Abstract: This invention relates to safe and effective methods for the extraction of nucleic acids. In particular, methods are described for isolating nucleic acid from a sample containing a biological mixture of nucleic acids and other biological compounds wherein the sample is combined with an extraction solution containing at least one organic compound such as benzyl alcohol or a benzyl alcohol derivative to form an aqueous and non-aqueous phase. The nucleic acid is isolated from the aqueous phase. Preferably, the resulting combined solution also contains bentonite, as defined below. Typically, the sample will first be combined with a lysing agent before extraction. The lysing agents preferred are chaotropic salts such as guanidinium hydrochloride and guanidinium isothiocyanate.

Abstract: Conjugates of trichothecenes and agents that bind to a defined population of cells are disclosed. Preferred are conjugates of trichothecene molecules with polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies or fragments thereof that recognize antigens that are present only on tumor cells or are augmented in their expression on tumor cells as compared to normal tissues. Trichothecene molecules are coupled to the agent through non-covalent and covalent linkages, such as peptide bonds, disulfide bonds, thioester bonds, or thioether bonds. Methods for reducing intoxification in a recipient of a trichothecene and an agent and for producing a trichothecene conjugate with improved solubility are also disclosed.