Abstract: The invention provides a method and expression system for enhancing secretion of hyperproduced homologous and heterologous exoproteins in gram-positive bacteria such as Bacillus sp. The method and system comprise overproduction of PrsA protein in gram-positive bacterial host capable of also overproducing at least one exoprotein of interest. Use of the method and system of the invention results in greatly enhanced secretion of the synthesized exoproteins into the growth medium. Once in the growth medium these secreted exoproteins can be recovered and purified in a straightforward manner.

Abstract: Assays for determining cartilage synthesis associated with osteoarthritis are presented. The assays are based on detection of type IIA procollagen or propeptide, or type IIA mRNA in a tissue or fluid sample from a non-neonatal individual being tested. Since type IIA procollagen is not found in normal non-neonatal individuals, type IIA procollagen and the mRNA which encodes it are unique markers for osteoarthritis which exhibits neonatal like cartilage synthesis as part of the disease syndrome.