| abstract |
This invention provides supplemented and unsupplemented tissue sealants (TSs), such as fibrin glue, as well as methods of their production and use. In one embodiment, this invention provides TSs that do not inhibit full thickness skin wound healing. This invention also provides growth factor(s)- and/or drug(s)- supplemented TSs and methods of their production and use. The particular drug(s) or growth factor(s) selected is a function of its use. In one embodiment, the TS is supplemented with a growth factor(s) and can be used to promote: wound healing, such as that of skin or bone; endothelialization of vascular protheses; the proliferation and/or differentiation of animal cells; and/or the directed migration of animal cells. Exemplified embodiments include fibrin glue that is supplemented with: fibroblast growth factor-1, -2 or -4; and/or bone morphogenetic proteins; and polytetrafluorethylene vascular grafts pressure perfused with fibrin glue containing HBGF-1. In another embodiment the supplemented TS is used to produce a localized delivery of a growth factor(s) and/or a drug(s). Exemplified embodiments include fibrin glue supplemented with solid 5-fluorouracil or free base tetracycline. In another embodiment, this invention provides TS supplemented or treated with a substance, such as free base tetracycline or ciprofloxacin HCl, wherein the longevity of the fibrin glue is increased. |