Abstract: The present invention resides in the discovery that the specific interaction between Myeloid Differentiation factor 2 (MD2) and integrin, especially integrin ?v?3, is involved in cellular signaling mediated by MD2-integrin, such as inflammatory response including sepsis. Thus, this invention provides for a novel method for inhibiting integrin signaling by using an inhibitor of MD2-integrin binding, such as a dominant negative mutant of MD2 without integrin-binding capability. A method for identifying inhibitors of MD2-integrin binding is also described. Further disclosed are polypeptides, nucleic acids, host cells, and corresponding compositions for inhibiting MD2-integrin signaling.

Abstract: The present invention provides dominant negative mutants of FGF2 for suppressing FGF-mediated cellular signaling. Related compositions, methods, and kits are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the discovery that a secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2-IIA) plays an active role in mediating cellular signaling leading to an inflammatory response or cell proliferation by way of its specific binding with integrin ? at site 2 of integrin ?. More specifically, the invention provides a method for identifying inhibitors of inflammatory or proliferative signaling by screening for compounds that interrupt the specific binding of sPLA2 and integrin ? at site 2. The invention also provides the novel use of a substance that suppresses the specific binding between sPLA2 and site 2 of integrin? for the purpose of treating or preventing a condition involving an undesired inflammatory response or cell proliferation.

Abstract: The present invention provides dominant negative mutants of FGF2 for suppressing FGF-mediated cellular signaling. Related compositions, methods, and kits are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the discovery that a secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2-IIA) plays an active role in mediating cellular signaling leading to an inflammatory response or cell proliferation by way of its specific binding with integrin ? at site 2 of integrin ?. More specifically, the invention provides a method for identifying inhibitors of inflammatory or proliferative signaling by screening for compounds that interrupt the specific binding of sPLA2 and integrin ? at site 2. The invention also provides the novel use of a substance that suppresses the specific binding between sPLA2 and site 2 of integrin? for the purpose of treating or preventing a condition involving an undesired inflammatory response or cell proliferation.

Abstract: A method of correcting image read signals including the steps of reading an image line by line by a linear sensor; determining an average value when a plurality of lines of a plurality of blind pixels of the linear sensor are read, computing the signals read from the image by using the average value so as to correct an influence of a dark current of said linear sensor, and outputting said computed signal as the image read signal. According to the present invention, the dark current can be accurately obtained according to the read state without being affected by errors in measurement due to the variations in each of the one-line pixels or due to noise.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are a method of and an apparatus for electrically processing an image, and a calibration chart used in the apparatus.