Abstract: A novel method of preparing a controlled release composition is disclosed. Specifically, the present invention relates to a method of preparing controlled release compositions of ascorbic acid phosphate and absorbable polymers. Also disclosed is a novel controlled release composition of ascorbic acid phosphate made by the method of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to stabilizing Bone Morphogenetic Protein in various lyophilized formulations and compositions. The present invention comprises formulations primarily including trehalose as an excipient for lyophilized compositions and their subsequent storage and reconstitution, and can also optionally include other excipients, including buffers and surfactants.

Abstract: We have disclosed affinity peptides toward BMP-2. More specifically we have disclosed an affinity biomatrix where the affinity peptide is covalently attached to a biocompatible, biodegradable polymer. The affinity biomatrix is useful in preparing controlled release devices for BMP-2.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods of treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In particular, the invention provides for methods of treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis by administering umbilical cord tissue-derived cells, an effective amount of a substantially homogenous population of umbilical cord tissue-derived cells or a pharmaceutical composition comprising umbilical cord tissue-derived cells to a patient.

Abstract: An expandable, implantable medical device, such as an intraluminal stent (10) fabricated from polymeric materials, includes a plurality of elongated struts (16) in consecutive series and alternating stress concentration junctions (18) interconnecting ends of adjacent struts (16). When the stent (10) is in an expanded condition, the adjacent struts (16) form expanded substantial V-shapes and stresses are concentrated within the junctions (18). The junctions (18) define pivot points (P) for the respective attached, adjacent struts (16). Each of the pivot points (P) is located substantially on a line bisecting the V-shapes formed by the struts (16), when the stent (10) is expanded.

Abstract: An expandable, implantable medical device, such as an intraluminal stent fabricated from polymeric materials, includes a plurality of elongated struts in consecutive series and alternating stress concentration junctions interconnecting ends of adjacent struts. When the stent is in an expanded condition, the adjacent struts form expanded substantial V-shapes and stresses are concentrated within the junctions. The junctions define pivot points for the respective attached, adjacent struts. Each of the pivot points is located substantially on a line bisecting the V-shapes formed by the struts, when the stent is expanded.

Abstract: Liquid formulations of bone morphogenetic proteins are provided for prolonged use at elevated temperatures. More specifically, the invention relates to liquid formulations comprising rhGDF-5, trehalose, and one or more biocompatible excipients that provide stability to the protein for at least 30 days at temperatures up to body temperature.

Abstract: We have disclosed methods for treating chronic kidney disease. More specifically, we have disclosed methods for treating diabetic nephropathy with human kidney derived cells.

Abstract: Improved formulations and methods are provided for stabilizing a solution of bone morphogenetic protein. The compositions comprise an acetate buffered solution of GDF-5 and other excipients wherein the solution has a pH of from about 4.2 to about 5.3, thereby providing for a biologically isotonic solution having improved stability of the GDF-5 protein during storage, handling, and use.

Abstract: An isolated mammalian internal mammary artery-derived cell is disclosed. Furthermore, methods of isolating the mammalian internal mammary artery-derived cell are disclosed. The cell is useful in tissue engineering technologies, specifically in vascular tissue engineering.

Abstract: Liquid formulations of bone morphogenetic proteins are provided for prolonged use at elevated temperatures. More specifically, the invention relates to liquid formulations comprising rhGDF-5, trehalose, and one or more biocompatible excipients that provide stability to the protein for at least 30 days at temperatures up to body temperature.

Abstract: Improved formulations and methods are provided for stabilizing a solution of bone morphogenetic protein. The compositions comprise an acetate buffered solution of GDF-5 and other excipients wherein the solution has a pH of from about 4.2 to about 5.3, thereby providing for a biologically isotonic solution having improved stability of the GDF-5 protein during storage, handling, and use.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for tissue augmentation or regeneration. More specifically, the present invention provides for a composite enterocystoplasty procedure using a biocompatible scaffold and minced autologous tissue for implantation in a mammalian bladder.