Polymer microbubbles as diagnostic and therapeutic gas delivery device

Abstract

Nitric oxide plays a central role in controlling arterial thrombosis and in cardiovascular diseases by inhibiting the platelet aggregation process. This process is regulated by giving a deactivating signal for the protein membrane integrins, the major platelet adhesion receptors. The localized production of NO, naturally occurring in arterial vessels, is carried out by the NO synthase enzymatic system. Inhibition of platelets aggregation in the coagulation cascade process is due to the antagonist action of NO toward integrin-fibrinogen induced platelet adhesion. However, sometimes the natural supply of NO is not sufficient to prevent clotting. The design of devices for suitable transport and..