Abstract: A method for preparing polymer microparticles with a reduced initial burst, and the polymer microparticles prepared thereby, the method including: contacting polymer microparticles with an alcohol aqueous solution, the polymer microparticles prepared thereby, and use for drug delivery of the polymer microparticles.

Abstract: The invention describes compositions of peptide analogs that are active in blood or cleavable in blood to release an active peptide. The peptide analogs have a general formula: A-(Cm)x-Peptide (SEQ ID NO: 76), wherein A is hydrophobic moiety or a metal binding moiety, e.g., a chemical group or moiety containing 1) an alkyl group having 6 to 36 carbon units, 2) a nitrilotriacetic acid group, 3) an imidodiacetic acid group, or 4) a moiety of formula (ZyHisw)p (SEQ ID NO: 50), wherein Z is any amino acid residue other than histidine, His is histidine, y is an integer from 0-6; w is an integer from 1-6; and p is an integer from 1-6; wherein if A has alkyl group with 6 to 36 carbon units x is greater than 0; and Cm is a cleavable moiety consisting of glycine or alanine or lysine or arginine or N-Arginine or N-lysine, wherein x is an integer between 0-6 and N may be any amino acid or none. The peptide analogs are complexed with polymeric carrier to provide enhanced half-life.

Abstract: Cryogranulation systems with improved dispenser assemblies are provided for use in manufacturing frozen pellets of pharmaceutical substances in a fluid medium. Methods of cryogranulating the pharmaceutical substance in the fluid medium are also provided. In particular embodiments, the dispenser assembly is used with suspensions or slurries of pharmaceutical compositions including biodegradable substances, such as proteins, peptides, and nucleic acids. In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical substance can be adsorbed to any pharmaceutically acceptable carrier particles suitable for making pharmaceutical powders. In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical carrier can be, for example, diketopiperazine-based microparticles. The dispenser assembly improves the physical characteristics of the cryopellets formed and minimizes product loss during processing.

Abstract: A composition for preventing or treating an eye disease includes adiponectin as an active ingredient. Adiponectin as an active ingredient is eventually revealed to show prevention or therapeutic efficacies for eye diseases such as dry eye (syndrome), inflammatory eye disease and side effects due to the use of contact lenses by promoting tear secretion, alleviating ocular surface irregularities, decreasing inflammatory cytokines on the ocular surface and lacrimal gland, and increasing conjunctival goblet cell density. In addition, the composition having eye contact lubrication effects may be used as cleaners or lubricants for preventing non-bacterial inflammation due to wearing contact lenses.

Abstract: The present invention provides angiotensin (1-7) pharmaceutical compositions, dosage forms, and methods for their use, and methods for treating or limiting development of acquired immune deficiency syndrome.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel nucleic acids encoding a mammalian resistin gene, and proteins encoded thereby, whose expression is suppressed by the antidiabetic compounds thiazolidinediones. The invention further relates to methods of treating and detecting type 2 diabetes and Syndrome X comprising modulating or detecting resistin expression and/or production and activity of resistin polypeptide.

Abstract: A method for promoting a sustained increased level of T-cell production in immunocompromised subjects in which method enkephalin peptides are administered according to an intermittent dose schedule. In particular, the method involves treatment of immunocompromised patients which includes the administration of enkephalin, either alone or in conjunction with other therapies, in an initial dosage regimen, with periodic booster dosages of enkephalin as necessary to maintain sustained immune system response.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for predicting an increased risk or probability of developing endometriosis in a patient based upon the patient's KRAS variant status.

Abstract: A method for treating hair loss in mammals uses compositions containing prostaglandin F analogs. The compositions can be applied topically to the skin. The compositions can arrest hair loss, reverse hair loss, and promote hair growth.

Abstract: The present invention provides, among other things, methods and compositions for treating brain conditions. In some embodiments, the methods include administering to a subject suffering from or susceptible to a brain condition an angiotensin (1-7) peptide via either an intravenous or subcutaneous route of administration.

Abstract: The invention is directed to microcapsules, pharmaceutical or nutraceutical compositions comprising same, and methods for preparing and using same for delivery of nanoparticle coated emulsions comprising biologically active ingredients. The microcapsule comprises barley protein, oil, and a biologically active ingredient. The microcapsule is degradable to generate a nanoparticle comprising an oil droplet coated with a barley protein.

Abstract: Ghrelin analogues having high affinity for a target receptor in diseased cells are provided, as well as methods of diagnosis and treatment utilizing such analogues.

Abstract: The present invention provides an agent for inhibiting alveolar airspace enlargement containing adiponectin or an agent for inhibiting alveolar wall destruction containing adiponectin. The pulmonary disease therapeutic agents of the present invention are highly safe drugs that possess an excellent effect of decreasing the deterioration of the pulmonary function, such as airflow limitation, and exhibit an extremely high effect of treating pulmonary disease accompanied by irreversible deterioration in pulmonary function, with fewer adverse side effects such as nausea, vomiting and gastric acid secretion.

Abstract: A formulation of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) for promoting weight loss comprising reconstituted HCG in an amount sufficient to promote weight loss; at least one vitamin selected from the group consisting of: vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, vitamin B7, vitamin B9, and vitamin B12; and at least one dietary supplement selected from the group consisting of: an amino acid, inositol, choline chloride, and L-carnitine.

Abstract: The present invention concerns particles containing at least one covalently cross-linked polysaccharide and at least one growth factor, a method of preparation, and uses thereof.

Abstract: Neuropeptide analogs and compositions including neuropeptide analogs are described herein. Also provided are methods of producing and using the neuropeptide analogs and compositions including one or more neuropeptide analogs.

Abstract: Extended release oral dosage forms for the treatment of gastrointestinal motility disorders are described. Active agents which are small molecules, peptides, peptide analogs, and peptide mimetics are formulated for optimal release in the GI tract of subjects with GI motility dysfunction. Methods of treatment using the dosage forms are also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new compound useful as a modulator of melanocortin receptors. In particular, the present invention relates to a compound WS727713, a process for production of the compound by culturing, in a culture medium, a WS727713-producing strain belonging to Pseudonocardia and recovering the compound from a culture broth, a pharmaceutical composition containing the compound, and uses of the compound.

Abstract: A method of producing an injectable calcium phosphate paste by a process in which calcium phosphate precursors are mixed with the setting fluids to form a self-hardened apatite cement is disclosed. The produced apatite cement is biocompatible, bioactive and biodegradable in the body. The pH value of said apatite cement is approximately 7 with compressive strength between 10-30 MPa and the setting process will not generate.temperature >37° C. The self-hardened apatite (SHA) cement is found to be bioresorbable and can be used for bone fillers, fixation of broken bones or artificial joints in human and also appropriate for use as a delivery vehicle.

Abstract: A composition and method for using a composition, the composition having at least two compounds, each of which induces indolamine 2,3-dioxygenase, for the treatment of an autoimmune disorder or disease or immune rejection of transplants or gene therapeutically modified cells, wherein the inducers have different mechanism of action and wherein the composition gives rise to a synergistic effect on the IDO levels.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a novel method of introducing property modifying groups to a protein. In particular, the present invention relates to the derivatization of lysine residues, as well as new conjugates of growth hormones with improved pharmacological properties, and methods for their preparation and use in therapy.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of a Somatostatin (SRIF) analog which has a high binding affinity to human SSTR1,2,3,5, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof for the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of meningioma.

Abstract: A polypeptide and polynucleotides encoding same comprising one carboxy-terminal peptide (CTP) of chorionic gonadotrophin attached to an amino terminus of a cytokine and two carboxy-terminal peptides (CTP) of chorionic gonadotrophin attached to a carboxy terminus of a cytokine are disclosed. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the polypeptide and polynucleotides of the invention and methods of using same are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present application discloses a method of lowering serum uric acid level in a subject with impaired renal function, comprising administering to the subject a compound of Formula (I), as disclosed herein.

Abstract: A phytin aqueous solution including at least one alpha-hydroxylated carboxylic acid and phytin in a solubilized form, preferably in a concentration ranging from 70 g/L to 270 g/L, and in that it has a pH value ranging from 3 to 5. The phytin aqueous solution may be used in the preparation of a liquid nutritional supplement and in the preparation of a cosmetic composition.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for the delivery of nucleic acids to a cell. The present invention additionally provides compositions and methods for the treatment of a disease or disorder, particularly cancer.

Abstract: Ghrelin signal peptide fragment assays and kits useful in the diagnosis, prognosis, risk stratification, assessing, staging, monitoring, categorizing and determination of further diagnoses and treatment regimens in subjects with various disorders, diseases and conditions including, pneumonia, heart failure, or pneumonia and heart failure or suspected pneumonia, heart failure, or pneumonia and heart failure, and methods for monitoring treatment.

Abstract: The invention relates to polypeptides comprising an amino acid sequence which is an analogue of human amylin, pharmaceutical compositions comprising these polypeptides, and these polypeptides for use as medicaments.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel, modified pokeweed antiviral proteins, nucleic acids that encode the proteins, conjugates that incorporate the proteins, and methods to make and use the proteins. The present invention also provides methods to administer the conjugates to animals, for the purpose of directing toxin to particular cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to novel GIP analogs and GIP hybrid polypeptides with selectable properties, useful as agents for the treatment and prevention of metabolic diseases and disorders, for example those which can be alleviated by control plasma glucose levels, insulin levels, and/or insulin secretion, positive inotropic effects, reduction of catabolic effects, slowing of gastric emptying. Such conditions and disorders include, but are not limited to, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, eating disorders, critical care, insulin-resistance, obesity, and diabetes mellitus of any kind, including type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.

Abstract: An agent for suppressing elevation of blood GIP level, an agent for suppressing elevation of blood insulin level, an agent for lowering blood triglyceride level after meal ingestion and an agent for suppressing elevation of blood glucose level, these agents containing potassium polyglutamates as active ingredients.

Abstract: The invention relates to polypeptides comprising an amino acid sequence which is an analogue of human amylin, pharmaceutical compositions comprising these polypeptides, and these polypeptides for use as medicaments.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical for pseudo-exercise therapy containing an adiponectin receptor 1 agonist compound as an active ingredient and changing the physiological state of muscle to a post-exercise one without applying an exercise stress to the muscle.

Abstract: The disclosure describes the contribution of elevated levels of circulating alsosterone to heart disease and other hyperaldosteronic conditions. Since activation of beta-arrestin I (beta.arr-1) by the Angiotensin II (AngII) type 1 receptor (AT1R) mediates AngII-induced aldosterone production, beta-arrestin I (beta.arr-1) is a therapeutic target for heart disease. Specifically, the disclosure provides a beta.arr-1 protein fragment comprising the C-terminus of beta.arr-1 (beta.arr1ct; SEQ ID NO:3), compositions containing this protein fragment, and methods of using this protein fragment to reduce elevated levels of aldosterone in heart disease and other hyperaldosteronic conditions by inhibition of beta-arrestin (beta.arr-1). These compositions and methods are of therapeutic benefit in chronic heart failure and progression to heart failure after myocardial infarction (MI).

Abstract: Disclosed herein are diketopiperazine microparticles having a specific surface area of less than about 67 m2/g. The diketopiperazine microparticle can be fumaryl diketopiperazine and can comprise a drug such as insulin.

Abstract: The present invention provides a process for classification of cancers and tissues of origin through the analysis of the expression patterns of specific microRNAs and nucleic acid molecules relating thereto. Classification according to a microRNA tree-based expression framework allows optimization of treatment, and determination of specific therapy.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel uses of a construct consisting of virus-like particle (VLP) structure chemically coupled to a fragment of the AD-1-42 peptide and its pharmaceutically acceptable salts (hereinafter CONSTRUCT), in particular to dosage regimens, modes of and dosage forms for the administration of a CONSTRUCT for the treatment of patients suffering from dementia.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for the treatment of peripheral vascular disease (PVD). In particular, the invention provides compositions and methods for treatment of critical limb ischemia, and related diseases, disorders or conditions, based on the use of angiotensin-(1-7) peptides or functional equivalents, analogs or derivatives, angiotensin-(1-7) receptor agonists, ACE2 and/or ACE2 activators.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of modulating apoptosis of a granulosa cell. The method includes one or more of the following steps: (i) modulating the concentration and/or activity of BMP-15 and/or BMP-6 that the granulosa cell is exposed to; (ii) modulating activity of a BMP-15 dependent signalling pathway in the granulosa cell; and (iii) modulating activity of a BMP-6 dependent signalling pathway in a granulosa cell.

Abstract: The expression of a mRNA encoding a putative 76 amino acid, secreted protein (“Enho1”) was found to negatively correlate with fasting triglyceride and cholesterol levels. A recombinant adenovirus was used to increase the expression of Enho1 mRNA in two mouse models of obesity, KK-Ay and Lepob/Lepob mice. Over-expression of Enho1 by adenovirus injection significantly, and reproducibly, reduced fasting triglyceride and cholesterol levels in both models. In addition, transgenic mice strains were made that over express Enho1 protein. Additionally, the expression of a key gene involved in lipogenesis (fatty acid synthase) and FAS protein levels were reduced by ENHO1 adenoviral treatment in Lepob/Lepob mice.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel complex peptidomimetic products comprising multiple homogeneous or heterogeneous pendant groups that are site-specifically positioned along a linear oligomer or polymer scaffold and methods of making thereof. More specifically, the invention relates to N-substituted glycine peptoid oligomers or peptoids and their use as substrates for azide-alkyne [3+2]-cycloaddition conjugation reactions and subsequent additional rounds of oligomerization and cycloaddition. The methods of the invention may also be used to generate peptoid-peptide hybrid or peptide products comprising multiple homogeneous or heterogeneous pendant groups, which are positioned precisely along the linear oligomer or polymer scaffold.

Abstract: In general, the present invention provides methods for treating disorders associated with the amygdala. The methods of treatment are based on the administration of a therapeutically effective amount of secretin to an individual suffering from a disorder associated with the amygdala, e.g., bipolar disorder or a substance use disorder.

Abstract: A therapeutic method for cardiac diseases such as angina, myocardial infarction, arrhythmia (ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation and atrial fibrillation) is provided. The method is characterized by intracoronary administration of adiponection to mammals.

Abstract: A protein isolated from the Chinese yam Dioscorea opposita that stimulates estrogen and progesterone release in vitro and in vivo but does not stimulate the proliferation of breast and ovarian cancer cells is disclosed. The protein exhibits anti-osteoporotic activity in vivo. Also provided are the procedure for isolation and purification of the protein and the N-terminal amino acid sequence of the protein.

Abstract: Described herein are CDP-therapeutic peptide conjugates, therapeutic delivery systems comprising CDP-therapeutic peptide conjugates, compositions comprising CDP-therapeutic peptide conjugates, dosage forms comprising CDP-therapeutic peptide conjugates, and kits comprising CDP-therapeutic peptide conjugates. Also disclosed are methods of using (e.g., to treat a disorder) the CDP-therapeutic peptide conjugates, therapeutic delivery systems comprising CDP-therapeutic peptide conjugates, compositions comprising CDP-therapeutic peptide conjugates, dosage forms comprising CDP-therapeutic peptide conjugates, and kits comprising CDP-therapeutic peptide conjugates.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for the treatment of peripheral vascular disease (PVD). In particular, the invention provides compositions and methods for treatment of critical limb ischemia, and related diseases, disorders or conditions, based on the use of angiotensin-(1-7) peptides or functional equivalents, analogs or derivatives, angiotensin-(1-7) receptor agonists, ACE2 and/or ACE2 activators.

Abstract: Transgenic silkworms comprising at least one nucleic acid encoding a chimeric silk polypeptide comprising one or more spider silk elasticity and strength motifs are disclosed. Expression cassettes comprising nucleic acids encoding a variety of chimeric spider silk polypeptides (Spider 2, Spider 4, Spider 6, Spider 8) are also disclosed. A piggyBac vector system is used to incorporate nucleic acids encoding chimeric spider silk polypeptides into the mutant silkworms to generate stable transgenic silkworms. Chimeric silk fibers having improved tensile strength and elasticity characteristics compared to native silkworm silk fibers are also provided. The transgenic silkworms greatly facilitate the commercial production of chimeric silk fibers suitable for use in a wide variety of medical and industrial applications.

Abstract: Analysis of a goat serum product with many therapeutic effects is described. The product is identified as containing proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and Corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) peptides, as well as breakdown products of these peptides. We describe methods of treatment of diseases including cancers, multiple sclerosis, and neural disorders using these peptides and their products, as well as medicaments including such peptides and methods of producing the peptides.

Abstract: Methods for facilitating joint immobilization or fusion using selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) such as raloxifene are disclosed. The SERM may be administered systemically or locally. In conjunction with SERM, other therapeutic agents such as calcium, vitamin D, bone morphogenetic protein may be administered simultaneously. The method can similarly be applied to facilitate bone repair, bone healing, and connective tissue healing processes in a patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to novel GIP analogs and GIP hybrid polypeptides with selectable properties, useful as agents for the treatment and prevention of metabolic diseases and disorders, for example those which can be alleviated by control plasma glucose levels, insulin levels, and/or insulin secretion, positive inotropic effects, reduction of catabolic effects, slowing of gastric emptying. Such conditions and disorders include, but are not limited to, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, eating disorders, critical care, insulin-resistance, obesity, and diabetes mellitus of any kind, including type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.