Nanoparticle drug delivery system for intravenous delivery of topoisomerase inhibitors.

Camptothecin-based drugs, because of their poor solubility and labile lactone ring, pose challenges for drug delivery. The purpose of this research was to develop a nanoparticle delivery system for camptotheca alkaloids. After initial investigations SN-38 was selected as the candidate camptotheca alkaloid for further development.

Targeted-microbubble binding selectively to GPIIb IIIa receptors of platelet thrombi.

Rationale And Objectives: New targeted microbubbles directed to the GPIIb IIIa receptor have been developed. The objective was to determine whether targeting microbubbles to clots would enhance ultrasound imaging. Systematic studies were designed to determine whether in vitro methodology is an acceptable predictor of in vivo efficacy.

Therapeutic applications of microbubbles.

Microbubbles, currently used as contrast agents have potential therapeutic applications. Microbubbles, upon insonation of sufficiently intense ultrasound will cavitate. Cavitation with microbubbles can be used to dissolve blood clots or deliver drugs.