Enhanced Contrast Agents for MRI
Magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI) is a major diagnostic tool providing a non-invasive in vivo visualization with essentially unlimited penetration depth and high spatial resolution. Currently more than 40% of the scans performed annually utilize a contrast agent (CA). These agents are mainly paramagnetic chelates of gadolinium (Gd+3 ions). There is an ongoing effort to develop CAs with increased circulation times and increased capacity for tissue specific targeting. The Company's nanoparticle platform is capable of delivering higher concentrations of the CA with longer circulation times and enhanced targeting capabilities.
Exploratory work has demonstrated in vivo enhanced imaging intensity and extended effective imaging time for the CA encapsulated in the company's proprietary nanoparticles.
Ultraviolet (UV) / Gamma Radiation Protection
Melanin, a ubiquitous, heterogenous biological polymer contains a population of stationary semiquinone-like radicals. These radicals allow for trapping by the melanin of reactive species such as reactive oxygen species following UV and gamma radiation exposure, therefore acting as a direct molecular antagonists of these resulting reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, melanin can attenuate potential harmful radiation wavelengths through photon absorption. Commercial use of melanin has been difficult due to its large molecular size and poor solubility. Encapsulation of melanin in the nano/micro particles overcomes this impediment. In-vivo studies of melanin containing nanoparticles demonstrated significant protection from radiation damage when compared to nanoparticles containing carbon (as a control).
Enhancement of Chemotherapeutics
Our collaborators at AECOM have incorporated Adriamycin® doxorubicin into the nanoparticle complex and demonstrated in-vitro sustained release of the active agent for up to two weeks as well as dose dependent reduction in cell viability.