Abstract: A method for T-cell epitope prediction where quantitative scores of stability in the binding between peptides and MHC molecules are integrated into the derivation of the likelihood that a peptide of defined amino acid sequence constitutes a T-cell epitope. Preferably, stability data are obtained an MS-based method for identification of MHC binding peptides, where the binding capability is quantitatively assessed to allow distinction between stably binding peptides and peptides that are unlikely to be presented to T-cells. The method includes a step of time-course or thermostability testing of naturally processed peptides bound to MHC. Also disclosed are methods for preparation of personalized immunogenic compositions, methods of therapeutic treatment of malignancies, and a computer system that implements the T-cell epitope prediction method.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for performing a mass spectrometric analysis of analytes in a complex mixture. In particular, samples containing unknown analytes are analyzed by MS/MS to identify portions of a molecule of interest that has been labeled with a selected isotope. Ionization and detection identify a characteristic isotope shift in real time based on a selective precursor ion scan that in turn identifies precursor masses that also contain the isotopic shift. From the precursor ion scan, precursor masses are identified for further mass spectrometric analyses. The method of the invention is preferably performed in real time such that the precursor ion scan simultaneously identifies target precursor ions and identifies precursor masses for further analyses.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a method of modulating T cell functional activity by utilising ?-amino acid substituted peptides and to agents useful for the same. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method of modulating class I restricted T cell activity by utilising ?-amino acid substituted peptides and to agents useful for the same. The method of the present invention is useful, inter alia, in the treatment and/or prophylaxis of conditions characterised by suboptimal T cell stimulation such as that which occurs in some viral infections and in anti-tumour immunity, as well as aberrant, unwanted or otherwise inappropriate T cell functioning such as, but not limited to, graft rejection or autoimmune conditions, the present invention is further directed to methods of identifying, designing and/or modifying agents capable of modulating T cell functional activity.