Abstract: A highly efficient genetic cloning system is disclosed which is particularly useful for cloning cDNA copies of eukaryotic mRNAs and can direct the orientation of inserts in .lambda.-plasmid composite vectors with large cloning capacities. Cleavage of such vector DNA, by the restriction enzyme SfiI, for example, creates two different non-symmetrical 3' extensions at the ends of vector DNA. Using a linker-primer and an adaptor, cDNA is prepared to have two different sticky ends which can be ligated to those of the vector. When the cDNA fragments and the vector DNAs are mixed, both the molecules can assemble without self-circularization due to base-pairing specificity. This system provides (1) high cloning efficiency (10.sup.7 -10.sup.8 clones/.mu.g poly(A).sup.

Abstract: The gene responsible for the capability of E. coli to assimilate acetic acid has been isolated and characterized. Transforming bacteria with this gene enhances the bacteria's ability to assimilate acetic acid and results in a bacteria having improved growth characteristics, particularly on culture media containing glucose as a nutrient.

Abstract: Various specific human SP-18 and human SP-5 derived peptides have alveolar surfactant protein (ASP) activity. These peptides are prepared using synthetic methods or by recombinant techniques.

Abstract: A method for increasing the yield of recombinant non-bacterial or bacterial gene products from bacteria comprising inserting a non-bacterial or bacterial gene into the genetic material of the bacteria whereby the inserted gene is co-expressed with a desired recombinant non-bacterial or bacterial gene product and aids the arrangement of the gene product into the proper final conformation. The non-bacterial or bacterial gene for insertion into the genetic material is also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods of diagnosing peripheral nerve damage, including diagnosing and monitoring chronic back and cervical pain are disclosed. The methods involve subjecting a body fluid sample from a patient suspected of having chronic lumbar or cervical pain and peripheral nerve damage to two-dimensional electrophoresis or an immunoassay and measuring relative amounts of protein or proteins which increase or decrease in concentration as compared to a standard control. A preferred method employs an Apo-E variant as a marker of peripheral nerve damage. Also disclosed are kits for use with the diagnostic methods.

Abstract: This invention encompasses DNA compositions encoding novel chimeric glycoproteins which are useful for preparing virus specific immune responses against human respiratory syncytial virus. The DNA compositions include structural genes coding for the glycoproteins and expression and replication plasmids containing the structural genes. Host cells transformed with the above DNA compositions, vaccines made from the glycoproteins and methods for protecting humans by inoculation with said vaccines are also part of this invention.

Abstract: This invention relates to T7-type DNA polymerases and methods for using them.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for the production of human superoxide dismutase and a novel protocol for enhancing efficiency of expression. The gene encoding for human superoxide dismutase is isolated and inserted into a vector in conjunction with a synthetic linker which provides for enhanced efficiency in translation.E. coli strain D1210 (pSOD.times.8) was deposited at the A.T.C.C. on Sep. 27, 1983 and given Accession No. 39453. Yeast strain 2150-2-3 (pC1/1GAPSOD) and E. coli strains D1210 (pSOD11) and D1210 (pS2OR) were deposited at the A.T.C.C. on May 9, 1984, and given Accession Nos. 20708, 39679 and 39,680, respectively.

Abstract: A double-stranded cDNA molecule which includes DNA encoding human manganese superoxide dismutase has been created. The sequence of one strand of a double-stranded DNA molecule which encodes human maganese superoxide dismutase has been discovered. Such molecules may be introduced in procaryotic, e.g., bacterial, or eukaryotic, e.g., yeast or mammalian, cells and the resulting cells cultured or grown under suitable conditions so as to produce human manganese superoxide dismutase or analogs thereof which may then be recovered. Human MnSOD or analogs thereof may be used to catalyze the reduction of superoxide radicals, reduce reperfusion injury, prolong the survival time of isolated organs, or treat inflammations.