Abstract:
A method for improving the size and appearance of a scar associated with a fibromatosis, a keloid, or a hypertrophic wound healing disorder comprises stimulating collagenase activity in the scar. Preferably, stimulating collagenase activity is accomplished by covering said scar with a thermal insulating material that elevates the surface temperature of the scar. Further disclosed is a method for improving the size and appearance of a scar by covering said scar with a thermal insulating material that elevates the surface temperature of the scar and that contains a therapeutically effective amount of a medicament.
Abstract:
Novel methods for prophylaxis and treatment of tissue damage resulting from cell membrane permeabilization are disclosed. Compositions comprising a surface active copolymer are employed to prevent permeabilization or to promote membrane repair. Methods for enhancement of cell survival following membrane permeabilization in vitro are also disclosed, along with methods for increasing the efficacy of transfection of cells with foreign exogenous macromolecules, in particular DNA, also involving treatment of permeabilized cells with a surface active copolymer. Also disclosed are novel methods for prophylaxis and treatment of tissue damage, and for enhancement of cell survival and transfection efficacy, using a surface active copolymer in combination with high energy phosphate compounds which are capable of recharging cellular energy stores and thereby potentiating cell repair and survival. Compositions comprising surface active copolymers for intravenous, intramuscular, and topical use are also disclosed, along with novel compositions comprising a combination of a surface active copolymer and a high energy phosphate compound.
Abstract:
This invention pertains to a method for controlling wound scar production by administering a calcium antagonist, alone or in a combination with or followed by a steroid, to the wound site. The method can be used to minimize wound scars, such as hypertrophic wound healing disorders, keloids and burn scar contractures in humans or other mammals, particularly those individually prone to excessive scarring. Calcium antagonist treatment can also be used to control diseases associated with excessive scarring, such as cirrhosis of the liver, constructive pericarditis, Dupuytren's disease of the hand, plantar fibrosis of the foot, and various other fibromatoses.