Abstract: A method for selective detection of cyanide in a sample comprises determining a color change of a corrinoid compound caused upon contact with the sample. A high detection sensitivity and selectivity are achieved by having the corrinoid compound adsorbed on a solid phase. This general principle is applied in a kit for selective detection of cyanide and to uses thereof. One application consists in a device for removing hydrogen cyanide from a gaseous phase, e.g. tobacco smoke.

Abstract: Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disease characterized by red blood cells that assume an abnormal, rigid, sickle shape. Acute complications of Sickle cell anemia are treated symptomatically with analgesics and transfusions, and a prophylactic treatment of sickle cell crisis is long term application of hydroxyurea. According to the present invention, an N-methyl D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) blocker is used for the treatment of sickle cell anemia and for manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of sickle cell anemia. Moreover, a method for screening for a compound effective in the treatment of sickle cell anemia comprises contacting a candidate compound with the NMDAR and selecting said candidate compound as effective if it is found to selectively reduce activity of the NMDAR.

Abstract: Prolyl and lysyl hydroxylases isolated from Mimivirus are described. These are able to hydroxylate collagen. Isolated nucleic acids coding for the mentioned hydroxylases are incorporated into suitable vectors and used to express these hydroxylases in host cells, e.g. E. coli. Furthermore a method of manufacturing hydroxylated collagen in a host cell is described. The hydroxylases and the recombinantly expressed hydroxylated collagen are useful in clinical settings and biotechnology applications.