Abstract: The present invention is directed compositions for targeted delivery of RNA interference (RNAi) polynucleotides to hepatocytes in vivo. Targeted RNAi polynucleotides are administered together with co-targeted delivery polymers. Delivery polymers provide membrane penetration function for movement of the RNAi polynucleotides from outside the cell to inside the cell. Reversible modification provides physiological responsiveness to the delivery polymers.

Abstract: Devices and methods for transplanting cells in a host body are described. The cell comprises a porous scaffold that allows ingrowth of vascular and connective tissues, a plug or plug system configured for placement within the porous scaffold, and a seal configured to enclose a proximal opening in the porous scaffold. The device may further comprise a cell delivery device for delivering cells into the porous scaffold. The method of cell transplantation comprises a two step process. The device is incubated in the host body to form a vascularized collagen matrix around a plug positioned within the porous scaffold. The plug is then retracted from the porous scaffold, and cells are delivered into the vascularized space created within the porous scaffold.

Abstract: A method of synthesizing a biocompatible hydrogel by covalently cross-linking an effective amount of a first macromonomer including a cyclic thioester group with an effective amount of a second macromonomer including a terminal cysteine group is disclosed. In addition, the synthesis and use of the following specific cyclic thioester macromonomer that can be used in the method, as well as specific hydrogels made using this macromonomer are disclosed. The disclosed method produces a biocompatible hydrogel, while producing substantially no toxic free thiol by-product. Accordingly, the method can be used in making biomedical products, such as sutures and tissue replacement biomaterials, and for encapsulating therapeutic cells and pharmaceuticals.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a composition for treating vaginal dryness and lack of lubrication comprising: a poloxamer component; a phospholipid component; an optional oil component; and a non-aqueous carrier; wherein the composition is substantially anhydrous. In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of treating vaginal dryness comprising the step of administering to a patient suffering from vaginal dryness the above composition.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention include methods of treating ADHD, anxiety or insomnia by applying a transdermal delivery device containing a dexmedetomidine composition formulated to deliver an amount of dexmedetomidine to a subject diagnosed as having ADHD, anxiety or insomnia. In practicing methods according to certain embodiments, a transdermal delivery device having a dexmedetomidine composition is applied to a subject and is maintained in contact with the subject in a manner sufficient to deliver an amount of dexmedetomidine sufficient to treat ADHD, anxiety or insomnia in the subject. Also provided are transdermal delivery devices configured to deliver an amount of dexmedetomidine sufficient for practicing the subject methods, as well as kits containing the transdermal delivery devices.

Abstract: Implantable medical device eluting drug locally and in a prolonged fashion are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to sustained release formulations comprising as active ingredient octreotide or a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt thereof and three different linear polylactide-co-glycolide polymers (PLGAs).

Abstract: Disclosed herein are cosmetic compositions comprising at least one film-forming polymer, at least one silicone elastomer blend, and at least one wax. Also disclosed herein are methods for making up and/or enhancing the appearance of a keratinous substrate comprising applying said composition to the keratinous substrate.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions for extended release of one or more active ingredients, comprising a lipid-saturated matrix formed from a non-biodegradable polymer or a block-co-polymers comprising a non-biodegradable polymer and a biodegradable polymer. The present invention also provides methods of producing the matrix compositions and methods for using the matrix compositions to provide controlled release of an active ingredient in the body of a subject in need thereof.

Abstract: A solid dosage form containing a taste masked active agent is provided. The solid dosage form may be provided as a water soluble film that is disintegrable in the oral cavity to deliver and release the taste masked active agent. The disintegrable film includes at least one water soluble polymer and a taste masked ketoprofen active. Also provided are methods for preparing the solid dosage form and for using the solid dosage to administer an effective dosage of an active agent, such as ketoprofen, into the oral cavity for absorption.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for making a composite material including a porous polymer matrix containing HEMA monomers and in which silver nanoparticles are dispersed, and to the use thereof as an anti-microbial material.

Abstract: The invention relates to particular substituted heterocycle fused gamma-carbolines, their prodrugs, in free, solid, pharmaceutically acceptable salt and/or substantially pure form as described herein, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods of use in the treatment of diseases involving 5-HT2A receptor, serotonin transporter (SERT) and/or pathways involving dopamine D2 receptor signaling systems.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a bio-functionalized stimulus-responsive dissolvable PEG-hydrogel. This inventive stimulus-responsive dissolvable PEG-hydrogel comprises a matrix of PEG-polymers, which are modified to contain at least one multifunctional fusion protein, the multifunctional fusion protein preferably comprising as components a substrate binding peptide (SBP), preferably a repetitive RGD-binding peptide and/or a ZZ-binding domain, preferably a tag for purification, and at least one N- and/or C-terminal linker. The present invention is furthermore directed to the use of such inventive stimulus-responsive dissolvable PEG-hydrogels in the treatment of lesions, in surgical dressings, for wound treating, for soft and hard tissue regeneration, for the treatment of wounds in the oral cavity, in the field of ophthalmology, in the field of periodontal defects, etc. The invention also describes a method of treatment for such diseases.

Abstract: The invention defines a nonwoven membrane for the controlled and sustained release of a therapeutic or cosmetic active agent in the area of the body to be treated. This nonwoven membrane comprises one single type of biocompatible electrospun nanofibers and microparticles of at least one therapeutic or cosmetic active agent which are entangled between the nanofibers, the active agent having a low water solubility.

Abstract: Compositions and methods are provided that are useful for the delivery, including transdermal delivery, of biologically active agents, such as non-protein non-nucleotide therapeutics and protein-based therapeutics excluding insulin, botulinum toxins, antibody fragments, and VEGF. The compositions and methods are particularly useful for topical delivery of antifungal agents and antigenic agents suitable for immunization. Alternately, the compositions can be prepared with components useful for targeting the delivery of the compositions as well as imaging components.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition comprises nanoparticles comprising a poorly water-soluble drug, a poorly aqueous soluble non-ionizable cellulosic polymer, and a poorly aqueous soluble polymeric amphiphilic non-ionizable block copolymer.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a hydrogel composition and methods of using the same. The hydrogel composition may include precursors that react with each other upon contact as well as precursors that react upon contact with an initiator. In embodiments, the resulting hydrogels may have varying levels of crosslinking with both denser and less dense regions.

Abstract: The invention is generally related to the field of photodynamic therapy by use of photosensitizers and stabilized formulations of the photosensitizers. These formulations may be used to deliver a photosensitizer as a pharmaceutical, agricultural, or industrial agent. The photosensitizer containing formulations and compositions of the invention comprise one or more block copolymers. Furthermore, the invention relates to processes for the production of, and application of, said formulations and compositions as photosensitizer drug delivery systems.

Abstract: The present invention relates to relates to combination degradable and non-degradable matrices and related methods. In an embodiment, the invention includes an active agent delivery matrix including a degradable polymer network, a non-degradable polymer network, the non-degradable polymer network interspersed within the degradable polymer network, and an active agent. In an embodiment, the invention includes an active agent elution control matrix including a degradable polymer; and a non-degradable polymer interspersed with the degradable polymer. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method of making an active agent delivery matrix including mixing a degradable polymer with a first solvent to form a degradable polymer solution; mixing a non-degradable polymer with a second solvent to form a non-degradable polymer solution; and simultaneously depositing the degradable polymer solution and the non-degradable polymer solution onto a substrate.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to a method of ultrasonography, utilizing a gel comprising a reverse phase polymer which facilitates the transmission of high-frequency sound waves. Further, the inherent properties of the reverse phase polymer result in increased adhesion at higher temperatures, thereby helping to maintain the desired position of the ultrasound probe until the user intends to adjust the probe's position. In certain embodiments, the method is utilized in a medical procedure in which stability of an ultrasound probe or transducer in an intended desired position can improve the outcome or increase the efficiency of the procedure. In certain embodiments, the gel further comprises an additive to increase the ultimate adhesion of the gel. In still other embodiments, the gel can be used on the skin, on a protective sheath encasing an ultrasound probe, or between the sheath and the probe, or any or all of them.

Abstract: Compositions and methods are provided that are useful for the delivery, including transdermal delivery, of biologically active agents, including nucleic acids and therapeutic proteins including insulin, larger therapeutic proteins such as botulinum toxin and other biologically active agents such as a therapeutic protein which does not therapeutically alter blood glucose levels, a therapeutic nucleic acid-based agent, a non-protein non-nucleic acid therapeutic agent such as an antifungal agent or alternately an agent for immunization. The compositions can be prepared with components useful for targeting the delivery of the compositions as well as imaging components.

Abstract: A method of UV curing and corresponding resulting non-polymeric cross-linked gel are provided. The cross-linked gel can be combined with a medical device structure. The cross-linked gel can provide anti-adhesion characteristics, in addition to improved healing and anti-inflammatory response. The cross-linked gel is generally formed of a naturally occurring oil, or an oil composition formed in part of a naturally occurring oil, that is at least partially cured forming a cross-linked gel derived from at least one fatty acid compound. In addition, the oil composition can include a therapeutic agent component, such as a drug or other bioactive agent. The curing method can vary the application of UV light in both intensity and duration to achieve a desired amount of cross-linking forming the gel.

Abstract: The invention relates to a medicament, for treating and improving the restorative quality of sleep, in a patient suffering from primary insomnia, which comprises at least one compound selected from melatonin, other melatonergic agents, melatonin agonists and melatonin antagonists, in an effective amount within the range of 0.0025 to 50 mg, and optionally one or more other therapeutically active agents.

Abstract: Compositions, methods, and kits are provided for sealing applications. Compositions are prepared by combining a first cross-linkable component with a second cross-linkable component to form a porous matrix having interstices, and combining the porous matrix with a hydrogel-forming component to fill at least some of the interstices. The compositions exhibit minimal swelling properties.

Abstract: The present invention generally concerns methods and compositions for treating mutated K-ras expressing cancers.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions for extended release of an active ingredient, comprising a lipid-saturated matrix formed from a biodegradable polymer. The present invention also provides methods of producing the matrix compositions and methods for using the matrix compositions to provide controlled release of an active ingredient in the body of a subject in need thereof.

Abstract: A drug delivery system (DDS) comprised of segmented biodegradable implants sized and suitable for implantation in an ocular region or site and methods for treating ocular conditions. The segmented implants provide an extended release of an active agent at a therapeutically effective amount for a period of time between 50 days and one year, or longer, and permit the DDS to have segments that possess individual and different drug release characteristics.

Abstract: Disclosed are a sustained release solid formulation comprising a drug, for example, oxycodone or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt, in a water-insoluble matrix, which comprises a wax type excipient and copovidone, and thus, has increased compressibility and fluidity and reduced adhesiveness, and a method of preparing the same.

Abstract: The present invention provides insertable medical devices having elastic surfaces associated with bioactive agent-containing microparticulates and a coating material. Upon expansion of the elastic surfaces the microparticulates can be released to a subject.

Abstract: A drug delivery balloon is provided, the a balloon having an outer surface, and a tunable coating disposed on at least a length of the balloon surface. The tunable coating includes a first therapeutic agent and a first excipient, and can include a second therapeutic agent and a second excipient. The first and second therapeutic agents have different dissolution rates during balloon inflation and therefore provide a coating that is tunable.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition for controlled release of an active substance is provided. The active substance is released into an aqueous medium by erosion of at least one surface of the composition. The composition comprises i) a matrix comprising a) polymer or a mixture of polymers, b) an active substance and, optionally, c) one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, and ii) a coating.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for reducing solvent contents in drug-containing polymeric compositions. Specifically, the solvent contents in the drug-containing polymeric compositions are first reduced by one or more conventional drying methods, to a range from about 0.5 wt % to about 10 wt % of the total weight of the polymeric composition. Subsequently, the drug-containing polymeric compositions are further treated by one or more low temperature (i.e., having processing temperatures of less than 60° C.) drying methods for further reduction of the solvent content to less than 10,000 ppm.

Abstract: Drugs are formulated as oral dosage forms for controlled release in which the release rate limiting portion is a shell surrounding the drug-containing core. The shell releases drug from the core by permitting diffusion of the drug from the core. The shell also motes gastric retention of the dosage form by swelling upon imbibition of gastric fluid to size that is retained in the stomach during the postprandial or fed mode.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new class of cationic polymers that self-assemble with a pH-sensitive dissolution switch, and their uses to deliver molecules of interest to a cell. The present invention also relates to compositions comprising said cationic polymers non-covalently associated with a molecule of interest, in particular with a siRNA.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions, kits, and methods for treatment of neuronal injury. In one embodiment, the composition comprises a biomembrane sealing agent, such as PEG, and a bioactive agent, such as a magnesium compound. The biomembrane sealing agent and/or the bioactive agent an intravenous administration, an intramuscular administration, an intrathecal administration, a subcutaneous administration, an epidural administration, a parenteral administration, a direct application onto or adjacent to a site of the pathological condition, and any combinations thereof. Alternatively, the biomembrane sealing agent and/or the bioactive agent may be delivered from a pump or an implant.

Abstract: Visible light-activated polymer cosmetic filler preparations useful in a variety of applications are provided. In some embodiments, the photo-activated polymer composition comprises a conventional polymeric material, such as HA, together with a modified, crosslinkable polymer, such as PEG or PEODA, to permit the formation of crosslinks within the polymer matrix in situ on exposure to a visible light source, such as an IPL device. The preparations provide for a more stabilized composition that is contourable during gelation.

Abstract: The invention provides polymer particles that are obtainable by a method selected from emulsion methods, diffusion methods and evaporation methods carried out in the presence of surface-engineering surfactant which is one or more polymer that displays a lower critical solution temperature, in aqueous media, that is between 10 to 90° C., this polymer being the polymerization product of one or more monomer selected from polymerisable alkyleneglycol acrylate monomers and polymerisable alkyleneglycol methacrylate monomers. The polymer particles can be used in controlled release applications, such as flavour release applications, fragrance release applications and biomedical applications. The invention also provides a cell support matrix comprising the polymer particles.

Abstract: A novel podophyllotoxin derivative, which is capable of releasing a drug without depending on biological enzymes and can be expected to have an effective therapeutic effect and is soluble in water has been demanded. A polymer having a polyethyleneglycol structural unit and two or more succinic monoamide structural units, particularly a polymer conjugate of a podophyllotoxin in which a carboxylic acid group of polyethyleneglycol/polyaspartic acid copolymer and a hydroxyl group of podophyllotoxin and linked via an ester bond is provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for forming a pharmaceutical product, such as a dissolvable film dosage form, onto a surface. Particularly, the present invention relates to a method of forming a pharmaceutical product directly onto the surface of a substrate.

Abstract: A structure of, and a method of producing, a biocompatible structure for bone and tissue regeneration are disclosed. The method includes dissolving a polyurethane polymer in methanol, adding hydroxyapatite (HAP) nanoparticles to form a uniformly distributed mixture, applying the mixture to a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) surface to form a polymer film, cutting the polymer film into strips, stacking the strips with layers of bone particles disposed therebetween, coating the stacked strips and layers by the mixture and allowing it to dry, adding bone particles to the coating, and plasma treating the structure to form the biocompatible structure. A weight percentage of the HAP nanoparticles to the polymer is about 5-50% such that a resorption rate of the biocompatible structure substantially matches a rate of tissue generation in the biocompatible structure.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a drug delivery device including a biodegradable housing and a hydrogel within the biodegradable housing. The housing, the hydrogel, or both, may include a bioactive agent. Also disclosed is a method of drug delivery including the steps of forming the biodegradable housing, in embodiments a hydrogel, suspending a bioactive agent in the hydrogel, and introducing a second hydrogel and/or precursors of a second hydrogel into the biodegradable housing.

Abstract: An adsorbent for immunosuppressive substance, which can adsorb an excessive immunosuppressive substance directly from a body fluid, can carry out extracorporeal perfusion safely and can be utilized in treatment of cancer. The excessive immunosuppressive substance may be involved in growth of cancer cells. The adsorbent for immunosuppressive substance includes a water-insoluble carrier and a hydrophilic amino group immobilized to the water-insoluble carrier. An extracorporeal perfusion column contains the adsorbent of the invention. A method for treating cancer carries out extracorporeal perfusion using the extracorporeal perfusion column. A method of adsorbing the transforming growth factor ? which is combined with another protein, includes adsorbing the transforming growth factor ? and protein on an adsorbent containing a water-insoluble carrier to which quaternary ammonium groups each having 3 to 18 carbon atoms per one nitrogen atom are attached, and having a specific surface area of 0.

Abstract: The present invention relates to topical compositions containing solid particles that are stabilized via encapsulation into a cross-linked silicone matrix. The solid particles are preferably formed of a metal oxide, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, and the cross-linked silicone matrix is preferably formed by cross-linking a silicone having branched reactive alkoxyl moieties in the presence of a stannous carboxylate cross-linking agent. The stabilized particles of the present invention can readily be used either alone or in combination with other skin care actives to form topical compositions with improved stability and performance.

Abstract: The invention relates to a biocompatible, non-biodegradable, and non-toxic polymer of formula (I), comprising of three monomeric units, selected from 1-Vinylpyrrolidne (VP), N-Isopropylactylamide (NIPAM), and ester of Maleic anhydride and Polyethylene glycol (MPEG), cross-linked with a bi-functional vinyl derivative, of high purity and substantially free of respective toxic monomeric contaminants, and a process for preparation thereof. The invention further relates to nanoparticulate pharmaceutical compositions of poorly water-soluble drugs or compounds comprising the polymer of the invention, which are safe, less-toxic and convenient for bedside administration to patients in need thereof. Furthermore, the invention relates to a highly selective method for preparation of nanoparticulate pharmaceutical compositions of poorly water-soluble drugs or compounds.

Abstract: Disclosed is a water-soluble high-molecular weight conjugate of physiologically active substances which enable medicament to release without depending on the enzymes in a living body and which is expected to have a useful therapeutic effect. A high-molecular weight conjugate of a physiologically active substance has a substituent group represented by a general formula (1) bonded to a side-chain carboxy group of a block copolymer which has a polyethylene glycol moiety and either a polyaspartic acid moiety or a polyglutamic acid moiety.

Abstract: A polymer system useful for in vivo delivery of a therapeutic agent is provided. The polymer system comprises a biocompatible biodegradable polymeric backbone that is capable of a reversible stimuli-induced transition from liquid to gel.

Abstract: Described herein are block copolymer conjugates that form double-network hydrogels under appropriate conditions. The conjugates comprise a block of polymer end-group, a block of self-associating peptide or protein, and flexible linkers between the two. Hydrogels comprising the conjugates have the mechanical properties, including elastic modulus and fracture toughness, required for load-bearing applications, while maintaining desirable shear-thinning properties, for example, for injectability.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides injectable synthetic and biodegradable polymeric biomaterials that effectively prevent seroma, a common postoperative complication following ablative and reconstructive surgeries. Provided biomaterials include physically crosslinked hydrogels that are thixotropic, display rapid chain relaxation, are easily extruded through narrow gauge needles, biodegrade into inert products, are well tolerated by soft tissues, and effectively prevent seroma in a radical breast mastectomy animal model.

Abstract: An implantable device having a coating comprising a comb-type anti-thrombotic conjugate to prevent or reduce the formation of thrombosis on the surface of the device. The device includes a frame expandable from a first diameter to a second diameter wherein the frame has an inner surface and an outer surface, a plurality of structural features disposed along the frame and a plurality of polymer anti-thrombotic conjugate particles situated with the plurality of structural features. The particle can be created utilizing the comb type polymer and heparin conjugate as a carrier for a therapeutic agent within its polymer matrix. The structural features allow for particles having differing properties to be placed at various locations along the device. Moreover, particles having at least two different agents can be located within the same structural feature.

Abstract: A composite comprising a stem cell; a biodegradable layer, which can provide an environment for the stem cell to grow and to differentiate, and; a N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm), which can polymerize with the biodegradable layer and possess the temperature-responsive character for easy stripping. The present invention further provides a method for treating a patient with a skin defect, consisting of (a) providing said patient with a composite consisting of a N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm) layer polymerized with a biodegradable layer containing gelatin and a layer of polypropylene (PP) non-woven, wherein a bone marrow derived mononuclear cell with CD45 negative and glycophorin A negative is cultivating on the biodegradable layer; (b) covering said composite on the skin defect of the patient; and (c) treating the composite with water below 25° C. to strip off the layer of polypropylene (PP) non-woven.