Abstract: The invention provides mutant SH3-binding protein (SH3BP2) nucleic acids, polypeptides, and agents which selectively bind to the mutant SH3BP2 molecules and which do not bind to the wild type SH3BP2 molecules. Methods for selecting agents which inhibit mutant SH3BP2 expression, as well as diagnostic and therapeutic methods which utilize the mutant SH3BP2 molecules for diagnosing and treating disorders of bone homeostasis, also are provided.

Abstract: Tooth tissues include the pulp mesenchyme that forms the dentin and an epithelium that is responsible for enamel formation. Cells from these tissues were obtained from porcine third molars and were seeded onto a biodegradable scaffold composed of a polyglycolic acid—polylactic acid copolymer. Cell polymer constructs were then surgically implanted into the omentum of athymic nude rats so that the constructs would have a blood supply and these tissues were allowed to develop inside the rats. Infrequently, columnar epithelial cells were observed as a single layer on the outside of the dentin-like matrix similar to the actual arrangement of ameloblasts over dentin during early tooth development. Developing tooth tissues derived from such cell polymer constructs could eventually be surgically implanted into the gum of an edentulous recipient where the construct would receive a blood supply and develop to maturity, providing the recipient with a biological tooth replacement.

Abstract: Tooth tissues include the pulp mesenchyme that forms the dentin and an epithelium that is responsible for enamel formation. Cells from these tissues were obtained from porcine third molars and were seeded onto a biodegradable scaffold composed of a polyglycolic acid-polylactic acid copolymer. Cell polymer constructs were then surgically implanted into the omentum of athymic nude rats so that the constructs would have a blood supply and these tissues were allowed to develop inside the rats. Histological analysis of 7.5 week-old implants revealed a dentin-like collagenous matrix containing hydroxyapatite mineral surrounding a core of mesenchymal cells that appeared analogous to pulp tissue. Infrequently, columnar epithelial cells were observed as a single layer on the outside of the dentin-like matrix similar to the actual arrangement of ameloblasts over dentin during early tooth development.

Abstract: A bone strength and mineralization regulatory (“BSMR”) protein is provided that can exist in multiple forms and that affects bone density. Polymorphic gene sequences of the protein are provided that are diagnostic of predipostion to osteoporosis. Other detection tools, compositions and methods of their use also are provided for predicting, evaluating and altering bone strength and mineralization status. The invention provides new natural and synthetic pharmaceuticals that effect the BSMR regulatory pathway and improve bone status. Tools also are provided for finding new pharmaceuticals that operate by binding to BSMR and that activate and/or deactivate this protein's biological function related to osteoporosis and blood vessel formation.

Abstract: Tooth tissues include the pulp mesenchyme that forms the dentin and an epithelium that is responsible for enamel formation. Cells from these tissues were obtained from porcine third molars and were seeded onto a biodegradable scaffold composed of a polyglycolic acid—polylactic acid copolymer. Cell polymer constructs were then surgically implanted into the omentum of athymic nude rats so that the constructs would have a blood supply and these tissues were allowed to develop inside the rats. Histological analysis of 7.5 week-old implants revealed a dentin-like collagenous matrix containing hydroxyapatite mineral surrounding a core of mesenchymal cells that appeared analogous to pulp tissue. Infrequently, columnar epithelial cells were observed as a single layer on the outside of the dentin-like matrix similar to the actual arrangement of ameloblasts over dentin during early tooth development.

Abstract: The invention features a novel collagen, type .alpha.1 (XVIII) collagen, and uses therefor.

Abstract: This invention is directed to an organ equivalent of the cornea part of the eye made using tissue culturing systems. The method of constructing the cornea equivalent results in a structure analogous to the eye cornea in vivo. The cornea equivalent is an in vitro model of the eye, which can be used for transplantation or implantation in vivo or for screening compounds in vitro.