Phospholipid-Based Ultrasound Contrast Agents for Novel Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept explores the application of phospholipid-based ultrasound contrast agents in entirely new industries, including cosmetics, food, athletics, and pharmaceuticals, enabling innovative solutions for personalized skin care, edible products, athletic performance monitoring, and customized pharmaceutical dosages.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed methods for preparing phospholipid-based ultrasound contrast agents for medical imaging applications. However, these agents have untapped potential in other fields. This inventive concept addresses the limitation of the original patent by expanding the scope of these agents to novel applications, leveraging their unique properties to create new solutions.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new claims encompass methods and systems for utilizing phospholipid-based ultrasound contrast agents in various industries. For instance, Claim 1 describes a method for preparing a personalized cosmetic formulation using these agents, enabling tailored skin texture and appearance. Claim 2 outlines a system for non-invasive skin analysis, while Claim 3 details a method for creating edible, customizable food products. Claims 4 and 5 describe devices for real-time athletic performance monitoring and generating personalized, 3D-printed pharmaceutical dosage forms, respectively. These inventive concepts harness the properties of phospholipid-based ultrasound contrast agents to create novel solutions with significant commercial potential.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The novelty of this inventive concept lies in the unexpected application of phospholipid-based ultrasound contrast agents in industries unrelated to medical imaging. The inventive step is the recognition of the agents' versatility and the development of new methods and systems that capitalize on their unique properties to create innovative solutions.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of this inventive concept could include the use of different phospholipid blends, varying concentrations of divalent metal cations, or alternative solvents. Additionally, the inventive concept could be adapted for use in other industries, such as biotechnology or environmental monitoring.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The potential commercial applications of this inventive concept are vast, with opportunities in the cosmetics, food, athletics, and pharmaceutical industries. The market demand for personalized, innovative solutions in these fields is significant, and the ability to leverage phospholipid-based ultrasound contrast agents to create new products and services could lead to substantial revenue growth and market share.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61K49/223 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/481 |
| A | A61 | A61K49/226 |
| A | A61 | A61K49/227 |
| C | C07 | C07F9/09 |
| C | C07 | C07F9/106 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical engineering and pharmaceutical formulation, specifically focusing on lipid-based contrast agents and microsphere technologies, with expertise in chemical engineering, ultrasound imaging, and advanced material preparation techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A researcher or engineer with advanced degrees in chemistry, biomedical engineering, or pharmaceutical sciences, possessing knowledge of lipid chemistry, microsphere preparation, and cross-industry applications of medical technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the fundamental properties of phospholipid-based ultrasound contrast agents inherently suggest broader applications beyond medical imaging. The source patent's detailed methodology for preparing phospholipid microspheres provides a clear technological foundation that could be readily adapted to alternative industrial uses by applying standard engineering design principles and known techniques of material modification.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,646 |
|---|---|
| Title | Methods for making ultrasound contrast agents |
| Assignee(s) | Lantheus Medical Imaging, Inc. |