Abstract: Formulations and methods for growing bone in a site specific location using an osteogenic molecule such as a prostaglandin, and a delivery vehicle which is preferably a polymer matrix.

Abstract: Methods for treating joint pain such as temporomandibular joint disorders, osteoarthritis of the knee, hip and other types of inflammatory joint diseases. The methods involve the use of poly-gamma-glutamic acid.

Abstract: Formulations and methods for treating joints, such as temporomandibular joint disorders, osteoarthritis of the knee, hip and other types of inflammatory joint diseases. The method involves identifying specific matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that may be responsible for degrading the soft tissues of the joint in question, identifying the specific component of the joint the MMP(s) are targeting, and injecting a polymer gel with the component the MMP(s) seek to destroy, thus preserving the joint and allowing time to heal. These formulations typically require a mixture of glycosoaminoglycans and collagen proteins. One formulation in particular includes both hyaluronic acid and at least type I collagen.

Abstract: An extended release analgesic for controlling pain comprised of an opioid or non-opioid analgesic drug ionically bound to hyaluronic acid, poly-?-glutamic acid or other ionic polymers, and injected into a body either subcutaneously, intramuscularly or intraperitoneally, utilizing counter-ions of different valences to control the rate of release into the body.

Abstract: Methods for producing high molecular weight poly-gamma-glutamic acid (PGA). The PGA is produced by fermentation, and purified by use of tangential flow filtration, followed by diafiltration, as necessary, to yield a product of the desired purity. Product obtained may be of very high purity using all the prescribed purification steps. Product of this purity is suitable for in vivo medical applications. Other applications, such as food or agricultural, may utilize lower purity levels, and hence do not require all the purification steps specified.

Abstract: An apparatus containing and dispensing medical grade sterile viscous substances comprised of a storage container resembling a syringe of a volume 1 to 60 or greater milliliters, a plunger similar to that used in syringes, and a needless septum. The apparatus is designed to meter out varying volumes of the material, while maintaining sterility of the contents in the storage container. The method involves connecting a receiving container (typically a syringe without a needle) to the container through the needless septum, and pulling on the plunger in the receiving syringe and/or pushing on the plunger in the container, to transfer a desired amount of the material from the container, through the septum, and into the receiving container.

Abstract: An extended release analgesic for controlling pain comprised of an opioid or non-opioid analgesic drug ionically bound to hyaluronic acid, poly-&ggr;-glutamic acid or other ionic polymers, and injected into a body either subcutaneously, intramuscularly or intraperitoneally, utilizing counter-ions of different valences to control the rate of release into the body.