University of Virginia Patent Foundation

Leland Stanford Junior University

Edward H Bertram

Max Wintermark

Nathan Swami

Walter Varhue

Kevin S Lee

System and method to improve drug delivery to identified regions in the brain or elsewhere through direct infusion of a therapeutic agent or the like into that region. This direct infusion will allow for greater concentrations of the agent in the target region while reducing concentrations elsewhere in the body where these agents may be toxic. The system and method improves efficacy while reducing unwanted side effects. The system includes an array of multiple, independently targeted, microporous catheters for insertion into the target region and a distribution system that allows for individualized flow control to each catheter. The system may be connected to a reservoir that contains the therapeutic agent, and flow to the system is maintained through one or more pumps. This system will greatly improve on the current single catheter infusion design and shall provide therapy, delivered through multiple catheters, thus delivering the therapy evenly over a customizable volume.

Distribution system for flow control of infusate from branch catheters to selected site

Methods and systems are described for producing non-invasive and targeted neuronal lesions using magnetic resonance and acoustic energy. Imaging data corresponding to a region of interest is obtained, the region of interest within an imaging subject. Information indicative of a target region within the region of interest is received from the obtained imaging data. Focused acoustic energy directed to the target region within the region of interest is generated to disrupt a barrier between a therapeutic agent and parenchymal tissue in response to insonification by the focused acoustic energy, the therapeutic agent comprising a neurotoxin and microbubbles.

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Charlottesville, VA, United States of America

Edward H Bertram