Abstract: A method for treating a tumor includes a first treatment procedure using a conventional cancer treatment technique, and a second treatment procedure which includes administering an effective amount of squalamine. Synergistically effective amounts are preferred. The first treatment procedure may be a treatment with one or more conventional cytotoxic chemical compounds. As examples, the cytotoxic chemical compound may be a nitrosourea (such as BCNU), cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, 5-fluorouracil, paclitaxel and its derivatives, cisplatin or other platinum containing cancer treating agents. Alternatively, the first treatment may be a treatment with one or more conventional anti-hormonal agents. As examples, the anti-hormonal agents may be a LHRH (luteinizing hormone releasing hormone) agonist or an anti-androgen such as flutamide, biclutamide, nilutamide, and luprolide. These conventional cancer treatments compounds and the squalamine may be administered by any suitable route.

Abstract: A new gene in the calcium-activated chloride channel family has been discovered that is induced by L-9, thereby providing a therapeutic target in IL-9 mediated development of atopic allergy, asthma-related disorders and cystic fibrosis. A method for the identification and use of small molecule inhibitors of this gene and its products to treat these disorders has also been discovered.

Abstract: Newly isolated aminosterol compounds and pharmaceutical compositions based on the aminosterol compounds are described. Methods for the treatment of various disorders, for example, a microbial infection, are also described.

Abstract: A C to T DNA variation at position 3365 in exon 5 of the human Asthma Associated Factor 1 (AAF1) produces the predicted amino acid substitution of a methionine for a threonine at codon 117 of AAF1. When this substitution occurs in both alleles in one individual, it is associated with less evidence of atopic allergy including asthma, fewer abnormal skin test responses, and a lower serum total IgE. Thus, applicant has identified the existence of a non-asthmatic, non-atopic phenotype characterized by methionine at codon 117 when it occurs in both AAF1 gene products in one individual.