Evaluation of Thrombus-targeted Ultrasound Contrast Agent:Preliminary Vitro Study

Objective To prepare fluorescence labeling thrombus-targeted microbubbles and investigate their properties of attachment to human blood clots.Methods Fluorescence labeling thrombus-specific peptides,directed to the activated GPIIB-IIIA receptor of platelets was attached to the surface of self-made albumin microbubbles to prepare targeted microbubbles.Human blood clots were prepared.Targeted microbubbles were added to the clots and then observed under the light and fluorescence microscope after 30 min or more.Groups of non-targeted albumin microbubbles and blocking experiment by peptides were controls.Results Targeted microbubbles were positive in immunofluorescent assay.Microbubble zones were detected surrounding the blood clot and intraclot,while the control groups were negative.Conclusions Thrombus-targeted albumin microbubbles with high specific biological activity were prepared successfully.The contrast agent can bind to human blood clots specially and effectively.These results may pave the way for further studies.