Therapeutic applications of microbubbles

Eur J Radiol. 2002 May;42(2):160-8. doi: 10.1016/s0720-048x(01)00455-7.

Abstract

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. Targeting ligands and drugs can be incorporated into microbubbles to make highly specific diagnostic and therapeutic agents for activation with ultrasound. In this paper I will review some of these potential applications and experimental results using such agents for thrombolysis, drug and gene delivery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Drug Carriers*
  • Genetic Therapy / instrumentation
  • Genetic Therapy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Microspheres*
  • Thrombolytic Therapy / methods*
  • Thrombosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Thrombosis / therapy
  • Ultrasonic Therapy / methods*
  • Ultrasonography

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Drug Carriers