Abstract: The present invention provides methods of determining aggregation of &agr;-synuclein, which are a hallmark of Lewy body diseases such as Parkinson's disease. Also disclosed are inhibitors of the aggregation, including magnesium and &agr;-synuclein binding peptides. The inhibitors are useful in the treatment of Lewy body diseases.

Abstract: Highly efficient cationic liposomes have been developed as an improved delivery system for biologically-active reagents. A novel structure, the sandwich liposome, is formed and comprises one or more biologically active agents internalized between two bilomellar liposomes. This structure protects the incoming agent and accounts for the high efficiency of in vivo delivery and for the broad tissue distribution of the sandwich liposome complexes. These novel liposomes are also highly efficient carriers of nucleic acids. By using extruded DOTAP:cholesterol liposomes to form complexes with DNA encoding specific proteins, expression has been improved dramatically. Highest expression was achieved in the lung, while increased expression was detected in several organs and tissues.

Abstract: An artificial tube for a nerve is disclosed that has a controlled rate of decomposition in the body such that the tube remains in the body until the nerve regenerates, which induces axons regenerated from severed nerve stumps to extend in the proper direction without pressing on the regenerated nerve following nerve regeneration and causes rapid restoration of blood flow by promoting infiltration of blood capillaries from the body to promote regeneration of the nerve, and which comprises a tube (10) or (20) having a coating layer (13) or (23) that is composed of gelatin or collagen on at least the outer surface of tube (11) or (21) that is composed of a material that is biodegradable and absorbable in vivo, wherein a pre-thermal dehydration crosslinking treated collagen fiber bundle (referring to a bundle fibers (31) composed of collagen) is inserted in its lumen along the axis of the tube (10) or (20), and wherein the fibers composed of collagen are coated with laminin.

Abstract: Active enamel substances may be used for the preparation of a pharmaceutical or cosmetic composition for healing of a wound, improving healing of a wound, soft tissue regeneration or repair, or for preventing or treating infection or inflammation.