Visistar Integrin
Visistar Integrin is a microsphere coated in a cyclic RGD peptide, which recognizes alpha-v beta-3 integrin
Accumulated Visistar Integrin in subcutaneous mouse model of renal cell carcinoma (C. Yang, Origin Biosciences)
Accumulated Visistar Integrin in orthotopic mouse model of breast cancer (K. Ferrara, UC Davis)
Wash-in and accumulation of Visistar Integrin in mouse model of bowel cancer (A. Klibanov, UVa)
Negligable accumulation of control agents in mouse model of bowel cancer (A. Klibanov, UVa)
Accumulated Visistar Integrin in subcutaneous mouse model of prostate cancer
Accumulated Visistar Integrin in orthotopic mouse model of breast cancer (K. Ferrara, UC Davis)
Applications
Visistar is a family of microspheres in which Targeson’s proprietary targeting ligands are covalently conjugated to the agent surface using biocompatible conjugation chemistry. Visistar agents are available for angiogenesis imaging, and agents for inflammation and thrombosis are under development.
Directions for Use
Visistar Integrin is a microsphere ultrasound contrast agent containing a cyclic RGD targeting ligand. This microsphere is known to bind to alpha-v beta-3 integrin found on angiogenic vascular endothelium. The agent is useful for imaging angiogenesis in small animal models of tumor development. Agents are administered as an intravenous bolus injection, via retro-orbital, tail vein, or jugular injection in mice.
Specifications
Visistar Integrin can be used for ultrasound contrast imaging of alpha-v beta-3 integrin on the endothelium. The agent echogenicity is optimal at ultrasound frequencies in 1-20 MHz range, and ultra-high frequency imaging (20-40 MHz) is also possible. Contrast imaging settings such as pulse inversion or CPS must be enabled on the ultrasound scanner for optimal contrast sensitivity. The agent remains acoustically active for 5-15 minutes, depending on the administered dose. Optimal dosages vary with application.