Abstract: Stacked, lamellar constructs comprised of, synthetic or natural, polymeric membrane structures which are brought together to form 3D scaffolds for biomaterial and guided tissue engineering applications have been developed. Each layer can have 2D or 3D nano and micro topographical features similar to or different than each other which can be arranged during the construction of each lamellae and their orientation can be adjusted during construction phase of the 3D structure. Such a construct was utilized in the development of an artificial cornea with human primary cells, in which patterned surface of the components of the lamellar structure mimics the oriented collagen structure inherent in natural cornea. Similar exploitation of the 3D patterned structure can be made for tissues where aligned ECM architecture is crucial, such as ligaments, bone, tendon, skin.

Abstract: Stacked, lamellar constructs comprised of, synthetic or natural, polymeric membrane structures which are brought together to form 3D scaffolds for biomaterial and guided tissue engineering applications have been developed. Each layer can have 2D or 3D nano and micro topographical features similar to or different than each other which can be arranged during the construction of each lamellae and their orientation can be adjusted during construction phase of the 3D structure. Such a construct was utilized in the development of an artificial cornea with human primary cells, in which patterned surface of the components of the lamellar structure mimics the oriented collagen structure inherent in natural cornea. Similar exploitation of the 3D patterned structure can be made for tissues where aligned ECM architecture is crucial, such as ligaments, bone, tendon, skin.

Abstract: The invention provides a drug delivery compositions and methods for treating pain. A drug delivery composition contains a polymer and at least two drugs sucha as an analgesic agent and an anesthetic agent.

Abstract: Biodegradable controlled release systems providing prolonged controlled release of drugs, and methods for the manufacture thereof are disclosed. The systems are formed from a biocompatible, biodegradable polymer, in particular poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (PHA4400) or copolymers thereof. Copolymers of 4-hydroxybutyrate include but are not limited to poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate (PHA3444), and poly-4-hydoxybutyrate-co-glycolate (PHA4422). Drugs are generally incorporated into the polymer using a method that yields a uniform dispersion. The type of drug and the quantity are selected based on the known pharmaceutical properties of these compounds. The systems may be administered for example by implantation, injection, topical administration, or oral ingestion. They may also be used in combination with a medical device, for example, a stent. A major advantage of the drug delivery system is that it does not need to be removed after use since it is slowly degraded and cleared by the patient's body.

Abstract: The invention provides a drug delivery compositions and methods for treating pain. A drug delivery composition contains a polymer and at least two drugs sucha as an analgesic agent and an anesthetic agent.