Ultrasound contrast manufacturer Acusphere has announced the beginning of phase II clinical trials for AI-700, a third-generation ultrasound contrast agent. The product is designed to aid in the assessment of myocardial perfusion in patients with coronary artery disease. Although ultrasound contrast agents have had limited clinical impact to date, some industry observers believe that development of agents approved for imaging myocardial perfusion could spark increased utilization of the media.
The multicenter trial is designed to determine the optimal imaging conditions for AI-700. The localization of perfusion defects on AI-700-enhanced ultrasound images is being compared with a nuclear perfusion study, currently the clinical standard for noninvasive assessment of myocardial perfusion, according to the Cambridge, MA-based firm.
AI-700 employs Acusphere's patented porous microparticle, made of synthetic polymer, which acts as an intravenous delivery system for gas. Previous ultrasound contrast agents have been made of natural materials, such as albumin, liposomes and sugars, according to Acusphere. The firm claims that its technology results in high mechanical strength and produces minimal shadowing, thus enabling longer imaging times.
By AuntMinnie.com staff writersFebruary 1, 2000
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