Abstract: Self-propagating, fusogenic blebs are produced from cells infected with a population of Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis virus replicon particles (VRP). The self-propagating, fusogenic nature of the blebs is derived from expression of heterologous genes encoding viral fusion proteins that are incorporated into the replication defective replicon particles. The resulting blebs can be harvested from supernatants of cells displaying severe cytopathic effects. The blebs are used to make immunogenic compositions and devise methods of immunizing mammals against paramyxoviruses such as parainfluenza virus type 3.

Abstract: This invention relates to immunogenic luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) peptides that lead to suppression of LHRH activity in males or females. These peptides are useful for inducing infertility and for treating prostatic hyperplasia, androgen-dependent carcinoma, prostatic carcinoma and testicular carcinoma in males. In females, the peptides are useful for treating endometriosis, benign uterine tumors, recurrent functional ovarian cysts and (severe) premenstrual syndrome as well as prevention or treatment of estrogen-dependent breast cancer. The subject peptides contain a helper T cell epitope and have LHRH at the C terminus. The helper T cell epitope aids in stimulating the immune response against LHRH. The peptides, optionally contain an invasin domain which acts as a general immune stimulator.

Abstract: This invention relates to immunogenic luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) peptides that lead to suppression of LHRH activity in males or females. When male rats are immunized with these peptides, serum testosterone drops and androgen-dependent organs atrophy significantly. These peptides are useful for inducing infertility and for treating prostatic hyperplasia, androgen-dependent carcinoma, prostatic carcinoma and testicular carcinoma in males. In females, the peptides are useful for treating endometriosis, benign uterine tumors, recurrent functional ovarian cysts and (severe) premenstrual syndrome as well as prevention or treatment of estrogen-dependent breast cancer. The subject peptides contain a helper T cell epitope and have LHRH at the C terminus. The helper T cell epitope aids in stimulating the immune response against LHRH. The peptides, optionally contain an invasin domain which acts as a general immune stimulator.