Healing of wounds in mammalian tissue may be enhanced by the application of certain neuropeptides, optionally in combination with known growth promoting hormones. Exemplary neuropeptides include tachykinins, such as Substance P, Substance K, and the like, as well as calcitonin gene-related peptides. The compositions may further include a polymeric delivery carrier and are utilized by applying to the site of the wound. Wounds may be vascular or avascular wounds. The compositions promote elaboration of cellular matrices and development of cellular attachment mechanisms in addition to stimulating cellular proliferation.
