Abstract: The present invention features methods for identifying peptides that selectively bind to PrPSc or fragments thereof. The invention also features the use of such peptides in screening methods for the identification of candidate agents useful for the treatment of a prion disease.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for the detection and quantification of Ehrlichia chaffeensis or Ehrlichia canis, Ehrlichia chaffeensis or Ehrlichia canis antibodies, antibody fragments, and polypeptides.

Abstract: An isolated envelope polypeptide of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) that reacts specifically with a gp-130 envelope specific monoclonal antibody. Immunoassays using such isolated polypeptides are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a dipstick test device for detecting an analyte in a liquid sample by treating the analyte with at least one liquid reagent to form a detectable reaction product. The device includes: a) an aqueous impermeable, aqueous insoluble reaction zone, adapted to retain the detectable reaction product; and b) a control absorbent above, and in liquid-transferring relation with, the reaction zone. The control absorbent has a predetermined, limited liquid-absorbing capacity, and the dipstick is sized and configured for insertion into a vessel containing the sample, with the control absorbent oriented above the reaction zone, so that the control absorbent fills to capacity with sample and the reaction zone incubates with the sample. The device may further include an absorbent reservoir which can be moved into liquid transferring contact with the reaction zone.

Abstract: A method of assaying a sample of whole blood for one member of a specific binding pair, the method involving treating the sample with salt to alter the red blood cells in the sample to decrease their ability to pass through filter media, exposing the resulting sample to a filter which retains the red blood cells but allows the passage therethrough of filtrate of the sample containing the member of the specific binding pair, and measuring the member of the filtrate.