Abstract: Provided are methods for the identification of novel genes involved in a variety of cellular processes, including retinal degeneration, retinal disease, cancer, memory and learning, amylotropic lateral sclerosis, and methods for the identification of the function of a variety of genes and gene fragments of unknown function. The genes thus identified, as well as the compositions used in the identification methods, are also provided.

Abstract: Hammerhead ribozymes that target components critical to HSV replication (ICP4, UL20, UL30, and UL54) were synthesized and shown to efficiently cleave target RNA encoding a portion of these components in in vitro assays. Several cloned cell lines stably expressing these ribozymes were established. HSV-mediated plaque formation was dramatically reduced in cells stably transfected with an anti-HSV ribozyme compared to non-transfected cells.

Abstract: Disclosed are ribozymes, as well as compositions, vectors, virus particles, host cells, and therapeutic kits comprising them useful in the treatment of diseases of the eye, including retinopathy and macular degeneration, and the amelioration of symptoms of such diseases including loss of vision, retinitis, and blindness.