preservation of the parent artery was attempted in three cases, and complete occlusion of the aneurysm and the parent artery was performed in six patients. The tolerance to parent artery occlusion was assessed by angiography, balloon test occlusion, and amytal testing. Six aneurysms were permanently occluded and two partially recanalized. In one case, GDC embolization was not possible. The four patients who presented with SAH made an excellent clinical recovery. Three of the four patients presenting with mass effect recovered completely and one remained unchanged. The patient with an incidental aneurysm remained asymptomatic. There were no permanent complications. In conclusion, GDCs were useful for the occlusion of large and giant intradural fusiform aneurysms. Occlusion of the aneurysm and the parent artery afforded the greatest opportunity for a complete cure. Advantages of GDCs compared to balloons include: occlusion of a shorter segment of normal artery, no traction on the parent vessel, and safer and easier catheterization techniques.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1996TL44400009

    View details for PubMedID 8613836

  • ENDOVASCULAR TREATMENT OF FUSIFORM ANEURYSMS WITH STENTS AND COILS - TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY IN A SWINE MODEL AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Turjman, F., Ji, C., Vinuela, F., Guglielmi, G., Gobin, Y. P., Duckwiler, G. R. 1995; 16 (10): 1953-1963

    Abstract

    To assess the biomechanical feasibility of treating experimental fusiform aneurysms endovascularly with a combination of stents and coils.An experimental model was surgically constructed in the necks of nine swine to simulate intracranial fusiform aneurysms possessing important "perforators" or side branches. Balloon-expandable metal stents were positioned across the aneurysms in eight swine. In five of these, additional treatment was intraaneurysmal placement of detachable microcoils. Attempts were made to deposit these coils strategically away from the origin of the side branch.Stent placement was successful in seven swine but failed in one swine because of stent-aneurysm size mismatch. Two swine treated with only stents showed no significant alterations in blood filling of the aneurysm or side branch. Satisfactory coil placement (outside the stent, within the aneurysm sac, and away from the orifice of the side branch) was achieved in four of the five swine treated with stents and coils. Careful fluoroscopic monitoring and controlled coil delivery were necessary to avoid covering the sidebranch origin. These aneurysms could not be packed densely after detachment of the first coil because of the resultant radiographic overlap of multiple coil loops on the stent and its lumen in all projections. In one swine there was inadvertent untoward reentry of the coil tip into the expanded stent lumen during its delivery.Endovascular treatment of experimental fusiforms aneurysms using stents and coils is technically feasible. The stent maintains patency of the parent artery while allowing strategic coil placement in the aneurysm sac away from the origin of side branches. This technique may prove useful in the future treatment of intracranial fusiform aneurysms. However, potential sources of technical difficulties have been identified, and further longterm studies using an appropriate intracranial stent will be necessary before human application.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1995TF78300002

    View details for PubMedID 8585480

  • CORRELATION OF THE ANGIOARCHITECTURAL FEATURES OF CEREBRAL ARTERIOVENOUS-MALFORMATIONS WITH CLINICAL PRESENTATION OF HEMORRHAGE NEUROSURGERY Turjman, F., Massoud, T. F., Vinuela, F., Sayre, J. W., Guglielmi, G., Duckwiler, G. 1995; 37 (5): 856-860

    Abstract

    Superselective angiography is the most accurate technique in the analysis of brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM) angioarchitecture. Therefore, we reviewed the selective and superselective angiograms of 100 consecutive patients with intracerebral AVMs. Our purpose was to determine which parameters of angioarchitecture were significantly correlated with a clinical presentation of hemorrhage. The vascular characteristics evaluated on the angiograms were the size of the AVM, the location of the AVM, the type of nidus, the type of feeders, the characteristics of venous drainage, and the number and location of aneurysms. The parameters found to correlate with hemorrhage were deep venous drainage (P = 0.01), feeding by perforators (P = 0.01), intranidal aneurysm(s) (P = 0.004), multiple aneurysms (P = 0.001), feeding by the vertebrobasilar system (P = 0.002), and location in the basal ganglia (P = 0.04). Six parameters of AVM angioarchitecture were correlated with a clinical presentation of hemorrhage. Among these parameters, three (feeding by perforators, number of aneurysms, and presence of intranidal aneurysms) were well displayed by superselective angiogram.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1995TC38100005

    View details for PubMedID 8559332

  • QUANTITATION OF INTRACRANIAL ANEURYSM NECK SIZE FROM DIAGNOSTIC ANGIOGRAMS BASED ON A BIOMATHEMATICAL MODEL NEUROLOGICAL RESEARCH Hademenos, G. J., Massoud, T. F., Vinuela, F. 1995; 17 (5): 322-328

    Abstract

    Accurate measurement of the aneurysm neck size from diagnostic angiograms is crucial in the consideration and implementation of interventional embolotherapeutic procedures. Due to inherent problems in angiography, aneurysm morphology and location, and obstruction by overlying structures, accurate measurement of the aneurysm neck size is difficult. We are proposing a method for the angiographic measurement of aneurysm neck size based on a biomathematical model of an aneurysm. A biomathematical model of an intracranial saccular aneurysm was developed based on Laplace's law for a spherical elastic object, given by: Stress = Pressure x Radius/2 x Wall thickness. In addition, another biomechanical parameter used to describe an elastic sphere is the strain: Strain = delta R/Ri = (R-Ri)/Ri where R is the current aneurysm radius and Ri is the initial radius prior to aneurysm development. The stress and strain of an elastic structure are used to describe the elastic modulus, E: E = stress/strain = [PR/2h]/[(R-Ri)/Ri] = [PRRi]/[2hR-2hri]. It is assumed at this point that no additional tissue growth occurs through the developmental course of the aneurysm. The expression for E is now solved for Ri which, in essence, represents the radius of the aneurysm neck: Ri = [2hER]/[PR + 2hE]. Thus, the diameter of the neck, Dn, is given by Dn = 2 + i = 2 ([2hER]/[PR + 2hE]). During diagnostic angiography, the radius, R, and pressure, P, are easily obtained during the examination procedure. However, it is not possible to angiographically determine the elastic modulus, E, and the wall thickness, h. In this case, the following average values are used: E = 1.0 MPa and h = 50 microns. From the diagnostic angiograms and hospital records of 23 patients, the aneurysm neck size was determined using the biomathematical model and compared to the results obtained from the correlative relationship between the measured and accepted ratios of neck size to diameter of parent artery. The neck diameter as measured from the accepted ratios of neck size to parent artery diameter for the 23 patients ranged from 1.5 mm to 8.7 mm. The angiographically measured neck sizes were in excellent agreement with those obtained from the biomathematical model, particularly for the wide-necked aneurysms, as evidenced by the fact that all but two chi 2 values were < 1.0. We have described a simple yet accurate method for obtaining aneurysm neck size measurements from diagnostic angiograms using a biomathematical model. The model requires knowledge of only the aneurysm radius and blood pressure and becomes particularly important in characterizing wide-necked aneurysms.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1995TA93400001

    View details for PubMedID 8584121

  • COLLAGEN MICROBEADS - EXPERIMENTAL EVALUATION OF AN EMBOLIC AGENT IN THE RETE-MIRABILE OF THE SWINE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Turjman, F., Massoud, T. F., Vinters, H. V., Ji, C., Tardy, M., Guglielmi, G., Vinuela, F. 1995; 16 (5): 1031-1036

    Abstract

    To evaluate the histologic and angiographic effects of collagen microbeads as an embolic agent in the swine rete mirabile.Human collagen particles (380 +/- 100 microns) of spheroidal shape and smooth surface were used to embolize the rete mirabile in five swine. Control angiograms and pathologic examinations were obtained immediately and sequentially from 3 to 35 days after embolization.The collagen particles were easy to inject through microcatheters. Embolization was always angiographically complete and persistent for at least 5 weeks. Histologic studies showed occlusion of 25% to 50% of the rete vessels. After 3 and 5 weeks' follow-up, transmural and adventitial chronic inflammation was present. Inflammatory infiltrates included lymphohistiocytic cells and scattered eosinophils. The foreign-body giant-cell reaction was pronounced. No evidence of angionecrosis or focal hemorrhage was shown.Collagen microbeads are a promising experimental embolic agent, with potential future applications in humans.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1995QX57800005

    View details for PubMedID 7639124

  • ACUTE SUBDURAL HEMORRHAGE COMPLICATING EMBOLIZATION OF A CEREBRAL ARTERIOVENOUS MALFORMATION AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Duckwiler, G. R., Vinuela, F., Guglielmi, G. 1995; 16 (4): 852-856

    Abstract

    We present a case of a young adult in whom acute subdural hemorrhage developed immediately after embolization of a cerebral arteriovenous malformation with glue. Inadvertent venous outlet obstruction with glue was implicated in the production of the hemorrhage. Possible mechanisms of spread of blood to the subdural space are discussed. Awareness of the possibility of iatrogenic subdural hemorrhage is necessary before undertaking embolization procedures.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1995QT86800012

    View details for PubMedID 7611056

  • EPILEPSY ASSOCIATED WITH CEREBRAL ARTERIOVENOUS-MALFORMATIONS - A MULTIVARIATE-ANALYSIS OF ANGIOARCHITECTURAL CHARACTERISTICS AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Turjman, F., Massoud, T. F., Sayre, J. W., Vinuela, F., Guglielmi, G., Duckwiler, G. 1995; 16 (2): 345-350

    Abstract

    To identify the morphological vascular characteristics of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) that predict a clinical presentation of epilepsy.Fifteen angioarchitectural characteristics of brain AVMs were selected for assessment in 100 consecutive patients referred to our institution for endovascular treatment. In this population, 47% of the AVMs were diagnosed as a consequence of epilepsy. The angioarchitectural characteristics and population demographics were statistically analyzed by means of multivariate analysis.The following six parameters were found to be the most predictive of epilepsy: cortical location of the AVM, feeding by the middle cerebral artery, cortical location of the feeder, absence of aneurysms, presence of varix/varices in the venous drainage, and association of varix and absence of intranidal aneurysms. Three factors were not among the most predictive factors of epilepsy but were significantly associated with the onset of seizures: AVM feeding by the external carotid artery, a temporal cortical location, and a parietal cortical location.Detailed analysis of the angioarchitecture of intracranial AVMs has helped us identify features that strongly correlate with epilepsy. This may aid in future understanding of the physiopathologic mechanisms in epilepsy associated with AVMs, and in identifying goals of treatment for epileptogenic AVMs.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1995QG57400019

    View details for PubMedID 7726084

  • A NONLINEAR MATHEMATICAL-MODEL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND RUPTURE OF INTRACRANIAL FUSIFORM ANEURYSMS NEUROLOGICAL RESEARCH Hademenos, G. J., Massoud, T., Valentino, D. J., Duckwiler, G., Vinuela, F. 1994; 16 (6): 433-438

    Abstract

    Laplace's law, which describes a linear relation between the tension and the radius, is often used to characterize the mechanical response of the aneurysm wall to distending pressures. However, histopathological studies have confirmed that the wall of the fully developed aneurysm consists primarily of collagen and is subject to large increases in tension for small increases in the radius, i.e., a nonlinear relationship exists between the tension within the aneurysm wall and the radius. Thus, a nonlinear version of Laplace's law is proposed to accurately describe the development and rupture of a fusiform saccular aneurysm. The fusiform aneurysm was modelled as a thin-walled ellipsoidal shell with a major axis radius, Ra, minor axis radius, Rb, circumferential tension, S0, and meridional tension, S phi, with phi defining the angle from the surface normal. Using both linear and nonlinear models, differential expressions of the volume distensibility evaluated at 90 degrees were used to determine the critical radius of the aneurysm along the minor axis from S0 and S phi in terms of the following geometric and biophysical variables; A, elastic modulus of collagen; E, elastic modulus of the aneurysm (elastin and collagen); t, wall thickness; P, systolic pressure; and Ra. For typical physiological values of A = 2.8 MPa, E = 1.0 MPa, T = 40 microns, P = 150 mmHg, and Ra = 4Rb, the linear model yielded critical radii of 4.0 mm from S phi and 2.2 mm from S0. The resultant critical radius was 4.56 mm. Using the same values, the critical radii from the tension components of the nonlinear model were 3.5 mm from S phi and 1.9 mm from S0.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

    View details for Web of Science ID A1994PY78100006

    View details for PubMedID 7708133

  • ANEURYSMS RELATED TO CEREBRAL ARTERIOVENOUS-MALFORMATIONS - SUPERSELECTIVE ANGIOGRAPHIC ASSESSMENT IN 58 PATIENTS AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Turjman, F., Massoud, T. F., Vinuela, F., Sayre, J. W., Guglielmi, G., Duckwiler, G. 1994; 15 (9): 1601-1605

    Abstract

    To report the comprehensive superselective angiographic characteristics of aneurysms associated with cerebral arteriovenous malformations.One hundred consecutive patients referred for cerebral arteriovenous malformation embolization underwent preembolization superselective angiography. Superselective angiograms were obtained after microcatheterization of arteriovenous malformation pedicles, and assessed for number and location of aneurysms related to the malformation. A chi 2 test was conducted to correlate these parameters with the onset of intracranial hemorrhage.Aneurysms were demonstrated in 58 of 100 patients. Single aneurysms were found in 24 patients and multiple aneurysms in 34. Presence and number of aneurysms were found to correlate significantly with a clinical presentation of hemorrhage.Superselective angiography was found to be of paramount importance in elucidating the precise and detailed angioarchitecture of brain arteriovenous malformations.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1994PL56400001

    View details for PubMedID 7847201

  • EXPERIMENTAL SACCULAR ANEURYSMS .1. REVIEW OF SURGICALLY-CONSTRUCTED MODELS AND THEIR LABORATORY APPLICATIONS NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Guglielmi, G., Ji, C., Vinuela, F., Duckwiler, G. R. 1994; 36 (7): 537-546

    Abstract

    Experimental models of intracranial saccular aneurysms are a useful contribution to our basic understanding of these lesions. Currently, the commonest in use are those constructed surgically in laboratory animals. We review the numerous surgical techniques available since the 1950s, and the research applications and uses of experimental aneurysms. Further development and use of such models is greatly encouraged in future pathophysiological, hemodynamic, and therapeutic investigations of intracranial saccular aneurysms.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1994PL58000011

    View details for PubMedID 7845579

  • A NONLINEAR MATHEMATICAL-MODEL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND RUPTURE OF INTRACRANIAL SACCULAR ANEURYSMS NEUROLOGICAL RESEARCH Hademenos, G. J., Massoud, T., Valentino, D. J., Duckwiler, G., Vinuela, F. 1994; 16 (5): 376-384

    Abstract

    Mathematical models of aneurysms are typically based on Laplace's law which defines a linear relation between the circumferential tension and the radius. However, since the aneurysm wall is viscoelastic, a nonlinear model was developed to characterize the development and rupture of intracranial spherical aneurysms within an arterial bifurcation and describes the aneurysm in terms of biophysical and geometric variables at static equilibrium. A comparison is made between mathematical models of a spherical aneurysm based on linear and nonlinear forms of Laplace's law. The first form is the standard Laplace's law which states that a linear relation exists between the circumferential tension, T, and the radius, R, of the aneurysm given by T = PR/2t where P is the systolic pressure. The second is a 'modified' Laplace's law which describes a nonlinear power relation between the tension and the radius defined by T = ARP/2At where A is the elastic modulus for collagen and t is the wall thickness. Differential expressions of these two relations were used to describe the critical radius or the radius prior to aneurysm rupture. Using the standard Laplace's law, the critical radius was derived to be Rc = 2Et/P where E is the elastic modulus of the aneurysm. The critical radius from the modified Laplace's law was R = [2Et/P]2At/P. Substituting typical values of E = 1.0 MPa, t = 40 microns, P = 150 mmHg, and A = 2.8 MPa, the critical radius is 4.0 mm using the standard Laplace's law and 4.8 mm for the modified Laplace's law.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

    View details for Web of Science ID A1994PP00800008

    View details for PubMedID 7870277

  • EXPERIMENTAL SACCULAR ANEURYSMS .2. A NEW MODEL IN SWINE NEURORADIOLOGY Guglielmi, G., Ji, C., Massoud, T. F., Kurata, A., Lownie, S. P., Vinuela, F., Robert, J. 1994; 36 (7): 547-550

    Abstract

    A new technique for surgical construction of experimental lateral saccular aneurysms on the common carotid artery of swine is described. It involves end-to-side suturing of an isolated segment of vein to an artery. During a short period of parent artery clamping, an elliptical arteriotomy is fashioned through the open-ended vein graft, the open end of which is subsequently tied and clamps are removed to form an aneurysmal vein pouch. The principal advantage of this technique is the short period of vascular clamping necessary to isolate a segment of the parent artery. This prevents severe endothelial injury and prolonged postoperative vasospasm, both of which may promote intra-aneurysmal thrombosis. Narrow- or wide-necked aneurysms can be created. Steps in the surgical construction of this model are detailed, and specific advantages of using swine are highlighted.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1994PL58000012

    View details for PubMedID 7845580

  • SACCULAR ANEURYSMS IN MOYAMOYA DISEASE - ENDOVASCULAR TREATMENT USING ELECTRICALLY DETACHABLE COILS SURGICAL NEUROLOGY Massoud, T. F., Guglielmi, G., Vinuela, F., Duckwiler, G. R. 1994; 41 (6): 462-467

    Abstract

    Moyamoya disease (MMD) often presents with subarachnoid hemorrhage due to rupture of saccular aneurysms. We describe three patients with cerebrovascular features of MMD in whom four aneurysms of the posterior circulation were endovascularly occluded by electrothrombosis using the recently developed Guglielmi electrically detachable coils (GDC). Near total occlusion was achieved in three aneurysms. Subtotal occlusion was achieved in one aneurysm. This patient developed complications related to the neuroleptic anesthesia administered for the procedure. The particular hazards of anesthesia and aneurysmal surgery in MMD are discussed, and comparison is made with the benefits of using the GDC. Initial experience suggests that this endovascular approach is safe and effective in the treatment of saccular aneurysms in MMD. However, follow-up is necessary to assess long-term persistence of aneurysm obliteration.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1994PC46000008

    View details for PubMedID 8059323

  • COMBINED STENT IMPLANTATION AND ENDOSACCULAR COIL PLACEMENT FOR TREATMENT OF EXPERIMENTAL WIDE-NECKED ANEURYSMS - A FEASIBILITY STUDY IN SWINE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Turjman, F., Massoud, T. F., Ji, C., Guglielmi, G., Vinuela, F., Robert, J. 1994; 15 (6): 1087-1090

    Abstract

    To assess the feasibility of combining stent implantation in the parent artery with endosaccular coil placement for the treatment of experimentally created wide-necked aneurysms.Wide-necked aneurysms were surgically created on the common carotid artery in 12 swine. A metal stent was endovascularly implanted across each aneurysm neck and its effect documented anigiographically. If the aneurysm remained patent, a microcatheter was introduced into the aneurysm through the stent mesh. Electrically detachable coils were delivered into the aneurysm sac to produce thrombosis.After stent implantation, one carotid artery thrombosed and two aneurysms spontaneously occluded. In the other 9 cases, coils were deposited through the stent to occlude the aneurysm. Complete aneurysm packing was possible in all 9 cases. The presence of the stent allowed placement of small coils near the aneurysm neck, thus contributing to the safe occlusion of small remnants in the final stages of aneurysm packing.The combination of stent implantation and coil placement is feasible in the treatment of experimental wide-necked saccular aneurysms. The stent maintains patency of the parent artery while allowing aneurysm occlusion by endosaccular coil placement through the stent's mesh. Occlusion of small aneurysm remnants is possible with no fear of coil hernation or migration into the parent artery. Long-term studies will be necessary before application to treatment of selected intracranial aneurysms.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1994NQ52800012

    View details for PubMedID 8073977

  • EXPERIMENTAL-MODELS OF BIFURCATION AND TERMINAL ANEURYSMS - CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES IN SWINE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Ji, C., Guglielmi, G., Vinuela, F., Robert, J. 1994; 15 (5): 938-944

    Abstract

    We report our preliminary experience in the surgical construction of five experimental bifurcation and terminal aneurysm models in swine. We used unilateral neck vessels to construct models in which the relative directions and sizes of the parent and daughter arteries could be varied by surgery, resulting in aneurysms with high morphologic similarity to human intracranial lesions. Steps in the construction of each model are detailed.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1994NL03200021

    View details for PubMedID 8059664

  • SPONTANEOUS DISSECTION OF BOTH INTRACRANIAL VERTEBRAL ARTERIES NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Molyneux, A. J. 1994; 36 (3): 224-225

    View details for Web of Science ID A1994NE39600011

    View details for PubMedID 8041445

  • COLONIC PREPARATION WITH PICOLAX - PATIENT TOLERANCE AND APPROACHES TO FLUID REPLACEMENT CLINICAL RADIOLOGY Lawrance, J. A., Massoud, T. F., Creasy, T. S., SHATWELL, W., Mason, A., Nolan, D. J. 1994; 49 (1): 35-37

    Abstract

    Sodium picosulphate (Picolax) is widely used for bowel preparation prior to colonic investigation or surgery. The most troublesome side effect reported is headache, which has been thought to be due to dehydration. In a prospective randomized study we investigated the incidence of adverse effects in patients given Picolax prior to barium enema examination, and assessed the incidence of adverse effects with different oral fluid regimens. A total of 197 outpatients were allocated to one of five fluid regimens on the day prior to the enema: (a) 4 pints of Dioralyte (glucose and electrolyte solution); (b) 4 pints of half-strength Dioralyte; (c) 4 pints of water; (d) 6 pints of water; and (e) free fluids. In a questionnaire, 36% of patients had no headache (graded 0/5), while 38% had a significant headache (graded 3/5 or greater). Sixteen per cent had significant abdominal pain, 42% had dry mouths, 43% thirst and 34% tiredness or irritability. There was no correlation between headache and fluid regimen. Furthermore, we have found no evidence of dehydration. None of the five fluid regimens was shown to offer any advantage, and we therefore recommend that patients be allowed to drink according to thirst when taking Picolax.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1994MP40300007

    View details for PubMedID 8299330

  • CT-DACRYOCYSTOGRAPHY FOR NASOLACRIMAL DUCT OBSTRUCTION FOLLOWING PARANASAL SINUS SURGERY BRITISH JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Whittet, H. B., Anslow, P. 1993; 66 (783): 223-227

    Abstract

    Nasolacrimal duct obstruction and consequent epiphora is a complication that may develop in some patients following paranasal sinus surgery. We describe the technique of CT-dacryocystography which entails contrast injection of the lacrimal system and simultaneous computed tomography (CT) scanning of the facial structures. This technique provides concurrent information regarding obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct and the presence of disease recurrence or persistence in the adjacent paranasal sinuses. The role of CT-dacryocystography prior to endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy is discussed briefly.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1993KR16900007

    View details for PubMedID 8472115

  • DOSE REDUCTION OF HYOSCINE-N-BUTYLBROMIDE FOR DOUBLE-CONTRAST BARIUM MEAL EXAMINATIONS - A PROSPECTIVE RANDOMIZED STUDY CLINICAL RADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Nolan, D. J. 1992; 46 (5): 340-343

    Abstract

    A search of the literature suggests that the conventional 20 mg dose of intravenous hyoscine-N-butylbromide (HBB) for smooth muscle relaxation in double-contrast barium meal (DCBM) studies is largely empirical. This study analysed the merits of three different doses (5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg) in the performance of routine DCBMs. One hundred and twenty DCBM examinations were prospectively and randomly allocated to receive one of three doses. Three parameters were measured for each examination: gastroduodenal distension, delay in gastric emptying and gastric antrum overlapping with barium-filled duodenal loops. Almost half the examinations using 5 mg produced undesirable duodenal-gastric overlay. Unacceptable early flooding of the duodenal bulb with barium was seen mostly with doses of 5 mg and 10 mg. Overall, the best results were obtained with 20 mg. The continued use of 20 mg HBB in routine DCBMs is recommended.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1992JW52700010

    View details for PubMedID 1464208

  • SEGMENTAL REVERSAL OF INTRAHEPATIC PORTAL FLOW DUE TO A LIVER METASTASIS BRITISH JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY Kishimoto, R., Choji, K., Massoud, T. F., Matsuoka, S., Chen, M. H., Fujita, N., IRIE, G. 1992; 65 (779): 1035-1038

    View details for Web of Science ID A1992JY78000016

    View details for PubMedID 1450819

  • Case report: taste of success in thyroglossal fistulography. Clinical radiology Massoud, T. F., Schnetler, J. F. 1992; 45 (4): 281-283

    Abstract

    Thyroglossal fistulography is poorly documented in the radiological literature. An illustrative case is presented, highlighting the technique employed and the significance of its findings. The taste of contrast medium as it spills over the tongue is a useful additional sign in the successful demonstration of a fistulous communication. The contribution of fistulography to the accurate diagnostic work-up of patients undergoing the Sistrunk procedure is discussed.

    View details for PubMedID 1395390

  • TASTE OF SUCCESS IN THYROGLOSSAL FISTULOGRAPHY CLINICAL RADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., SCHNETLER, J. F. 1992; 45 (4): 281-283

    Abstract

    Thyroglossal fistulography is poorly documented in the radiological literature. An illustrative case is presented, highlighting the technique employed and the significance of its findings. The taste of contrast medium as it spills over the tongue is a useful additional sign in the successful demonstration of a fistulous communication. The contribution of fistulography to the accurate diagnostic work-up of patients undergoing the Sistrunk procedure is discussed.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1992HM01500017

  • SUBARACHNOID HEMORRHAGE FOLLOWING SPONTANEOUS INTRACRANIAL CAROTID-ARTERY DISSECTION NEURORADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Anslow, P., Molyneux, A. J. 1992; 34 (1): 33-35

    Abstract

    Subarachnoid hemorrhage due to spontaneous dissection of intracranial vessels is uncommon. Most such cases are confined to the posterior circulation. Dissection of an intracranial carotid artery producing subarachnoid hemorrhage without a focal ischemic event is rarely documented. We report a case and review the subject.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1992HD62000008

    View details for PubMedID 1553035

  • 3-DIMENSIONAL COMPUTED-TOMOGRAPHY OF COMPLEX CRANIOFACIAL FRACTURES EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Anslow, P., Molyneux, A. 1991; 13 (3): 233-234

    View details for Web of Science ID A1991GR98500016

    View details for PubMedID 1756754

  • PERSISTENT COLONIC SPASM CONCEALING A CARCINOMA - AN UNCOMMON DIAGNOSTIC PITFALL OF THE BARIUM ENEMA EXAMINATION CLINICAL RADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Gibson, R. J., Nolan, D. J. 1991; 43 (6): 417-419

    Abstract

    Colonic carcinomas may be missed on the barium enema examination for a variety of perceptive, technical, and interpretive reasons. We report an uncommon source of error-persistent bowel spasm resulting in concealment of an underlying carcinoma. Awareness of this association is necessary in the effort to minimize diagnostic pitfalls of the barium enema examination.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1991FR53800014

  • CONTRAST RADIOGRAPHY IN SMALL-BOWEL OBSTRUCTION - ENTEROCLYSIS FORGOTTEN SURGERY Massoud, T. F., Creasy, T., Nolan, D. J. 1991; 109 (3): 345-346

    View details for Web of Science ID A1991EZ89100023

    View details for PubMedID 2043198

  • MORNING OR AFTERNOON BARIUM MEAL - DIURNAL-VARIATION AND THE EFFECTIVENESS OF GASTRIC-MUCOSAL COATING DURING DOUBLE-CONTRAST STUDIES CLINICAL RADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F., Nolan, D. J. 1990; 42 (6): 407-409

    Abstract

    The radiographs of 60 patients having double-contrast barium meal examinations were analysed by a linear analogue technique to assess variation in the quality of mucosal coating between morning and afternoon studies. No significant difference (P greater than 0.5) was found between morning and afternoon gastric mucosal coating. Factors that could in theory contribute to a diurnal variation are discussed. We conclude that afternoon DCBMs can be confidently booked and performed, in the knowledge that their diagnostic quality is not impaired.

    View details for Web of Science ID A1990EK74600005

    View details for PubMedID 2261719

  • Comment on the article by Barloon et al, in which hemodilution was found to occur after enteroclysis in patients with partial small bowel obstruction. Investigative radiology Massoud, T. F., Nolan, D. J. 1990; 25 (9): 1066-?

    View details for PubMedID 2211052

  • Treatment guidelines for early postoperative small bowel obstruction. Annals of surgery Massoud, T. F. 1990; 212 (1): 121-?

    View details for PubMedID 2363598

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC1358095

  • ZONES OF INCREASED PERFUSION (HOT SPOTS) ON PERFUSION LUNG SCANS RADIOLOGY Massoud, T. F. 1990; 175 (1): 286-286

    View details for Web of Science ID A1990CV27100060

    View details for PubMedID 2315500

  • DISTRIBUTION OF DIVERTICULAR-DISEASE DISEASES OF THE COLON & RECTUM Massoud, T. F. 1990; 33 (2): 166-166

    View details for Web of Science ID A1990CN49100023

    View details for PubMedID 2340009