Abstract:
Novel lipid-nucleic acid particulate complexes which are useful for in vitro or in vivo gene transfer are described. The particles can be formed using either detergent dialysis methods or methods which utilize organic solvents. Upon removal of a solubilizing component (i.e, detergent or an organic solvent) the lipid-nucleic acid complexes form particles wherein the nucleic acid is serum-stable and is protected from degradation. The particles thus formed have access to extravascular sites and target cell populations and are suitable for the therapeutic delivery of nucleic acids.
Abstract:
The invention relates to the formation of multivalent antibody constructs for testing and therapeutic purposes. In one embodiment the constructs consist of antibodies or antibody fragments conjugated to liposomes. The constructs are employed in a cell-based in vitro assay for comparing the therapeutic activity of antibodies or antibody fragments in multivalent form to the same antibodies or fragments in bivalent, free form. The assay is useful for identifying antibodies having potential in vivo activity. Selected antibodies may then be tested in an animal model of a disease state, such as cancer or an autoimmune disorder. Co-delivery of antibodies and chemotherapeutics may also be investigated. In accordance with the invention, a significant enhancement in the activity of antibodies such as trastuzumab and rituximab was observed when these antibodies were presented in the multivalent liposomal form. Key cell survival signaling molecules were down-regulated upon treatment with the multivalent liposomal antibody construct. The invention demonstrates the potential of liposome technology to enhance the therapeutic effect of antibodies via a mechanism that modulates cell survival, likely through clustering of target/antibody complex.
Abstract:
Compositions which comprise liposomes having stably associated therewith a platinum agent and an antimetabolite are useful in achieving enhanced therapeutic effects when combinations of these drugs are administered.
Abstract:
Compositions which comprise delivery vehicles having stably associated therewith at least one organic acid derivative of a sterol are useful in achieving enhanced cellular delivery of physiologically relevant sphingolipids when the compositions are administered.
Abstract:
Compositions which comprise liposomes having stably associated therewith a camptothecin and a fluoropyrimidine are useful in achieving enhanced therapeutic effects when combinations of these drugs are administered.
Abstract:
Short chain hydrophilic polymers impart enhanced circulation longevity to unilamellar vesicles made without cholesterol, when the hydrophilic polymer is incorporated into the vesicles at low densities.
Abstract:
Compositions are provided for delivery of a biologically active agent to a cell, comprising a vehicle having the formula: A - (BC) wherein: A is a lipid-based vehicle; B is a moiety comprising an internalizing peptide; C is a moiety comprising a biologically active agent; (BC) is a complex comprising B and C in which B is conjugated to C; and A is conjugated to (BC).
Abstract:
The liposomes of the invention have a reactive surface that demonstrates reduced interaction with macromolecules and increased blood circulation time. The reactive surface may comprise phosphatidylserine. The liposomes are protected by the presence of high levels of a hydrophilic polymer conjugated to a lipid. The invention further provides means for adjusting the appropriate ratio of hydrophilic polymer to a reactive lipid by a) determining the reactivity of the lipid; b) determining the time required for the carrier to reach its desired target location; c) determining the affinity of desired interactions with the reactive surface; and d) incorporating in the liposome or lipid carrier the amount of polyethylene glycol required to protect the reactive surface.
Abstract:
The use of the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of individual drugs to determine appropriate administration ratios of drugs for combination therapy, wherein the ratios of drugs are fixed based on the same percentage of the MTD for each drug. Furthemore, antineoplastic compositions comprising liposomal encapsulated gemcitabine alone or in combination with free or liposomal encapsulated antineoplastic agents, such as idarubicin, irinotecan, etopside, cisplatin, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, or vincristine are diclosed.
Abstract:
Compositions are provided for delivery of a biologically active agent to a cell, comprising a vehicle having the formula: A - (BC) wherein: A is a lipid-based vehicle; B is a moiety comprising an internalizing peptide; C is a moiety comprising a biologically active agent; (BC) is a complex comprising B and C in which B is conjugated to C; and A is conjugated to (BC).