Abstract: Ubiquitin hydrolase is provided having a purity of at least 70% homogeneity based on the weight of the total protein in the composition, which hydrolase hydrolyzes a ubiquitin-polypeptide conjugate at the amide bond linking the ubiquitin and polypeptide, thereby yielding intact polypeptide with an unconjugated, mature N-terminus. Also provided are DNA sequences encoding such ubiquitin hydrolase, as well as expression systems for its recombinant production. Processes are provided for purification of ubiquitin hydrolase from eukaryotes and for its use in recovering any desired polypeptide free from its fusion at its N-terminus with ubiquitin.

Abstract: A method of predisposing a mammal to accelerated tissue repair is provided. This method comprises systemically administering to the mammal, prior to its exposure to tissue damage, an effective amount of TGF-.beta.. Preferably, the TGF-.beta. is administered no more than about 24 hours prior to exposure to tissue damage.