Abstract: The present disclosure provides compositions and methods for the genetic modification of cells, including, but not limited to, resting T-cells and hepatocytes. The compositions and methods can comprise lipid nanoparticles, wherein the lipid nanoparticles comprise at least one multivalent cationic bolaform amphiphilic lipid, at least one structural lipid, at least one phospholipid and at least one PEGylated lipid.

Abstract: A method for ascertaining the presence of target-bound microbubbles in the context of ultrasound molecular imaging is taught. This method, referred to herein as dynamic scaling ultrasound molecular imaging, relies upon the time-varying behavior contrast agents within a region expressing a molecular imaging target and that within a reference region. Ultrasound contrast agents compositions that enable use of the method are also taught. The method is useful for the use of ultrasound molecular imaging in diagnosing and monitoring treatment.

Abstract: A method for ascertaining the presence of target-bound microbubbles in the context of ultrasound molecular imaging is taught. This method, referred to herein as dynamic scaling ultrasound molecular imaging, relies upon the time-varying behavior contrast agents within a region expressing a molecular imaging target and that within a reference region. Ultrasound contrast agent compositions that enable use of the method are also taught. The invention is useful for the use of ultrasound molecular imaging in diagnosing disease and monitoring treatment.

Abstract: A method for ascertaining the presence of target-bound microbubbles in the context of ultrasound molecular imaging is taught. This method, referred to herein as dynamic scaling ultrasound molecular imaging, relies upon the time-varying behavior contrast agents within a region expressing a molecular imaging target and that within a reference region. Ultrasound contrast agents compositions that enable use of the method are also taught. The method is useful for the use of ultrasound molecular imaging in diagnosing and monitoring treatment.

Abstract: Described are microbubble compositions including microbubbles having membranes that incorporate modified surface features that may be useful, for example, in facilitating binding to a target surface or substance. The surface features may include non-spherical attributes such as crenations, folds, projections, or wrinkles, which can increase the deformability of the microbubble membrane. Such microbubble compositions can be incorporated into targeted ultrasound contrast agents and methodologies. Methods for preparing modified microbubble compositions include providing microbubbles having spherical membranes, and converting the spherical membranes to non-spherical membranes having surface features as mentioned above. Targeting substances can be incorporated into the membranes before or after their conversion from spherical to non-spherical forms.