In vitro 40 MHz ultrasonic characterisation of inhouse liposomal dispersions developed for targeting atherosclerotic plaque

This paper describes the measurement of the acoustical properties of an in-house contrast agent at 40 MHz. In addition, it compares the measured acoustical properties from the agent to three commercial agents (Definity, Optison and SonoVue) at 40 MHz. A Boston Scientific Clear-View Ultra intravascular ultrasound scanner with a 40 MHz, 2.5 Fr Atlantis SR Plus catheter is used. Mean backscatter power was measured and referenced to the echo from a water-air interface. Mean backscatter power from the in-house ultrasonic contrast agent was found to be -20.53/spl plusmn/0.39 dB at 40 MHz. Measured mean backscatter power at 40 MHz for Definity, Optison and SonoVue was -25.7 dB/spl plusmn/2.6, -26.9/spl plusmn/2.2 dB and -25.07/spl plusmn/1.5 dB respectively.