Abstract: The present invention provides a method for expanding a population of chondrocytes that maintains chondrocyte phenotype during the expansion by culturing the population in a defined serum-free expansion medium containing one or more cytokines and under low attachment conditions. The method further solves diffusion problems during the subsequent stage of extracellular matrix production by use of a perforated polycarbonate substrate that results in a randomly organized cultured neocartilage tissue. Chondrocytes expanded and cultured in this manner can be used in various medical applications to repair cartilaginous tissues that have been injured by trauma or disease.

Abstract: The present application discloses compositions, methods and devices for treatment of a degenerative intervertebral disc. A composition can comprise chondrocytes expressing type II collagen. These chondrocytes can be obtained from human cadavers up to about two weeks following death, and can be grown in vitro. The compositions can further comprise one or more biocompatible molecules. Treatment of a degenerative disc can comprise injecting or implanting a composition comprising the chondrocytes into a degenerative disc through an aperture or incision. If the aperture or incision is closed with a suture or a glue after introduction of the chondrocytes, the closure can withstand over 400 N of compression force.

Abstract: The present application discloses compositions, methods and devices for treatment of degenerative cartilaginous structures of an arthritic joint, including articular cartilage and the meniscus. A composition can comprise chondrocytes expressing type II collagen and a biological macromolecule such as hyaluronic acid or a collagen. The chondrocytes can be obtained from hyaline cartilage of human cadavers up to about two weeks following death, and can be grown in vitro. A composition can be delivered to a recipient by intra-articular injection. Examples of joints into which a composition can be injected include a knee joint, a hip joint, a shoulder joint, an ankle joint, a wrist joint, a digit joint and an elbow joint.

Abstract: The present application discloses compositions, methods and devices for treatment of a degenerative intervertebral disc. A composition can comprise chondrocytes expressing type II collagen. These chondrocytes can be obtained from human cadavers up to about two weeks following death, and can be grown in vitro. The compositions can further comprise one or more biocompatible molecules. Treatment of a degenerative disc can comprise injecting or implanting a composition comprising the chondrocytes into a degenerative disc.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for transfecting and/or transducing neocartilage or juvenile cartilage comprising infecting cultured neocartilage or juvenile cartilage with a recombinant vector. Preferably, the vector is adenovirus fiber type 51. Transfected and/or transduced chondrocyte cells and intact neocartilage or juvenile cartilage are also provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for use with translingual elastic bands in orthodontic procedures is disclosed. According to the method, a translingual band is attached to a hook and wire which are extended through a semirigid sheath. The sheath is presized to fit snugly between the inner surfaces of opposing teeth in a patient's mouth.The band is attached appropriately to a tooth then pulled by the hook and wire through the sheath and attached to an opposing tooth. The sheath is rotatable about the band and is left in place to protect the patient's tongue and soft palette. The sheath will be measured and downsized as treatment progresses.