Abstract: Methods and pharmaceutical compositions for modifying cells of a mammalian recipient with DNA encoding a secreted protein such as human interferon in situ are provided. The methods include forming a secreted protein expression system in vivo or ex vivo and administering the expression system to the mammalian recipient. The expression system and methods are useful for the localized and systemic delivery of interferons in situ.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process of producing a siloxane copolymer comprising the step of reacting at least one diol, at least one dicarbonate and at least one silicon compound as copolymerization components in the presence of an esterification or transesterification catalyst, wherein the silicon compound is represented by the general formulas (I) and (II): wherein R1, R2, R3 and R4 are each independently a hydrogen atom or a substituted or non-substituted organic group; X and Y are each independently a hydrogen atom or a substituted or non-substituted organic group; a represents an integer of 0 to 5,000; and b represents an integer of 3 to 20.

Abstract: Human coronary heart disease susceptibility gene (CHD1), some alleles of which are related to susceptibility to coronary heart disease. Germline mutations in the CHD1 gene and their use in the diagnosis of predisposition to coronary heart disease and to metabolic disorders, including hypoalphalipoproteinemia, familial combined hyperlipidemia, insulin resistant syndrome X or multiple metabolic disorder, obesity, diabetes and dyslipidemic hypertension. Presymptomatic therapy of individuals who carry deleterious alleles of the CHD1 gene (including gene therapy, protein replacement therapy, and administration of protein mimetics and inhibitors). The screening of drugs for dyslipidemic therapy.