Abstract: The invention encompasses a locus control subregion that possesses chromatin opening domain activity, the activity conferring reproducible activation of tissue-specific expression on a linked transgene to a non-physiological level when the transgene is integrated in single copy in the genome of a host cell.

Abstract: The present invention relates to monoclonal antibodies which recognize defined regions of the T-cell receptor (TCR). In a specific embodiment, the invention provides monoclonal antibodies which are reactive with a constant region of the alpha chain of the TCR. In particular embodiments, the invention relates to two monoclonal antibodies, termed .alpha.F1 and .alpha.F2, which react with two different epitopes on the framework region of the .alpha. monomer of the TCR molecule. In another specific embodiment, the invention is directed to monoclonal antibodies reactive with a variable region of the beta chain of the TCR. In particular, the invention provides two monoclonal antibodies, termed W112 and 2D1, which react with .beta. chain variable regions V.beta.5.3 and V.beta.8.1, respectively. In another specific embodiment, the invention is directed to monoclonal antibodies reactive with a variable region of the delta chain of the TCR. In particular, the invention provides monoclonal antibody .delta.

Abstract: The invention encompasses methods and reagents for the diagnosis of a disease caused by or associated with a gene having a somatic mutation giving rise to a frameshift mutation. The methods include the steps of providing a body fluid or tissue sample from a patient; and analyzing the sample for the presence of a gene having a frameshift mutation or a protein encoded thereby, wherein the presence of the mutated gene or encoded protein is indicative of the disease.

Abstract: The invention provides for compositions and methods for interfering with Hepatitis B viral infection that are based on the interaction of Hepatitis B virus X protein with a novel proteasome subunit.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for preventing undesired immune responses in which a recombinant protein is prepared which includes a glycine-containing amino acid sequence, protein substantial invisibility to the immune system.

Abstract: The invention is based on the discovery of a pharmaceutical preparation for use in gene therapy which includes a therapeutic nucleic acid associated with Insulin-NHCO--CH.sub.2 --O--N.dbd.CH--C-Lys.sub.18 -Cys(S-Pyridyl)-OH in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.