Abstract: The present invention discloses synthetic peptides and antibodies raised thereto wherein the synthetic peptides represent important epitopic sites recognized by the 0.5 .alpha. antibody, a human monoclonal antibody which can neutralize HTLV-I. Also, the uses of these peptides or antibodies thereto either alone or in combination with peptides representing the epitopic site for the predominant antibodies found in HTLV-I env seropositive sera as diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines are disclosed.

Abstract: The mRNA coded by the "anti-sense" strand of the complementary DNA produced by HTLV-I infection contains significant open reading frames. Cells infected by HTLV-I virus produce mRNA that is anti-sense to the viral RNA genome. Infected cells may produce proteins from the newly discovered mRNA. The production of the anti-sense in mRNA initiates from a newly discovered transcriptional promoter located within 1.8 kb from the 3' terminus of the viral genome. The mRNA, protein, and antibodies directed thereto can be used in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of HTLV-I infections.

Abstract: A medical device for the transdermal delivery of an active agent through sensitive intact skin is provided. The device comprises a matrix containing the drug having reinforcing means, preferably in the form of a fabric, embedded in the upper surface of the matrix. The matrix is formed of an agent permeable material which is tacky but does not adhesively bond to the skin. The device is sufficiently flexible and deformable that the combination of tackiness, flexibility, and deformation permits the device to be maintained in agent transmitting relationship upon skin at such sensitive areas as the scrotum, labia, breast, or penis, for example. In certain embodiments, the skin distal surface is provided with a layer of an agent impermeable material to reduce transfer of the agent from the patient to others.

Abstract: A transdermal therapeutic system using a subsaturated matrix is provided having improved approved release characteristics. Reinforcing means preferably in the form of a fabric are embedded in the upper surface of the subsaturated matrix. At least a portion of the reinforcing means is selected such that the active agent to be delivered to the skin has a solubility, C.sub.r therein which is lower than the initial solubility C.sub.o of the agent in the matrix. In addition, the relationship between the diffusion coefficients of the agent in the matrix D.sub.m and the portion of reinforcing means D.sub.r and the solubilities is given by the relationship: D.sub.r .multidot.C.sub.r <D.sub.m .multidot.C.sub.o. In operation the agent dissolved in the reinforcing means acts as a secondary reservoir improving the release characteristics of the system. Specific embodiments of the invention are particularly adapted for scrotal and labial delivery of drugs such as testosterone and progesterone.