Abstract: The present invention relates to target binding members (e.g., antibodies) that bind a specified epitope of human IL-25. The invention also relates to target binding members (e.g., antibodies) that comprise one or more humanized antibody VL domain sequences and bind IL-25. The invention further relates to compositions comprising target binding members (e.g., antibodies) that bind IL-25, methods of producing such target binding members, and uses of such target binding members for the treatment or prevention of diseases and conditions (e.g., asthma, inflammatory bowel disease).

Abstract: Disclosed are a composition for inhibiting hyperlipidemia and obesity through suppression of intestinal cholesterol absorption. An IgY-type antibody derived from yolk to NPC1L1 (Niemann-Pick C1-Like1), contained, as an active ingredient, in the composition of the present invention is linked to NPC1L1 (Niemann-Pick C1-Like1) that is a cholesterol transport protein in the intestines, thus interfering with binding between cholesterol and the transport protein to completely block absorption of cholesterol in the body and thereby prevent hyperlipidemia and obesity.

Abstract: Methods of amplifying nucleic acid have now been discovered which include the steps of: a) annealing a primer to a template nucleic acid sequence, the primer having a first portion which anneals to the template and a second portion of predetermined sequence; b) synthesizing a polynucleotide that anneals to and is complementary to the portion of the template between the location at which the first portion of the primer anneals to the template and the end of the template, the polynucleotide having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end incorporates the primer; c) separating the polynucleotide synthesized in step (b) from the template; d) annealing a nested oligonucleotide to the second end of the polynucleotide synthesized in step (b), the nested oligonucleotide having a first portion that anneals to the second end of the polynucleotide and a second portion having the same predetermined sequence as the second portion of the primer; e) extending the polynucleotide synthesized in step (b) to provide

Abstract: Targeting molecules for use in delivering biological agents to epithelial tissue are disclosed. Upon delivery, the biological agent(s) may remain within an epithelial cell or may undergo transepithelial transport via transcytosis. The targeting molecules may be used, for example, for the delivery of therapeutic agents.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of quantitating recent secreted antigen specific antibodies from supernatant of antibody secreting cells (ASC) in vitro culture for evaluation of vaccine or antigen induced antigen specific antibody secretion without ex vivo antigen stimulation.

Abstract: The invention concerns human monoclonal antibodies to the islet cell antigen IA-2, a process for their production, the use of human monoclonal antibodies in a method for detecting antibodies to IA-2, a method for detecting antibodies to the islet cell antigen IA-2 and a method for detecting the islet cell antigen IA-2 in a sample.

Abstract: The present invention relates, in part, to a purified polyclonal or monoclonal antibody which recognizes an epitope of a protein of 48,000 dalton, where the protein recognizes is a surface protein of a merozoite of Plasmodium falciparum which has a peptide of SEQ ID NO:1 or a sequence wherein SEQ ID NO:1 has been modified by insertion, deletion or substitution and the sequence inhibits the binding of inonoclonal antibody 245 to Plasmodium merozoites, as well as fragments of the antibody; the present invention relates to composition and kits containing the same, as well as methods of using the same;

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the use of antibodies or binding portions thereof or probes which recognize an antigen of normal, benign, hyperplastic, and cancerous prostate epithelial cells or portions thereof. These antibodies or binding portions thereof or probes can be labeled and used for detection of such cells. They also can be used alone or bound to a substance effective to ablate or kill such cells as a therapy for prostate cancer. Also disclosed is a hybridoma cell line which produces a monoclonal antibody recognizing antigens of normal, benign, hyperplastic, and cancerous prostate epithelial cells or portions thereof.

Abstract: A monoclonal antibody by which medullasin that is a kind of serine proteases existing in granulocytes, production process thereof and an immunoassay of human medullasin using the antibody are disclosed. The monoclonal antibody specifically recognizes human medullasin. The process for producing the anti-human medullasin antibody comprises culturing hybridomas prepared by cell fusion between antibody-producing cells recovered from an animal immunized with human medullasin and myeloma cells, and recovering anti-human medullasin monoclonal antibody which specifically recognizes human medullasin from the culture in which the hybridomas are cultured. The immunoassay utilizes the anti-human medullasin antibody.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method for selectively isolating IgY(&Dgr;Fc) avian antibodies from IgY avian antibodies. For example, the method includes: (a) providing an aqueous fraction from yolk of an egg of an anseriform bird; (b) precipitation IgY antibodies using a first precipitant salt; and (c) precipitating the IgY(&Dgr;Fc) antibodies from a supernatant using a second precipitant salt to provide an isolated preparation enriched for IgY(&Dgr;Fc) antibodies.

Abstract: A method for the separation of IgG and IgA from an immunoglobulin-containing starting material is described, whereby the method is characterized in that (i) IgG and optionally IgA are adsorbed to a solid inorganic carrier material, (ii) IgA is isolated from the eluate, optionally after selective desorption, whereas IgG remains on the carrier material, and optionally (iii) IgG is isolated from the adsorbate. Furthermore, an IgA preparation is disclosed which demonstrates a low tendency to form aggregates.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the preparation and purification of IgY(&Dgr;Fc) antibody from avian yolk, generally comprising the steps of immunization of a fowl hen with an antigen, a partial purification of the whole antibodies from the eggs laid by the hen, and an immunoaffinity purification of the antibodies raised against the antigen, in which the binding of the antibodies with the antigen in the immunoaffinity purification step is conducted at pH within a range of 4-7 and under an ionic strength of lower than 50 mM. The present invention also relates to the IgY(&Dgr;Fc) antibody produced thereby and various uses of the novel IgY(&Dgr;Fc) antibody.

Abstract: Methods are described for treating inflammatory bowel disease in animals, including humans. Specific avian polyclonal antibodies directed to TNF are shown to have a beneficial effect in animal models predictive of human therapy for the treatment of colitis.

Abstract: The prevention and treatment of autoimmune disease in humans (as well as other animals) is described through the use of ligands directed to cytokines. Antibodies and receptors to the proinflammatory cytokines IL-2, TNF, IL-12 and IFN-gamma are employed (along with other ligands to such cytokines). Such ligands administered luminally are effective (as demonstrated in two experimental models of autoimmune disease) at delaying the onset of autoimune disease.

Abstract: An antigenic peptide fragment from the p17 gag protein of HIV includes a portion from HGP-30 and a contiguous portion from HGP-35 such that the peptide fragment is capable of inducing a TH1 immune response when administered to a person suffering from AIDS or at risk for AIDS. The peptide has from about 25 to about 37 amino acids, such as, for example, the sequence A T L  Y S V 1 H Q R  I D V  K D T SEQ ID NO.

Abstract: Targeting molecules for use in delivering biological agents to non-polarized epithelial cells are disclosed. Upon delivery, the biological agent(s) are lethal to the epithelial cell. The targeting molecules may be used, for example, for the eradication of metastatic epithelial cells.

Abstract: An antigenic peptide fragment from the p17 gag protein of HIV includes a portion from HGP-30 and a contiguous portion from HGP-35 such that the peptide fragment is capable of inducing a TH1 immune response when administered to a person suffering from AIDS or at risk for AIDS.

Abstract: The invention identifies the CTLA4 receptor as a ligand for the B7 antigen. The complete amino acid sequence encoding human CTLA4 receptor gene is provided. Methods are provided for expressing CTLA4 as an immunoglobulin fusion protein, for preparing hybrid CTLA4 fusion proteins, and for using the soluble fusion proteins, fragments and derivatives thereof, including monoclonal antibodies reactive with B7 and CTLA4, to regulate T cell interactions and immune responses mediated by such interactions.

Abstract: The invention concerns a composition composed of several different antibodies or/and antibody fragments which is suitable as a reagent to reduce interferences in an immunological method for the class-specific detection of antibodies from one or several of the immunoglobulin classes G, M, A, D and E.

Abstract: It is intended to present a sensor capable of labeling with more dyes, applying the labeled protein in immunochromatography making use of antigen-antibody reaction, and having an excellent sensitivity. In a buffer, a protein and a first covalent bonding compound that can react with this protein are reacted to prepare a protein conjugate, then a cyanine labeling dye is added in the buffer containing the protein conjugate, and the protein conjugate and cyanine labeling dye are reacted to prepare a dye labeled protein conjugate. Alternatively, in a buffer solution, a protein and a cyanine labeling dye are reacted to prepare a dye labeled protein, then a first covalent bonding compound that can react with the protein is added in the buffer containing the dye labeled protein, and the dye labeled protein and first covalent bonding protein are reacted to prepare a dye labeled protein conjugate.

Abstract: The invention relates to an artificial positive control reagents based on antibody conjugates that are used in immunochemical detection methods and to processes for the preparation of these reagents.

Abstract: Inflammation can be treated or prevented altogether by administering a preparation comprising IgA. These preparations also can effect immunomodulation. Preferably, the preparation includes multimeric IgA and is essentially free of IgG in its various forms. Other compounds, such as antibiotics, antiphlogistic agents and antacids, also may be administered. Immunoglobulin A may also be used in vaccines to prevent inflammation. Additionally, an improved assay for evaluating anti-inflammatory activity is provided.

Abstract: A composition comprising as an active ingredient a compound consisting of an immunoglobulin F.sub.c fragment and an alkylating, antibiotic, or antimetabolic antitumor substance bound thereto, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is disclosed. The Fc fragment moiety in the compound is stable in a living body, and thus the activity of the antitumor substance therein is maintained over a long period.

Abstract: A cellulose binding domain (CBD) having a high affinity for crystalline cellulose and chitin is disclosed, along with methods for the molecular cloning and recombinant production thereof. Fusion products comprising the CBD and a second protein are likewise described. A wide range of applications are contemplated for both the CBD and the fusion products, including drug delivery, affinity separations, and diagnostic techniques.

Abstract: A method for lowering somatic cell count in the milk of a lactating ruminant is disclosed. IgY antibodies are first obtained from the egg of a hen which has been actively immunized against one or more mastitis-causing pathogenic organisms by injection with an immunogen containing immunogenic determinants specific to elicit such antibodies. The immunogenic determinant may comprise only a specific portion of the pathogenic organism, e.g., the fimbria of a piliated bacterium. The IgY antibodies are then administered orally to a ruminant in which it is desired to lower milk somatic cell count. Antibody administration may occur during a ruminant's dry period as well as during lactation. In a preferred embodiment, the antigen used in immunization of the hen comprises one or more of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae. The method of this invention has been shown to be efficacious in lowering somatic cell count in dairy cattle.

Abstract: An immunological serum and method of making same. The serum essentially consists of purified and concentrated materials, sometimes known as transfer factor, and immunoglobulins, expressed from the clotted blood of a donor group having known immunity. To produce the serum, a group of donors is chosen which includes known immunity, preferably to a wide variety of ailments. Blood is drawn from the donor group and allowed to clot. Thereafter, the blood is filtered to remove all cellular material, producing raw serum. This raw serum is then concentrated by removal of water. The concentrated serum is then sterilized, but not denatured, by freezing and gamma irradiation.

Abstract: A protein which inhibits milk secretion by lactating cows and which is present in the eighth (6B, Figure) significant peak when a nominally 10-30 KDa fraction of the whey proteins of the milk is resolved on a "Mono Q" anion exchange column using 10 mM imidazole buffer, pH 7.0 and a sodium chloride elution gradient.

Abstract: The invention relates to artificial positive control reagents based on antibody conjugates that are used in immunochemical detection methods and to processes for the preparation of these reagents.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for purifying high yields of IgG immunoglobulins from an egg yolk by a single phase separation step using a nonionic detergent.

Abstract: Secretory immunoglobulin A preparations substantially not containing virus are produced by a process wherein secretory immunoglobulin A which might be contaminated with viruses is (1) heated about 60.degree. C. for about 10 hours, or (2) subjected to the reaction with tri-n-butyl phosphate and a surfactant and the heating as mentioned above, as liquidized form in an aqueous medium, and then polymerized matters are precipitated from the resulting solution by adding polyethyleneglycol thereto.

Abstract: A method for isolating the immunoglobulin compounds in the feces of animals and humans including the steps of placing said feces in a container with a buffer solution, homogenizing the feces in a phosphate buffer saline solution thereby forming a homogenized solution, separating the solids from the homogenized solution leaving a clear solution and chemically precipitating substantially all material contained in the clear solution with the exception of the immunoglobulin compounds through the use of protamine. The method produces a sufficient amount of immunoglobulin compounds for diagnostic and treatment purposes, if necessary. In particular, the production of IgAs has been quite useful for these purposes.

Abstract: Antivenoms suitable for treatment of humans and animals as well as for analytical use. A method wherein individual venoms are used to immunize and the resulting antivenoms are, thereafter, purified individually prior to mixing. Immunization is performed in a mammalian or avian host species.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of stimulating IgA production through administering a peptide which has the sequence of epitopes which are present on B cell-bound but not secreted IgA. This induces production of the antibody itself. These extracellular peptide segments form, entirely or in part, antigenic epitopes unique to membrane-bound but not secreted IgA.

Abstract: A method of preparing an IgA rich preparation comprising exposing a plasma fraction to an amino acid, organic salt or inorganic salt with optional chromatographic treatment yielding a product suitable for use in medical conditions treatable with IgA.

Abstract: The present invention provides an isolated DNA sequence encoding soluble and membrane bound forms of a mammalian IgA Fc receptor, as well as recombinant expression vectors and host cells suitable for expressing the protein.

Abstract: A secretory component-containing composition which is obtainable by contacting a milk or a whey with a cation exchange resin to allow the resin to absorb a secretory component contained in the milk or the whey and then eluting the secretory component and which has the following properties:(a) contains a secretory component with the purity of at least 20% by weight,(b) contains, besides the secretory component, at least an immunoglobulin and/or a serum albumin, and(c) has anti-infectious effects.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel tumor-associated antigen that is a cell-surface glycoprotein having a molecular weight in the range of 110,000-140,000 daltons that is present in a variety of carcinomas, including squamous cell carcinomas and adenocarcinomas. The invention also comprises antibodies reactive with the antigen, hybridoma cell lines that produce the antibodies of the invention, and methods for using the antibodies in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Abstract: A method for isolating the IgAs in the feces of animals and humans including the steps of placing said feces in a container with a buffer solution, homogenizing the feces in a phosphate buffer saline solution thereby forming a homogenized solution, separating the solids from the homogenized solution leaving a clear solution and chemically precipitating substantially all material contained in the clear solution with the exception of the IgAs through the use of protamine. The method produces a sufficient amount of IgAs for diagnostic and treatment purposes, if necessary.

Abstract: Monoclonal antibodies having binding specificity to human prostate tumor-associated antigens but not to prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP); and methods of diagnosis and treatment employing the same.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for increasing the solubility of antibodies and their radioisotope, toxin, or drug immunoconjugates and for reducing the non-specific uptake of antibody, either conjugated or unconjugated, into the RES organs such as via Fc receptor-mediated mechanisms. The methods involve incubation of the reactive component with amphipathic molecules, such as an anionic detergent, to achieve the desired result. A preferred anionic detergent in this regard is sodium dodecylsulfate.

Abstract: A novel bacterial proteinaceous immunoglobulin G receptor is disclosed. The proteinaceous factor binds all four subclasses of human IgG, as well as rabbit, swine, equine, bovine, sheep, and goat IgG. The proteinaceous factor is obtained from biologically pure cultures of Gardnerella vaginalis such as those having the identifying characteristics of ATCC Deposit No. 55195.

Abstract: A new human/human fused cell clone derived from human B cells having the ability to produce immunoglobulins and human B cells substantially lacking the ability to produce immunoglobulins, antigen-specific human immunoglobulins produced by the human/human fused cell clone, and a method of producing the human immunoglobulins. More specifically, a human/human hybridoma having the ability to produce antigen-specific human immunoglobulins, which is a human/human fused cell strain derived from human B cells of a human patient with liver cancer and a subclone of a human lymphoblast cell strain; and antigen-specific human immunoglobulins produced by the human/human fused cell strain.

Abstract: Soluble polypeptide fraction consisting of all or part one of at least one of the four immunoglobulin-type extracellular LAG-3 protein domains (amino acids 1-159, 160-230 239, 240-330 and 331-412 of the SEQ ID NO:1 sequence) or consisting of one peptide sequence derived from these domains by replacement, addition or deletion of one or more amino acids. The fraction of the invention has a specificity at least equal to that of LAG-3 in relation to its ligand.