Abstract: A bioprobe based on surface-modified single-phase BaGdF5:Yb/Er upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) for multi-modal bioimaging of fluorescent, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed X-ray tomography (CT) is disclosed herein. The modified UCNPs of the present invention are synthesized by a facile one-pot hydrothermal method with simultaneous surface modification of the nanoparticles. The surface-modified UCNPs of the present invention are useful in a variety of biomedical application fields due to their advantages in in vitro and in vivo multi-modal bioimaging such as small particle size up to 15 nm, substantially free of autofluorescence, low cytotoxicity, capable of being excited at near-infrared (NIR) wavelength, ability to deep cell penetration, long-lasting signal and long circulation time in vivo, different X-ray absorption coefficients at different photon energy levels between Ba and Gd, large magnetic moment, etc.

Abstract: Compositions of nanoparticles functionalized with at least one zwitterionic moiety, methods for making a plurality of nanoparticles, and methods of their use as diagnostic agents are provided. The nanoparticles have characteristics that result in minimal retention of the particles in the body compared to other nanoparticles. The nanoparticle comprises a core, having a core surface essentially free of silica, and a shell attached to the core surface. The shell comprises at least one silane-functionalized zwitterionic moiety.

Abstract: The present invention provides a trialkoxysilanes having structure I wherein R1 and R2 are independently at each occurrence a C1-C3 alkyl group; R3 is independently at each occurrence a hydrogen or a C1-C3 alkyl group; R4 is a C1-C5 aliphatic radical, a C7-C12 aromatic radical, or a C5-C10 cycloaliphatic group; n is 0, 1, 2 or 3; q is 1, 2 or 3; and X? represents a charge balancing counterion. The trialkoxysilanes are useful for the preparation of nanoparticulate diagnostic imaging agent compositions.

Abstract: The present invention provides a trialkoxysilane having structure I wherein R1 is independently at each occurrence a C1-C3 alkyl group; R3 is independently at each occurrence a hydrogen or a C1-C3 alkyl group; R4 is a C1-C5 aliphatic radical, a C7-C12 aromatic radical, or a C5-C10 cycloaliphatic group; n is 0, 1, 2 or 3; q is 1, 2 or 3; t is 0, 1 or 2; and X? represents a charge balancing counterion. The trialkoxysilanes are useful for the preparation of nanoparticulate diagnostic imaging agent compositions.

Abstract: A nanoparticle for detecting or treating a tumor is provided. The nanoparticle includes a plurality of polymer backbones and at least one first detectable substance, of which each of the polymer backbones includes a hydrophobic region, a hydrophilic region and a chelating region, and the first detectable substance is bound to the chelating region of the polymer backbone. The hydrophobic regions of the polymer backbones form a core block, and the hydrophilic regions of the polymer backbones form a shell block surrounding the core block. A method for detecting or treating a tumor using the nanoparticle is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to nanoconjugates. In particular, the present invention provides nanoconjugates for diagnostic (e.g., imaging), research, and clinical (e.g., targeted treatment) applications.

Abstract: The present invention provides a metal nanoparticle that is surface-modified with a hydrophilic or hydrophobic functional group, and a composition for optical detection comprising the same. The surface-modified nanoparticles according to the present invention form clusters suitable for optical detection, for example, suitable as an X-ray contrast agent, and have surface plasmon energy in the visible region, thereby being usefully applied to a variety of optical detection methods.

Abstract: The disclosure provides quantum dot materials, compositions and methods useful in the treatment of various disorders. In particular, the disclosure provides cadmium-free and lead-free quantum dots.

Abstract: An emulsion includes a substantially continuous liquid medium, and a plurality of droplet structures dispersed within the substantially continuous liquid medium. Each droplet structure of the plurality of droplet structures includes an outer droplet of a first liquid having an outer surface; an inner droplet of a second liquid within the first droplet, the second liquid being immiscible in the first liquid, wherein the inner and outer droplets have a boundary surface region therebetween; an outer layer of block copolymers disposed on the outer surface of the outer droplet; and an inner layer of block copolymers disposed on the boundary surface region between the outer and the inner droplets.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fluorescent silica-based nanoparticle that allows for precise detection, characterization, monitoring and treatment of a disease such as cancer The nanoparticle has a fluorescent compound positioned within the nanoparticle, and has greater brightness and fluorescent quantum yield than the free fluorescent compound To facilitate efficient urinary excretion of the nanoparticle, it may be coated with an organic polymer, such as polyethylene glycol) (PEG) The small size of the nanoparticle, the silica base and the organic polymer coating minimizes the toxicity of the nanoparticle when administered in vivo The nanoparticle may further be conjugated to a ligand capable of binding to a cellular component associated with the specific cell type, such as a tumor marker A therapeutic agent may be attached to the nanoparticle Radionuclides/radiometals or paramagnetic ions may be conjugated to the nanoparticle to permit the nanoparticle to be detectable by various imaging techniques.

Abstract: Novel fluorescent dye comprising metal oxide nanoparticles are prepared where the nanoparticles are as small as 3 nm or up to 7000 nm in diameter and where the dye is bound within the metal oxide matrix. In some embodiments the invention, novel dyes are covalently attached to the matrix and in other embodiments of the invention a dye is coordinate or ionic bound within the metal oxide matrix. A method for preparing the novel covalently bondable modified fluorescent dyes is presented. A method to prepare silica comprising nanoparticles that are 3 to 8 nm in diameter is presented. In some embodiments, the fluorescent dye comprising metal oxide nanoparticles are further decorated with functionality for use as multimodal in vitro or in vivo imaging agents. In other embodiments of the invention, the fluorescent dye comprising metal oxide nanoparticles provide therapeutic activity and incorporated therapeutic temperature monitoring.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a three compartment structured polymer nanoparticle (core-shell-corona) for multimodal imaging with specificity for cells or cellular components, thus enabling more advanced diagnostic approaches and targeted therapy on the cellular level without the use of additional biologically active materials.

Abstract: The present invention relates to diagnostic and therapeutic nanoparticles. More particularly, the present invention relates to creating a copper (Cu)-based nanoparticle and a method for making the same. The Cu-based nanoparticles can further be incorporated with additional therapeutic or diagnostic compounds and used for the diagnosis and treatment of tumors.

Abstract: The invention provides nanoparticles consisting of a polymer which is a metal chelating agent coated with a magnetic metal oxide, wherein at least one active agent is covalently bound to the polymer, said nanoparticles may optionally further comprise at least one active agent physically or covalently bound to the outer surface of the magnetic metal oxide. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising these nanoparticles may be used, inter alia, for detection and treatment of tumors and inflammations.

Abstract: The present invention relates to DTPA derivatives capable of forming complexes by combining with metals and the like, metal complexes formed by combining with the DTPA derivatives, MR and CT contrast agents including gold (Au) nano-particles of which surfaces are coated with the metal complexes, and a method for manufacturing the same. The MR and CT contrast agents according to the present invention have a high magnetic relaxation rate, thereby providing an excellent contrast enforcement effect and a long image acquisition time. Furthermore, the MR and CT contrast agents are not toxic to the human body, and are image contrast agents of dual molecules capable of being applied to both MR and CT.

Abstract: The present inventions relate to compositions and methods for imaging and treating atherosclerotic diseases, pathogen infections, and tumors by administering actively targeting magnetic nanoparticles. In particular, the present inventions provide new types of targeting ligands attached to magnetic nanoparticles for magnetic resonance imaging. The use of these targeted magnetic nanoparticles is contemplated as a means to treat atherosclerotic diseases, including but not limited to inhibiting and removing atherosclerotic plaques. Further, actively targeting magnetic nanoparticles are contemplated for use with multiple labels for use in nuclear medicine imaging, computed tomography (CT) techniques and other types of imaging for medical and research applications.

Abstract: The present invention provides targeted delivery compositions and their methods of use in treating and diagnosing a disease state in a subject.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed generally to gold/lanthanide nanoparticle conjugates, such as gold/gadolinium nanoparticle conjugates, nanoparticle conjugates including polymers, nanoparticle conjugates conjugated to targeting agents and therapeutic agents, and their use in targeting, treating, and/or imaging disease states in a patient.

Abstract: A gold-coated iron oxide nanoparticle, method of making thereof, and method of using thereof is disclosed. The nanoparticle is substantially toxin free (making it clinically applicable), easily functionalized, and can serve as a contrast agent for a number of imaging techniques, including imaging a subject in at least two distinct imaging modes. Further, the nanoparticle is well-suited for therapeutic uses.

Abstract: The present invention also provides methods and compositions for imaging and evaluating, e.g., blood flow or inflammation in a subject. Such evaluations are important in a number of clinical diagnoses, including assessing organ damage associated with angina pectoris, heart attack, stroke, cancer, atherosclerosis, and the like, as well as assessing vessel leakages associated with aneurisms, diffuse bleedings after trauma, and the like.

Abstract: A nanoparticle including a polysiloxane base having an exterior surface and having a photosensitizer at least partly exposed at its exterior surface, said photosensitizer being secured to the exterior surface by loading the photosensitizer onto the surface after formation of the polysiloxane base of the nanoparticle. The nanoparticle may have tumor targeting moieties and may be post loaded with cyanine dye. The nanoparticle preferably includes post loaded moieties providing at least two of tumor specificity, photodynamic properties and imaging capabilities and the photosensitizer is tagged with a radioisotope. A method for preparation of the nanoparticle is also provided.

Abstract: Nanoparticles having an average particle size of less than 2000 nm, wherein said nanoparticles comprise a polymer having pendant cleavable iodine substituted groups are provided. Processes for preparing the nanoparticles and their use as a contrast agent for X-ray imaging are also described.

Abstract: Overexpression of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) has been associated with a number of pathophysiologies, including those associated with cancer and the cardiovascular system. Thus, targeted imaging of ACE is of crucial importance for monitoring tissue ACE activity as well as treatment efficacy. To this end, lisinopril-coated gold nanoparticles were prepared to provide a new type of probe for targeted molecular imaging of ACE by tuned K-edge computed tomography (CT) imaging.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a delivery system administered to the lung preferably by inhalation comprising a polymer-based nanoparticle; and a linker comprising a first portion non-covalently anchored to said nanoparticle, wherein at least part of said first portion comprises a hydrophobic/lipophilic segment embedded in said nanoparticle; and a second portion comprising a coupling group, preferably a maleimide compound, exposed at the outer surface of said nanoparticle. In accordance with one embodiment, the delivery system comprises one or more targeting agents, each covalently bound to said coupling group, preferably maleimide compound, and is administered as an aerosol in the therapy or diagnosis of lung cancer or bronchial dysplasia. In accordance with yet another embodiment, the delivery system comprises a drug and/or a radiopharmaceutical and/or a contrasting agent. A specific example for a linker in accordance with the invention is octadecyl-4-(maleimideomethyl)cyclohexane-carboxylic amide (OMCCA).

Abstract: The present invention relates to diagnostic and therapeutic nanoparticles. More particularly, the present invention relates to creating a hybrid gold/gold sulfide nanoparticle with a chitosan matrix surrounding the metallic nanoparticle and a method for making the same. The chitosan-coated gold/gold sulfide nanoparticles can then be incorporated with additional therapeutic or diagnostic compounds such as iodine, antibodies, or other suitable compounds. The nanoparticles of the present invention have the dual capabilities of absorbing near infrared wavelength light to (1) act as a therapeutic agent by generating heat energy effective for cell ablation or for release of therapeutic compounds embedded in the chitosan matrix and (2) creating diagnostic benefit by incorporation of X-ray or MRI contrast-agents.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of detecting a cancer cell in an individual, methods of grading a cancer, and methods of treating a cancer. The methods involve use of functionalized magnetic nanoparticles that comprise a moiety that provides for selective association with, and/or metabolic uptake into, a cancer cell.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions comprising nanoparticles and uses thereof. Such nanoparticles include gold nanoparticles conjugated to glucose or a glucose derivative, which are useful as contrast agents in imaging methods such as computed tomography (CT). Nanoparticles disclosed herein are useful in imaging various cells, tissues, and organs, and are particularly useful in imaging tumors and tumor cells in vitro and in vivo.

Abstract: Compositions of nanoparticles functionalized with at least one net positively charged group and at least one net negatively charged group, methods for making a plurality of nanoparticles, and methods of their use as diagnostic agents are provided. The nanoparticles have characteristics that result in minimal retention of the particles in the body compared to other nanoparticles. The nanoparticle comprises a core and a shell. The shell comprises a plurality of silane moieties; at least one silane moiety of the plurality is functionalized with a net positively charged group and at least one silane moiety of the plurality is functionalized with a net negatively charged group.

Abstract: Compositions of nanoparticles functionalized with at least one zwitterionic moiety, methods for making a plurality of nanoparticles, and methods of their use as diagnostic agents are provided. The nanoparticles have characteristics that result in minimal retention of the particles in the body compared to other nanoparticles. The nanoparticle comprises a core, having a core surface essentially free of silica, and a shell attached to the core surface. The shell comprises at least one silane-functionalized zwitterionic moiety.

Abstract: Compositions of nanoparticles functionalized with at least one zwitterionic moiety, methods for making a plurality of nanoparticles, and methods of their use as diagnostic agents are provided. The nanoparticles have characteristics that result in minimal retention of the particles in the body compared to other nanoparticles. The nanoparticle comprises a core, having a core surface essentially free of silica, and a shell attached to the core surface. The shell comprises at least one silane-functionalized zwitterionic moiety.

Abstract: New and sensitive methods for imaging the perfusion of tissues and the extravasation of blood out vessels have been developed. The present invention is useful in the imaging of microperfusion in organ tissues (e.g., heart, liver, brain and kidneys) to aid in evaluating the perfusion status of organs on the level of the smallest blood vessels (i.e. capillaries). The present invention also provides methods and compositions for imaging and evaluating macrophages and plaque, e.g., vulnerable plaque. Such evaluations are important in a number of clinical diagnoses, including assessing organ damage associated with angina pectoris, heart attack, stroke, and the like, as well as assessing vessel leakages associated with aneurisms, diffuse bleedings after trauma, and the like.

Abstract: Nanoparticles having an average particle size of less than 2000 nm, wherein said nanoparticles comprise a polymer having pendant cleavable iodine substituted groups are provided. Processes for preparing the nanoparticles and their use as a contrast agent for X-ray imaging are also described.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods, systems and reagents for providing contrast media that are compatible with osteoinductive factor induced bone formation.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a three compartment structured polymer nanoparticle (core-shell-corona) for multimodal imaging with specificity for cells or cellular components, thus enabling more advanced diagnostic approaches and targeted therapy on the cellular level without the use of additional biologically active materials.

Abstract: A system for detecting a spinal injury region containing injured spinal nerve cells may include a swarm of nanosensors that are configured to detect chemical signals released by the injured spinal nerve cells, and are coated with a magnetic material. A magnetic field generator may controllably generate a magnetic field so as to magnetically levitate the magnetically coated nanosensors. An imaging subsystem may detect the positions of the nanosensors. A controller may control the intensity and direction of the magnetic field in a feedback loop, in response to the detected positions of the nanosensors, so that the attractive force that attracts each nanosensor toward the injured spinal cell as a result of the chemical affinity of the nanosensor is iteratively supplemented by the magnetic levitation force applied to that nanosensor, until substantially all of the nanosensors are agglutinated around the spinal injury region.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel nanocell compositions and their use in imaging, diagnostic and treatment methods. In one embodiment, nanocells tailored for imaging methods comprise a nanocore surrounded by a lipid matrix, and are modified to contain a radionuclide core or a nanocore with an emission spectra. The nanocells may be size restricted such as being greater than about 60 nm so that they selectively extravasate at sites of angiogenesis (e.g. tumor) and do not pass through normal vasculature or enter non-tumor bearing tissue. In this way, angiogenic sites can be both detected and treated. In another embodiment, nanocells are tailored for various treatment methods, including the treatment of brain cancer, asthma, Grave's Disease, Cystic Fibrosis, and Pulmonary Fibrosis.

Abstract: A medical device comprising radiopaque water-dispersible metallic nanoparticles, wherein the nanoparticles are released from the medical device upon implantation of the device. The medical device of the present invention is sufficiently radiopaque for x-ray visualization during implantation, but loses its radiopacity after implantation to allow for subsequent visualization using more sensitive imaging modalities such as CT or MRI. The nanoparticles are formed of a metallic material and have surface modifications that impart water-dispersibility to the nanoparticles. The nanoparticles may be any of the various types of radiopaque water-dispersible metallic nanoparticles that are known in the art. The nanoparticles may be adapted to facilitate clearance through renal filtration or biliary excretion. The nanoparticles may be adapted to reduce tissue accumulation and have reduced toxicity in the human body. The nanoparticles may be applied directly onto the medical device, e.g.