Abstract: The present invention is based on the seminal discovery of a panel of targeting peptides and antibodies that can recognize AD brains at different stages of the disease, starting from early to advanced stage. The peptide probes described here are unique in the field and can be expected to advance understanding on early neurodegenerative changes associated with AD and improve the therapeutic outcomes by early detection and intervention in AD. Further, the invention provides antibodies that can be used to treat AD.

Abstract: Compositions are disclosed which include a CAQK peptide linked or conjugated to a cargo composition, where the peptide selectively homes the composition to a site of nervous system injury in a subject.

Abstract: The present invention is based on the seminal discovery of a panel of targeting peptides and antibodies that can recognize AD brains at different stages of the disease, starting from early to advanced stage. The peptide probes described here are unique in the field and can be expected to advance understanding on early neurodegenerative changes associated with AD and improve the therapeutic outcomes by early detection and intervention in AD. Further, the invention provides antibodies that can be used to treat AD.

Abstract: Compositions are disclosed which include a CAQK peptide linked or conjugated to a cargo composition, where the peptide selectively homes the composition to a site of nervous system injury in a subject.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and compositions for selectively targeting sites of traumatic brain injury (TBI). A brain injury-specific 4-amino acid peptide (sequence CAQK), identified by in vivo phage display screening in mice with acute brain injury, shows selective binding to mouse and human brain injury lesions, and when systemically injected, specifically homes to sites of injury in penetrating and non-penetrating (controlled cortical impact) brain injury models. Also disclosed are methods and compositions for delivering therapeutic compounds to such sites. CAQK-coated nanoparticles containing silencing oligonucleotides provide an alternative to local delivery of therapeutics, which is invasive and can add complications to the injury.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and compositions for selectively targeting sites of traumatic brain injury (TBI). A brain injury-specific 4-amino acid peptide (sequence CAQK), identified by in vivo phage display screening in mice with acute brain injury, shows selective binding to mouse and human brain injury lesions, and when systemically injected, specifically homes to sites of injury in penetrating and non-penetrating (controlled cortical impact) brain injury models. Also disclosed are methods and compositions for delivering therapeutic compounds to such sites. CAQK-coated nanoparticles containing silencing oligonucleotides provide an alternative to local delivery of therapeutics, which is invasive and can add complications to the injury.

Abstract: An isolated nucleic acid molecule that selectively binds to an E-selectin protein comprises a contiguous 29-30 nucleotide sequence that includes at least one monothiophosphate or a dithiophosphate modified nucleotide. Also disclosed are methods of inhibiting an E-selectin mediated interaction with a natural E-selectin ligand, and methods of targeting an imaging agent or therapeutic agent to a target tissue bearing E-selectin.

Abstract: An isolated nucleic acid molecule that selectively binds to an E-selectin protein comprises a contiguous 29-30 nucleotide sequence that includes at least one monothiophosphate or a dithiophosphate modified nucleotide. Also disclosed are methods of inhibiting an E-selectin mediated interaction with a natural E-selectin ligand, and methods of targeting an imaging agent or therapeutic agent to a target tissue bearing E-selectin.