Multi-step Connective Tissue Stabilization Method and Stabilized Tissue Formed Thereby
AssigneeClemson University
InventorsNaren Vyavahare, Hobey Tam
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Abstract
A multi-step stabilization method for connective tissue is described. Stabilized tissues can exhibit increased resistance to degradation due to enzyme activity, fatigue and storage. The multi-step method includes a first step during which the tissue can be incubated with a glycosaminoglycanase inhibitor, a second step during which the tissue can be incubated with a crosslink activator and/or a phenolic compound, and a third step during which the tissue can be incubated with a second crosslink activator.
Claims40
A method for stabilizing connective tissue comprising:
- a first step including contacting the connective tissue with a glycosaminoglycanase inhibitor, the connective tissue including collagen, elastin, and one or more glycosaminoglycans;
- a second step carried out subsequent to the first step, the second step including contacting the connective tissue with a first solution comprising a first crosslink activator and/or a phenolic compound comprising at least one phenolic group and a hydrophobic core;
- a third step carried out subsequent to the second step, the third step including contacting the connective tissue with a second crosslink activator.
A stabilized connective tissue comprising a glycosaminoglycanase inhibitor and a phenolic compound, the stabilized connective tissue exhibiting about 5% or less weight loss following contact with collagenase for 48 hours.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.