Abstract: Selected novel substituted pyridine compounds are effective for prophylaxis and treatment of diseases, such as TNF-.alpha., IL-1.beta., IL-6 and/or IL-8 mediated diseases, and other maladies, such as pain and diabetes. The invention encompasses novel compounds, analogs, prodrugs and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, pharmaceutical compositions and methods for prophylaxis and treatment of diseases and other maladies or conditions involving inflammation, pain, diabetes, cancer and the like. The subject invention also relates to processes for making such compounds as well as to intermediates useful in such processes.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of preparing a lyophilized stem cell factor (SCF). The method comprises mixing the SCF with histidine and/or glutamic acid and lyophilizing the formulation. Optionally, a bulking agent or an osmolarity regulating agent is included in the formulation prior to lyophilization.