Abstract: The present invention relates to the NQBS class of molecules. It is based, at least in part, on the discovery that a representative group of compounds have been observed to inhibit nuclear translocation of NF-?B subunits. Without being bound by any particular theory, this inhibition of nuclear translocation may be mediated by either (i) binding of the NQBS or related compound to the C-terminus of the RHD, which specifically mediates the nuclear internalization; or (ii) NQBS-mediated stabilization of the dimer/I?B complex, disallowing dissociation of the active NF-?B monomers, and thus, inhibiting the generation of the subunits necessary to enter the nucleus. The NQBS class of molecules, and related molecules, may be used in therapeutic applications where inhibition of NF-?B translocation is beneficial, including but not limited to the treatment of cancer, autoimmune disorders, and inflammatory states.

Abstract: This invention provides an isolated nucleic acid molecule encoding a protein from the surface of activated T cells, wherein the protein is necessary for T cell activation of B cells. The nucleic acid molecule may include a DNA molecule or a cDNA molecule. This invention further provides a gene transfer vector including the nucleic acid molecule operably linked to a promoter of RNA transcription. The vector may be a plasmid or a viral vector. This invention further provides a host vector system including the gene transfer vector in a suitable host cell. The transformed yeast or a stably transformed mammalian cell. This invention further provides a method of producing a T cell surface protein necessary for T cell activation of B cells which includes growing the host vector system under conditions permitting production of the protein, followed by recovering the protein so produced.