Abstract: Novel contrast media for use in magnetic resonance imaging are described. Such contrast media are comprised of biocompatible polymers either alone or in admixture with one or more contrast agents such as paramagnetic, superparamagnetic or proton density contrast agents. Additionally, the polymers or polymer and contrast agent admixtures may be mixed with one or more biocompatible gases to increase the relaxivity of the resultant preparation, and/or with other components. In a preferable embodiment, the contrast medium is hypoosmotic.

Abstract: Therapeutic delivery systems comprising gaseous precursor-filled microspheres comprising a therapeutic are described. Methods for employing such microspheres in therapeutic delivery applications are also provided. Therapeutic delivery systems comprising gaseous precursor-filled liposomes having encapsulated therein a contrast agent or drug are preferred. Methods of and apparatus for preparing such liposomes and methods for employing such liposomes in therapeutic delivery applications are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods of and apparatus for preparing gas-filled liposomes are described. Gas-filled liposomes prepared by these methods are particularly useful, for example, in ultrasonic imaging applications and in therapeutic drug delivery systems.

Abstract: Novel complexes of paramagnetic ions and compounds bearing long acyl chains have been synthesized as magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents. These novel liposoluble contrast agents may be administered alone, or with lipids, suspending agents or other additives. The lipids may be in the form of liposomes, micelles or lipid emulsions. The contrast agents of the invention have particular use in magnetic resonance imaging of the liver, blood pool and reticuloendothelial system.

Abstract: Novel compounds having use as contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging, as well as other uses, are described. The compounds are comprised of a copolymer which comprises at least two of a first monomer of the formula X.sub.1 --(CHR.sub.2 CHR.sub.2 -Y).sub.n -(CHR.sub.2).sub.m --CHR.sub.2 CHR.sub.2 13 X.sub.2, wherein X.sub.1 and X.sub.2 are, independently, OH, NH.sub.2, NHR.sub.1, COOH, COOR.sub.1, SH, or Z, Y is O, NH, NR.sub.1, S, or CO, n is 0-10,000, m is 0 or 1, each Z is, independently, Cl, Br, or I, each R.sub.1 is, independently, a C.sub.1 -C.sub.20 substituted alkyl or cycloalkyl, and each R.sub.2 is, independently, H or OH, and at least one of a second monomer which is a polynitrilo chelating agent having at least two COOH, COOR.sub.1, or COZ groups, the first and second monomers being bound to one another to form a copolymer through an ester, amide, or carboxylic thioester linkage of at least one of the OH, NH.sub.2, NHR.sub.1, COOH, COOR.sub.

Abstract: Novel contrast media for use in ultrasonic imaging are described. Such contrast media may be comprised of an aqueous solution of one or more biocompatible polymers, wherein said biocompatible polymers are coated with and/or in admixture with at least one silicon containing compound. Alternatively, the contrast media may be comprised of an aqueous solution of one or more biocompatible synthetic polymers, or an aqueous solution of cellulose. The contrast media may be employed, if desired, with anti-gas agents and/or suspending agents.

Abstract: Novel contrast media for use in magnetic resonance imaging are described. Such contrast media are comprised of biocompatible polymers either alone or in admixture with one or more contrast agents such as paramagnetic, superparamagnetic or proton density contrast agents. Additionally, the polymers or polymer and contrast agent admixtures may be mixed with one or more biocompatible gases to increase the relaxivity of the resultant preparation, and/or with other components. In a preferable embodiment, the contrast medium is hypoosmotic.