Abstract: Formulations consisting of phospholipid small unilamellar particles encapsulating polyene antifungal antibiotics and methods for using such compositions to treat systemic fungal infections are described. In a preferred embodiment, the particles are in the form of vesicles which comprise a polyene antifungal antibiotic, preferably amphotericin B and/or nystatin, egg phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol, preferably in the molar ratio of about 0.2 (AMB):2(PL):1(CHOL). These vesicles may also have an amine modified surface. The vesicles are suspended in a low ionic strength saccharide/tris solution at a pH of from about 6.0 to about 8.0 and may be administered to deliver the anti-fungal antibiotic to treat systemic fungal infections.

Abstract: A method is provided for preparing small (less than 2000 .ANG.) lipid vesicles in commercial quantities by microemulsifying lipid compositions using very high shear forces generated in a homogenizing apparatus operated at high pressures at a selected temperature. These vesicles are suitable for various biological applications including targeting of tumors in a body for diagnosis and treatment.

Abstract: A method for determining metabolic status of any organism is disclosed. The method is based on determining the changes in rate of oxygen consumption as a function of varying stress levels, and particularly in response to varying the levels of ambient oxygen supply to the organism. Typically, the stress variation is imposed against a backdrop of constant second stress applied to the same organism.