Abstract: The polynucleotides of the present invention are complementary to the Initiation Sites of microbes. Invading organisms, sensing the pH and nutrient deprivation of a physiologic environment quickly release these nucleotides triggering rapid growth and mutation—attributes to successfully establishing a nidus of infection. They also stimulate neutrophil functions. Accordingly, the nucleotides, compositions and methods of the present invention may be used to enhance, restore or stimulate an immune response or system of an animal, e.g. to prevent an infection caused by a microorganism, ameliorate an infection caused by a microorganism, or kill an invading microorganism that causes infection or re-establish balance to an immune system. In particular, the polynucleotides, compositions and methods of the present invention may be used to treat or prevent bacterial infections and auto-immune diseases in a mammal in need thereof.

Abstract: The polynucleotides of the present invention are complementary to the Initiation Sites of microbes. Invading organisms, sensing the pH and nutrient deprivation of a physiologic environment quickly release these nucleotides triggering rapid growth and mutation—attributes to successfully establishing a nidus of infection. They also stimulate neutrophil functions. Accordingly, the nucleotides, compositions and methods of the present invention may be used to enhance, restore or stimulate an immune response or system of an animal, e.g. to prevent an infection caused by a microorganism, ameliorate an infection caused by a microorganism, or kill an invading microorganism that causes infection or re-establish balance to an immune system. In particular, the polynucleotides, compositions and methods of the present invention may be used to treat or prevent bacterial infections and auto-immune diseases in a mammal in need thereof.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for the accumulation and retention of immune-enhancing, bacterial-derived ribonucleotides smaller than 10,000 Daltons (ORN<10 kDa) in bacteria that are produced when bacteria are grown naturally, allowing the pH of the growth medium to become acidic. The immune-enhancing, bacterial-derived ribonucleotides (ORN) and bacteria comprising ORN are useful in the preparation of animal feed or animal drinking water as well as for use in enhancing the immune system of an animal and/or its resistance to infection. The invention also discloses methods of preventing the loss of ORN during bacterial production and storage as well as methods to aid in the release of ORN when consumed by an animal.

Abstract: This invention provides novel methods and compositions for modulating and stimulating the immune system of animals to withstand microbial infections and the lethality of endotoxic shock by feeding or injecting bacteria-free oligoribonucleotides (ORNs) released by either harmless or pathogenic bacteria. The invention also describes the molecular mode of action of the health benefits derived from consuming fermented dairy products and probiotic bacteria.

Abstract: A method for arousing dormant bacteria. The method comprises inducing diffusion of intracellular solutes from dormant bacteria and then allowing an adjustment period for a length of time sufficient to initiate arousal. The decrease in intracellular osmolality or pH can be induced by methods such as extraction, dilution, or dialysis. The method has been standardized using Dulbecco's phosphate buffered saline as the solution. The aroused bacteria can then be selected or recovered by growing them on media for a period of time. If the adjustment period is prolonged, many bacteria can become hypermutative.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for modulating the immune system of animals by activating macrophages to release cytokines and down-regulating their sensitivity to bacterial endotoxin and to conversion to cytotoxic phenotypes by the administration of high doses of stress response factors released by stressed bacteria. The invention also extends the viability of monocytes to further enhance immunity by administering lower doses of SRFs.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for modulating the immune system of animals by activating macrophages to release cytokines and down-regulating their sensitivity to bacterial endotoxin and to conversion to cytotoxic phenotypes by the administration of stress response factors released by stressed bacteria.Methods and compositions for protecting the viability of liquid or dried cultures of bacteria by the administration of stress response factors released by stressed bacteria.

Abstract: An expanded edible protein product is made by extruding, preferably following heating and working of, a mix containing a proteinaceous material, a sulfur-containing organic compound, and water from a high pressure zone to a low pressure zone. The resultant product has an open, cellular structure and is an excellent meat-like substitute, convenience food and pet food ingredient, and snack item.