ULTRASOUND-ACTIVATED NANOPARTICLES AS IMAGING AGENTS AND DRUG DELIVERY VEHICLES

摘要

The invention provides nanoparticles for delivery of imaging agents, drugs, and other molecules, such as genetic material. The nanoparticles have a core structure comprising the imaging agent and/or drug, and a shell structure that allows for water solubility. The shell structure further provides a barrier with limited water permeability that protects the core. The nanoparticles can be induced to release their cargo by treatment with ultrasound. Methods of delivering drugs and imaging agents are also provided, whereby the nanoparticles are delivered to tissues of interest in a substantially inert form, then activated using ultrasound to release the drugs or imaging agents.