Abstract: A process for the in vitro production of chemically modified polyphenolic polymer (PPP). First, stable, highly active extracellular tyrosinase is produced from genetically transformed microorganism such as Streptomyces antibioticus. The tyrosinase is then incubated with a reaction substrate such as l-tyrosine, hydrolyzed protein, or an oligopeptide in combination with l-tyrosine. The ratio of the oligopeptide/tyrosine combination as well as variation in the concentration of tyrosinase can be used to modify the color, the molecular size, and the spectral absorbance properties of the PPP produced. Alternatively, or additionally, oxidants such as hydrogen peroxide or hypochlorite can be used to modify the color of the PPP, regardless of the method used to produce the PPP, and the PPP can subsequently be fractionated using molecular weight cut-off ultrafiltration. Organic solvents can also be used in the method of making PPP to produce PPPs having variable but reproducible physical properties.

Abstract: A therapeutic eye shield comprising from about 50% to about 80% collagen and from about 20% to about 50% glucan is disclosed. The collagen acts as a drug delivery system for the therapeutic agent, glucan. The therapeutic eye shields are useful for prophylaxis and treatment of eye infections particularly following ophthalmic surgery or wounding.