Abstract: A composite for treating an articular defect includes a hyaluronic acid derivative; and at least one member of the group consisting of a cell, a cellular growth factor and a cellular differentiation factor, which is impregnated in, or coupled to, the hyaluronic acid derivative. In one embodiment, carboxyl functionalities of the hyaluronic acid derivative are each independently derivatized to include an N-acylurea or O-acyl isourea, or both N-acylurea and O-acyl isourea. In another embodiment, the hyaluronic acid derivative is prepared by reacting an uncrosslinked hyaluronic acid with a biscarbodimide in the presence of a pH buffer in a range of between about 4 and about 8. The composite can be used for regenerating or stimulating regeneration of meniscal tissues in a subject in need thereof.

Abstract: A porous ?-tricalcium phosphate material for bone implantation is provided. The multiple pores in the porous TCP body are separate discrete voids and are not interconnected. The pore size diameter is in the range of 20-500 ?m, preferably 50-125 ?m. The porous ?-TCP material provides a carrier matrix for bioactive agents and can form a moldable putty composition upon the addition of a binder. Preferably, the bioactive agent is encapsulated in a biodegradable agent. The invention provides a kit and an implant device comprising the porous ?-TCP, and a bioactive agent and a binder. The invention also provides an implantable prosthetic device comprising a prosthetic implant having a surface region, a porous ?-TCP material disposed on the surface region and optionally comprising at least a bioactive agent or a binder. Methods of producing the porous ?-TCP material and inducing bone formation are also provided.

Abstract: A porous ?-tricalcium phosphate material for bone implantation is provided. The multiple pores in the porous TCP body are separate discrete voids and are not interconnected. The pore size diameter is in the range of 20-500 ?m, preferably 50-125 ?m. The porous ?-TCP material provides a carrier matrix for bioactive agents and can form a moldable putty composition upon the addition of a binder. Preferably, the bioactive agent is encapsulated in a biodegradable agent. The invention provides a kit and an implant device comprising the porous ?-TCP, and a bioactive agent and a binder. The invention also provides an implantable prosthetic device comprising a prosthetic implant having a surface region, a porous ?-TCP material disposed on the surface region and optionally comprising at least a bioactive agent or a binder. Methods of producing the porous ?-TCP material and inducing bone formation are also provided.