Ultrasound-Mediated Treatment of Microvascular Obstruction Using tPA-Labeled Microbubbles
University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a novel therapeutic approach for treating microvascular obstruction (MVO) using tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) labeled microbubbles combined with ultrasound. This innovative method leverages ultrasound-targeted microbubble cavitation (UTMC) to enhance thrombolysis and restore microvascular patency, potentially improving outcomes for patients with coronary artery disease.
Description
The technology involves the synthesis of tPA-labeled microbubbles designed to target and disrupt microthrombi in the microvasculature. The microbubbles are created using a lipid formulation sonicated in the presence of perfluorobutane to produce biotin-labeled lipid microbubbles. These microbubbles are then conjugated with streptavidin and biotinylated tPA, resulting in tPA-labeled microbubbles. When exposed to ultrasound, these microbubbles undergo cavitation, leading to mechanical disruption of thrombi and enhanced enzymatic thrombolysis from the locally delivered tPA. This dual-action approach aims to improve coronary flow and reduce complications associated with MVO during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).Applications
• Treatment of microvascular obstruction in coronary artery disease• Enhancing thrombolysis during percutaneous coronary intervention
• Potential use in other vascular diseases involving microthrombi