Abstract: A chitin derivative having a carboxyalkyl group having a polysaccharide backbone, said carboxyalkyl group being represented by the following formula (1): wherein n=1 or above, R1 stands for an alkyl group represented by (CH2)pCH3 with p=1 to 20, an alkylcarbonyl group represented by CO(CH2)qCH3 with q=1 to 19, a carboxyalkyl group represented by (CH2)rCOOH with r=1 to 5 or a salt thereof, H, or COCH3, and R2 stands for a carboxyalkyl group represented by (CH2)sCOOH with s=1 to 5 or a salt thereof or H; the degree of deacetylation of the N-acetyl group in chitin is 70 to 100%, wherein 100% deacetylation means one deacetylated N-acetyl group per one monosaccharide unit; 10 to 100% of R1 are selected from alkyl groups (CH2)pCH3 and alkylcarbonyl groups CO(CH2)qCH3, wherein 100% means one alkyl group (CH2)pCH3 or alkylcarbonyl group CO(CH2)qCH3 per one monosaccharide unit; not more than 10% of R1 are carboxyalkyl groups (CH2)rCOOH; 50 to 200% of R2 are carboxya

Abstract: A glycosaminoglycan derivative is disclosed wherein a first amino group of a spacer compound (NH2—Y—NH2) is bonded to an aldehyde formed by reducing and partially oxidizing a reducing end sugar of a glycosaminoglycan, via an aminoalkyl bond, or a lactone formed by oxidizing and cyclodehydrating the reducing end sugar of a glycosaminoglycan, via an acid amide bond, and further a hydrocarbon compound having a allyl group at one end and a functional group at another end which is bonded to the second amino group of the spacer compound. This derivative is useful as a substrate in a process for identifying a glycosaminoglycan-degrading enzyme that gives good reproducibility and sensitivity.

Abstract: Bacillus subtilis protease catalyzes the acylation of organic solvent-insoluble polysaccharides in isooctane solution containing vinyl esters of fatty acids as acyl donor. The reaction occurs only when the enzyme is solubilized via ion-pairing with the anionic surfactant dioctyl sulfosuccinate, sodium salt (AOT). Enzyme based acylation was demonstrated with amylose, cyclodextrins, cellulose, cellulose derivatives, and other polysaccharides such as chitosan, pullulan, and maltodextrose. These polysaccharides are reactive either as a cryogenically milled powder suspended in the organic solvent or as a thin film deposited onto ZnSe slides. For chitosan, &agr;-cyclodextrin, and hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), the enzymatic crosslinking reaction occurs using adipic acid divinyl ester (C6DVE). HEC forms a compound that gels in solvents such as ethyl alcohol and dimethyl sulfone oxide (DMSO).

Abstract: A cross-linked copolymer based on at least one non-crosslinked polycarboxylic polysaccharide and at least one second non-crosslinked polycarboxylic polymer which is not a polycarboxylic polysaccharide and a cross-linking agent having at least two amine functions.

Abstract: A novel group of compounds is disclosed for decorating the surface of synthetic polymeric or tissue derived prostheses to prevent adverse rejection events. The decorating molecules are obtained as derivatives of naturally occurring polysaccharides, derivatized to provide functionally reactive groups at the termini thereof, and the reacting with nucleophilic or other groups on the surface of the prosthesis in a simple one step reaction. Some of these reagents are useful in noncovalent adsorption to polyolefinic or perfluorocarbon based materials. Finally, phospholipids partially substituted with the nonantigenic polysaccharides provide a superior bipolar component for liposome formation.

Abstract: The invention discloses a starch graft poly(meth)acrylate blast media which is effective in paint removal. The media is superior to a physical blend of the components (i.e., starch and acrylic polymers) and to either a starch polymer or an acrylic polymer used singly. The hardness of the media is between 65-90 Shore D.

Abstract: A chitooligosaccharide residue is disclosed which is represented by the formula: wherein m=1-20, n=1-20, m+n=2-21, and m/n=5-0.05, and R represents a saturated or unsaturated aliphatic acyl group of 3-24 carbon atoms.

Abstract: Compositions of chitosan-based compounds and nucleic acid or oligonucleotide which are capable of delivery to a cell. Methods of preparation of the compositions. Methods of administering the compositions in vitro to cells in culture or in vivo to an organism.

Abstract: Application of a water-soluble salt of chitosan to the foliage of growing plants increases the yield of vegetables, tubers, cereal grains, fruits and blossoms. Plants so treated are healthier, sturdier, more resistant to drought and many varieties enjoy an extended period of production. The plants may be effectively and conveniently treated by spraying the foliage with a solution containing 0.01-1.5% wt. chitosan salt using conventional agricultural equipment and techniques.

Abstract: An adsorbent for use in direct hemoperfusion to adsorb and remove harmful substances from blood is prepared by immobilizing a sulfated polysaccharide and/or its salt on a water-insoluble carrier. Preferably, the sulfated polysaccharide has a limiting viscosity of 0.005 to 0.5 dl/g and a sulfur content of 5 to 22% by weight, and is immobilized on the carrier in an amount of 0.02 to 200 mg per ml of carrier. Carrier particles can have an average particle size of 30 to 5000 .mu.m, and preferably 120 to 800 .mu.m. The sulfated polysaccharide inhibits adhesion of hemocytes and exhibits an anticoagulation property to extend blood coagulation time, and has additional functions of adsorbing releasing factors released from hemocytes, adsorbing lipoproteins, and enabling reduction of carrier particle size to about 30 .mu.m. Immobilizing a ligand on the carrier with the sulfated polysaccharide makes it possible to adsorb and remove specific substances in blood that bind to the ligand.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel methods of producing chitosan having a tap density of at least about 0.4 g/ml. In one aspect of the present invention, chitosan is selected having an average molecular mass of from about one thousand Daltons to about two million Daltons; a particle size that is smaller than 20 mesh; a viscosity of at least about 1 cps, and a percentage of deacetylation of from about 65% to about 98% A measured amount of the selected chitosan is then mixed with an amount of water that is from about two to about ten times the weight of the chitosan, and an amount of an acid that is at least about 0.1% of the weight of the chitosan. The acid is preferably an organic acid. The mixture of chitosan, water and acid is then mixed to a smooth paste, dried to a moisture content of from 0% moisture to about 20% moisture, and the particle size is preferably reduced to smaller than 20 mesh. In another aspect of the invention, chitosan is provided having a tap density of at least about 0.

Abstract: This invention is directed to the preparation and utilization of supplemented chitin hydrogels, such as chitosan hydrogels. Further provided are biomaterials comprising same. The particular supplement delivered by the chitin hydrogel is selected as a function of its intended use. In one embodiment, this invention provides a composition of matter, comprising a chitin hydrogel or chitin-derived hydrogel, wherein the hydrogel does not inhibit full-thickness skin wound healing.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the preparation and work-up of N-hydroxyalkylchitosans soluble in aqueous media, comprising the measuresdispersion of chitosan in an aqueous medium,subsequent hydroxyalkylation of the dispersed chitosan andsubsequent work-up of the N-hydroxyalkylchitosan, which comprises carrying out the hydroxyalkylation up to an average degree of substitution (DS) of 2.0, preferably 1.5 to 2.0, if desired removing some of the aqueous medium after the hydroxyalkylation and before the work-up and performing the work-up of the N-hydroxyalkylchitosan by drying.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and compositions comprising at least one endothelin antagonist, preferably in combination with a poly-.beta.-1.fwdarw.4-N-acetylglucosamine (p-GlcNAc) polysaccharide matrix, for use in the treatment of cancer and other proliferative diseases. The endothelin antagonist can be a peptide or non-peptide compound, and the p-GlcNAc matrix of the invention is comprised of a polymer of high molecular weight whose constituent monosaccharide sugars are attached in a .beta.-1.fwdarw.4 conformation, and which is free of proteins, and substantially free of single amino acids, and other organic and inorganic contaminants. The compositions and methods of the invention are useful for inhibiting the growth of tumors and other neoplastic cells and/or for inhibiting the metastasis of neoplastic cells in vivo.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for controlling plant diseases caused by the fungi Botrytis cinerea and Alternaria alternata, by applying to a growing plant or to fruit or vegetables before or after harvesting, a composition which comprises an effective amount for controlling said fungi of at least one oligosaccharide ingredient, active against Botrytis cinerea and Alternaria alternata, and selected from oligosaccharides obtainable by hydrolysis of chitin, .beta.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition for use in the prevention of or in the treatment of infection by yeasts of the genus Malassezia comprises a chitin soluble extract (CSE), optionally together with a suitable pharmaceutical carrier. The composition is particularly useful for the treatment and prevention of Seborrheic dermatitis. Also described is a method for treating or preventing the Seborrheic dermatitis caused by yeasts of the genus Malassezia comprising the step of topically applying the pharmaceutical composition of the invention to the area infected by or susceptible to infection by the yeasts.

Abstract: Reaction at the interface of an organic solution containing an acidic reactant and an aqueous alkaline solution containing nonreducing carbohydrates such as sucrose, sugar alcohols, cyclodextrins, and polysaccharides imparts a specificity to the reaction for one or more of the primary alcohol groups of the carbohydrate reactant. The resulting activated, nonreducing carbohydrate intermediate can then be converted to a series of substantially pure, low molecular weight reaction products, including a sucrose trimer and dianhydrosucrose, and to a series of substantially pure, higher molecular weight reaction products, including 6-O-sucro cyclodextrins and poly-6-O-sucro amylose.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of preparing a form of chitin that has consistent shape in the dry form, is treated chemically such that it will swell when exposed to water to form a gel. The gel can be dried to give the dry form. The gel formation upon absorption/swelling in the presence of water and drying to give the dried form is reversible. The extent of swelling can be varied by suitably varying the chemical treatment.

Abstract: Novel polysaccharide compounds are disclosed for decorating biomolecular surfaces to increase isotropic size and mask antigenicity. The oligosaccharides may be synthesized as repeating disaccharide units, or may be derived by acid hydrolysis of naturally occurring polysaccharides. Such natural sources include chondroitins obtained from shark cartilage, or hyaluronic acid. The polyanionic sulfate groups contained in the sugar moieties impart negative charges which repel the molecules from the negatively charged wall of capillaries, to lengthen retention times of decorated drug molecules, such as crosslinked hemoglobin, in the peripheral circulation.

Abstract: Chitosan derivatives having structural units of formula I, II and III in random distribution ##STR1## wherein the substituents R.sub.1 are each, independently of one another, H or --Z--R.sub.2 --X, R.sub.3 is H or acetyl, Y is the anion O--Z--R.sub.2 --X, and(a) Z is --CO-- or --SO.sub.2 --, X is --CO.sub.2 H, --CH.sub.2 CO.sub.2 H or --CH.sub.2 PO(OH).sub.2, and R.sub.2 is --CHR.sub.4 CR.sub.5 (OH)--, R.sub.4 is --H, --OH, C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkoxy or C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkyl, and R.sub.5 is H or C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkyl, or(b) Z is --CO--, X is --CO.sub.2 H, and R.sub.2 is --CHR.sub.6 --CHR.sub.7 --CH(OH)-- or --CHR.sub.8 --CHR.sub.9 --CHR.sub.10 --CH(OH)--, R.sub.6, R.sub.7, R.sub.8 and R.sub.10 are each, independently of one another, --H, --OH, C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkyl or C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkoxy, and R.sub.9 is --H, --OH, C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkyl, C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkoxy or --CO.sub.

Abstract: A deodorant composition containing: (a) a cationic biopolymer; (b) an aluminum chlorohydrate; and (c) an esterase inhibitor.

Abstract: Materials comprised of linked, repeat units of beta glucosamine, having a molecular weight in the range of 400 to 10,000 are highly effective in controlling fungus infestation in agricultural crops, both pre-harvest and post-harvest. The antifungal material is preferably combined with a mildly acidic solvent to produce a composition having a slightly acidic, or near neutral pH. When the antifungal material is combined with a chitosan matrix, a synergistic interaction occurs which greatly enhances the effect of the resultant composition. Also disclosed is a method for producing a chitin or chitosan based material which will dissolve in water having a neutral pH.

Abstract: The invention relates to new cationic biopolymers with an average molecular weight of 800,000 to 1,200,000 Dalton, a Brookfield viscosity (1% by weight in glycolic acid) below 5,000 mPas, a degree of deacetylation of 80 to 88% and an ash content of less than 0.3% by weight which are obtained by repeatedly subjecting crustacean shells to alternate acidic and alkaline degradation under defined conditions. Compared with known cationic biopolymers of the chitosan type, the new biopolymers form clear solutions and, at the same time, show excellent film-forming properties, despite their high molecular weight.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for preparing an absorbent foam. The process generally comprises forming a solution of a polymer in a solvent, freezing the solution at a relatively slow cooling rate to a temperature below the freezing point of the solvent, removing the solvent from the frozen solution, and recovering the polymer to form a water-swellable, water-insoluble polymeric foam. The process has been found to enable one to prepare an absorbent foam that exhibits desirable softness and flexibility properties yet is highly absorbent. Such an absorbent foam may be used in a disposable absorbent product intended for the absorption of fluids such as body fluids.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the preparation of polysaccharide-N-arylcarbamates in suitable form as supports for chromatography, which process comprises adding to polysaccharide carbamates, which may be substituted in the aryl moiety, an N-aryl-1-lower-alkylcarbamate-containing solution of an organic solvent, with vigorous stirring, until the polysaccharide derivative is completely dissolved and then adding thereto an aqueous solution containing a high molecular weight surfactant and, with continued stirring, removing the organic solvent from the emulsion so obtained and isolating the solid particles and washing and drying them. The polysaccharide derivatives so obtained can be used as support materials for the chromatographic separation of enantiomers.

Abstract: Disclosed are rationally designed mixed mode resins which are useful in recovering a target compound from an aqueous solution and methods for use of such resins. The resins described herein have a hydrophobic character at the pH of binding of the target compound and a hydrophilic and/or electrostatic character at the pH of desorption of the target compound from the resin and are specifically designed to bind the target compound from an aqueous solution at both a low and high ionic strength.

Abstract: A method and composition for reducing dietary fats while consuming a meal containing substantial portions of dietary fats, for reducing and inhibiting LDLs and triglyceride levels in the bloodstream by consuming the composition comprising a linear aminopolysaccharide of the structure similar to and including (1-4)--linked 2-amino-2-deoxy-Beta-D-gluco pyranose, lipoprotein lipase, calcium poly ascorbate and propanetricarboxylic acid. Preferably, the linear aminopolysaccharide of the structure similar to and including (1-4)--linked 2-amino-2-deoxy-Beta-D-gluco pyranose is made from fungal or yeast or other plant source. The lipoprotein lipase enhances the process and the acid acts as an appetite suppressant. If the composition is taken approximately 15 minutes before a meal containing significant amounts of dietary fat, the present invention will reduce weight, reduce bad cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream, and increase HDLs, while suppressing appetite.

Abstract: Phosophonomethylated chitosans containing repeating units of formula ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 is hydrogen or a radical of formula ##STR2## R.sub.2 is a radical of formula (1a), X.sub.1 and X.sub.2 are each independently of the other hydrogen, C.sub.1 -C.sub.5 alkyl or an alkali metal ion or ammonium ion and n is 50 to 4000, have versatile utilities as sequestrants, stabilizers for bleaching agents as well as humectants in cosmetic compositions.

Abstract: High modulus, flexible laminated films may be fabricated from chitosan and pectin. Either glycerol or lactic acid as plasticizer and, optionally, starch may also be blended with either the pectin or chitosan solutions used for film preparation. The laminated films are biodegradeable, and the components are derived from renewable agricultural products.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for promoting the healing of dermal wounds by applying a composition containing chitosan and the polysaccharide, heparin or heparan sulfate. Heparin or heparan sulfate can be immobilized to chitosan by ionic or covalent bonds, and the degree of N-acetylation of chitosan can range from 25% to 90%. The composition can include a cellulose derivative as an additional polysaccharide to increase the viscosity of the composition. The combination of chitosan and polysaccharide, when applied to a wound site, effectively stimulates and accelerates wound healing.

Abstract: A chitosan starting material is combined with a dilute organic acid to produce a chitosonium ion complex. The chitosonium ion complex is then cast, sprayed, extruded, or otherwise processed to produce filaments, coatings, fibers, or the like. Heat is then used to convert the chitosonium ion complex into a N-(C.sub.1-30)acyl glucose amine polymer.

Abstract: Reaction at the interface of an organic solution containing an acidic reactant and an aqueous alkaline solution containing nonreducing carbohydrates such as sucrose, sugar alcohols, cyclodextrins, and polysaccharides imparts a specificity to the reaction for one or more of the primary alcohol groups of the carbohydrate reactant. The resulting activated, nonreducing carbohydrate intermediate can then be converted to a series of substantially pure, low molecular weight reaction products, including a sucrose trimer and dianhydrosucrose, and to a series of substantially pure, higher molecular weight reaction products, including 6-O-sucro cyclodextrins and poly-6-O-sucro amylose.

Abstract: The proposal is for novel polymer dyestuffs obtained by condensing cationic biopolymers, e.g. chitosame, with dyestuffs which have a basic group, preferably a halogen function. The dyestuffs spread as a film on the fibers and can easily be washed out.

Abstract: Covalent compositions of N,O-carboxymethyl chitosan (NOCC) are disclosed. NOCC can be intra- or intermolecularly linked, either through a direct bond or through a bridging moiety. Also disclosed are methods for preparing and using the covalent NOCC compositions. The NOCC compositions are useful in the administration of therapeutically active compounds and for wound management.

Abstract: A composition for accelerating calcium absorption containing water-soluble chitosan as an active ingredient is disclosed. The composition is useful as an additive for foods, feed, and pharmaceutical preparations.

Abstract: Chitosan support material is crosslinked using a heat-induced, amidification reaction in non-aqueous solvent. Crosslinking is achieved by the use of dicarboxylic acids which form amide bonds with chitosan. The type and degree of crosslinking can be controlled to tailor mechanical strength, solubility, and functionality, of the resulting chitosan support material. Quaternization and/or cyclodextrin-modification functionalization of the chitosan beads can also be effected in addition to the crosslinking to produce separation materials with great versatility and utility. The invention is applicable to chitosan support materials of various solids contents and geometrical shapes such as beads, fibers, films, and adhesive coatings.

Abstract: Method for magnetizing crosslinked chitosan support material involving the treatment of carboxyl group-containing, crosslinked chitosan gels with solutions of ferrous chloride followed by treatment with dilute aqueous alkali and then oxidation with molecular oxygen gas to produce highly-enriched magnetized chitosan particles, beads, films and/or coatings.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a purified, easily produced poly-.beta.-1.fwdarw.4-N-acetylglucosamine (p-GlcNAc) polysaccharide species. The p-GlcNAc of the invention is a polymer of high molecular weight whose constituent monosaccharide sugars are attached in a .beta.-1.fwdarw.4 conformation, and which is free of proteins, and substantially free of single amino acids, and other organic and inorganic contaminants. In addition, derivatives and reformulations of p-GlcNAc are described. The present invention further relates to methods for the purification of the p-GlcNAc of the invention from microalgae, preferably diatom, starting sources. Still further, the invention relates to methods for the derivatization and reformulation of the p-GlcNAc. Additionally, the present invention relates to the uses of pure p-GlcNAc, its derivatives, and/or its reformulations.

Abstract: The present invention, using a readily available sulfated chitin as an adsorbent, can permit platelet factor-4 to be recovered through specific adsorption from a solution containing the same factor, in by far increased yields as compared with the conventional process utilizing a heparin-immobilized affinity column, and provides the process for isolating, through purification platelet factor-4 which is suited for a commercial-scale, mass production process, wherein there can be offered the advantages of utilization of more readily available sulfated chitin, simplified procedure and improved production yields for the objective substance.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a purified, easily produced poly-.beta.-1.fwdarw.4-N-acetylglucosamine (p-GlcNAc) polysaccharide species useful in drug compositions. The p-GlcNAc of the invention is a polymer of high molecular weight whose constituent monosaccharide sugars are attached in a .beta.1.fwdarw.4 conformation, and which is free of proteins, and substantially free of single amino acids, and other organic and inorganic contaminants. In addition, derivatives and reformulations of p-GlcNAc are described. The present invention further relates to methods for the purification of the p-GlcNAc of the invention from microalgae, preferably diatom, starting sources. Still further, the invention relates to methods for the derivatization and reformulation of the p-GlcNAc. Additionally, the present invention relates to the uses of pure p-GlcNAc, its derivatives, and/or its reformulations.

Abstract: The present invention provides a process for preparing a cross-linked biocompatible polysaccharide gel composition, which comprises:forming an aqueous solution of a water soluble, cross-linkable polysaccharide;initiating a cross-linking of said polysaccharide in the presence of a polyfunctional cross-linking agent therefor;sterically hindering the cross-linking reaction from being terminated before gelation occurs, an activated poly-saccharide being obtained; andreintroducing sterically unhindered conditions for said activated polysaccharide so as to continue the cross-linking thereof to a viscoelastic gel. The invention also provides a gel composition obtainable by such a process as well as gel compositions for different medical uses.

Abstract: A drug composition comprising a mucopolysaccharide (also referred in the art as a glycosaminoglycan) and a drug which is scarcely soluble in water but soluble in a water-miscible organic solvent, wherein fine crystals or fine particles of the drug is attached on or between the particles of a mucopolysaccharide, and a process for preparing the same. The drug composition of the present invention exhibits greatly improved solubility and a dissolution rate of the drug, and thus greatly improve the drug's bioavailability.

Abstract: The invention discloses a starch graft poly(meth)acrylate blast media which is effective in paint removal. The media is superior to a physical blend of the components (i.e., starch and acrylic polymers) and to either a starch polymer or an acrylic polymer used singly. The hardness of the media is between 65-90 Shore D.

Abstract: Phosophonomethylated chitosans containing repeating units of formula ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 is hydrogen or a radical of formula ##STR2## R.sub.2 is a radical of formula (1a), X.sub.1 and X.sub.2 are each independently of the other hydrogen, C.sub.1 -C.sub.5 alkyl or an alkali metal ion or ammonium ion and n is 50 to 4000, have versatile utilities as sequestrants, stabilizers for bleaching agents as well as humectants in cosmetic compositions.

Abstract: A process for sterilizing a polysaccharide composition containing chitosan, a chitosan derivative or a chitin derivative without substantially degrading the polysaccharide. The process has the steps of blending the polysaccharide in a solvent to form a solution or suspension; sterilizing the solution or suspension; dissolving suspended particles, if present; and then aseptically adjusting the pH of the sterilized solution. There is additionally provided a polyol stabilizing agent suitable for the polysaccharide composition.

Abstract: A chitosan support material is made with crosslinking and installation of a spacer arm between the chitosan matrix and an epoxy terminal group at the distal end of the spacer arm. Among other things, the installed spacer arm endows the crosslinked chitosan beads with enhanced binding specificity during chromatographic separations.

Abstract: Chitosan-derived biomaterials, and, more specifically, chitosan modified by the addition of a monosaccharide or oligosaccharide side chain to its free amino groups. The modified chitosan ("glycated chitosan") is preferably stabilized by reduction. In one particularly preferred embodiment, a galactose derivative of chitosan ("galacto-chitosan") is provided. The chitosan-derived biomaterials are useful in a myriad of biomedical applications, including as an immunoadjuvant in laser/sensitizer assisted immunotherapy.

Abstract: The invention relates to N-cyanomethylated chitosans of formula (1) and to the hydrolysates thereof of formula (2), as well as to processes for the preparation of these compounds. The cyanomethylated chitosans, in particular the hydrolysates corresponding to formula (2), find versatile utility as separating membranes, complexing agents, encrustation inhibitors, stabilisers for bleaching liquors, moisture retainers in cosmetic compositions, thickeners and repellents.

Abstract: A new cation exchange resin is formed by mixing phytic acid with a material selected from the group consisting of polyhydroxy polymer, .beta.-cyclodextrin and gluconic acid, and heating the mixture for about 130.degree.-180.degree. C. for about 15 minutes to 3 hours. A large number of different materials may be removed from solution by the resin including inorganic cations, organic pesticides and nitrogen bases.

Abstract: A method and a pharmaceutical composition for non-topical wound, scar and keloid treatment is described which contains cross-linked glycosaminoglycans and conventional pharmaceutical auxiliary and/or carrier substances. The pharmaceutical composition is preferably administered intralesionally e.g. by injection in the form of a gel containing water. The cross-linked glycosaminoglycans are also suitable for use as cosmetics and skin care products.