Methods of using primer molecules for enhancing the mechanical performance of tissue adhesives and sealants

A method of maintaining separated tissues in proximate relationship, said method comprising:

• applying to said separated tissues (a) a primer molecule and (b) a tissue adhesive, said primer molecule being capable of physically interacting with a component present in said separated tissues and thereby rendering said separated tissue capable of forming a bonded interface with said tissue adhesive, wherein (a) and (b) are applied in an amount effective to maintain said separated tissues in proximate relationship when said separated tissues are brought into proximate relationship,

A method of sealing a defect in tissue, said method comprising:

• applying to said defect (a) a primer molecule and (b) a tissue sealant, said primer molecule being capable of physically interacting with a protein present in said tissue and thereby rendering said tissue capable of forming a bonded interface with said tissue sealant, wherein (a) and (b) are applied to said defect in an amount effective to seal said defect.

A composition of matter useful for forming a bonded interface with a tissue when said composition of matter is applied to said tissue, said composition of matter comprising:

• (a) a tissue adhesive or sealant;
• and
• (b) a primer molecule which is capable of physically interacting with a component present in said tissue and thereby rendering said tissue capable of forming a bonded interface with said tissue adhesive or sealant.