Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech, part of the VEB.RF Group) is investingating the possibility of using ultrasound for targeted drug delivery, the Skoltech press service reports.
As the scientists explain, microbubbles are used in ultrasound diagnostics to enhance image contrast, allowing for the visualization of the smallest blood vessels. Theoretically, they can also be used for targeted drug delivery and other non-invasive manipulations, but this requires a thorough understanding of their behavior under ultrasound exposure.
Researchers tracked the interactions between ultrasound and microbubbles stabilized by albumin and copolymers using high-speed video cameras and a cavitation meter that records pulsations. “Measurements showed that the stabilizing agents reduce the cavitation intensity by almost half,” noted Skoltech researcher Galina Kalinichenko. “They transform the process from chaotic bubbling into a controlled, gentle pulsation. This makes it possible to force such bubbles to behave predictably.”
The scientists also tested how these microbubbles interact with human blood. Analysis revealed that the microbubbles do not affect the shape or mobility of erythrocytes (red blood cells). Consequently, they do not disrupt blood flow and are potentially safe for introduction into the body. The collected data on the behavior and properties of albumin-based microbubbles will help to expand their applications in ultrasound diagnostics and therapy, according to the report.
