Overview

Microbubbles (MBs) are gaseous colloidal particles encapsulated by surfactants, polymers, lipids, proteins, or other biocompatible materials. The gaseous core of microbubbles is compressible, allowing them to expand and contract in response to ultrasound. The acoustic backscatter from microbubbles can be used to improve the contrast between blood capillaries and surrounding solid tissue. In addition to ultrasonic imaging, microbubbles are being investigated and employed for drug administration, gene transfer, and bioactive gas delivery.

This workshop will concentrate on the design and engineering of microbubbles for biomedical applications including ultrasonic imaging and drug delivery. Microbubble production methods, microbubble characterisation techniques, and microbubble stability and biocompatibility concerns will be discussed. Participants will also be introduced to innovative approaches for microbubble generation, including microfluidic devices and a combination of microfluidics and sonication.

In addition to lectures, participants will engage in laboratory sessions focused on the synthesis and characterization of microbubbles.