UNIFORM FLUORESCENT MICROSPHERE WITH HYDROPHOBIC SURFACES
First Claim
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1. A method for measuring blood flow in a subject wherein the method comprises:
- administering to the subject a plurality of microspheres, wherein the microspheres are impregnated with a dye having an excitation and emission spectrum compatible with in vivo or intravital imaging and further, wherein the microspheres have a hydrophobic outer surface;
illuminating microspheres within the subject with an appropriate wavelength to form illuminated microspheres; and
observing the illuminated microspheres;
wherein, the blood flow is measured by detecting the movement of the microspheres in the subject.
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Abstract
Fluorescent microspheres for the measurement of blood flow are provided. The microspheres are substantially uniform in diameter and have a hydrophobic surface, which allows them to circulate more freely throughout bloodstream, while reducing immunogenicity, particle aggregation and bioaccumulation. The hydrophobic surface on each microsphere is generally comprised of polymeric material having a limited surface charge.
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Citations
28 Claims
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1. A method for measuring blood flow in a subject wherein the method comprises:
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administering to the subject a plurality of microspheres, wherein the microspheres are impregnated with a dye having an excitation and emission spectrum compatible with in vivo or intravital imaging and further, wherein the microspheres have a hydrophobic outer surface;
illuminating microspheres within the subject with an appropriate wavelength to form illuminated microspheres; and
observing the illuminated microspheres;
wherein, the blood flow is measured by detecting the movement of the microspheres in the subject. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26)
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28. A method for identifying a subject suffering from a disease affecting the blood, comprising:
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administering to the subject a plurality of microspheres, wherein the microspheres are impregnated with a dye having an excitation and emission spectrum compatible with in vivo or intravital imaging and further, wherein the microspheres have a hydrophobic outer surface;
illuminating microspheres within the subject with an appropriate wavelength to form illuminated microspheres; and
observing the illuminated microspheres;
wherein, the disease affects the movement of said microspheres within the subject.
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Specification