Method and apparatus for inactivation of biological contaminants using endogenous alloxazine or isoalloxazine photosensitizers
US6258577A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 21, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jul 10, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 21, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61L2202/22
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Methods and apparatuses are provided for inactivation of microorganisms in a fluid containing blood or blood products and comprising biologically active proteins. The method includes the steps of adding an effective, non-toxic amount of an endogenous photosensitizer to the fluid; exposing the fluid to photoradiation sufficient to activate the endogenous photosensitizer; and allowing the activated endogenous photosensitizer to interfere with nucleic acid present in microorganisms in the fluid so that the microorganisms are inactivated. Isoalloxazines and K- and L-vitamins are among the preferred photosensitizers. Systems and apparatuses are also provided for decontamination of such fluids using photosensitizers which include means for adding photosensitizer to the fluid; a photopermeable container for exposing the fluid to an amount of photoradiation sufficient to activate the photosensitizer; and a photoradiation source, preferably comprising a light guide, for providing sufficient photoradiation of a type and amount selected to activate the photosensitizer. Means for controlling photosensitizer concentration in the fluid and rate of fluid flow through the container, including comp…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.