| abstract |
The invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions and methods for delivery of therapeutic agents. The methods and composition of the invention can achieve site specific delivery of a therapeutic substance, allowing for lower doses and for improved efficacy, particularly for agents such as oligonucleotides which have presented problems in reaching targeted sites in necessary therapeutic levels. Targeted introduction of ultrasound can be used to promote release of the therapeutic agent. The delivery system includes protein-encapsulated gas-filled microbubbles formed in an N2-depleted or N2-free environment. These microbubbles are smaller and more stable than microbubbles sonicated in the presence of room air. |