Abstract: A biocompatible biological component is provided comprising a membrane-mimetic surface film covering a substrate. Suitable substrates include hydrated substrates, e.g. hydrogels which may contain drugs for delivery to a patient through the membrane-mimetic film, or may be made up of cells, such as islet cells, for transplantation. The surface may present exposed bioactive molecules or moieties for binding to target molecules in vivo, for modulating host response when implanted into a patient (e.g. the surface may be antithrombogenic or antiinflammatory) and the surface may have pores of selected sizes to facilitate transport of substances therethrough. An optional hydrophilic cushion or spacer between the substrate and the membrane-mimetic surface allows transmembrane proteins to extend from the surface through the hydrophilic cushion, mimicking the structure of naturally-occurring cells.

Abstract: An implant device for cartilage regeneration in loading-bearing regions uses the osteochondral defect model. The implant is formed of resorbable polymeric materials. The implant is designed such that load is transmitted from the articulating surface of the bone platform through the implant to the entire area of subchondral bone of the bone platform. Application of load in this manner results in reduced subchondral bone resorption, leading to joint stabilization and maintenance of normal joint biomechanics. The implant allows for the incorporation therein of a resorbable scaffold or matrix material. The present implant solves the current inability to regenerate cartilage in load-bearing articulating surfaces using engineered scaffold devices.

Abstract: A bioprosthetic device is provided for soft tissue attachment, reinforcement, and or reconstruction. The device comprises a naturally occurring extracellular matrix portion and a synthetic portion.

Abstract: A method of making an implantable scaffold for repairing damaged or diseased tissue includes the step of suspending pieces of an extracellular matrix material in a liquid. The extracellular matrix material and the liquid are formed into a mass. The liquid is subsequently driven off so as to form interstices in the mass. The scaffold may further comprise biological agents that promote tissue repair and healing. Porous implantable scaffolds fabricated by such a method are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present Specification describes materials and methods which provide for improved performance of medical prostheses, including vascular graft material, artificial heart valves, and other implanted materials. The materials comprising bound thrombomodulin or a functionally equivalent derivative protein, provide for fewer undesirable side effects including inflammation, thromboses and neointimal hyperplasia.

Abstract: The present Specification describes materials and methods which provide for improved performance of medical prostheses, including vascular graft material, artificial heart valves, and other implanted materials. The materials comprising bound thrombomodulin or a functionally equivalent derivative protein, provide for fewer undesirable side effects including inflammation, thromboses and neointimal hyperplasia.

Abstract: A biocompatible biological component is provided comprising a membrane-mimetic surface film covering a substrate. Suitable substrates include hydrated substrates, e.g. hydrogels which may contain drugs for delivery to a patient through the membrane-mimetic film, or may be made up of cells, such as islet cells, for transplantation. The surface may present exposed bioactive molecules or moieties for binding to target molecules in vivo, for modulating host response when implanted into a patient (e.g. the surface may be antithrombogenic or antiinflammatory) and the surface may have pores of selected sizes to facilitate transport of substances therethrough. An optional hydrophilic cushion or spacer between the substrate and the membrane-mimetic surface allows transmembrane proteins to extend from the surface through the hydrophilic cushion, mimicking the structure of naturally-occurring cells.

Abstract: A method of making an implantable scaffold for repairing damaged or diseased tissue includes the step of suspending pieces of an extracellular matrix material in a liquid. The extracellular matrix material and the liquid are formed into a mass. The liquid is subsequently driven off so as to form interstices in the mass. The scaffold may further comprise biological agents that promote tissue repair and healing. Porous implantable scaffolds fabricated by such a method are also disclosed.