The present invention examines the interaction between an angiopoietin-1 mimetic peptide, QHREDGS (glutamine-histidine-arginine-glutamic acid-aspartic acid-glycine-serine (SEQ ID NO: 1)) immobilized to a collagen-chitosan hydrogel, and murine bone marrow derived macrophages. When macrophages were cultured in the presence of the peptide conjugated to a hydrogel, both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines were produced, in contrast to the application of soluble peptide which elicited minimal cytokine secretion. This indicates a unique macrophage polarization with covalently immobilized peptide hydrogels, which can be beneficial in the context of the wound microenvironment.

The present invention provides durable, natural looking, non-invasive compositions that exhibit desired aesthetic qualities for therapeutic treatments. Specifically, the compositions can be used for the treatment of wounds and headaches. In addition, the compositions of the invention can be used to deliver agents to the subject in need thereof. In one embodiment, the invention pertains, at least in part, to methods for treating wounds, comprising applying to a subject's skin a formulation comprising a) a first reactive reinforcing component; and b) a second cross-linking component; in which the cross-linking component catalyzes an in situ cross-linking of the reactive reinforcing component, such that a film is formed on the wound, thereby treating the wound.

The present invention provides durable, natural looking, non-invasive compositions that exhibit desired aesthetic qualities for therapeutic treatments. Specifically, the compositions can be used for the treatment of wounds and headaches. In addition, the compositions of the invention can be used to deliver agents to the subject in need thereof. In one embodiment, the invention pertains, at least in part, to methods for treating wounds, comprising applying to a subject's skin a formulation comprising a) a first reactive reinforcing component; and b) a second cross-linking component; in which the cross-linking component catalyzes an in situ cross-linking of the reactive reinforcing component, such that a film is formed on the wound, thereby treating the wound.

Provided is a method of forming a fibrinogen hydrogel composition, the method including providing a fibrinogen hydrogel or precursor thereof, comprising fibrinogen hydrogel forming salt. The fibrinogen hydrogel forming salt concentration is greater than or equal to the threshold concentration to form a fibrinogen hydrogel. The method further includes denaturing the fibrinogen hydrogel such as by heating. The method optionally further includes combining the fibrinogen hydrogel with a carrier material. When present, the concentration of the carrier material typically ranges from 0.1 to about 50 wt.-%. The method further includes reducing the salt concentration below the threshold concentration to form a fibrinogen hydrogel.

A novel hydrogel wound dressing therapy and methods for making the same. The novel methods comprise forming two biopolymers, chitosan and hyaluronic acid, together into a wound dressing with inherent ability to enhance wound closure. The novel composition of the subject invention comprises cross-linked chitosan/hyaluronic acid hydrogels manufactured according to the methods disclosed having a specific cross-link density that results in a swelling ratio of 20 to 100. Hydrogels manufactured in accordance with the method of the invention dramatically increase healing rates and greatly improves outcomes of wound injuries.

A novel hydrogel wound dressing therapy and methods for making the same. The novel methods comprise forming two biopolymers, chitosan and hyaluronic acid, together into a wound dressing with inherent ability to enhance wound closure. The novel composition of the subject invention comprises cross-linked chitosan/hyaluronic acid hydrogels manufactured according to the methods disclosed having a specific cross-link density that results in a swelling ratio of 20 to 100. Hydrogels manufactured in accordance with the method of the invention dramatically increase healing rates and greatly improves outcomes of wound injuries.

A composition has an enzyme that is able to convert a substrate to release hydrogen peroxide; a substrate for the enzyme; and a superabsorbent component, such as a superabsorbent polymer. The composition is in the form of a powder and may form a gel on contact with water.

Described herein are compositions of collagen and micronized placental tissue components, methods for producing the same and methods for using the same for wound healing, repairing damaged tendons, cosmetic applications and covering biocompatible materials and/or devices.

Methods for treating a wound with a wound packing are discussed. While the wound packing can include any suitable component, in some cases, it includes a collection of multi-potent cells (e.g., cells from bone marrow, amniotic membrane tissue, amniotic fluid, stem cells, etc.), plasma (e.g., concentrated and/or platelet rich plasma), and collagen (e.g., native and/or organized reconstituted collagen). In some cases, the wound packing is gelled, coagulated, or otherwise hardened through the use of thrombin, calcium chloride, and/or another suitable additive. In some cases, the wound packing is shaped to substantially correspond to the wound's shape. While the wound packing can be used in any suitable manner, in some instances, it is applied to the wound, skin fragments are applied to the packing, the packing is secured to the wound, and/or the packing is covered with a protective barrier. Other implementations are also described.

A material or biomaterial comprising silicic acid condensates having a low degree of cross-linking, and methods for its production are subject-matter of the invention. A method for the production of silicic acid structures having a low degree of cross-linking is disclosed, wherein a sol is produced, wherein further condensation is prevented when specific cross-linking of the silicic acid is reached, wherein, preferably, structures having a size of 0.5-1000 nm are produced, e.g. polyhedral structures or aggregates of the same. Further condensation can be prevented by means of mixing with a polymer. In one embodiment, this comprises nano-structured, silicon dioxide (SiO.sub.2) having a low degree of cross-linking that is embedded in a polymer matrix. The material can be used in medicine for therapeutic purposes, and can enter into direct contact with biological tissue of the body in this connection. This material herein enters into chemical, physical, and biological interactions with the corresponding biological systems. It can herein be decomposed, and can act as a supplier for the silicic acid required for metabolism. Furthermore, it can have a supportive or shielding effect. It can be present as a granulate, microparticles, fiber, and as a woven or nonwoven fabric produced therefrom, or as a layer on implants or wound dressings. The material can be used as a medical device or as a nutritional supplement.