Visistar VEGFR2

Visistar VEGFR2 is a microsphere ultrasound contrast agent containing a single-chain VEGF-based targeting ligand

  • Visistar VEGFR2 in mouse model of bowel cancer (14 MHz)

  • Accumulated Visistar VEGFR2 in subcutaneous mouse model of colon cancer (A. Klibanov, UVa)

  • Wash-in and accumulation of Visistar-VEGFR2 in mouse model of bowel cancer (A. Klibanov, UVa)

  • Negligable accumulation of control agents in mouse model of bowel cancer (A. Klibanov, UVa)

Applications

Visistar VEGFR2 can be used for ultrasound contrast imaging of VEGFR2 receptor 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.

Directions for Use

Visistar VEGFR2 is an microsphere ultrasound contrast agent containing a single-chain VEGF-based targeting ligand. Visistar VEGFR2 is known to bind to VEGFR2 found on angiogenic vascular endothelium2 in mice and other species. 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 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.