Targeting Microbubbles
AssigneesCalifornia Institute of Technology, The Regents of the University of California
InventorsRobert H. GRUBBS, Marshall Leedy STOLLER, Hoyong CHUNG, Alissa M. FITZGERALD, Thomas W. KENNY, Renee M. THOMAS
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
This invention related to manufactured microbubbles, as well as methods of using manufactured microbubbles, for example, in medicinal applications. The invention pertains to the physical structure and materials of the microbubbles, as well as to methods for manufacturing microbubbles, methods for targeting microbubbles for specific medicinal applications, and methods for delivering microbubbles in medical treatment.
Claims25
A targeting microbubble comprising:
- (a) a core containing a fluid having a normal boiling point less than about 30° C.;
- (b) an anchoring moiety comprising a bio-lipid, protein, surfactant, or synthetic polymer;
- and
- (c) a targeting moiety comprising:
- (i) a chemical group having an affinity for a metal-containing material;
- or
- (ii) a cell specific ligand.
(canceled)
12-27. (canceled)
A method of treating a patient comprising applying energy to micro bubbles disposed within the patient, wherein the microbubbles comprise a targeting moiety with a specific affinity to a target within the patient, and wherein the energy is effective to cause cavitation of the micro bubbles.
(canceled)
(canceled)
38-44. (canceled)
A pharmaceutical composition, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises microbubbles, wherein the microbubbles comprise a fluid-filled shell, wherein the shell comprises a targeting moiety chemically connected to an anchoring moiety, wherein the targeting moiety has affinity for metal-containing bodies or biological targets.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.