Mikroblåsbubblor

Mikroblåsbubblor, sometimes referred to as microbubbles, are extremely small gas-filled spheres. They are typically on the order of micrometers in diameter, which is a thousandth of a millimeter. These bubbles can be composed of various gases, including air, oxygen, or carbon dioxide, and are often stabilized by a shell of lipids, proteins, or polymers. This shell prevents the bubbles from coalescing or dissolving too quickly.

The technology behind microbubbles has seen significant development, particularly in the field of medical imaging. Microbubbles are injected into the bloodstream and act as contrast agents for ultrasound examinations. When an ultrasound beam interacts with the microbubbles, their oscillations create strong echoes that are detected by the ultrasound machine. This allows for enhanced visualization of blood flow and tissue structures, aiding in the diagnosis of various conditions.

Beyond diagnostic imaging, research is exploring the therapeutic potential of microbubbles. They can be used for targeted drug delivery, where drugs are attached to the bubble shell and released at a specific site in the body, often triggered by external stimuli such as ultrasound. This can improve treatment efficacy and reduce side effects. Additionally, microbubbles are being investigated for their role in sonoporation, a process where ultrasound can temporarily increase the permeability of cell membranes, allowing for the entry of therapeutic agents. The precise control over their size and properties makes them a versatile tool in biomedical applications.