Nanoparticles for controlled lysis of blood clots

Abstract

Fibrinolytic nanoparticles including a polymeric core having a surface that is functionalized with a cationic amphiphilic compound, and a fibrinolytic agent dispersed within the core, are described herein. The fibrinolytic nanoparticles can be used in method of dissolving a blood clot in a subject by administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of fibrinolytic nanoparticles.

1 . A fibrinolytic nanoparticle comprising a polymeric core having a surface that is functionalized with a cationic amphiphilic compound, and a fibrinolytic agent dispersed within the core, wherein the particle has a surface charge from +10 mV to +50 mV. 
     
     
         2 . The fibrinolytic nanoparticle of  claim 1 , wherein the polymeric core comprises poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid). 
     
     
         3 . The fibrinolytic nanoparticle of  claim 1 , wherein the fibrinolytic agent is tissue plasminogen activator. 
     
     
         4 . The fibrinolytic nanoparticle of  claim 1 , wherein the cationic amphiphilic compound is didodecyldimethyl ammonium bromide. 
     
     
         5 . The fibrinolytic nanoparticle of  claim 1 , wherein the particle has a diameter from about 300 to about 500 nanometers. 
     
     
         6 . The fibrinolytic nanoparticle of  claim 1 , wherein the particle has a surface charge from +20 mV to +40 mV. 
     
     
         7 - 15 . (canceled)