Abstract: Novel biologically active polypeptides, including a new class of transforming growth factor (TGF) polypeptides, which exhibit cell growth promoting properties are disclosed, as well as a process for isolating the TGF polypeptides from both human and murine cell lines in homogeneous form. Also disclosed are antigenic oligopeptides derived from the TGF polypeptides and antibodies raised therefrom which have application in the detection and treatment of malignancies and oligipeptides which have the ability to bind with cellular growth factor receptors and thus to interfere with transformation of certain cell lines into a cancerous state. Compositions and methods based on the disclosed peptides for detection and treatment of cancer and other proliferative diseases and for cell or tissue growth associated treatment, e.g., wound healing, ulcer therapy and bone loss are also described.

Abstract: In a reaction product of propylene epoxidation with an organic hydroperoxide in the presence of a heterogeneous catalyst, decomposition of residual hydroperoxides is effected by contact of the reaction product mixture at elevated temperature and pressure with a heterogeneous cobalt oxide catalyst which may also contain copper oxide as a promoter. The hydroperoxide is thereby decomposed to the corresponding alcohol without significant loss of propylene oxide or production of undesirable contaminants.