Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of identifying a substance altering glucose uptake and/or GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane of a cell comprising contacting a test system comprising AKT substrate 160 kDa-protein (AS160-protein) with a test substance, and identifying a test substance as a substance altering glucose uptake of a cell by detecting a signal indicative for altered glucose uptake of a cell; a test system comprising a gene coding for the AKT substrate 160 kDa-protein (AS160-protein) and an inducible promoter providing for controllable expression of the gene; the use of the test system for the identification of a substance improving glucose uptake and/or GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane of a cell; and the use of AS 160-protein in a model for type 2 diabetes.

Abstract: We have identified by molecular cloning a protease which originates from the larvae of Lucilia sericata and which was termed debrilase due to its activities useful for debridement of wounds.

Abstract: The invention relates to a double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) for inhibiting the expression of the Huntingtin gene (HD gene), comprising an antisense strand having a nucleotide sequence which is less than 25 nucleotides in length and which is substantially complementary to at least a part of the HD gene. The invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the dsRNA together with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier; methods for treating diseases caused by the expression of the HD gene, or a mutant form thereof, using the pharmaceutical composition; and methods for inhibiting the expression of the huntingtin gene in a cell.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for enhancing protein expression from an RNA viral vector and RNA viral vectors with enhanced protein expression capacity. The present inventors successfully increased the level of protein expression significantly by expressing the proteins fused with an AB5B protein from RNA viral vectors. Effective gene therapy, gene vaccination, monoclonal antibody preparation, or such can be achieved by using a gene transfer RNA viral vector of the present invention.

Abstract: This invention relates to the isolation and propagation of pluripotent cells isolated from the mammalian late epiblast layer, termed Epiblast Stem Cells' (EpiSCs). These cells are useful in a range of applications, including the generation of transgenic animal species.

Abstract: The present invention provides binding agents comprising peptides capable of binding myostatin and inhibiting its activity. In one embodiment the binding agent comprises at least one myostatin-binding peptide attached directly or indirectly to at least one vehicle such as a polymer or an Fc domain. The binding agents of the present invention produced increased lean muscle mass when administered to animals and decreased fat to muscle ratios. Therapeutic compositions containing the binding agents of the present invention are useful for treating muscle-wasting disorders and metabolic disorders including diabetes and obesity.

Abstract: The present invention provides human, rat and mouse NPC1L1 polypeptides and polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. Also provided are methods for detecting agonists and antagonists of NPC1L1. Inhibitors of NPC1L1 can be used for inhibiting intestinal cholesterol absorption in a subject.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining if a test compound, or a mix of compounds, modulates the interaction between two proteins of interest. The determination is made possible via the use of two recombinant molecules, one of which contains the first protein a cleavage site for a proteolytic molecules, and an activator of a gene. The second recombinant molecule includes the second protein and the proteolytic molecule. If the test compound binds to the first protein, a reaction is initiated whereby the activator is cleaved, and activates a reporter gene.

Abstract: Recombinant microbial cells are provided which have been engineered to produce fatty acid derivatives having linear chains containing an odd number of carbon atoms by the fatty acid biosynthetic pathway. Also provided are methods of making odd chain fatty acid derivatives using the recombinant microbial cells, and compositions comprising odd chain fatty acid derivatives produced by such methods.

Abstract: The invention relates to genetic products the expression of which is associated with cancer diseases. The invention also relates to the therapy and diagnosis of diseases in which the genetic products are expressed or aberrantly expressed, in particular cancer diseases.

Abstract: The present invention provides a rat embryonic stem cell characterized by having the following properties of (a) expressing Oct3/4 gene and Nanog gene, (b) positive for alkaline phosphatase activity, (c) having an embryoid body forming ability, (d) expressing SSEA (Stage-Specific Embryonic Antigen)-1 and SSEA-4, (e) having the same number of chromosomes as does a normal rat cell, (f) capable of being subcultured and holding the undifferentiated state, (g) having in vitro pluripotency, (h) having a potential to differentiate for cells of three embryonic germ lineages, (i) having teratoma formation ability, and (j) having an ability to produce a chimeric rat, a method of establishing the aforementioned rat embryonic stem cell and the like.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and fusion proteins comprising a flagellin adjuvant and a Pseudomonas aeruginosa antigen. The invention further provides pharmaceutical formulations and methods for inducing an immune response against P. aeruginosa (e.g., to prevent and/or treat P. aeruginosa infection).

Abstract: Methods, tip assemblies and kits are provided for introducing material into cells. The tip assemblies include an attachment portion, a channel portion, and a constriction that function to reduce fluid pressure as a fluid passes through the constriction portion from the channel portion, whereby the tip assemblies form pores in the membranes of cells and introduce material into the cells. The material includes for example one selected from the group of: an inorganic compound, a drug, a genetic material, a protein, a carbohydrate, a synthetic polymer, and a pharmaceutical composition.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of collecting semen from the epididymis or the testis of a lab animal and an artificial insemination method thereof. The present invention relates to a new applicable method in the animal production field using artificial insemination. Since the present invention solves the problems of the conventional method of artificial insemination of lab animals, it is excellent in terms of the pregnancy rate and productivity; is time-efficient; and is superior in economic and industrial respects by preventing a huge economic loss due to the costs for maintaining the mass breeding of animals.

Abstract: Compositions comprising gp350 variant DNA and amino acid sequences are provided, as are vectors and host cells containing such sequences. Also provided is a process for producing homogeneous gp350 protein recombinantly and in the absence of production of gp220 protein, pharmaceutical compositions containing such protein and prophylactic treatments making use of such proteins.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for tightly temporally controlling the biological activity of a protein of interest in a vertebrate, upon induction of the activity of a fusion protein comprising said protein of interest and an ERM polypeptide containing a mutated ligand binding domain of the human oestrogen receptor ?, with a synthetic ligand that does not interfere with oestrogen signalling. In particular, the present invention concerns a method for generating tightly temporally-controlled targeted somatic mutations in a vertebrate, preferably a mouse, by inducing the activity of a fusion protein comprising a site-specific recombinase protein and an ERM polypeptide, with a synthetic ligand devoid of oestrogenic and anti-oestrogenic activities.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cell capable of high-yield production of polypeptides and a method for producing the same. The present invention relates to a method for producing a cell capable of high-yield production of a desired polypeptide, wherein a strongly bicarbonate transporter-expressing cell into which DNA encoding the desired polypeptide has been introduced is cultured in the presence of a high concentration of methotrexate and a cell capable of high-yield production of the desired polypeptide is selected from among surviving cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel microRNA, mir-208-2, implicated in muscular and cardiovascular disorders. The present invention also relates to oligonucleotide therapeutic agents (antisense oligonucleotides and/or double stranded oligonucleotides such as dsRNA) and their use in the treatment of muscular and cardiovascular disorders resulting from dysregulation of mir-208-2.

Abstract: Reagents, methods and kits for screening for compounds that modulate the activity of voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV), such as human NaV1.5/SC-N5A/hH1 are described. The reagents, methods and kits are based on mutated NaV alpha subunit polyptides of SEQ ID NO:5 with mutations at positions 372, 898, 1419 and 1711 (the DEKA motif) and at positions 11485, 1486 and 1487 (the IFM motif) resulting in increased permeability for a group IIA divalent cation (Ca+) and decreased inactivation rate. The mutant polypeptide is used in a method and kit for determining whether a test compound modulates the channel activity, preferably using a chimeric polypeptide (chameleon polypeptide) comprising calmodulin, a calmodulin binding protein (M13), and two fluorescent agents.

Abstract: An improved hydroxynitrile lyase characterized by having a mutation of substitution of at least one amino acid residue in the amino acid sequence of a wild-type hydroxynitrile lyase with another amino acid and by its hydroxynitrile lyase activity per transformant being higher than the hydroxynitrile lyase activity per transformant into which the wild-type hydroxynitrile lyase gene is introduced; and a method for producing a hydroxynitrile lyase, comprising expressing the improved hydroxynitrile lyase in a host and recovering the improved hydroxynitrile lyase from the resultant culture.

Abstract: The present invention provides genetically modified animals and cells comprising edited chromosomal sequences encoding proteins associated with Parkinson's disease. In particular, the animals or cells are generated using a zinc finger nuclease-mediated editing process. Also provided are methods of assessing the effects of agents in genetically modified animals and cells comprising edited chromosomal sequences encoding proteins associated with Parkinson's disease.

Abstract: The present invention provides for the generation and maintenance of pluripotent cells by culturing the cells in the presence of an ALK5 inhibitor.

Abstract: The present invention discloses novel methods for the generation, expression and screening of diverse collections of binding proteins such as antibodies or fragments thereof in vertebrate host cells in vitro, for the identification and isolation of ligand- or antigen-specific binding proteins. The methods disclosed herein allow the expression of diverse collections of binding proteins from at least one vector construct, which optionally can give rise to collections of diverse binding proteins upon transfer and expression into vertebrate host cells in situ.

Abstract: The present application relates to expression constructs capable of securing correct processing of neuropeptides upon expression in mammalian cells, and to mammalian cells secreting correctly processed peptides. One exemplary peptide is galanin. The application also relates to devices containing neuropeptide secreting cells, which devices may be used for the treatment of epilepsy and other disorders of the nervous system. All references cited herein are incorporated by reference.

Abstract: The invention relates to a double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) targeting a Systemic RNA Interference Defective-1 (SID-I) gene, and methods of using the dsRNA to inhibit expression of SID-1.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for genome editing of a Rosa locus, using fusion proteins comprising a zinc-finger protein and a cleavage domain or cleavage half-domain. Polynucleotides encoding said fusion proteins are also provided, as are cells comprising said polynucleotides and fusion proteins.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods for culturing cells so that the cells are induced to differentiate into cells that express a hepatic stellate phenotype and cells that express a hepatic sinusoidal endothelial phenotype. The invention is also directed to cells produced by the methods of the invention. The cells are useful, among other things, for treatment of liver deficiency, liver metabolism studies, and liver toxicity studies.

Abstract: Novel cell surface molecules recognized by monoclonal antibodies against a cell surface molecule of lymphocytic cells that play an important role in autoimmune diseases and allergic diseases have been isolated, identified, and analyzed for their functions. The cell surface molecules are expressed specifically in thymocytes, lymphocytes activated by ConA-stimulation, and peripheral blood lymphocytes, and induce cell adhesion. Antibodies against the cell surface molecules significantly ameliorate pathological conditions of autoimmune diseases and allergic diseases.

Abstract: A pluripotent stem cell isolated from the lateral ventrical of the brain or choroid plexus is provided. Compositions and methods of isolating and using the cell also is provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fusion protein comprising a protein transduction domain capable of introducing the fusion protein into a mammalian cell and an anti-apoptotic protein comprising the amino acid of the sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 or an anti-apoptotically active variant or fragment thereof. The invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising such a fusion protein, in particular for blocking apoptosis in a patient in need thereof. The invention also provides a polynucleotide encoding such a fusion protein, an expression vector comprising the polynucleotide and a host cell comprising the expression vector. In a further aspect, the invention relates to the use of any of theses materials for the preparation of a medicament for blocking apoptosis in a patient in need thereof.

Abstract: It is disclosed herein that SPANX-B is uniquely expressed in a number of human tumors and that SPANX-B is an immunogenic antigen that is recognized by human T cells inducing helper CD4+ and cytolytic CD8+ T cell responses. Specific SPANX-B polypeptides and polynucleotides are disclosed that can be used to generate an immune response. In several embodiments, these polypeptides can be used for the treatment of a variety of cancers, including melanoma, colon carcinoma, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, myeloma, lung carcinoma and renal cancer.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and in vitro and ex vivo methods for de-differentiating or re-programming mammalian cells. In alternative embodiments, the invention provides compositions comprising mixtures of Designed Regulatory Proteins (DRPs) or Reprogramming DRP protein (ReD) for de-differentiating or re-programming mammalian cells. The invention also provides compositions and methods for direct reprogramming of a first differentiated phenotype of a cell to a second differentiated phenotype.

Abstract: The invention relates to an anti-RhD monoclonal antibody, which is a tetrameric IgG1 immunoglobulin composed of two heavy chains and two light chains, the heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence SEQ ID No. 2, harboring a phenylalanine residue at position 68, and the light chain comprising the amino acid sequence SEQ ID No. 4.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions comprising combinations of biologically active proteins linked to extended recombinant polymer, methods of production of the compositions and their use in treatment of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, disorders and conditions.

Abstract: The present invention describes new mammalian expression vectors comprising a novel combination of regulatory elements and one or more selection marker gene(s). The vector allows for incorporation of at least one, preferably two or more genes of interest, its/their subsequent expression, and for selection of transfected cells using, e.g., G418 and/or MTX. The pDGP?GOI vector as an example for a mammalian expression vector according to the present invention exhibits a 9555 bp sequence, one strand of which is represented by SEQ ID NO:2.

Abstract: A spermatogonial stem cell line that is derived from testes rats characterized by a desirable genetic background can serve as a source for cells to transplant into male-sterile recipient animals that are immuno-compatible with the spermatogonial line. Rat cells thus transplanted readily develop into fertilization-competent, haploid male gametes, with little or no endogenous sperm competition generated by the testes of the male-sterile recipient. This approach, constituting the first vector system for the use of rat spermatogonial lines from in vitro culture in generating mutant rats on a desired genetic background, effects maximal germline transmission of donor haplotypes from the transplanted spermatogonial cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a mutant human alpha-synuclein with increased toxicity compared to wild-type alpha-synuclein, or a homologue thereof, wherein the mutant alpha-synuclein or homologue thereof comprises at least one amino acid substitution selected from the group consisting of a substitution at the alanine at position 56 (A56), at the alanine at position 76 (A76), at the methionine at position 127 (M127) and/or at the valine at position 118 (V118), as defined in the claims. Further, the invention relates to a polynucleotide encoding the mutant alpha-synuclein or homologue thereof, or an expression vector comprising said polynucleotide, a cell comprising the polynucleotide or expression vector, as defined in the claims. Also, a non-human animal comprising the cell of the invention is provided, as defined in the claims. Finally, the invention provides methods for identifying a substance that prevents or reduces toxicity of alpha-synuclein, as defined in the claims.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cell for the production of an antibody molecule such as an antibody useful for various diseases having high antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxic activity, a fragment of the antibody and a fusion protein having the Fc region of the antibody or the like, a method for producing an antibody composition using the cell, the antibody composition and use thereof.

Abstract: Neurotransmitter biosensors are disclosed, including YbeJ-based glutamate binding biosensors, comprising a neurotransmitter binding domain conjugated to donor and fluorescent moieties that permit detection and measurement of Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer upon binding neurotransmitter. Such biosensors are useful for the detection of neurotransmitter concentrations in vivo and in culture.

Abstract: Methods for propagating haploid genomes of male or female origina and genetic screening and modification thereof are provided. These haploid genomes may be used to produce haploid embryos, and embryonic stem-like cells and differentiated cells. Also, these haploid genomes and cells containing, may be used as nuclear transfer donors to produce diploid nuclear transfer units. These diploid NT units e.g., human NT units, may be used to obtain pluripotent cells and differentiated cells and tissues.

Abstract: An isolated polypeptide inhibitor of SuIfIa having a sequence which is a variant of Sulf1a, and which lacks sulfatase activity and lacks the ability to bind to the surface of a cell. The polypeptide inhibitor of SuIf1a may be the alternatively spliced isoform SuIf1b. An isolated polypeptide inhibitor of Sulf2a having a sequence which is a variant of Sulf2a, and which lacks sulfatase activity and lacks the ability to bind to the surface of a cell. The polypeptide inhibitor of Sulf2a may be the alternatively spliced isoform Sulf2b. A method of combating a cancer in which Wnt signalling is upregulated or of treating ischaemia in a patient, the method comprising administering to the patient a polypeptide inhibitor of Sulf1a and/or Sulf2a. A method of combating a cancer in which Wnt signalling is not upregulated, the method comprising administering to the patient an inhibitor of Sulf1b and/or Sulf2b.

Abstract: The invention provides methods of culturing mammalian taste cells, including taste receptor cells. Cells are maintained for a duration of up to three months and longer while maintaining molecular and functional characteristics of mature taste cells. The cells are cultured on coated cell culture vessels and, from first replacement of medium onwards, the medium is replaced in intervals of at least 5 days. The invention further provides isolation and culturing methods of taste cells wherein the time that the cells are exposed to isolation solution and proteolytic enzymes is minimized and the cells are cultured in coated culture vessels with the medium replaced in intervals of at least 5 days from first replacement onwards. The invention further provides cultured taste cells, transfection and assay methods, and taste cell assay buffers with an osmolarity of about 300-320 and pH of about 7.0-7.3.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for genome editing of a Rosa locus, using fusion proteins comprising a DNA binding domain and a cleavage domain or cleavage half-domain. Polynucleotides encoding said fusion proteins are also provided, as are cells comprising said polynucleotides and fusion proteins.

Abstract: Provided are compositions and methods for delivery of therapeutic agents, such as chemically stabilized antisense oligonucleotides useful in RNA silencing. The compositions include interfering nanoparticles (iNOPs) associated with one or more agents. Several functional iNOP derivatives are provided which allow for targeted delivery of agents to specific cell types as well as exhibiting reduced cellular toxicity.

Abstract: Adeno-associated virus 7 sequences, vectors containing same, and methods of use are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to polypeptides, preferably from Drosophila melanogaster (DmShaI) as target for insecticides.

Abstract: The present invention relates to single chain Fc Type III Interferon fusion proteins and methods of using same. The single chain Fc Type III Interferon fusion proteins comprise at least one Type III Interferon, two Fc regions and at least one linker, can be produced in a variety of single chain configurations, and are effector function minus or have a substantially reduced effector function.

Abstract: The invention relates to identification of a cis-acting diversification activator (DIVAC) that is necessary and sufficient for the activation of diversification in transcription units linked thereto. The invention provides a method for diversification of a target nucleic acid comprising introducing a genetic construct comprising the diversification activator into a recipient cell, wherein the diversification activator is linked to the target nucleic acid.

Abstract: The invention is to provide an isolated transgenic mammalian neural cell, which comprises at least one heterologous vector expressing AhR/ARNT. Also provided is methods the detection of a sample containing a chemical substance damage to the nervous system and the selection of drugs for treating neurodegenerative disorders.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system and method for producing T cells from stem cell populations. Specifically exemplified herein is a culture system and method that produces CD4 cells and/or T cell subtypes from a CD4 lineage using a sample of hematopoietic stem cells. Adult hematopoietic precursor/stem cells (HPC) are progenitors to all lineages of immune cells. There has been limited success in generating functional CD4 T cells with this convenient culture system. Also disclosed herein is a novel stromal cell line expressing DL1, interleukin-7 (IL-7), and FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (Flt3-L). This improved culture system can greatly facilitate the study of late T cell development and enables immunotherapeutic applications.