Abstract: The present invention provides chimeric proteins comprising a Factor VIII (FVIII) polypeptide and XTEN polypeptides. The FVIII polypeptide can have a reduced affinity for von Willebrand Factor (VWF). XTEN polypeptides of appropriate sizes are inserted into the FVIII polypeptide at particular locations in order to extend the half-life of the FVIII polypeptide. The invention also includes nucleotides, vectors, host cells, and methods of using the chimeric proteins, e.g., to treat bleeding diseases and disorders.

Abstract: This invention relates to modified IGF-II binding domains of the Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 Receptor (IGF2R) which have enhanced binding affinity for IGF-II relative to the wild type IGF-II binding domain. Suitable IGF-II binding domains may be modified, for example, by substituting residue E1544 for a non-acidic residue. These modified domains may be useful in the sequestration of Insulin-like Growth Factor II (IGF-II), for example, in the treatment of cancer.

Abstract: Exogenous cDNA capable of expressing interferon? activity, exogenous interferon? protein, inducers of endogenous interferon? protein activity, inducers of endogenous interferon $ protein activity, inducers of endogenous interferon? activity, or inducers of other immune-enhancing activity can be combined with a vaccine to enhance an immune response. Specifically disclosed are adjuvant and vaccine combinations where the adjuvant comprises a cDNA capable of expressing interferon? activity, a complex comprising polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidilic acid, or a complex comprising polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidilic acid, poly-L-lysine, and carboxymethylcellulose and where the vaccine is a live vaccine virus derived from a virus causing porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome disease.

Abstract: A device, and method of making the device, capable of therapeutic treatment and/or for in vitro testing of human skin. The device may be used on skin wounds for burned, injured, or diseased skin, and provides structures and functions as in normal uninjured skin, such as barrier function, which is a definitive property of normal skin. The device contains cultured dermal and epidermal cells on a biocompatible, biodegradable reticulated matrix. All or part of the cells may be autologous, from the recipient of the cultured skin device, which advantageously eliminates concerns of tissue compatibility. The cells may also be modified genetically to provide one or more factors to facilitate healing of the engrafted skin replacement, such as an angiogenic factor to stimulate growth of blood vessels.