Abstract: A self-assembled gel composition with enhanced adhesion to cartilage tissue is provided. A cationic agent co-self assembles with a generally regarded as safe (GRAS), low molecular weight (<2,500 Da) gelator, forming homogeneous self-supporting gel that can encapsulate one or more therapeutic agents for controlled release. The composition adheres to connective tissue, e.g., cartilage, to a greater extent and a greater length of time than a self-assembled gel from gelators alone. The composition is used to specifically target connective tissue and deliver one or more therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic agents for controlled release to improve dosing efficacy.

Abstract: Gels are formed based on generally recognized as safe (GRAS) low molecular weight amphiphilic molecules in a self-assembly process with limited or no heating. A selective range of ratios between an organic solvent and water, or an aqueous solution, in the medium, allows for the GRAS low molecular weight amphiphiles to form a homogeneous self-supporting gel encapsulating agents to be delivered under very mild conditions. Proteins including enzymes, antibodies, and serum albumin are loaded in the self-assembled gels to provide sustained and/or responsive delivery. The encapsulated proteins retain at least 70%, 80%, or 90% of their activity over days in various storage conditions.

Abstract: A self-assembled gel composition with enhanced adhesion to cartilage tissue is provided. A cationic agent co-self assembles with a generally regarded as safe (GRAS), low molecular weight (<2,500 Da) gelator, forming homogeneous self-supporting gel that can encapsulate one or more therapeutic agents for controlled release. The composition adheres to connective tissue, e.g., cartilage, to a greater extent and a greater length of time than a self-assembled gel from gelators alone. The composition is used to specifically target connective tissue and deliver one or more therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic agents for controlled release to improve dosing efficacy.