Compositions and Methods for Wound Healing

Abstract

The present invention is related to the field of wound healing or tissue regeneration due to disease (i.e., for example, cardiovascular diseases, osteoarthritic diseases, or diabetes). In particular, the present invention provides compositions and methods comprising molecules with linked α-gal epitopes for induction of an inflammatory response localized within or surrounding damaged tissue. In some embodiments, the present invention provides treatments for tissue repair in normal subjects and in subjects having impaired healing capabilities, such as diabetic and aged subjects.

1 - 14 . (canceled) 
     
     
         15 . A wound care device comprising a preparation comprising an α-gal epitope having a terminal α-galactosyl. 
     
     
         16 . The device of  claim 15 , wherein said terminal α-galactosyl is selected from the group consisting of Galα1-3Gal, and Galaα1-6GaI. 
     
     
         17 . The device of  claim 15 , wherein said α-gal epitope is part of a molecule selected from the group consisting of a glycolipid, a glycoprotein, and a glycopolymer. 
     
     
         18 . The device of  claim 17 , wherein said glycolipid comprises α-gal liposomes. 
     
     
         19 . The device of  claim 18 , wherein said preparation further comprises anti-Gal antibodies bound to said α-gal liposomes. 
     
     
         20 . The device of  claim 15 , wherein said device is in the form of one of the group consisting of adhesive bands, compression bandages, gels, semipermeable films, and foams. 
     
     
         21 - 48 . (canceled)