Abstract: The synthesis and biological activity of indoloazepines and acid amine salts thereof which are structurally related to naturally-occurring hymenialdisine is disclosed. Naturally-occurring hymenialdisine obtained from the sponge is a potent inhibitor of production of cytokines interleukin-2 (IL-2) and tumor necrosis factor-? (TNF-?). The chemically-synthesized indoloazepines of the invention also inhibit production of IL-2 and TNF-?. The indoloazepines are useful for treating inflammatory diseases, particularly diseases associated with kinases NF-?B or GSK-3? activation or NF-?B activated gene expression products. The indoloazepines are useful for the treatment of cancer by the inhibition of kinases CHK1 and CHK2.

Abstract: The present invention provides modified cyclic nucleotide gated (CNG) channels. In particularly preferred embodiments, the modified CNG channels exhibit increased sensitivity and specificity for cAMP, as compared to wild-type CNG channels. In additional embodiments, regulation by Ca2+-calmodulin has been removed in the modified CNG channels. Convenient optical methods for detecting changes in cAMP, taking advantage of the Ca2+ permeability of the channel are also provided by the present invention. In addition, electrophysiological methods are further provided.

Abstract: Compositions and methods of using conjugated linoleic acid preparations enriched for the t10,c12 and c9,t11 isomers are disclosed. It is found that preparations of conjugated linoleic acid containing a ratio of t10,c12 to c9,t11 of about greater than 1.2:1 are desirable for a wide variety of nutritional, therapeutic and pharmacologic uses.

Abstract: The present invention relates to means for cleaving a nucleic acid cleavage structure in a site-specific manner. Enzymes, including 5′ nucleases and 3′ exonucleases, are used to detect and identify nucleic acids derived from microorganisms. Methods are provided which allow for the detection and identification of bacterial and viral pathogens in a sample.