Abstract: A novel HIV type O immunodeficiency virus is disclosed which has the designation MVP-2901/94 and which has been deposited with the European Collection of Animal Cell Cultures (ECACC) under No. V 95012601. The characteristic antigens which can be obtained from the virus and which can be employed for detecting antibodies against retroviruses which are associated with immunodeficiency diseases are also disclosed, as are the partial DNA and amino acid sequences of the virus.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses membranous baculovirus-derived vesicle compositions having exposed on their external surfaces a ligator capable of selectively binding a ligand to be detected. The compositions also have exposed on their outer surfaces a signal reagent capable of reacting with another signal reagent to generate a signal capable of being detected. The present invention also encompasses assay methods for determining the presence and amount of a ligand in a sample using the membranous vesicle compositions of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an anti-microbial composition for non-pharmaceutical cleaning of contaminated materials, bodies and surfaces, especially contaminated liquids and gases. The composition comprises at least one anti-microbially active protein which has been isolated from mussels, preferably together with glycogen. A quick test for qualitative testing of possibly contaminated liquids, especially drinking water, is also disclosed. The quick test comprises a test tube containing a predetermined amount of the anti-microbial composition. A predetermined amount of the liquid is added to the test tube, shaken and allowed to sediment. The quality of the liquid is determined by a quality indicator extending along the tube.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices and methods for performing an assay which determines the presence or quantity of an analyte in a fluid sample by detecting binding of the analyte to at least one immobilized analyte capture reagent and washing unbound material from the immobilized analyte capture reagent. The devices and methods an elongated solid phase flow matrix, including capillary channels capable of driving capillary fluid movement, and further including (i) a first region adapted for receipt of the fluid sample, (ii) a second region at which the analyte capture reagent is immobilized, (iii) a third region for application of a wash reagent capable of removing unbound substances from the second region; and (iv) an absorbent reservoir of high volume capacity. The second region is positioned intermediate to the first region and the third region and intermediate to the absorbent reservoir and the third region. The device also includes means to detect analyte bound at the second region.

Abstract: The present invention relates to synthetic peptide analogues useful as therapeutic agents, immunogens or for the diagnosis of disease. In particular, it relates to peptide multimers which maintain the conformation of the native proteins from which they are derived. Peptomers constructed from peptides derived from gp120 of the human immunodeficiency virus are exemplified.

Abstract: A variant of a LAV virus, designated LAV.sub.ELI and cable of causing AIDS. The cDNA and antigens of the LAV.sub.ELI virus can be used for the diagnosis of AIDS an pre-AIDS.

Abstract: A method for distinguishing replicatively senescent T cells from replicatively non-senescent T cells in a cell population comprises the steps of: (1) providing a cell population of peripheral blood mononuclear cells; (2) reacting the cell population with a first monoclonal antibody specific for CD3 antigens which is present on all T cells, the antibody being labeled with a first detectable label, so that the monoclonal antibody binds to all T cells in the cell population; (3) simultaneously reacting the cell population with a second monoclonal antibody specific for CD28 antigen, the antibody being labeled with a second detectable label distinguishable from the first detectable label, so that the second monoclonal antibody binds to T cells positive for CD28; and (4) in the cell population of peripheral blood mononuclear cells, detecting the T cells that simultaneously react with the first monoclonal antibody and the second monoclonal antibody by observing the first detectable label bound to the cells simultane

Abstract: A method of detecting substances, if desired in biological fluids, by using detection reactions based on chemiluminescence, wherein a luminophore, preferably having an emission wavelength longer than about 500 nm, is raised from its non-excited state into an excited state by electron transfer due to the detection reaction, and subsequently the radiation emitted by the luminophore when falling back into its non-excited state is measured. The chemiluminescence reaction is based on the oxidative decomposition of optionally substituted oxalates or oxamides, the radiation emitted by the luminophore when falling back into its non-excited state is of longer wavelength than the nonspecific background radiation of the reaction. The luminophore can be accumulated prior to the chemiluminesence reaction. Nonspecific background radiation of the reaction can be quenched.

Abstract: Methods and test kits are described which provide a reliable, sensitive and selective assessment of periodontal disease activity, peri-implantitis or HIV(+)-infection/AIDS-disease related periodontal diseases. The preferred methods and test kits are constructed to be easy and rapid chair-side tests. The method is based on the preparation and use of monoclonal antibodies which recognize the active mammalian matrix metalloproteinase-S (MMP-8) and is capable of differentiating between said active matrix metalloproteinase-8 and its inactive proform.

Abstract: A first glycoprotein having a molecular weight of approximately 120,000 daltons in the H9/HTLV-III cell line, of which approximately 90,000 daltons is the unglycosylated moiety, is obtained from cells infected with human T-cell leukemia virus, type III. A second glycoprotein having a molecular weight of approximately 160,000 daltons is also obtained from such cells, of which approximately 90,000 daltons is the unglycosylated moiety and is substantially identical to the unglycosylated moiety of the first glycoprotein.The presence, in a biological specimen, of either of these unglycosylated or of the unglycosylated moiety is indicative of the presence of cells infected by human T-cell leukemia virus. An assay for the glycoprotein or its unglycosylated moiety is a useful diagnostic procedure for determining such infection in biological specimens.

Abstract: A method for producing an improved solid phase antigenic reagent useful in an immunoassay for detecting antibodies specific for a virus, such as the human immunodeficiency virus, is disclosed which comprising the addition to a natural viral lysate a synthetic or recombinant viral protein or peptide. Also provided is an improved immunoassay utilizing the solid phase antigenic reagent.

Abstract: The present invention is drawn to an immunoassay capable of the rapid detection of a variety of test substances that may be present in a test sample. One feature of the invention is that extraction or isolation of the test substance occurs simultaneously with the formation of the primary antigen-test substance complex. The primary antigen-test substance complex is then captured in a solid phase format having a plurality of interstitial spaces which facilitate rapid and efficient detection. The immunoassay of the present invention works over a wide range of environmental conditions and is simple enough to be used in the absence of laboratory facilities.

Abstract: A rapid and accurate test kit is discussed for the detection of antibodies to HIV in saliva. The identification of antibodies to HIV in the saliva of seropositive individuals is shown using a test kit that requires no special machinery or skill and can be conducted by a single person in the privacy of their own home.

Abstract: VH3 and VH4 type immunoglobulins display superantigen-type binding affinity for the HIV gp120 envelope glycoprotein. VH3 and VH4 type antibody molecules, including IgG and IgM, are shown to suppress HIV infection in vivo and in vitro. Determining the level of such antibody molecules is correlated to the advancement of HIV disease state.

Abstract: Polynucleotide sequences are provided for the diagnosis of the presence of retroviral infection in a human host associated with lymphadenopathy syndrome and/or acquired immune deficiency syndrome, for expression of polypeptides and use of the polypeptides to prepare antibodies, where both the polypeptides and antibodies may be employed as diagnostic reagents or in therapy, e.g., vaccines and passive immunization. The sequences provide detection of the viral infectious agents associated with the indicated syndromes and can be used for expression of antigenic polypeptides.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the detection HTLV-I and/or HTLV-II reactive antibodies and diagnosis of ATL (adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma) condition by the use of chemically synthesized peptide compositions. The peptide compositions comprise peptides having amino acid sequences corresponding to transmembrane and external segments of the envelope protein of HTLV-I/HTLV-II and mixtures thereof. The peptide compositions are highly immunoreactive with antibodies to HTLV in sera. The present invention further relates to a method for the simultaneous detection and diagnosis of ATL, HTLV-I and/or HTLV-II infection and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) by the use of chemically synthesized HTLV peptide compositions in conjunction with a chemically synthesized HIV (1 and 2) peptide composition. The present invention also provides a simple method to differentiate between HTLV-I and HTLV-II infections.

Abstract: HIV-2 virus variants, namely virus HIV D194 and virus HIV D205, which can be cloned from the corresponding virus isolate HIV D194 (ECACC V 87122303) or from the infected cell line HUT 194 (ECACC V 87122306) or from the virus isolate HIV D205 (ECACC V 87122304), respectively, and their RNA or RNA-fragments and DNA and DNA-fragments derived therefrom and/or proteins and the use thereof for diagnostics and therapy.

Abstract: Two amino acid sequences are joined together using an electron acceptor moiety and a linking moiety, such as a chelating agent. In particular, an amino acid sequence specific for binding to a material interest is linked to an enzyme which acts on an indicator, such as a colorimetric, phosphometric, fluorometric or chemiluminescent substrate. The linking composition is useful in immunoassays.

Abstract: Vaccines effective in the inhibition of infection caused by the family of retroviruses, HTLV-III, Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus, LAV, Lymphadenopathy-associated virus, ARV-2, AIDS-Related Virus, (AIDS and AIDS-Related Complex) have been developed from an antisera prepared against thymosin .alpha..sub.1 (T.alpha..sub.1), a thymic hormone, as well as from antisera to synthetic peptide fragments of T.alpha..sub.1 and antisera to synthetic peptide fragments inclusive of amino acid positions 92-109 of the p17 gag core protein of HTLV-III, LAV and ARV-2. In this 18 amino acid primary sequence there is a 44 to 50% homology between the gag protein and T.alpha..sub.1. Immunoglobulin (IgG)-enriched preparations of the T.alpha..sub.1 antisera have enhanced activity in blocking vital replication. A diagnostic test capable of directly detecting the presence of HTLV-III, LAV, ARV-2 and related retroviruses associated with AIDS and ARC is also described.

Abstract: The invention provides assays for the presence or absence of CD4+ T cell subpopulations carrying particular V.beta. components of the T cell receptor (TCR-V.beta.) in persons infected with HIV, including amplification of mRNA from T cells with primers specific to each TCR-V.beta. to detect the presence or absence of each TCR-V.beta. in a sample and primers for use in such amplification assays are disclosed. The invention also provides assays of antibody-containing fluids of a person infected with HIV to determine the immunodeficiency where the fluid is suspected to contain an antibody having a paratope specific to an epitope on a TCR-V.beta.. The invention also provides a binding agent specific to a paratope where the paratope is specific to an epitope on a TCR-V.beta.. The invention also provides a method of assay of the fluids of a person infected with HIV to determine the immunodeficiency of the person which utilizes a binding agent specific to complexes containing anti-TCR-V.beta. antibody bound to TCR-V.

Abstract: This invention relates to a cell enumeration immunoassay which uses a calibrated standard, i.e., a substance which behaves like the sample under study and the concentration of which can be correlated to the concentration of the cells. This immunoassay is an efficient alternative to flow cytometry.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for screening agents for potential anti-viral effects by assessing the ability of the agents to suppress viral replication and/or pathology in thymic cells grown in thymic organ culture in vitro. Also provided are methods to study viral pathology and infectivity.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and a diagnostic agent for identifying HIV-infected individuals. The diagnostic agent, termed C-8.2, whose concentration is altered within about 1-3 days of HIV infection is used in assays not dependent on HIV antigens or antibodies. C-8.2 is present in the serum of all mammals and is a phospholipid or a mixture of related phospholipids.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for determining the amount of HIV-1 p24 antigen or anti-HIV-1 p24 antibody present in a suitable bodily fluid sample from an HIV-1-infected subject. This invention also provides a kit for determining the amount of HIV-1 p24 antigen or anti-HIV-1 p24 antibody present in an HIV-1-infected subject.

Abstract: HIV-2 virus variants, namely virus HIV D194 and virus HIV D205, which can be cloned from the corresponding virus isolate HIV D194 (ECACC V 87122303) or from the infected cell line HUT 194 (ECACC V 87122306) or from the virus isolate HIV D205 (ECACC V 87122304), respectively, and their RNA or RNA-fragments and DNA and DNA-fragments derived therefrom and/or proteins and the use thereof for diagnostics and therapy.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a method useful in the diagnosis of HIV. The method involves reacting monoclonal antibodies to particular prosomal proteins with certain blood cell types obtained from a sample, and observing an increase or decrease in the levels of the prosomal proteins on the cell's surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to an anti-HIV agent comprising, as an active ingredient, at least one porphyrin derivative selected from the following derivatives (A) and (B):(A) porphyrins modified with a compound selected from carbodiimides, alkylenediamines and alcohols; and(B) complexes of a plasma protein or a chemically modified plasma protein and a porphyrin which may have been modified with a compound selected from carbodiimides, alkylenediamines and alcohols.This anti-HIV agent is excellent in killing effect on HIV-infected cells, inhibitory effect on cytopathy due to HIV infection and HIV-replication inhibiting effect, and high in safety.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a bioactive molecule, herein referred to as the CD8 suppressor molecule, that is produced by the CD8 subset of human T-lymphocytes and suppresses type-1 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) replication through inhibition of vital transcription. The invention relates to isolation of clonal CD8 cells lines that produce the antiviral activity and the development of an assay system for detection of the antiviral activity. The clonal cell lines and the assay system, described herein, may be utilized to purify, characterize and clone the CD8 suppressor molecule. The CD8 suppressor molecule may have therapeutic applications for treatment of diseases associated with HIV-1 infection.

Abstract: HIV-1 peptides having at least one point mutation between position 593 and 611 of the HIV-1 gp160 amino acid sequence. The point mutation either is at position 604 or 610, or both positions. Immunoassays which utilize these peptides are provided, as well as, diagnostic test kits which contain these peptides.

Abstract: Cancerous cells and HIV-infected cells secrete .alpha.-N-acetylgalactosaminidase into the blood stream, resulting in deglycosylation of serum Gc protein. This inactivates the MAF precursor activity of Gc protein, leading to immunosuppression. Thus, both .alpha.-N-acetylgalactosaminidase activity and MAF precursor activity of Gc protein in patient blood stream can serve as diagnostic and prognostic indices.In one embodiment is disclosed a process for determining macrophage activating factor precursor activity in plasma or serum of a person suspected of having cancer or HIV, comprising the step of quantifying in the plasma or serum an amount of vitamin D.sub.3 -binding protein. The determination of the macrophage activating factor precursor activity provides an indication of the patient's capability to activate its own monocytes/macrophages.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there are provided novel assays which allow the identification of compounds which block the ability of lentiviruses to infect non-dividing cells. Compounds discovered employing the invention methods can be employed to block the ability of HIV to infect non-dividing cells. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, novel antibodies have been developed which are specifically immunoreactive with the phosphorylated form of HIV-1 MA. In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, novel kinases which phosphorylate HIV-1 MA have been discovered.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for screening agents for potential anti-viral effects by assessing the ability of the agents to suppress viral replication and/or pathology in thymic cells grown in thymic organ culture in vitro. Also provided are methods to study viral pathology and infectivity.

Abstract: Disclosed is a highly sensitive anti-HIV antibody detection assay. The assay detects the presence of anti-HIV antibodies through the use of a non-denatured HIV antigenic determinant which immunoreactivity binds anti-HIV antibodies in a biological sample. The non-denatured HIV antigenic determinant has provided a means for detecting anti-HIV antibodies in serum samples testing seronegative for the presence of HIV antibodies directed against denatured HIV antigens p17, p19, p24, p27, p39, gp41, p55, gp120 and gp160. The antigenic determinant may take the form of a cross-immunoreactive live HIV-infected cell line or a biologically engineered peptide possessing conserved or shared HIV surface antigenic determinants. Methods of preparing HIV target antigens are also disclosed, as well as methods for determining the presence of anti-HIV antibodies through the use of these non-denatured HIV target antigens. A test kit for detecting anti-HIV antibodies is also disclosed.

Abstract: A novel lentivirus, designated the human immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV-2.sub.ROD), was isolated from West African patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). A recombinant lambda phage library was constructed from HIV-2.sub.ROD -infected CEM genomic DNA. Overlapping molecular clones were obtained and the nucleotide sequence of the complete 9.5-kilobase (kb) HIV-2.sub.ROD genome ascertained. The genetic organization of HIV-2 is analogous to that of other retroviruses and consists of the 5'LTR-gag-pol-central region-env-nef-3'LTR. The central region also encodes for the regulatory proteins Tat and Rev, as well as the ancillary proteins Vif, Vpr, and Vpx. The proteins encoded by this proviral clone will provide novel immunologic, biochemic, and diagnostic reagents useful for the detection of HIV-2.

Abstract: The present invention provides mammalian cells modified to stably express at least the entire human immunodeficiency virus-1 envelope protein gp160. The invention provides a vaccine comprising the cells of the invention. The invention also provides methods for screening compounds for their ability to inhibit formation of syncytia between cells that express HIV-1 gp160 and cells that express CD4 comprising mixing cells of invention, cells that express CD4 on their surfaces, and a test compound for a length of time sufficient for syncytia to form; and then determining the amount of syncytia formation.

Abstract: An unprocessed human immunodeficiency virus 2 (HIV-2) gag precursor protein, containing a deficient protease, assembles into virus-like particles by budding through the cytoplasmic domain of baculovirus-infected cells. Chimeric constructs were generated by coupling the truncated HIV-2 gag gene to the neutralizing domain (V3) or the neutralizing and CD4 binding domains (V3+CD4B) of gp120 env gene sequences obtained from HIV-1 or HIV-2. Virus-like particles were formed by chimeric gene products when the env gene sequences were linked to the 3' terminus of the gag gene. The gag-env chimeric proteins displayed immunoreactivity towards anti-gp120 rabbit antisera.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the HIV-1 strains MN-ST1 and BA-L which are typical United States HIV-1 isotypes. The present invention relates to DNA segments encoding the envelope protein of MN-ST 1 or BA-L, to DNA constructs containing such DNA segments and to host cells transformed with such constructs. The viral isolates and envelope proteins of the present invention are of value for use in vaccines and bioassays for the detection of HIV-1 infection in biological samples, such as blood bank samples.

Abstract: Disclosed is the construction, expression, and purification of chimeric human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Gag-Env fusion proteins. Gag-Env chimeras were generated by fusing the amino terminus (amino acids 512-611) of the Env protein to the carboxyl terminus of the Gag protein (either amino acids 121-406 or 308-406). These proteins were overexpressed in Escherichia coli, purified, and their immunologic properties ascertained. Both chimeric proteins displayed immunoreactivity towards antisera obtained from HIV-1 seropositive patients. These HIV-1 Gag-Env fusion proteins should provide useful antigens for the detection of HIV-1-specific antibodies.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for use in assays for the detection of a bindable target substance in a liquid sample. The apparatus comprises an elongate reaction membrane strip which is porous and liquid-permeable, the upper surface of the membrane strip having receptors thereon capable of binding to the target substance; an absorbent material located adjacent to the lower surface of the reaction membrane strip; and a container means for the reaction membrane strip and absorbent material, including a top wall defining a fluid port in the form of an elongate slot adjacent the membrane strip and including a fluid seal means disposed at the periphery of the fluid port defining a seal between the container top wall and reaction membrane strip. In one embodiment, the receptors on the membrane strip correspond to Western blot proteins. An assay for the detection of bindable target antibody in a liquid sample employing the apparatus is also described.

Abstract: Methods for the diagnosis and prognosis of immunosuppressive conditions are disclosed, involving the detection of a particular isoform of ferritin, placental ferritin (PLF), in patient samples such as sera or on peripheral blood lymphocytes. PLF is elevated in immunosuppressed patients at early stages of disease; by contrast, adult insoferritins are elevated at late stages of immunodeficiency. Depending upon the nature of the disease associated with the immunodeficiency, the elevated levels of PLF detected at early stages may remain elevated or diminish as disease progresses. Examples are described in which elevated levels of PLF were detected at very early stages of of HIV-infection. The elevated levels diminished as disease progressed from ARC to AIDS. By contrast, adult isoforms of ferritin became elevated at late stages of disease.

Abstract: A method for detecting multiple subpopulations of analytes of interest in a sample employing a complementary binding moiety to each of said analytes bound to a solid support, wherein each analyte and its complementary binding moiety comprise first and second members of a specific binding pair (msbp) respectively is provided. The method includes the steps of forming a mixture of known proportions of multiple subpopulations of said complementary binding moieties, wherein each subpopulation comprises a different complementary binding moieties, contacting the sample with the mixture so that specific binding pairs are formed on the solid supports, and relating the presence of analytes of interest in the sample to the formation of specific binding pairs associated with each unique proportion of said multiple subpopulations. The method can be performed with solid supports of a single average size and a single fluorochrome and without the need for using three detection systems (fluorescence FS & SS).

Abstract: Described is a new retrovirus designated HIV-3, samples of which have been deposited in the European Collection of Animal Cell Cultures (ECACC) under V88060301.

Abstract: The invention is a simple and rapid method for immune complex dissociation and destruction of rheumatoid factors. It permits the quantitative measurement of the total, i.e., free and immune complex-bound, antigen contained in a test sample. The method involves heating the test sample to a point sufficiently above 65.degree. C. at which the antigen-binding function of antibodies is destroyed. As a consequence, interference by rheumatoid factors is eliminated and the antigen is released from immune complexes, after which it can be measured in an antigen assay that recognizes the heat-denatured antigen.

Abstract: The present invention provides a panel of HIV peptides useful in diagnosing whether or not a patient is of vertical HIV transmission status, methods for diagnosing same, methods for identifying epitopes and peptides associated with non-transmission status, and pharmaceutical and vaccine compositions containing same.

Abstract: Strains of HIV-2 capable of infecting humans and non-human primates such as baboons and causing an immune system disease are disclosed. The HIV-2 strain are used to infect non-human primates which infected primates present symptoms of a disease of the immune system and are used to test drugs, e.g., anti-virals and/or vaccines for their ability to treat and/or prevent lentiviral infections such as HIV infections. Useful strains are HIV-2.sub.UC2, HIV-2.sub.UC12 and HIV-2.sub.UC14 and preferred non-human primates are baboons.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel mycoplasma isolated from the urine of patients with AIDS. The mycoplasma has unique morphological and pathobiological properties. The invention also relates to the antigens and antibodies of the novel mycoplasma, and methods of detection utilizing these antigens and antibodies. Antigenically and genetically, the mycoplasma is distinct from all other known mycoplasmas.

Abstract: Microorganisms modified such that their growth in selective media is dependent upon the inhibition of a medically important target function are provided and utilized in methods for the screening of potential medically important compounds.

Abstract: A method for the diagnosis in vitro of HIV-1 infections by treating CD4-positive cells infected with blood and other biological materials with synthetic peptides derived from V3 region of HTLV-III B strain and from MN strain of HIV-1 virus is reported. The above peptides enhance the infectivity of HIV-1 virus in cellular cultures in vitro.

Abstract: A synthetic strategy for the creation of large scale chemical diversity is claimed. Solid-phase chemistry, photolabile protecting groups, and photolithography are used to achieve light-directed spatially-addressable parallel chemical synthesis of an array of polymers that are based on a target polymer. The array includes systematically substituted versions of the target polymer.

Abstract: The invention relates to the measurement of total leukocyte antigens, or fragments thereof, and the use of such measurements to enumerate cells, especially in whole blood. The term "total" leukocyte antigen used herein refers to the total amount of a leukocyte antigen in a sample, including that present in membrane and intracellular compartments and extracellular soluble compartments. Measurements of a total leukocyte antigen can be used to type cells, detect or diagnose disease or to monitor disease therapy. In a further embodiment, the invention relates to the measurement of both the amount of total leukocyte antigen and the amount of the soluble form of the leukocyte antigen and a comparison of the measured levels.