Compositions which self-assemble under physiological conditions are
formulated for application to wounds. The formulations include a
pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or are provided as part of a medical
device or coating. The formulations may also include other therapeutic,
prophylactic or diagnostic agents. The formulation can be administered as
appropriate for treatment of one or more disorders or conditions. For
example, the formulation may be applied to repair an injury or during
surgery of the lung, eye or dura, or following an epidural or spinal tap,
to stop leakage of blood, interstitial fluid, or cerebrospinal fluid. The
formulation may be administered to a burn or ulcer. The formulation may
be dispersed in a suture or adhesive for administration at the time of or
as released following suturing or gluing of a wound, thereby limiting
bleeding, loss of tissue fluids, or other fluids such as those produced
by parenchymal tissues such as the liver, pancreas, and gastrointestinal
tract. The formulation may be applied to any site of bleeding, in a
bandage, gauze, sponge, or other material, for immediate control of
bleeding, or released later to control bleeding if the initial treatment
such as suturing or pressure is insufficient. In one embodiment, the
formulation is provided as a dry or lyophilized powder. In another
embodiment, the material is provided in water. In another embodiment, the
material is provided in combination with an oil and forms a laminate. In
another embodiment, the formulation is provided as a coating on a device,
for example a stent or a catheter. The material is also useful to isolate
tissue, for preservation of tissue for subsequent transplantation or
reattachment, and as a bulking, stabilizing or hydrating agent.