Abstract: Described here are devices, systems, and kits for delivering substances to tissues. The devices generally include one or more chambers (102) and a reservoir (108) within each chamber. The reservoir may locally deliver a microdose amount of a substance to a target tissue. In some variations, a microdose amount is used in early human studies, e.g., before a phase I clinical trial, to evaluate the effect of the substance on a target tissue, or to obtain pharmacokinetic or metabolic data. In other variations, a microdose amount is used to locally treat a medical condition. In yet other variations, a microdose amount is used to locally deliver a contrast agent for a structural or functional imaging procedure. Methods for delivering and retrieving the devices from the target tissue are also described.

Abstract: Described here are devices, systems, and kits for delivering substances to tissues. The devices generally include one or more chambers (102) and a reservoir (108) within each chamber. The reservoir may locally deliver a microdose amount of a substance to a target tissue. In some variations, a microdose amount is used in early human studies, e.g., before a phase I clinical trial, to evaluate the effect of the substance on a target tissue, or to obtain pharmacokinetic or metabolic data. In other variations, a microdose amount is used to locally treat a medical condition. In yet other variations, a microdose amount is used to locally deliver a contrast agent for a structural or functional imaging procedure. Methods for delivering and retrieving the devices from the target tissue are also described.

Abstract: An instrument for capturing an image of thrombus formation, blood coagulation, recruitment of circulating inflammatory or tumour cells in a blood sample. The instrument comprises a member defining a channel therethrough, a fluid handling assembly that permits the blood sample to move through the channel at a flow rate, and an imaging assembly including a microscopy device. The imaging assembly is disposed relative to the channel so as to capture light rays defining the image of thrombus formation in the channel.