Aolymer-encapsulated microbubble contrast agent: preparation and in vitro echogenic characteristics.

Author: Qiao-Feng JIN ¹ ; Yue ZHONG ; Xiang-Lin LUO
Author Information

1. State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials and Engineering of China, College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Chengdu 610064, China.
Publication Type:Journal Article
MeSH: Contrast Media; chemistry; Drug Compounding; Lactates; chemistry; Microbubbles; Polyesters; chemistry; Polyethylene Glycols; chemistry; Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color; methods
From: Journal of Southern Medical University 2008;28(1):54-56
CountryChina
Language:Chinese
Abstract:
OBJECTIVETo prepare an ultrasound microbubble contrast agent using PLLA-PEG-PLLA copolymer as the shell material, and test their acoustic characteristics in vitro.
METHODSPLLA-PEG-PLLA tri-block co-polymers were synthesized by ring-opening polymerization. Microbubbles were prepared by using double emulsion technique. Light microscope and scanning electron microscope were applied to observe the morphology of the microbubbles. Their size distribution was analyzed using MASTERSIZER 2000. The acoustic characteristics of microbubbles were tested by using color Doppler Ultrasonography.
RESULTSMicrobubbles were well dispersed in water. Contrast enhancement was stronger and longer lasting at low mechanical index.
CONCLUSIONThe polymer-encapsulated microbubbles prepared by using double emulsion technique with PLLA-PEG-PLLA as the shell material can be used as an ultrasound contrast agent.