Abstract

Medical devices are described for performing mapping, ablating, and/or pacing procedures on one or more layers of the cardiac wall via an epicardial approach in a minimally invasive (e.g., orthoscopic) surgical procedure. One of the medical devices described includes a main support member and one or more secondary support members extending outwardly from the main support member having electrodes configured to receive electrical impulses. The secondary support member may include a support pad configured to be removably attached to a corresponding area of the epicardium for holding the medical device in place during a procedure, such as through application of vacuum pressure via a containment dome provided on each secondary support member. Further, an ablating electrode may be slidably disposed along the main support member for transmitting energy to a target site proximate the electrode. Associated methods are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 18/14 - Probes or electrodes therefor
• A61B 5/042 - Electrodes specially adapted therefor for introducing into the body
• A61B 5/0408 - Electrodes specially adapted therefor
• A61N 1/36 - Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation, e.g. heart pace-makers
• A61N 1/05 - Electrodes for implantation or insertion into the body, e.g. heart electrode
• A61B 18/00 - Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body
• A61N 1/06 - Electrodes for high-frequency therapy

Abstract

Devices, systems, and methods for treating cardiac arrhythmias are disclosed. An exemplary device includes a support member having a first end and a second. At least a first pacing electrode is located proximate the first end of the support member and at least a second pacing electrode is located proximate the second end of the support member. A defibrillating electrode is located between the first pacing electrode and the second pacing electrode. An exemplary method of treating a patient comprises a device for treating cardiac arrhythmias and placing the device adjacent a heart of the patient.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 5/042 - Electrodes specially adapted therefor for introducing into the body
• A61B 17/00 - Surgical instruments, devices or methods
• A61B 18/14 - Probes or electrodes therefor
• A61N 1/00 - ElectrotherapyCircuits therefor
• A61N 1/05 - Electrodes for implantation or insertion into the body, e.g. heart electrode
• A61N 1/362 - Heart stimulators

Abstract

The invention relates to synthetic polynucleotides encoding fukutin related protein (FKRP). The invention further relates to nucleic acid constructs comprising the synthetic polynucleotides and methods of using these synthetic polynucleotides to treat dystroglycanopathy disorders.

IPC Classes  ?

• C07K 14/47 - Peptides having more than 20 amino acidsGastrinsSomatostatinsMelanotropinsDerivatives thereof from animalsPeptides having more than 20 amino acidsGastrinsSomatostatinsMelanotropinsDerivatives thereof from humans from vertebrates from mammals
• C12N 15/12 - Genes encoding animal proteins
• C12N 15/861 - Adenoviral vectors
• C12N 5/10 - Cells modified by introduction of foreign genetic material, e.g. virus-transformed cells
• C12P 21/02 - Preparation of peptides or proteins having a known sequence of two or more amino acids, e.g. glutathione
• A61K 38/17 - Peptides having more than 20 amino acidsGastrinsSomatostatinsMelanotropinsDerivatives thereof from animalsPeptides having more than 20 amino acidsGastrinsSomatostatinsMelanotropinsDerivatives thereof from humans
• A61P 21/00 - Drugs for disorders of the muscular or neuromuscular system

Abstract

Delivery devices and vascular devices are described for addressing a target site within a body lumen. The delivery device includes one or more ultrasound transducers positioned to transmit and receive ultrasound signals so as to provide an image of an interior of the patient's blood vessel within which the vascular device is disposed in real time, as the procedure is taking place. Using the images provided by the ultrasound transducers, the longitudinal and rotational position of the delivery device (and the vascular device constrained therein) may be adjusted to align the vascular device with the patient's vasculature. In some examples, the vascular device being delivered includes fenestrations, whereas in others the vascular device integral branch grafts.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 8/08 - Clinical applications
• A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor
• A61B 8/12 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves in body cavities or body tracts, e.g. by using catheters
• A61M 25/00 - CathetersHollow probes
• A61B 19/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories for surgery or diagnosis not covered by any of the groups A61B 1/00-A61B 18/00, e.g. for stereotaxis, sterile operation, luxation treatment, wound edge protectors(protective face masks A41D 13/11; surgeons' or patients' gowns or dresses A41D 13/12; devices for carrying-off, for treatment of, or for carrying-over, body liquids A61M 1/00)
• A61B 1/313 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor for introducing through surgical openings, e.g. laparoscopes

Abstract

The present invention provides compounds of Formula I or Formula II: wherein: T, V, W, Y and Z are each independently selected from the group of substituents described herein, and X is a tinker as further described herein. The present invention further provides compositions and conjugates including the compounds as well as methods of using these compounds including, but not limited to, methods of preventing, treating and/or diagnosing genetic disorders, such as muscular dystrophy, or non-genetic disorders as described herein.

IPC Classes  ?

• A01N 43/66 - 1,3,5-Triazines, not hydrogenated and not substituted at the ring nitrogen atoms
• A61K 8/64 - ProteinsPeptidesDerivatives or degradation products thereof
• A61K 38/02 - Peptides of undefined number of amino acidsDerivatives thereof

Abstract

A device (100) for supporting a valve annulus is described that includes spaced apart support members (105) and a connecting member (110) extending between and connecting the support members. At least one adjustor (115) is also provided that is engaged with the connecting member and can be actuated to modify a length of the connecting member between two adjacent support members. In addition, each support member may include at least two channels extending through the support members at different heights with respect to an overall thickness of the respective support member. Each channel may receive a portion of the connecting member therethrough, and each support member may further include a passageway between the channels to allow selection of one of the channels. In this way, the device may be adjusted in at least two dimensions to support the valve leaflets and promote sufficient closure of the leaflets.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61F 2/24 - Heart valves

Abstract

A vascular device and method for positioning a vascular device within a patient's vasculature for use in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are described that make use of one or more ultrasound transducers supported by the vascular device to visualize the location and orientation of the vascular device. An ultrasound transducer may be provided at a port of the vascular device that infuses oxygenated blood into the patient's vasculature to allow the operator of the vascular device to align the port with a particular structure in the patient's body, such as the tricuspid valve of the heart. Another ultrasound transducer may additionally or alternatively be provided at a distal end of the vascular device to facilitate insertion of the vascular device with minimal injury or trauma to the patient and to allow advancement of the device to the correct location. The imaging may be continuous and may be provided in real-time.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 8/12 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves in body cavities or body tracts, e.g. by using catheters
• A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
• A61M 1/16 - Dialysis systemsArtificial kidneysBlood oxygenators with membranes

Abstract

A device, system, and method that may help reduce complications associated with placing an intrauterine balloon in the uterine cavity of a patient is provided. In one aspect, the system includes an inflatable balloon, an inflation line having a distal end in communication with the balloon; an inner member comprising an elongate tubular body having a distal and proximal end; a slot extending from the distal to proximal end of the inner member, and an outer sheath in which the inner member is removably insertable. The outer sheath is configured to receive the balloon in a furled state therein such that the balloon may be introduced into the uterine cavity by transvaginally inserting the outer sheath through an endocervical canal of the patient and then introducing the balloon into the uterine cavity by moving the inner member through the outer sheath in the direction of uterine cavity.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 17/42 - Gynaecological or obstetrical instruments or methods
• A61F 6/12 - Inserters or removers
• A61F 6/18 - Inserters or removers

Abstract

Systems, devices, and methods for longitudinal closure of a dissected sternum are provided. The system includes first and second reinforcing members, fasteners, and closure members. Each reinforcing member is configured to be placed on an outer surface of a respective sternum portion, such that each reinforcing member is longitudinally disposed on an opposite side of a sternum opening with respect to the other reinforcing member. Fasteners may be placed in holes defined in the reinforcing members to secure a respective reinforcing member to a corresponding sternum portion. The closure members, which may be sternal closing wires, may then be wrapped around the sternum portions and the reinforcing members transversely to close the sternum opening. Because the reinforcing members include extended regions having lateral edges that extend away from a midline of the respective reinforcing member, the closure members are moved away from the edges of the bone.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 17/80 - Cortical plates
• A61B 17/82 - Internal fixation devices for bone cerclage

Abstract

A system for supporting ribs is provided that includes first and second reinforcing members, fasteners, and closure members. Each reinforcing member may be attached to a respective rib via fasteners such that the reinforcing member spans one or more fractures of the ribs. In addition to individually holding the portions of the rib bone together to allow the fracture to heal, however, the reinforcing members may be used on rib pairs such that closure members may be wrapped around or extended between the rib pair in an effort to stabilize the ribs. By providing extended regions configured to receive closure members, healing of the ribs may be promoted and facilitated without creating unnecessary other pain to the patient, as the rounded portions serve to keep the closure members away from the neurovascular bundles associated with the ribs.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 17/70 - Spinal positioners or stabilisers, e.g. stabilisers comprising fluid filler in an implant
• A61B 17/80 - Cortical plates

Abstract

A surgical drape (100) is described that is aimed at providing a way to direct a maximum amount of fluid (e.g., distention fluid) discharged from the patient's uterine cavity to a collection point, such as a fluid management system, during a hysteroscopic procedure. The surgical drape may include a cover portion (105) and a collection portion (110) that is attached to the cover portion (105). The cover portion (105) may define an opening (115) that provides a surgeon with surgical access to the patient for performing a medical procedure. The collection portion (110) may include a main panel (120) that can be attached to the patient's back distally of the gluteal cleft (e.g., via an adhesive strip). The main panel (110) may include a pocket (170), via which the surgeon may insert his hands to position the main panel (110) under the patient without disturbing the sterile field.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 19/08 - Surgical drapes
• A61B 17/42 - Gynaecological or obstetrical instruments or methods
• A61B 19/10 - with means to retain or hold surgical implements
• A61B 19/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories for surgery or diagnosis not covered by any of the groups A61B 1/00-A61B 18/00, e.g. for stereotaxis, sterile operation, luxation treatment, wound edge protectors(protective face masks A41D 13/11; surgeons' or patients' gowns or dresses A41D 13/12; devices for carrying-off, for treatment of, or for carrying-over, body liquids A61M 1/00)

Abstract

A penetrator device (12), system (10), and associated method are provided that may help inform an operator of the position of a penetrating edge of the penetrator device within a subject. In one aspect, a penetrator device, such as a needle (12a), probe, cannula, or the like, includes an optical imaging system (14) that is configured to identify the position of a penetrating end of the penetrator device in a subject based on optical data received by the optical imaging system. The system is configured to identify the position of the penetrator device and provide a signal that alerts the operator to the position of the device within the subject.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 17/34 - TrocarsPuncturing needles
• A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
• A61B 19/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories for surgery or diagnosis not covered by any of the groups A61B 1/00-A61B 18/00, e.g. for stereotaxis, sterile operation, luxation treatment, wound edge protectors(protective face masks A41D 13/11; surgeons' or patients' gowns or dresses A41D 13/12; devices for carrying-off, for treatment of, or for carrying-over, body liquids A61M 1/00)
• A61B 17/00 - Surgical instruments, devices or methods

Abstract

A passively flexible ureteroscope having a diameter of less than about 2.5 millimeters is provided. The ureteroscope may help overcome many of the problems associated with the prior art devices and methods for removing kidney stones. The ureteroscope includes an elongate member having a distal portion, a proximal portion, and an inner conduit that extends longitudinally between the proximal and distal portions. The elongate member is made from a passively flexible material that is capable of being inserted and directed through a patient's body cavity, such as the ureter, by manual direction and pressure so that minimal, if any, additional mechanical or steering mechanisms are present. An imaging device and light source are provided at the distal portion of the elongate member to allow for positioning the device with respect to the stone. A laser fiber can be directed through the conduit to destroy a targeted stone.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 1/307 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor for the urinary organs, e.g. urethroscopes, cystoscopes
• A61B 1/04 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor combined with photographic or television appliances
• A61B 17/22 - Implements for squeezing-off ulcers or the like on inner organs of the bodyImplements for scraping-out cavities of body organs, e.g. bonesSurgical instruments, devices or methods for invasive removal or destruction of calculus using mechanical vibrationsSurgical instruments, devices or methods for removing obstructions in blood vessels, not otherwise provided for
• A61B 19/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories for surgery or diagnosis not covered by any of the groups A61B 1/00-A61B 18/00, e.g. for stereotaxis, sterile operation, luxation treatment, wound edge protectors(protective face masks A41D 13/11; surgeons' or patients' gowns or dresses A41D 13/12; devices for carrying-off, for treatment of, or for carrying-over, body liquids A61M 1/00)

Abstract

Devices and methods are described for treating a mitral valve defect. The device described includes features that allow the device to conform to the actual pathology of the valve, rather than attempting to replicate a healthy valve (which the patient does not have). In this way, the device allows the patient's actual valve to work as well as possible, given the valve's diseased condition. The actual pathology of the valve is accommodated by providing for multiple dimensions of adjustability of the device, including adjustability of the size (e.g., diameter) of the device as well as adjustability of the elevation or inclination of one portion of the device (e.g., the portion supporting the posterior leaflet) with respect to another portion of the device.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61F 2/24 - Heart valves

Abstract

A system and method for measuring a subject's blood pressure is provided. The system includes a sphygmomanometer cuff configured to apply a pressure to a blood vessel region so as to restrict the flow of blood through a blood vessel of the blood vessel region; at least one transducer configured to transmit a signal toward the blood vessel region and to detect a return signal indicative of a velocity of blood flow through the blood vessel; and an apparatus having a processor configured to determine a systolic blood pressure of the subject. The processor is configured to determine whether the return signal corresponds to a first Korotkoff sound of the blood flow through the blood vessel, reduce pressure applied via the sphygmomanometer cuff if the return signal does not correspond to the first Korotkoff sound, and determine pressure applied via the sphygmomanometer cuff when the return signal corresponds to the first Korotkoff sound.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 5/022 - Measuring pressure in heart or blood vessels by applying pressure to close blood vessels, e.g. against the skinOphthaldynamometers
• A61B 5/0225 - Measuring pressure in heart or blood vessels by applying pressure to close blood vessels, e.g. against the skinOphthaldynamometers the pressure being controlled by electric signals, e.g. derived from Korotkoff sounds
• A61B 5/026 - Measuring blood flow
• A61B 5/0285 - Measuring phase velocity of blood waves
• A61B 8/06 - Measuring blood flow
• A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons

Abstract

The present invention is directed to compositions and associated methods for treatment, prevention, amelioration, and/or delaying the onset of hepatic fibrosis and/or associated diseases. The methods preferably involve regulating at least one of Rev-erbα expression, activity, and subcellular localization. In particular, certain embodiments of the present invention relate to compositions and methods of using a Rev-erb-modulating agent (REMA) for the treatment or prevention of hepatic fibrosis and/or associated diseases. Preferably, the amount of a REMA administered comprises a quantity sufficient to modulate at least one of Rev-erbα expression, activity, and subcellular localization and reduce the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs).

IPC Classes  ?

• A61K 31/381 - Heterocyclic compounds having sulfur as a ring hetero atom having five-membered rings
• A61K 31/4025 - Heterocyclic compounds having nitrogen as a ring hetero atom, e.g. guanethidine or rifamycins having five-membered rings with one nitrogen as the only ring hetero atom, e.g. sulpiride, succinimide, tolmetin, buflomedil not condensed and containing further heterocyclic rings, e.g. cromakalim
• A61P 1/16 - Drugs for disorders of the alimentary tract or the digestive system for liver or gallbladder disorders, e.g. hepatoprotective agents, cholagogues, litholytics
• A61K 45/06 - Mixtures of active ingredients without chemical characterisation, e.g. antiphlogistics and cardiaca
• A61K 47/42 - ProteinsPolypeptidesDegradation products thereofDerivatives thereof, e.g. albumin, gelatin or zein
• A61K 47/48 - Medicinal preparations characterised by the non-active ingredients used, e.g. carriers, inert additives the non-active ingredient being chemically bound to the active ingredient, e.g. polymer drug conjugates

Abstract

The present invention provides methods for treating or preventing portal hypertension comprising administering to a patient in need of such treatment or prevention at least one Rev-erb modulating agent (REMA) in an amount effective to treat or prevent said portal hypertension. The REMA can be SR6452 or a related compound, such as SR9009 or SR9011. The amount of the REMA administered can comprises a quantity sufficient to modulate Rev-erbα expression, activity, and/or subcellular location and/or to inhibit or reverse hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and contractility.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61K 31/381 - Heterocyclic compounds having sulfur as a ring hetero atom having five-membered rings
• A61K 31/4025 - Heterocyclic compounds having nitrogen as a ring hetero atom, e.g. guanethidine or rifamycins having five-membered rings with one nitrogen as the only ring hetero atom, e.g. sulpiride, succinimide, tolmetin, buflomedil not condensed and containing further heterocyclic rings, e.g. cromakalim
• A61P 1/16 - Drugs for disorders of the alimentary tract or the digestive system for liver or gallbladder disorders, e.g. hepatoprotective agents, cholagogues, litholytics
• A61K 45/06 - Mixtures of active ingredients without chemical characterisation, e.g. antiphlogistics and cardiaca
• A61K 47/42 - ProteinsPolypeptidesDegradation products thereofDerivatives thereof, e.g. albumin, gelatin or zein
• A61K 47/48 - Medicinal preparations characterised by the non-active ingredients used, e.g. carriers, inert additives the non-active ingredient being chemically bound to the active ingredient, e.g. polymer drug conjugates

Abstract

Methods and kits for characterizing liver damage in an individual are provided. The methods employ the use of immune analytes as biomarkers for detecting liver damage and predicting the likelihood that an individual suffering from liver damage will experience life-threatening liver failure. Concentration values for serum albumin and other identified immune analytes are obtained or determined from a blood sample taken from the individual. The obtained concentration values are then compared to corresponding concentrations from individuals having a healthy liver. By comparing the concentrations, an individual's likelihood of developing life-threatening liver failure and needing a liver transplant within a given time period (e.g., 6 months) can be identified.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 33/50 - Chemical analysis of biological material, e.g. blood, urineTesting involving biospecific ligand binding methodsImmunological testing

Abstract

Medical devices are described for performing mapping, ablating, and/or pacing procedures on one or more layers of the cardiac wall via an epicardial approach in a minimally invasive (e.g., orthoscopic) surgical procedure. One of the medical devices described includes a main support member and one or more secondary support members extending outwardly from the main support member having electrodes configured to receive electrical impulses. The secondary support member may include a support pad configured to be removably attached to a corresponding area of the epicardium for holding the medical device in place during a procedure, such as through application of vacuum pressure via a containment dome provided on each secondary support member. Further, an ablating electrode may be slidably disposed along the main support member for transmitting energy to a target site proximate the electrode. Associated methods are also described.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 18/14 - Probes or electrodes therefor
• A61N 1/06 - Electrodes for high-frequency therapy

Abstract

Vascular devices and methods for addressing aortic pathologies are provided that facilitate hemostasis at the junctions of the ends of the device with the native aorta or other vessels to minimize or eliminate the risk of endoleaks. One or both ends of the device may include inner and outer skirts that are configured to receive a section of native blood vessel there between. The outer skirt may be flared in some cases or rolled up prior to placement at and engagement with the blood vessel to provide clearance for joining the blood vessel to the inner skirt of the device, such as via sutures. Once engaged, the outer skirt is disposed such that the blood vessel is between the inner and outer skirts. Devices and associated methods are also described that allow endografts to be deployed and engaged with an end of the device in areas with insufficient landing zones.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61F 2/06 - Blood vessels

Abstract

Systems, devices, and methods for longitudinal closure of a dissected sternum are provided. The system includes first and second reinforcing members, fasteners, and closure members. Each reinforcing member is configured to be placed on an outer surface of a respective sternum portion, such that each reinforcing member is longitudinally disposed on an opposite side of a sternum opening with respect to the other reinforcing member. Fasteners may be placed in holes defined in the reinforcing members to secure a respective reinforcing member to a corresponding sternum portion. The closure members, which may be sternal closing wires, may then be wrapped around the sternum portions and the reinforcing members transversely to close the sternum opening. The system provides for a low installed profile, enhancing patient comfort and facilitating healing, and also provides for quick and easy access to the thoracic cavity for re-do sternotomies, if needed.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 17/80 - Cortical plates
• A61B 17/82 - Internal fixation devices for bone cerclage

Abstract

Systems, devices, and methods for longitudinal closure of a dissected sternum are provided. The system includes first and second reinforcing members, fasteners, and closure members. Each reinforcing member is configured to be placed on an outer surface of a respective sternum portion, such that each reinforcing member is longitudinally disposed on an opposite side of a sternum opening with respect to the other reinforcing member. Fasteners may be placed in holes defined in the reinforcing members to secure a respective reinforcing member to a corresponding sternum portion. The closure members, which may be sternal closing wires, may then be wrapped around the sternum portions and the reinforcing members transversely to close the sternum opening. The system provides for a low installed profile, enhancing patient comfort and facilitating healing, and also provides for quick and easy access to the thoracic cavity for re-do sternotomies, if needed.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 17/82 - Internal fixation devices for bone cerclage
• A61B 17/80 - Cortical plates

Abstract

Assemblies, devices, and methods for positioning the same proximate a target site within a body lumen are provided. The assembly (100) includes first and second components (110, 120) that can function independently of one another to address a patient's vascular abnormalities or can cooperate to form an assembly. The assembly is designed to address aortic pathologies near clusters of arterial branches in a way that allows blood to continue flowing to the arterial branches during the procedure while providing an adequate landing zone for the adjoining component. One of the components may include a tapered portion (160) near one end that can be received by a corresponding end of the other component. Alternatively, one of the components may include an invaginated end that is able to receive a corresponding end of the other component such that the position of each component is substantially fixed with respect to the other.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61F 2/06 - Blood vessels

Abstract

Assemblies, devices, and methods for positioning the same proximate a target site within a body lumen are provided. The assembly (100) includes first and second components (110, 120) that can function independently of one another to address a patient's vascular abnormalities or can cooperate to form an assembly. The assembly is designed to address aortic pathologies near clusters of arterial branches in a way that allows blood to continue flowing to the arterial branches during the procedure while providing an adequate landing zone for the adjoining component. One of the components may include a tapered portion (160) near one end that can be received by a corresponding end of the other component. Alternatively, one of the components may include an invaginated end that is able to receive a corresponding end of the other component such that the position of each component is substantially fixed with respect to the other.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61F 2/06 - Blood vessels

Abstract

Amphiphilic cationic polymers comprising a biocompatible amphiphile linked to an organic cation are provided. The polymers complex with therapeutic agents and facilitate delivery of such therapeutic agents, particularly therapeutic nucleic acids, both in vitro and in vivo. Accordingly, the invention further provides methods of facilitating delivery of therapeutic and/or diagnostic agents to a cell and methods of treating a condition, such as a disease or infection, in an organism using the amphiphilic cationic polymers of the invention.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61K 9/107 - Emulsions
• A61K 47/34 - Macromolecular compounds obtained otherwise than by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds, e.g. polyesters, polyamino acids, polysiloxanes, polyphosphazines, copolymers of polyalkylene glycol or poloxamers
• A61K 48/00 - Medicinal preparations containing genetic material which is inserted into cells of the living body to treat genetic diseasesGene therapy
• A61K 9/00 - Medicinal preparations characterised by special physical form
• A61P 21/00 - Drugs for disorders of the muscular or neuromuscular system

Abstract

The present invention provides a method for treating or preventing fibrosis comprising administering to a patient in need of such treatment or prevention an amount of microRNA-19b effective to treat or prevent said fibrosis. In some embodiments, the invention relates to inhibiting the activation of collagen-producing cells and thereby treating or preventing fibrosis. The methods of the invention also include detection of biomarkers that can be used to diagnose disease and/or evaluate the prognosis of a patient suffering from fibrosis or at risk of developing fibrosis, such as hepatic fibrosis. Such methods may be used to characterize the progression of diseases associated with fibrosis.

IPC Classes  ?

• C12N 15/113 - Non-coding nucleic acids modulating the expression of genes, e.g. antisense oligonucleotides
• A61K 31/713 - Double-stranded nucleic acids or oligonucleotides
• A61P 43/00 - Drugs for specific purposes, not provided for in groups

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention are directed generally to antisense compounds and compositions for the treatment of muscular dystrophy, and in particular, Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). In one embodiment, the invention is directed to antisense oligonucleotide molecules, pharmaceutical compositions and formulations comprising antisense oligonucleotide molecules, and methods of treating muscular dystrophy related diseases and disorders wherein the antisense oligonucleotide molecules comprises a base sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 5-8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 24, 27, 28, 34, 35, 37, 40, 42, 44-46, 79, 97, 100, 101, and 1 16, and combinations thereof.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61K 31/7088 - Compounds having three or more nucleosides or nucleotides
• C12N 15/113 - Non-coding nucleic acids modulating the expression of genes, e.g. antisense oligonucleotides
• A61P 21/00 - Drugs for disorders of the muscular or neuromuscular system

Abstract

The present invention relates to compositions and methods for the preparation, stabilization, and/or storage of active agents, particularly therapeutic proteins and polypeptides such as Interleukin-2.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61K 38/00 - Medicinal preparations containing peptides
• A61K 47/18 - AminesAmidesUreasQuaternary ammonium compoundsAmino acidsOligopeptides having up to five amino acids
• A61K 9/00 - Medicinal preparations characterised by special physical form
• A61K 47/24 - Organic compounds, e.g. natural or synthetic hydrocarbons, polyolefins, mineral oil, petrolatum or ozokerite containing atoms other than carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, halogen, nitrogen or sulfur, e.g. cyclomethicone or phospholipids
• A61K 39/00 - Medicinal preparations containing antigens or antibodies
• G01N 1/00 - SamplingPreparing specimens for investigation

Abstract

A method and a test for using carbonic anhydrase (CA), particularly CA-I or CA-II, as a biomarker of hemolysis. The method and test detect hemolysis by determining a percentage erythrocyte hemolysis in a specimen or sample of blood based upon quantification of carbonic anhydrase present in the extracellular portion of the blood. The method and test serve to optimize therapeutic efficacy for treatments of hemolysis. Plasma carbonic anhydrase is used to determine the percentage hemolysis in plasma. Furthermore, CA is quantified with specificity to the isozyme present in the plasma.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01D 53/62 - Carbon oxides
• B01D 53/77 - Liquid phase processes

Abstract

The present invention is directed to methods of delivering macromolecules to a target cell or tissue by microwave irradiation. A target cell or tissue is exposed to one or more macromolecules to be delivered into the desired cell or tissue and irradiated with microwave radiation. The strength or power of the microwave radiation is such that the macromolecules are delivered into the target cell or tissue. Preferably, the strength of the microwave radiation does not significantly impact cell viability in a negative manner (e.g., apoptosis).

IPC Classes  ?

• A61K 48/00 - Medicinal preparations containing genetic material which is inserted into cells of the living body to treat genetic diseasesGene therapy

Abstract

The present invention provides a method for the treatment of a disease or disorder related to an inflammatory condition comprising administering to a patient in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition comprising a metal and a thiol. In particular, embodiments of the present invention are directed towards methods of treating inflammatory conditions that are associated with elevated levels of free TNFα. In one embodiment, the present invention can be used to treat and/or ameliorate the effects of a wide variety of diseases or disorders related to an inflammatory condition including one or more of the following inflammation related diseases/disorders: arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, psoriasis, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel syndrome, chronic obstructive respiratory diseases (COPD), fibromyalgia and the neurological diseases and disorders multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, vascular dementia, epilepsy, migraines, stroke and trauma.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61K 31/095 - Sulfur, selenium or tellurium compounds, e.g. thiols
• A61K 31/29 - Antimony or bismuth compounds
• A61K 31/285 - Arsenic compounds
• A61K 33/24 - Heavy metalsCompounds thereof
• A61P 29/00 - Non-central analgesic, antipyretic or antiinflammatory agents, e.g. antirheumatic agentsNon-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs [NSAID]

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods are provided for growing and maintaining cells. A three-dimensional matrix, such as a hydrogel material, is seeded with cells and placed in a bioreactor having two compartments. The matrix is supported between the two compartments by first and second porous materials, which engage opposing surfaces of the matrix. A first media stream having certain properties is propagated through the first compartment, where it contacts one surface of the matrix via the first porous material. A second media stream having different properties is propagated through the second compartment such that it contacts the opposite surface of the matrix via the second porous material. Through migration of each stream at least partially into the matrix, various controlled gradients may be established within the matrix, encouraging growth of the cells. Such gradients include osmotic pressure, oscillating osmotic pressure, hydrostatic pressure, oxygen tension, and/or nutrient gradients.

IPC Classes  ?

• C12M 3/06 - Tissue, human, animal or plant cell, or virus culture apparatus with filtration, ultrafiltration, inverse osmosis or dialysis means

Abstract

A method for determining whether a subject has Gram negative bacterial pneumonia based on the presence of lipopolysaccharide in exhaled breath condensate collected from the subject. The collection devices utilized to collect exhaled breath condensate from both spontaneously breathing and mechanically ventilated subjects and the devices utilized to determine whether lipopolysaccharide is present in the collected exhaled breath condensate.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 5/08 - Measuring devices for evaluating the respiratory organs
• G01N 1/22 - Devices for withdrawing samples in the gaseous state
• G01N 31/00 - Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroupsApparatus specially adapted for such methods
• G01N 33/497 - Physical analysis of biological material of gaseous biological material, e.g. breath