Patent Evaluation: A novel approach to the quantification of arteriosclerosis

Summary

Novelty: Novel peptides with affinity for sites of vascular injury are disclosed. These peptides, when labelled with radioactive isotopes such as [¹²⁵I], are potentially useful for the detection and mapping of vascular injury. The peptides may also be useful for the prevention or treatment of vascular damage.

Biology: The ability of the peptides to target the sites of vascular injury is demonstrated using rabbit models. Representative results are described.

Chemistry: Fourteen peptides are synthesized using standard solid-phase peptide synthesis methodology. Selected derivatives are labelled with [¹²⁵I] or [⁹⁹Tc] using standard methods. Eight peptide sequences are specifically claimed.