Abstract: Methods for diagnosis to allow prediction of the likelihood of preterm birth based upon the concentration of lipocalin-type prostaglandin D2 synthase (L-PGDS) in cervical vaginal secretions. In addition, specific prostaglandin D2 receptor antagonists may represent novel tocolytic therapeutics.

Abstract: A method for measuring blood levels of ? cell DNA that is released upon ? cell death by using a quantitative probe technology to detect amplified methylated and demethylated forms of the insulin gene DNA, representing normal tissue and ? cell specific origin, respectively. Using probes permits the sensitive and specific identification of demethylated insulin DNA patterns that are present only in ? cells. The method offers a bioassay for detecting ? cell loss in diabetes, useful for screening of prediabetes, monitoring of disease progression, and selection and monitoring of therapies. The technique finds potential use in both Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as gestational diabetes.

Abstract: A method for measuring blood levels of ? cell DNA that is released upon ? cell death by using a quantitative probe technology to detect amplified methylated and demethylated forms of the insulin gene DNA, representing normal tissue and ? cell specific origin, respectively. Using probes permits the sensitive and specific identification of demethylated insulin DNA patterns that are present only in ? cells. The method offers a bioassay for detecting ? cell loss in diabetes, useful for screening of prediabetes, monitoring of disease progression, and selection and monitoring of therapies. The technique finds potential use in both Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as gestational diabetes.

Abstract: A PGD(2) receptor (DP) deficiency enhances tumor progression accompanied by abnormal vascular expansion. In tumors, angiogenic endothelial cells highly express DP receptor, and its deficiency accelerates vascular leakage and angiogenesis. Administration of a synthetic DP agonist, BW245C, markedly suppresses tumor growth as well as tumor hyperpermeability in WT mice, but not in DP-deficient mice. In a corneal angiogenesis assay and a modified Miles assay, host DP deficiency potentiates angiogenesis and vascular hyperpermeability under COX-2-active situation, whereas exogenous administration of BW245C strongly inhibits both angiogenic properties in WT mice. In an in vitro assay, BW245C does not affect endothelial migration and tube formation, processes that are necessary for angiogenesis; however, it strongly improves endothelial barrier function via an increase in intracellular cAMP production.

Abstract: A method is described to diagnose (1) renal salt wasting syndrome and (2) Alzheimer's disease among dementia patients by measuring a patient's level of prostaglandin D2 synthase. Methods are also described to (1) treat renal salt wasting syndrome, (2) inhibit the rate of apoptosis or (3) prevent the onset of, or slow the rate of, progression of Alzheimer's disease. These methods involve inhibiting the rate of −&Dgr;12prostaglandin J2 synthesis or by inhibiting the activity of −&Dgr;12prostaglandin J2.

Abstract: A method is described to diagnose (1) renal salt wasting syndrome and (2) Alzheimer's disease among dementia patients by measuring a patient's level of prostaglandin D2 synthase. Methods are also described to (1) treat renal salt wasting syndrome, (2) inhibit the rate of apoptosis or (3) prevent the onset of, or slow the rate of, progression of Alzheimer's disease. These methods involve inhibiting the rate of -&Dgr;12prostaglandin J2 synthesis or by inhibiting the activity of -&Dgr;12prostaglandin J2.

Abstract: A method is described to treat or prevent sepsis and septic shock in a subject by administering a Group V metal chelated by a complexing agent such as thiol compounds in the form of a metal:complexing agent, wherein the metal is selected from the group consisting of bismuth, antimony and arsenic. Methods for modulating the immune system are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods for administering a composition comprising bismuth and a thiol-containing complexing agent as a bacteriocidal, bacteriostatic, antifungal or antiviral agent are provided.

Abstract: A composition comprising a trivalent bismuth salt, particularly bismuth nitrate, and dimercaprol is described. Methods for using the composition as a bacteriocidal and bacteriostatic agent and as a disinfectant and preservative are also provided.

Abstract: A composition comprising a trivalent bismuth salt, particularly bismuth nitrate, and dimercaprol is described. Methods for using the composition as a bacteriocidal and bacteriostatic agent and as a disinfectant and preservative are also provided.