Abstract: The present invention provides a method for the purification and characterization of MHC-peptide complexes useful in ameliorating immunological disorders, such as, for example, autoimmune diseases, allergic responses and transplant responses. The method disclosed is a one-step method based on the use of metal chelate affinity chromatography to separate the MHC-peptide complexes of interest from both uncomplexed MHC molecules and other endogenous MHC-peptide bound complexes.

Abstract: A compound of the formula I ##STR1## wherein A and C are independently H, alkyl of 1-6 carbon atoms, hydroxy, or alkoxy of 1-6 carbon atoms;B is hydroxy or alkoxy of 1-6 carbon atoms; andY is cyano, ##STR2##--C(NR.sub.1 R.sub.2).dbd.C(CN).sub.2 ;wherein X=O or S, and R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are independently H, benzyl, --CH(CH.sub.3), C.sub.6 H.sub.5--(CH.sub.2).sub.n C.sub.6 H.sub.6, phenyl; --CO.sub.2 R;n=2-4; R is lower alkyl of 1-6 carbon atomsis used for treating inflammation and immunological diseases.

Abstract: This invention provides methods of improving the binding affinity of a peptide epitope for MHC Class II molecules by attaching to the N-terminus of the peptide epitope a hydrophobic amino acid or a peptide containing a hydrophobic amino acid. The invention also provides complexes between the modified antigenic peptides and MHC Class II molecules, as well as method for treating deleterious immune responses.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for the purification and characterization of MHC-peptide complexes useful in ameliorating immunological disorders, such as, for example, autoimmune diseases, allergic responses and transplant responses. The method disclosed is a one-step method based on the use of metal chelate affinity chromatography to separate the MHC-peptide complexes of interest from both uncomplexed MHC molecules and other endogenous MHC-peptide bound complexes.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to complexes comprising an isolated MHC subunit component, an antigenic peptide and, in some cases, an effector component. The antigenic peptide is associated with the antigen binding site of the MHC subunit component. These complexes are useful in treating autoimmune disease.

Abstract: This invention provides a novel and rapid method for isolating MHC:antigen-restricted T cells. The method comprises the steps of (a) providing an isolated MHC:peptide complex wherein said complex is bound to a solid support; (b) contacting the complex with the biological sample containing T lymphocytes to form a MHC:peptide:T cell complex; (c) removing the MHC:peptide:T cell complex from the peripheral blood; and (d) separating the bound T lymphocytes from the MHC:peptide:T cell complex. The T-cells can be used to detect the presence, in a biological sample, of antigen presenting cells bearing a preselected MHC:antigen complex.

Abstract: Intracellularly cleavable derivatives of toxic compounds including antibiotics are described.

Abstract: Intracellularly cleavable derivatives of toxic compounds including antibiotics are described.