Connective tissue regenerative compositions and methods of repairing and
regenerating connective tissue using such compositions are provided. The
compositions generally comprise a bioactive hydrogel matrix comprising a
polypeptide, such as gelatin, and a long chain carbohydrate, such as
dextran. The hydrogel matrix may further include polar amino acids, as
well as additional beneficial additives. Advantageously, the compositions
include further components, such as osteoinductive or osteoconductive
materials, medicaments, stem or progenitor cells, and three-dimensional
structural frameworks. The compositions are useful for regenerating
connective tissue, and can be administered to an area having injury to,
or a loss of, connective tissue, such as bone, cartilage, tendon, and
ligament.