Abstract: A novel protein associated with multidrug resistance in living cells and capable of conferring multidrug resistance on a cell is disclosed. Nucleic acids encoding the novel multidrug resistance protein are also disclosed. Transformant cell lines which express the nucleic acid encoding the novel protein are also disclosed. Antibodies which bind the novel multidrug resistance protein are also disclosed. Diagnostic and treatment methods using the novel proteins, nucleic acids, antibodies and cell lines of the invention are also encompassed by the invention.

Abstract: In vivo and in vitro methods of increasing amyloid deposition using amyloid-enhancing compounds are described. Methods of forming amyloid fibrils and screening for agents useful in treating amyloidosis are also described. Animals having non-naturally occurring amyloid deposits produced using the amyloid-enhancing compounds even further are described.

Abstract: Sulfonated multiblock copolymers, and uses thereof, are disclosed. The sulfonated copolymers are useful for providing non-thrombogenic coatings, e.g., for medical devices, and for promoting cell growth, differentiation, or production of normal cell products. The sulfonated copolymers are also useful for administration of therapeutic agents.

Abstract: A gene encoding a leukocyte-derived growth factor (LDGF) has been isolated, cloned and sequenced. LDGF is believed to correspond to a PDGF-like monocyte-derived growth factor with chemotactic activity which is found in human wound fluid. Protease-resistant and other analogues of LDGF, as well as recombinant LDGF of native amino acid sequence, may now be produced by gene expression in transformed hosts.

Abstract: A novel protein associated with multidrug resistance in living cells and capable of conferring multidrug resistance on a cell is disclosed. Nucleic acids encoding the novel multidrug resistance protein are also disclosed. Transformant cell lines which express the nucleic acid encoding the novel protein are also disclosed. Antibodies which bind the novel multidrug resistance protein are also disclosed. Diagnostic and treatment methods using the novel proteins, nucleic acids, antibodies and cell lines of the invention are also encompassed by the invention.

Abstract: Antibodies that bind soluble IgE but not IgE on the surface of B lymphocytes or basophils are described. The antibodies do not induce histamine release by basophils or mast cells.

Abstract: Anti-idiotypic monoclonal antibodies that recognize the paratope of monoclonal antibodies specific for unique antigenic epitopes of IgE (designated ige.bl) which are present on membrane-bound IgE-expressed by bearing B cells but not on IgE bound to Fc.epsilon.R on basophils are described.

Abstract: The invention includes human .epsilon. chain transmembrane anchor peptide resulting from mRNA splicing other than the C.epsilon.4 exon, the .epsilon.m1 exon, and the .epsilon.m2 exon. Two new peptides in particular have been specifically identified. These novel peptides are not present in the conventional secreted (and circulating) IgE. These peptides provide antigenic sites for antibody binding. Thus, the invention further includes antibodies to such peptide segments, as well as such antibodies conjugated to cytotoxic agents, and their use in extracorporeal or in vivo therapy.

Abstract: Antigenic epitopes associated with the extracellular segment of the domain which anchors immunoglobulins to the B cell membrane are disclosed. For IgE, the epitopes are present on IgE-bearing B cells but not basophils or the secreted, soluble form of IgE. The epitope can be exploited for therapy and diagnosis. For example, antibodies or immunotoxins specific for the epitopes associated with the anchor domain of IgE can be used to selectively destroy IgE-bearing lymphocytes, thus blocking IgE-mediated allergic reactions.

Abstract: Molecular conjugates which facilitate the attachment of macromolecular drugs onto cellular surfaces and their entry into cells are described. The molecular conjugates comprise a macromolecular drug linked to an "inactivated" membrane blending agent which inserts into the cellular plasma membrane. The membrane blending agent is inactivated by cleavable linkage to a blocking agent which, until released from the conjugate under appropriate conditions, blocks and ability of the membrane blending agent to insert into the cellular membrane. Upon release of the blocking agent, the membrane blending agent is "activated" and the conjugate can be inserted into a cellular plasma membrane. The membrane blending agents can be peptides such as fusogenic or ion channel forming peptides or long chain fatty acids. The blocking agents can be bulky or charged moieties which mask and prevent insertion of the membrane blending agent.

Abstract: Antigenic epitopes associated with the extracellular segment of the domain which anchors immunoglobulins to the B cell membrane are disclosed. For IgA, the epitopes are present on IgA-bearing B cells but not the secreted, soluble form of IgA. The epitopes can be exploited for therapy and prophylaxis. For example, antibodies specific for the epitopes associated with the anchor and peptide encompassing the epitope domain of IgA can be used to increase secretory IgA production for the purposes of treating patients with infectious diseases and IgE-mediated allergic diseases.

Abstract: Antigenic epitopes associated with the extracellular segment of the domain which anchors immunoglobulins to the B cell membrane are disclosed. For IgA, the epitopes are present on IgA-bearing B cells but not the secreted, soluble form of IgA. The epitope can be exploited for therapy and prophylacsis. For example, antibodies specific for the epitopes associated with the anchor and peptide encompassing the epitope domain of IgA can be used to increase secretory IgA production for the purposes of treating patients susceptible with infectious diseases and IgE-mediated allergic diseases.