Abstract: Disclosed are (1) osteogenic devices comprising a matrix containing substantially pure natural-sourced mammalian osteogenic protein; (2) DNA and amino acid sequences for novel polypeptide chains useful as subunits of dimeric osteogenic proteins; (3) vectors carrying sequences encoding these novel polypeptide chains and host cells transfected with these vectors; (4) methods of producing these polypeptide chains using recombinant DNA technology; (5) antibodies specific for these novel polypeptide chains; (6) osteogenic devices comprising these recombinantly produced proteins in association with an appropriate carrier matrix; and (7) methods of using the osteogenic devices to mimic the natural course of endochondral bone formation in mammals.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the development of new porous particulate collagen sponges, combining the desirable features of low toxicity, resorbability, and satisfactory porosity, particularly when wetted in an aqueous medium. Accordingly, the present invention is directed to new porous, particulate, dehydrothermally cross-linked, wetted sponges, as well as a process for making them.

Abstract: The invention is directed to improved tissue composites, e.g., biocompatible composites, that overcome or minimize the problems associated with existing tissue repair systems, which can be easily prepared and maintained in a sufficient quantity, and suitable shapes, to enable a convenient treatment of tissues requiring repair. Additionally, the invention is directed to methods of preparation of these tissue composites and methods of use thereof.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for alleviating tissue destructive effects associated with the inflammatory response to tissue injury in a mammal. The methods and compositions include administering a therapeutically effective concentration of a morphogen or morphogen-stimulating agent sufficient to alleviate immune cell-mediated tissue destruction.

Abstract: Disclosed are therapeutic treatment methods, compositions and devices for maintaining neural pathways in a mammal, including enhancing survival of neurons at risk of dying, inducing cellular repair of damaged neurons and neural pathways, and stimulating neurons to maintain their differentiated phenotype. In one embodiment, the invention provides means for stimulating CAM expression in neurons. The invention also provides means for evaluating the status of nerve tissue, including means for detecting and monitoring neuropathies in a mammal. The methods, devices and compositions include a morphogen or morphogen-stimulating agent provided to the mammal in a therapeutically effective concentration.