Appeal No. 95-4491
Application No. 07/864,210
protect endothelia to prevent cell damage prior to
subjection to anticipated trauma, such as surgery
. . . .
Macromolecules heretofore employed in the
protection of corneas include chondroitin sulfate
and sodium hyaluronate. The use of a chondroitin
sulfate solution for the protection of corneal
surface tissue is described in a “CHONDRON” product
monogram, Kakan Pharmaceutical Company, Ltd., Tokyo,
Japan, 1981. The use of sodium hyaluronate as an
aid in ophthalmic surgery is described in a “HEALON”
product monogram, Pharmacia Laboratories,
Piscataway, New Jersey, 1980.
According to appellants, solutions containing chondroitin
sulfate or sodium hyaluronate alone have not met with complete
satisfaction (Specification, p. 3). However, appellants’
claimed composition, comprising a mixture of chondroitin
sulfate and sodium hyaluronate in an aqueous buffer, is said
to effectively protect human and animal endothelial and
epithelial cells exposed to trauma (Specification, p. 2).
More particularly, appellants are said to have discovered that
a mixture of chondroitin sulfate and sodium hyaluronate in an
aqueous buffer solution exhibits surprisingly high viscosity
offering superior protection to corneal surface cells during
surgery and aiding in healing after trauma (Specification, p.
3).
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