Abstract: Compositions and methods for modulating miRNAs up-regulated or down-regulated in aged individuals and their downstream targets are disclosed. Methods of treating musculoskeletal disorders are also provided.

Abstract: Compositions and methods of increasing autophagy in a cell, or population of cells are disclosed. The methods generally include contacting the cell or cells with an effective amount of an agent that increases the bioavailability of an active isoform of SDF-1. Exemplary agents include active SDF-1 polypeptides, metformin, and DPP4 inhibitors. The methods can include administering the agent to a subject, or treating cells in vivo, in vitro or ex vivo. In some embodiments, cells are treated ex vivo and then transplanted into a subject. In a preferred embodiment, the cells are mesenchymal stem cells such as those found in bone marrow. The compositions and methods can be utilized in a number of therapeutic applications including increasing the longevity or survival of a graft or transplant, increasing the rate of recovery from an injury, reducing one or more symptoms of a chronic inflammatory disease and reducing effect associated with aging.

Abstract: The invention provides a polymer based material comprising a water binding agent present in an amount sufficient to chemically and/or physically absorb and/or adsorb water to prevent degradation of the polymer. The invention also provides a polymer based material comprising a plasticizer or organic solvent as well as a multi-component material or composite including materials encompassing a second polymer and/or an active agent. The invention further provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising the aforesaid polymer based material, which can be used for treatment of bone, cartilage and/or periodontal defects.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for modulating miRNAs up-regulated or down-regulated in aged individuals and their downstream targets are disclosed. Methods of treating musculoskeletal disorders are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a polymer based material comprising a water binding agent, whereas the water binding agent is present in an amount sufficient to chemically and/or physically absorb and/or adsorb water to prevent degradation of the polymer. It also relates to a polymer based material which comprises a plasticizer or organic solvent as well as a multi-component material or composite including materials encompassing a second polymer and/or an active agent. Furthermore it relates to a method for manufacturing the polymer comprising material and use of the material for the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition to be used for treatment of bone, cartilage and/or periodontal defects. The invention also encompasses a kit using the polymeric material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a polymer based material comprising a water binding agent, whereas the water binding agent is present in an amount sufficient to chemically and/or physically absorb and/or adsorb water to prevent degradation of the polymer. It also relates to a polymer based material which comprises a plasticizer or organic solvent as well as a multi-component material or composite including materials encompassing a second polymer and/or an active agent. Furthermore it relates to a method for manufacturing the polymer comprising material and use of the material for the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition to be used for treatment of bone, cartilage and/or periodontal defects. The invention also encompasses a kit using the polymeric material.