Method of measuring propulsion in lymphatic structures

US8609067B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The Board of Regents of the University of Texas System · US

Inventors

• Kristen Adams · Phoenix, US
• Ruchi Sharma · Houston, US
• John C. RASMUSSEN · Spring, US
• Eva M. Sevick-Muraca · Houston, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 22, 2011
• Grant date: Dec 17, 2013
• Expiry date: Jul 22, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61M5/007
• WIPO field: Pharmaceuticals
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Novel methods and imaging agents for functional imaging of lymph structures are disclosed herein. Embodiments of the methods utilize highly sensitive optical imaging and fluorescent spectroscopy techniques to track or monitor packets of organic dye flowing in one or more lymphatic structures. The packets of organic dye may be tracked to provide quantitative information regarding lymph propulsion and function. In particular, lymph flow velocity and pulse frequency may be determined using the disclosed methods.