Abstract: Novel targeted delivery systems for bioactive agents. In preferred form, the delivery systems comprise, in combination with an effective amount of a bioactive agent, a targeted matrix comprising a polymer and a targeting ligand. Preferably, the targeting ligand is covalently associated with the polymer and the bioactive agent is associated non-covalently with the polymer. Also in preferred embodiments, the bioactive agent is substantially homogeneously dispersed throughout the matrix. The compositions are particularly suitable as delivery vehicles with bioactive agents that have limited water solubility.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a solid porous matrix comprising a solvent and a surfactant in combination with a bioactive agent. The solvent and the surfactant may, if desired, form vesicles, an agglomeration of which comprises the matrix. The composition optionally comprises a gas or a gaseous precursor. The emulsion may be dried, and subsequently reconstituted in an aqueous or organic solution.

Abstract: Methods for enhancing the bioavailability of a bioactive agent in vivo. Embodiments of the invention involve administering a bioactive agent and an acoustically active composition to a patient. Ultrasound energy may be applied in an amount sufficient to activate the acoustically active composition. In preferred form, the acoustically active composition is administered to the patient at a rate which comprises continuous infusion.

Abstract: Contrast agents for ultrasonic imaging comprising gas filled liposomes prepared using vacuum drying gas instillation methods, and gas filled liposomes substantially devoid of liquid in the interior thereof, are described. Methods of and apparatus for preparing such liposomes and methods for employing such liposomes in ultrasonic imaging applications are also disclosed. Also described are diagnostic kits for ultrasonic imaging which include the subject contrast agents.

Abstract: Novel gas filled microspheres useful as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents are provided.

Abstract: The present invention describes, among other things, the surprising discovery that gaseous precursor filled compositions are profoundly more effective as acoustically active contrast agents when they are thermally preactivated to temperatures at or above the boiling point of the instilled gaseous precursor prior to their in vivo administration to a patient. Further optimization of contrast enhancement is achieved by administering the gaseous precursor filled compositions to a patient as an infusion. Enhanced effectiveness is also achieved for ultrasound mediated targeting and drug delivery.

Abstract: The present invention is directed, inter alia, to a method for delivering a compound into a cell comprising administering to the cell the compound to be delivered, an organic halide, and/or a carrier. Ultrasound may also be applied, if desired.

Abstract: Substantially homogeneous aqueous suspensions of low density microspheres are presented as contrast media for imaging the gastrointestinal tract and other body cavities using computed tomography. In one embodiment, the low density microspheres are gas-filled. With computed tomography, the contrast media serve to change the relative density of certain areas within the gastrointestinal tract and other body cavities, and improve the overall diagnostic efficacy of this imaging method.

Abstract: Contrast agents for ultrasonic imaging comprising gas filled liposomes prepared using vacuum drying gas instillation methods, and gas filled liposomes substantially devoid of liquid in the interior thereof, are described. Methods of and apparatus for preparing such liposomes and methods for employing such liposomes in ultrasonic imaging applications are also disclosed. Also described are diagnostic kits for ultrasonic imaging which include the subject contrast agents.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a solid porous matrix comprising a surfactant in combination with a bioactive agent. The solid porous matrix may be prepared by combining a surfactant and a therapeutic, together with a solvent, to form an emulsion containing random aggregates of the surfactant and the therapeutic, and processing the emulsion by controlled drying, or controlled agitation and controlled drying to form the solid porous matrix.

Abstract: Improved methods for providing an image of an internal region of a patient. Embodiments of the invention involve the administration to the patient of a contrast agent which comprises, in an aqueous carrier, a lipid, protein, polymer or surfactant, and a gas. The patient is scanned using ultrasound imaging to obtain a visible image of the region. In embodiments of the invention, the scanning step may comprise applying a first quantity of ultrasound energy to the patient to provide a first image, followed by the application substantially immediately thereafter of a second quantity of ultrasound energy to provide a second image. The first and second images are then processed. The methods are particularly useful for obtaining on-line images of the cardiovascular region which may be employed, for example, to diagnose the presence of diseased tissue in the cardiovascular region of a patient.

Abstract: A container comprising an aqueous lipid suspension and a gaseous phase substantially separate from the aqueous stabilizing phase, useful in diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging and in therapeutic applications, is disclosed.

Abstract: Novel methods for delivering bioactive agents to particular regions or tissues of the body of a patient are provided.

Abstract: Novel contrast agents which may be used for diagnostic and therapeutic use. The compositions may comprise a lipid, a protein, polymer and/or surfactant, and a gas, in combination with a targeting ligand. In preferred embodiments, the targeting ligand targets coagula, including emboli and/or thrombi, particularly in patients suffering from an arrhythmic disorder. The contrast media can be used in conjunction with diagnostic imaging, such as ultrasound, as well as therapeutic applications, such as therapeutic ultrasound.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to optoacoustic contrast agents and methods of diagnostic and therapeutic imaging using optoacoustic contrast agents.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to charged lipids, compositions comprising charged lipids, and the use of these compositions in drug delivery, targeted drug delivery, therapeutic imaging and diagnostic imaging, as well as their use as contrast agents.

Abstract: Novel gas filled microspheres useful as computed tomography (CT) contrast agents. The microspheres are prepared from a gas and/or a gaseous precursor, and one or more stabilizing compounds.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel lipid soluble steroid prodrugs compositions comprising steroid prodrugs, and uses of the same.

Abstract: A novel method of magnetic resonance focused surgical and therapeutic ultrasound is disclosed where a patient is administered a contrast medium comprising a gas or gaseous precursor filled vesicle, and optionally a therapeutic compound.

Abstract: A method for providing an image of an internal region of a patient has been developed. The method reduces imaging artifacts by providing enhanced contrast between tissue and blood during imaging. The method comprises administering to a patient a contrast agent in combination with a renal vasodilator and performing ultrasound imaging of the region. Renal disease, including renal arterial stenosis, may be diagnosed using the method.