Diseases of the liver are a major world wide health problem, yet current diagnostic tests have shortcoming in assessing the functional hepatocyte mass of an individual. In our Phase I research, we developed an MR contrast agent which exhibited hepatocyte specific (liver specific) biodistribution, by virtue of its recognition by asialoglycoprotein receptor. The hepatocyte specific MR contrast agent is a functionalized (or coated) superparamagnetic iron oxide colloid. Using an animal model of human liver pathology, phase II research will pursue two major goals. First, it will establish that the clearance of the agent, as determined MR imaging, provides a measure of functional hepatocyte mass. And second, it will establish that the intrahepatic distribution of the agent provides information on the functional anatomy of the liver. Surface functionalized superparamagnetic iron oxide colloids may prove to be a broad class of MR contrast agents, targeted to a variety of receptors (and tissues) in vivo.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase II (R44)
Project #
5R44DK040664-03
Application #
3507406
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (SSS (B2))
Project Start
1990-07-01
Project End
1992-06-30
Budget Start
1991-07-01
Budget End
1992-06-30
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
1991
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Advanced Magnetics, Inc.
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Cambridge
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02138