Differentiation of human cartilage degeneration by functional MRI mapping-an ex vivo study.

• T1ρ mapping of the cartilage response to loading allows the reliable identification of early degenerative changes ex vivo. • Distinct response-to-loading patterns of cartilage tissue as assessed by functional MRI techniques are associated with biomechanical and histological tissue properties. • Non-invasive functional MR imaging techniques may facilitate the more sensitive monitoring of therapeutic outcomes and treatment strategies.