Abstract: Provided is a direct method for detecting thioredoxin reductase (TR) activity in test samples. The method can provide a continuous and real-time measurement of TR activity. The method comprises contacting the test sample with NADPH and a diselenide substrate of TR, and then measuring conversion of NADPH to NADP. Also provided are kits for use in the method of direct detection of TR activity.

Abstract: The invention relates to products and methods for delivering nucleic acids of various sizes and preferably greater than 50 kilobases into cells. The nucleic acids are delivered as part of a nucleic acid delivery complex which is composed of at least a nucleic acid binding and condensation domain.

Abstract: The invention relates to nucleic acids and encoded polypeptides from the human zinc finger protein RIP60. The invention provides, inter alia, isolated nucleic acid molecules, expression vectors containing those molecules and host cells transfected with those molecules. The invention also provides isolated proteins and peptides, fragments of the foregoing including functional fragments and variants. Kits containing the foregoing molecules additionally are provided.

Abstract: A replication initiator protein complex for eukaryotic cells is disclosed which includes protein fractions of about 60 kD and 100 kD size. The protein complex comprises a protein in purified form that is capable of origin-specific DNA binding and ATP-dependent DNA helicase activity. The 60 kD fraction is named RIP60 and is primarily active in origin-specific DNA binding. The 100 kD fraction is named RIP100 and is primarily active as a DNA helicase. The protein complex and its fractions are active only during S phase and thereby commend their investigation and use toward the development of specific diagnostic and therapeutic modalities against pathogens to which cell division is critical. Diagnostic and therapeutic utilities are accordingly proposed, and testing procedures, materials in kit form, recombinant materials and procedures, and pharmaceutical compositions are likewise set forth.