Abstract: Methods and compositions for treating neoplastic conditions by viral-based therapy are provided. Mutant virus lacking viral proteins which bind and/or inactivate p53 or RB are administered to a patient having a neoplasm which comprises cells lacking p53 and/or RB function. The mutant virus is able to substantially produce a replication phenotype in neoplastic cells but is substantially unable to produce a replication phenotype in non-replicating, non-neoplastic cells having essentially normal p53 and/or RB function. The preferential generation of replication phenotype in neoplastic cells results in a preferential killing of the neoplastic cells, either directly or by expression of a cytotoxic gene in cells expressing a viral replication phenotype.

Abstract: A novel human serine protein kinase, human p21-protein activated serine kinase p65 protein, referred to as hPAK65, and methods for its preparation and use are provided. Nucleic acids encoding hPAK65 and methods for their use in preparing hPAK65 as well as in preparing and identifying hPAK65 analogs are provided. Methods provided for the use of hPAK65 protein and its protein fragments, such as those that retain at least one hPAK65 activity, that include screening libraries of agents for candidates that modulate hPAK65 activity. Methods are provided to identify agents that modulate the interaction of hPAK65 with rho-like p21 GTPases, particularly rac1 and CDC42Hs binding to hPAK65 and subsequent activation of hPAK65 serine protein kinase activity, that modulate hPAK65 serine protein kinase activity, and that modulate hPAK65 effect on p21 protein GTPase activity.