COMPOSITIONS FOR LABELING NERVES AND METHODS OF USE

摘要

The present invention provides methods for guiding preservation of neurons or nerves during surgery by administering a fluorescently-labeled peptide that associates with (e.g., specifically binds to) the neurons or nerves. The invention further provides targeting molecules of fluorescently-labeled peptides or aptamers that associate with (e.g., specifically bind to) neurons or nerves and for compositions thereof.

主权项

1. A targeting molecule that labels a neuron, nerve, or tissue or external structure associated therewith, consisting essentially of:
(a) an isolated peptide sequence according to Formula (XVII):
X10-X11-X12-Gly-X13-X14-X15(Formula (XVII)) (SEQ ID NO: 50);wherein X10 is selected from: Glu, His, Ala, Thr, or Lys;wherein X11 is selected from: His, Ala, Thr, Lys, or Glu;wherein X12 is selected from: Ala or Thr;wherein X13 is selected from: Lys, Cys, or Gly;wherein X14 is selected from: Gly; andwherein X15 is selected from: Cys; and (b) a fluorescent moiety; wherein the targeting molecule labels the neuron, nerve, or tissue or external structure associated therewith.