Methods for detecting parenchymal plaques in vivo

Abstract

Methods for detecting parenchymal plaque deposits in the brain of a living mammal are described that include administering a polyamine modified, labeled polypeptide having specific binding affinity for the extracellular deposit, to the living mammal. Isolated β-amyloid peptides that are polyamine modified and labeled with a radioisotope or contrast agent also are described.

1 . (canceled) 
   
   
       2 . (canceled) 
   
   
       3 . (canceled) 
   
   
       4 . (canceled) 
   
   
       5 . (canceled) 
   
   
       6 . (canceled) 
   
   
       7 . (canceled) 
   
   
       8 . (canceled) 
   
   
       9 . (canceled) 
   
   
       10 . (canceled) 
   
   
       11 . (canceled) 
   
   
       12 . (canceled) 
   
   
       13 . (canceled) 
   
   
       14 . (canceled) 
   
   
       15 . (canceled) 
   
   
       16 . (canceled) 
   
   
       17 . (canceled) 
   
   
       18 . (canceled) 
   
   
       19 . (canceled) 
   
   
       20 . An isolated antibody having specific binding affinity for a β-amyloid peptide wherein said antibody is polyamine modified and labeled with a radioisotope or contrast agent suitable for diagnostic imaging. 
   
   
       21 . The antibody of  claim 20 , wherein said β-amyloid peptide is β-amyloid peptide 1-40 . 
   
   
       22 . The antibody of  claim 20 , wherein said antibody is labeled with a contrast agent. 
   
   
       23 . The antibody of  claim 22 , wherein said contrast agent is selected from the group consisting of Gd, dysprosium, and iron. 
   
   
       24 . The antibody of  claim 22 , wherein said contrast agent is Gd. 
   
   
       25 . The antibody of  claim 20  wherein said antibody is labeled with a radioisotope. 
   
   
       26 . The antibody of  claim 25  wherein said radioisotope is selected from the group consisting of  123 I,  18 F,  111 In,  67 Ga, and  99m Tc.