Abstract: Particles, such as particles including a polymer including vinyl formal monomer units, and related compositions and methods, are disclosed.

Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the invention, injectable particles are provided which comprise (a) a vinyl formal polymer, (b) a glucosamine polymer, and (c) an ionically or covalently bound agent selected from therapeutic agents, cell surface binding agents, and combinations thereof. Other aspects of the invention pertain to methods of making and using such particles.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods that include providing a first particle having pores, the first particle having a first compression test value, and partially cross-linking the first particle to form a second particle having pores, the second particle having a second compression test value that is larger than the first compression test value by 25% or more, where a maximum dimension of the first particle is 5,000 microns or less, and a maximum dimension of the second particle is 5,000 microns or less.

Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the invention, implantable and insertable medical articles are provided which are useful for the local treatment of tumors. These medical articles comprise one or more active agents that influence the local tumor environment in vivo, for example, decreasing the level of nutrients in the local tumor environment, inhibiting the utilization of nutrients in the local tumor environment, decreasing the amount of molecular oxygen and/or reactive oxygen species in the local tumor environment, or increasing the amount of molecular oxygen and/or reactive oxygen species in the local tumor environment. Other aspects of the invention pertain to methods of treatment that employ such medical articles. Still other aspects of the invention pertain to methods of making such medical articles.

Abstract: A system for treating obesity, comprises an injectable compound for intramuscular administration in a pyloric sphincter, the injectable compound including a plurality of microspheres and a fluid carrier in which the microspheres are suspended. The system further comprises an injection device having flexibility sufficient to pass through a working channel of an endoscope into the stomach to an injection location adjacent to the pyloric sphincter, the injection device including a tissue piercing tip and a lumen through which the injectable compound may be delivered.

Abstract: Cross-linked polymer particles, as well as related compositions and methods, are disclosed.

Abstract: Particles, such as particles including a polymer including vinyl formal monomer units, and related compositions and methods, are disclosed.

Abstract: Polymer particles including a covalently bonded chemical species, as well as related compositions and methods are disclosed.