Abstract: The invention provides a novel class of MRI contrast agents based on biogenic hemin and compositions and methods of preparation and use thereof.

Abstract: A compound is provided comprising a melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) targeting peptide (MC1RTP), a radiolabeling group, and a linker joining the MC1RTP to the radio labeling group. The MC1RTP is linear or cyclized, and comprises a sequence of Formula I or Formula II: Xaa1-Xaa2a-Xaa3-Xaa4-Xaa5-Xaa6-Xaa7a (I) or Xaa1-Xaa2b-Xaa3-Xaa4-Xaa5-Xaa6-Xaa7b (II). Xaa1 is L-/D-Nle, L-/D-Nle, L-/D-Ala, L-/D-Leu, L-/D-Ile, D-Ile, L-/D-Cys, L-/D-Met, L-/D-Phe, L-/D-Trp, L-/D-Val, L-/D-Nal, L-/D-2-Nal, Gly, L-/D-?-aminobutryic acid, L-/D-norvaline, or L-/D-homonorleucine. Xaa2a and Xaa7b are L-/D-Cys, L-/D-Asp, L-/D-Glu, L-/D-2-Aad, L-/D-3-Aad, L-/D-Pra, L-/D-Hpg, or L-/D-Bpg. Xaa2b and Xaa7a are L-/D-Cys, L-/D-Lys, L-/D-Orn, L-/D-Dab, L-/D-Dap, L-/D-Lys(N3), L-/D-Orn(N3), L-/D-Dab(N3), L-/D-Dap(N3), L-/D-2-(5?-azidopentyl)alanine, or L-/D-2-(6?-azidohexyl)alanine. Xaa3 is L-/D-His, Pro, beta-(1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)-L-alanine, beta-(1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)-D-alanine, 1,2,4-triazole-3-alanine, or 1,2,4-triazole-3-D-alanine.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent, particularly a metal oxide nanoparticle-based T1-T2 dual-mode MRI contrast agent that can be used not only as a T1 MRI contrast agent but also as a T2 MRI contrast agent, and a method for producing the same. The metal oxide nanoparticle-based T1-T2 dual-mode MRI contrast agent can provide more accurate and detailed information associated with disease than single MRI contrast agent by the beneficial contrast effects in both T1 imaging with high tissue resolution and T2 imaging with high feasibility on detection of a lesion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a conjugate containing at least one kidney-selective carrier molecule and at least one active compound which has a protective action for the kidney against nephrotoxic active compounds, to a process for the preparation of the conjugate, to the use thereof for the protection of the kidney against nephrotoxic active compounds, and to a medicament comprising the conjugate.

Abstract: The disclosure provides compounds, methods, and kits for diagnosis, detection, screening, and imaging of a disease condition (e.g., infection, cancer, tumor, neoplasia), in vitro, ex vivo, and/or in vivo. Certain embodiments include administering a cationic steroid antimicrobial (a “CSA” or “ceragenin”), the CSA including a steroidal backbone and a heterocyclic ring separated from the steroidal backbone by at least 4 atoms (and up to 24 atoms or more), to a subject having or at risk of having a disease condition in an amount effective to diagnose, detect, screen for or image the disease condition in the subject.

Abstract: Compositions including a highly branched alpha-D-glucan or modified forms thereof and a solute compound are described herein. The compositions can provide increased water solubility and/or increased rate of dissolution for the solute compound. The compositions can also provide increased stability for the solute compound. Methods for preparing and using compositions including a solute compound and a highly branched alpha-D-glucan are also described.

Abstract: Thermal conductive compositions, methods for their preparation, and use are provided, which include, for example, as thermal sinks and other uses.

Abstract: A kit for bonding to biological hard tissues, containing a phosphorylated polysaccharide, a polyvalent metal salt other than phosphates, and a solvent. The adhesive composition for biological hard tissues provided by the kit for bonding to biological hard tissues is suitably used in for medical uses, such as cement for bones or dental cement.

Abstract: The present disclosure utilizes the aggregation of stimuli-responsive polymers to isolate a diagnostic target (e.g., an antigen) from a solution using magnetophoresis. Isolating the diagnostic target provides a route to identify the presence of the diagnostic target in the solution.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a contrast agent for nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, and more particularly, to a contrast agent for nuclear magnetic resonance imaging containing melanin nanoparticles having a uniform shape and size, thereby providing good dispersibility in water, no cell toxicity, and a long retention time in vivo.

Abstract: A medical delivery system that enables the delivery of therapeutic agents to malignant tissue utilizing delivery agents and heating of the delivery agents thereby causing the release of the therapeutic agents within the tumor is disclosed. The therapeutic agents may be chemotherapy agents, radiation therapy agents, and other appropriate materials. The magnetic nanoparticles encapsulated by the therapeutic agents in a biocompatible coating may be delivered to tumor sites utilizing attenuated strains of bacteria that seek and reside at tumor sites. An alternating magnetic field device with a prescribed frequency range may be used to induce heating of the magnetic nanoparticles in the patient thereby melting the coating and releasing the therapeutic agents within the tumor.

Abstract: The present invention proposes a magnetic nanocomposite with multi-biofunctional groups, which comprises a core and a shell wrapping the core, wherein the core contains magnetic nanoparticles, and wherein the shell is made of a conductive polymer with multi-biofunctional groups where a medicine, an antibody or a fluorescent label can be attached.

Abstract: Provided herein are compositions comprising a micelle having a hydrophobic superparmagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (SPION) core, a first coating comprising a cationic polymer, and a second coating comprising a polynucleotide. Also provided are methods of using the compositions for transfection and/or transformation of a cell with the polynucleotide. Further provided are methods of detecting transfection of a cell with the polynucleotide.

Abstract: The invention relates to imaging agents, and in particular to multi-modal nanoparticle (NPIA) imaging agents offering magnetic, radionuclide and fluorescent imaging capabilities to exploit the complementary advantages of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and optical imaging (OI). The invention extends to these new types of agents per se, and to uses of such agents in various biomedical applications, such as in therapy and in diagnosis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent coated with carboxylated mannan, particularly a carboxylated mannan coated superparamagnetic MRI contrast agent specifically targeting antigen presenting cells and having excellent in vivo stability, and a method for producing the same. The MRI contrast agent coated with carboxylated mannan of the present invention can provide excellent in vivo stability and biocompatibility owing to its high surface negative charge, and can be introduced specifically into antigen presenting cells owing to mannose of mannan, so as to visualize the antigen presenting cells and the tissue containing the antigen presenting cells in MRI.

Abstract: A noninvasive thermometry monitoring system for determining a temperature of tissue to which hyperthermia treatment is administered is disclosed. The monitoring system may incorporate magnetic nanoparticles having known moments such that once exposed to an alternating magnetic field, the magnetic nanoparticles increase in temperature. Imaging systems can disclose the magnetic nanoparticles within a patient. The temperature of the magnetic nanoparticles can be determined by comparing the magnetic nanoparticle with known temperatures for that type of magnetic nanoparticle. The image of the magnetic nanoparticles may be compared with surrounding tissue to determine the temperature of the surrounding tissue that is exposed to hyperthermia treatment.

Abstract: Magnetic beads that include polyvalent ligands comprising various carbohydrates are described. Methods for fabricating such magnetic beads are also provided as well as methods of their use to capture and enrich pathogen cell population for subsequent culture, lysis and identification.

Abstract: The invention discloses an aqueous method of making polymer coated superparamagnetic nanoparticles. Nanoparticles made by the method are included in the invention.

Abstract: The invention provides multimeric particle comprising metal-containing particles covalently bonded to one another by linker groups wherein at least some of said linker groups are cleavable. The invention further provides a contrast agent comprising said multimeric particles, along with a method of improving contrast of an image using said contrast agent.

Abstract: A diagnostic agent composition is provided which comprises a nanoparticle composition and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient. The nanoparticle composition comprises a nanoparticulate metal oxide and a phosphorylated polyol, wherein the phosphorylated polyol comprises at least two phosphate groups and one or more hydrophilic groups selected from the group consisting of polyethylene ether moieties, polypropylene ether moieties, polybutylene ether moieties, and combinations of two or more of the foregoing hydrophilic moieties. The disclosure provides detailed guidance on methods of making and using such diagnostic agent compositions. The diagnostic agent compositions provided by the present invention are useful as contrast agents for medical diagnostic imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and X-ray imaging. The diagnostic agent composition may be administered to a subject via a variety of techniques, among them injection, inhalation, and ingestion.

Abstract: Provided is an iron oxide nanocapsule which has extremely excellent water dispersibility, which is very stable in the body and which has very excellent MRI contrast ability, a method of manufacturing the same, and an MRI contrast agent using the same. The method of manufacturing the iron oxide nanocapsule includes the steps of: thermally decomposing an iron complex to prepare hydrophobic ligand-bonded iron oxide nanoparticles; and encapsulating the hydrophobic ligand-bonded iron oxide nanoparticles by a carboxymethyldextrandodecylamine conjugate encapsulation material or a dextran-linoleic acid conjugate encapsulation material to form an iron oxide nanocapsule.

Abstract: Methods of non-invasive imaging of complement-mediated inflammation are provided. Compositions including CR-targeted ultrasmall superparamagnetic nanoparticles or aggregates thereof for use with those methods are also provided.

Abstract: The various embodiments herein provide for the engineered multimodal super paramagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) with a fluorescent dye. The SPIONs comprise fluorescent polymer dye arranged in a gap between a SPION core and a gold shell. The SPIONS are provided with a gold coating. The gap is made up of a polymeric molecule such as 6-arm anthracene terminated. The core of the nanoparticle is made up of a magnetic metal oxide. The method for synthesizing SPIONs involves preparing carboxyl-dextran complex and the SPIONS. The SPIONs are coated with carboxyl-dextran complex. The coated SPIONs coated are subjected to fluorescent polymer and gold nano shell coating. The prepared SPIONs are characterized by light scattering measurement and magnetization measurements.

Abstract: Iron oxide complexes, pharmacological compositions and unit dosage thereof, and methods for their administration, of the type employing an iron oxide complex with a polyol, are disclosed. The pharmacological compositions employ a polysaccharide iron oxide complex, wherein the polysaccharide is a modified polyol such as a carboxyalkylated reduced dextran. The complex is stable to terminal sterilization by autoclaving. The compositions are suitable for parenteral administration to a subject for the treatment of iron deficiencies or as MRI contrast agent. The complex is substantially immunosilent, provide minimal anaphylaxis and undergo minimal dissolution in vivo. The pharmacological compositions of the complex contain minimal free iron which can be quantified by a variety of methods.

Abstract: A composition comprising: a liposome having a bilayer structure, a gadofullerene having a high relaxivity, and an amphiphilic receptor ligand. In the composition, the gadofullerene is embedded in the bilayer structure of the liposome. In addition, a method for detecting atherosclerotic plaque in an animal using the composition is described.

Abstract: A bioprobe based on surface-modified single-phase BaGdF5:Yb/Er upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) for multi-modal bioimaging of fluorescent, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed X-ray tomography (CT) is disclosed herein. The modified UCNPs of the present invention are synthesized by a facile one-pot hydrothermal method with simultaneous surface modification of the nanoparticles. The surface-modified UCNPs of the present invention are useful in a variety of biomedical application fields due to their advantages in in vitro and in vivo multi-modal bioimaging such as small particle size up to 15 nm, substantially free of autofluorescence, low cytotoxicity, capable of being excited at near-infrared (NIR) wavelength, ability to deep cell penetration, long-lasting signal and long circulation time in vivo, different X-ray absorption coefficients at different photon energy levels between Ba and Gd, large magnetic moment, etc.

Abstract: Composition and method for surface-functionalized SPION-based agents. Such agents can provide highly pH-sensitive MRI contrast in tissue.

Abstract: The subject invention pertains to a modified MC1R peptide ligand comprising a peptide that is a melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) ligand and a functionality or linker, such as a click functionality, for conjugation to a surface or agent. The modified MC1R peptide ligand can be coupled, e.g., via a click reaction with a complementary click functionality attached, to a moiety to form an MC1R-targeted agent. Drugs, contrast agents, polymers, particles, micelles, surfaces of larger structures, or other moieties can be targeted to the MC1R. The subject invention also pertains to a MC1R peptide ligand-micelle complex comprising a peptide that is a melanocortin 1 receptor ligand connected via a click reaction product to a micelle. The micelle is stable in vivo and can target melanoma tumor cells by association of the peptide ligand with the MC1R or the tumor and selectively provide a detectable and/or therapeutic agent (such as an imageable contrast agent and/or anti-cancer agent) selectively to the tumor cell.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to nanoparticles carrying nucleic acid cassettes for expressing RNA. In certain embodiments, the disclosure relates to improved methods for targeted delivery and expression of siRNAs in vivo using DNA-based siRNA-expressing nanocassettes and receptor-targeted nanoparticles. In certain embodiments, the disclosure relates to methods of targeted delivery of survivin siRNA expressing nanocassettes which enhance sensitivity of human cancer cells to anticancer agents.

Abstract: Targeting contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In preferred embodiments, self-assembled polyelectrolytes coated superparamagnetic iron oxide contrast agent particles are provided, which are labeled with targeting moieties, afforded enhanced relaxivity, improved signal-to-noise and targeting ability. Accordingly, the invention relates to a stable targeting contrast nanosystem applicable for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) having at least one nanoparticle polyelectrolyte polyanion; a targeting agent conjugated to the biopolymer; and a superparamagnetic ligand. In another embodiment the nanosystem according to the invention has at least two biocompatible and biodegradable nanoparticle polyelectrolyte biopolymer. Particularly, the superparamagnetic iron oxide particles are coated by a polyelectrolyte biopolymer and this system self-assembles with the other biopolymer to produce stable nanosystem for magnetic resonance imaging.

Abstract: A method and system for simply and efficiently determining quantities of a preselected material in a particular solution by the placement of at least one superparamagnetic nanoparticle having a specified functionalized organic material connected thereto into a particular sample solution, wherein preselected analytes attach to the functionalized organic groups, these superparamagnetic nanoparticles are then collected at a collection site and analyzed for the presence of a particular analyte.

Abstract: In one aspect, there is provided a compound comprising an acetylated carboxymethylcellulose (CMC-Ac) covalently linked to: at least one poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), and at least one hydrophobic drug. In another aspect, a self-assembling nanoparticle composition comprising such compounds is provided.

Abstract: Nanoparticle having a poly(beta-amino ester) coating. The poly(beta-amino ester) coating includes one or more therapeutic agents that can be delivered by the particle and one or more anchoring groups that couple the polymer to the nanoparticle's core surface. In certain embodiments, the poly(beta-amino ester) includes one or more polyalkylene oxide groups. The poly(beta-amino ester) can further include a targeting agent to target the nanoparticle to a site of interest and a diagnostic agent that allows for imaging of the particle. Methods for making and using the nanoparticles are also provided.

Abstract: An activatable probe and methods of using the same are provided. The activatable probe includes a superparamagnetic core and a polymeric matrix coating the metal oxide core. A paramagnetic agent encapsulated within the polymeric matrix. The polymeric matrix is configured to release the paramagnetic agent when subjected to a medium having a pH less than a normal physiological pH.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel, targeting, paramagnetic nanoparticles as contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging. The compositions of the nanoparticles are composed of self-assembled polyelectrolyte biopolymers having targeting moieties, which can suitable for targeted delivery of paramagnetic ions complexed to the nanoparticles. The nanoparticulate contrast agent can internalize into the targeted tumor cells to realize the receptor mediated uptake, and therefore afford enhanced relaxivity and improved signal-to-noise effect on the examined tissue areas. Methods for making these targeting MRI contrast agents are also provided.

Abstract: This invention discloses a synthetic procedure for preparing nanoparticulate materials of various metal cyanide compounds containing manganese(II) ions in the crystal lattice with the surfaces coated by a hydrophilic compound, and their use as MRI contrast agents with high sensitivity, long blood circulation half lives and low toxicity at low-field and high field MR scanners.

Abstract: This invention features systems and methods for the detection of analytes, and their use in the treatment and diagnosis of disease.

Abstract: The present invention relates to nanoconjugates. In particular, the present invention provides nanoconjugates for diagnostic (e.g., imaging), research, and clinical (e.g., targeted treatment) applications.

Abstract: An agent for imaging of a biological system or delivering drugs to a biological system including one or more nanoparticles formed of at least one gadolinium coordination polymer.

Abstract: A magnetic nanoparticle includes a magnetic core and a superparamagnetic outer shell, in which the outer shell enhances magnetic properties of the nanoparticle. The enhanced magnetic properties of the magnetic nanoparticle allow for highly sensitive detection as well as diminished non-specific aggregation of nanoparticles.

Abstract: Iron oxide complexes, pharmacological compositions and unit dosage thereof, and methods for their administration, of the type employing an iron oxide complex with a polyol, are disclosed. The pharmacological compositions employ a polysaccharide iron oxide complex, wherein the polysaccharide is a modified polyol such as a carboxyalkylated reduced dextran. The complex is stable to terminal sterilization by autoclaving. The compositions are suitable for parenteral administration to a subject for the treatment of iron deficiencies or as MRI contrast agent. The complex is substantially immunosilent, provide minimal anaphylaxis and undergo minimal dissolution in vivo. The pharmacological compositions of the complex contain minimal free iron which can be quantified by a variety of methods.

Abstract: An improved method for diagnosing and characterizing peripheral nerve lesions to permit early identification and characterization of peripheral nerve injuries that will require surgical intervention.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents. In particular, the present invention provides a MRI contrast agent configured to manipulate both the longitudinal (T1) and transverse (T2) relaxation times of surrounding water proton spins.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of forming iron oxide nanoparticles comprising the steps of (a) suspending iron oxide/hydroxide and oleic acid or a derivative thereof in a primary organic solvent; (b) increasing the temperature of the suspension by a defined rate up to a maximum of 340° C. to 500° C.; (c) aging the suspension at the maximum temperature of step (b) for about 0.5 to 6 h; (d) cooling the suspension; (e) adding a secondary organic solvent; (f) precipitating nanoparticles by adding a non-solvent and removing excess solvent; (g) dispersing said nanoparticles in said secondary organic solvent; (h) mixing the dispersion of step (g) with a solution of a polymer; and (i) optionally removing said secondary organic solvent.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) method, in particular to a MRI method enabling early detection of myocardial ischemia.

Abstract: Contrast agents comprising a scaffold protein having at least one operative integrated metal ion binding site.

Abstract: The present invention provides biomimetic contrast agents, dual functional contrast agents effective for therapeutic gene delivery and magnetic nanoparticles which comprise functionalized iron oxide nanoparticle cores, one of an inert gold layer, a layer of inert metal seeds or a silica layer and, optionally, one or both of an outer gold-silver nanoshell or a targeting ligand attached to the inert gold layer or the gold-silver nanoshell. Also provided are methods of in vivo magnetic resonance imaging, of treating primary or metastatic cancers or of ablating atherosclerotic plaque using the contrast agents and magnetic particles. In addition, kits comprising the biomimetic contrast agents, dual contrast agents and magnetic nanoparticles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent coated with carboxylated mannan, particularly a carboxylated mannan coated superparamagnetic MRI contrast agent specifically targeting antigen presenting cells and having excellent in vivo stability, and a method for producing the same. The MRI contrast agent coated with carboxylated mannan of the present invention can provide excellent in vivo stability and biocompatibility owing to its high surface negative charge, and can be introduced specifically into antigen presenting cells owing to mannose of mannan, so as to visualize the antigen presenting cells and the tissue containing the antigen presenting cells in MRI.

Abstract: The invention relates to nanocluster compositions and uses thereof. Specifically, the invention relates to gadolinium-linked nanocluster compositions and their use in diagnosis and prognosis of diseases. The nanocluster compositions of the invention are effective in enhancing the payload of a gadolinium and thereby increasing the longitudinal relaxivity of each particle in the cluster.

Abstract: Disclosed are nanoparticles having a metallic core consisting essentially of superparamagnetic iron oxide; a polymeric coat surrounding said core, the coat having a matrix of polyacrylic acid and forming an outer periphery of said nanoparticle; a plurality of hydrophobic pockets formed by the polymeric coat; a plurality of carboxylic groups along an outer periphery of the polymeric coat and effective to conjugate with a predetermined targeting ligand which functionalizes the nanoparticle; a lipophylic fluorescent dye encapsulated in the plurality of hydrophobic pockets; and a drug encapsulated in the plurality of hydrophobic pockets. Associated methods of making the nanoparticles and of treatments using the nanoparticles are also disclosed.