NanoHybrids, Inc. announces the launch of PAtrace, a proprietary liposomal nanoparticle encasing a biocompatible optical absorber created to provide high resolution visualization and verification of the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect in heterogeneous tumor models.

The contrast agent is designed for use with photoacoustic (PA) imaging systems and produces depth-resolved 3D mapping of tumor permeability and retention without requiring significant preparation time. “The EPR effect remains a controversial concept in nanomedicine largely due to the lack of reliable validation across diverse histological and biological factors. PAtrace is the first contrast agent to provide standardized high resolution visualization of tumor permeability and retention, which will enable an accurate assessment of EPR across tumor models,” says Jason Cook, CEO of NanoHybrids, in a statement.

Photoacoustic imaging is a growing non-invasive biomedical imaging technique that offers advantages of high spatial resolution and high imaging depth compared to optical imaging modalities. When visualized with PA systems, PAtrace does not photobleach or degrade at fluences less than 20 mJ/cm2, and generates a stable signal for over 1000 pulses. Additionally, flexible surface chemistry enables researchers to customize PAtrace for specifically targeted applications.

NanoHybrids is launching PAtrace at the 2018 SPIE BiOS Expo, where it will display the featured nanoparticles. According to SPIE, “The BiOS Expo is considered the world's largest biomedical optics and biophotonics exhibition and coincides with SPIE BIOS 2018, considered the largest biophotonics, biomedical optics, and imaging conference.” Visitors to the expo and conference can locate PAtrace at NanoHybrids’ booth #8750 from January 27 – 28, 2018 at the Moscone Center in San Francisco. PAtrace will be available with various concentrations and surface modifications, all of which are biocompatible and shipped sterile. It will be introduced to the US and globally throughout 2018.

“We are pleased to add PAtrace to our family of commercially available contrast agents and imaging products, and strengthen NanoHybrids’ position as a leader in nanoparticles for innovative biomedical research. With effectiveness for in vitro and in vivo studies, PAtrace offers a novel option for investigating the EPR effect that is non-ionizing, easy to use, and produces unparalleled visualization all backed by NanoHybrids’ well-established and stringent standard of quality,” says Cook.

About NanoHybrids Inc.

NanoHybrids develops nanotechnology solutions that facilitate non-invasive detection, molecular profiling, and novel treatments for disease. NanoHybrids combines a clinical development pipeline with commercially available products and services to deliver theranostic nanoparticle innovations across applications spanning biomedical imaging and drug delivery. Through academic and industrial partnerships, the company strives to enhance the convergence of nanotechnology and medicine.

To find out more about NanoHybrids’ technology portfolio, or to order in-stock or custom nanoparticle solutions, visit www.nanohybrids.net