Microbubble Contrast Agent for Pressure Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional contrast agents used for measuring internal pressures in body cavities degrade quickly, necessitating invasive procedures for repeated introductions to maintain accurate measurements.
Innovation Solution
A contrast agent comprising microbubbles formed by aeration of surface active proteins, such as class II hydrophobins, with a stabilizer and dispersion media, which provides structural support and maintains stability for extended periods, allowing multiple pressure measurements without re-introduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional contrast agents are used for pressure measurement, then pressure measurement capability is achieved, but the contrast agent degrades quickly requiring invasive re-introduction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite microbubble structure consisting of a shell layer comprising surface active protein and stabilizer, encapsulating a gas core, and suspended in dispersion media. This composite architecture provides both the necessary contrast properties for ultrasound imaging and enhanced structural stability, allowing the contrast agent to maintain integrity for weeks or months without degradation, thereby eliminating the need for repeated invasive administrations.
2Measurement precision
If invasive procedures are performed frequently to re-introduce contrast agent, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but patient risk and procedure complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The contrast agent formulation is designed to be self-sustaining with built-in stability mechanisms. The shell structure with surface active protein and stabilizer automatically maintains microbubble integrity, while the dispersion media provides ongoing structural support. This self-service capability allows the contrast agent to persist in the body for extended periods, maintaining measurement precision without requiring complex repeated intervention procedures.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If contrast agent is designed for long-term stability, then re-introduction frequency decreases, but manufacturing complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves extended contrast agent lifespan by optimizing specific formulation parameters: selecting appropriate surface active proteins and stabilizers in specific ratios, controlling gas phase composition within microbubbles, and adjusting dispersion media properties. These parameter optimizations enable long-term stability (weeks to months) while maintaining a relatively straightforward manufacturing process involving aeration, mixing, and formulation steps.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The microbubble-based contrast agent maintains structural integrity and size for weeks or months, enabling non-invasive, repeated pressure measurements and potential therapeutic delivery systems.
Implementation Method 1
a microbubble formed from an interaction between the surface active protein and the stabilizer. The microbubble may have a shell that encapsulates the gas
Implementation Method 2
a microbubble formed from an interaction between the surface active protein and the stabilizer
Implementation Method 3
a diameter of the microbubble may be proportional to a pressure of an external environment of the contrast agent
Implementation Method 4
aerating the solution with a gas at a predetermined mixing speed to form a contrast agent comprising a microbubble
Data Source
AI summary
Example substances and methods relating to contrast agents are provided. An example method includes combining a surface active protein, a stabilizer, and a dispersion media to form a solution. The example method may further include aerating the solution in a gas to form a contrast agent comprising at least one microbubble formed from an interaction between the surface active protein and the stabilizer. A diameter of the at least one microbubble may be proportional to a pressure of an external environment of the contrast agent, such that measurement of the diameter may allow for measurement of the pressure.