Abstract: The invention provides a method for isolating and identifying proteins participating in protein-protein interactions in a complex mixture. The method uses a chemically reactive supporting matrix to isolate proteins that in turn non-covalently bind other proteins. The supporting matrix is isolated, and the non-covalently bound proteins are subsequently released for analysis. Because the proteins are accessible to chemical manipulation at both the binding and release steps, identification of the non-covalently bound proteins yields information on specific classes of interacting proteins, such as calcium-dependent or substrate-dependent protein interactions. This permits selection of a subpopulation of proteins from a complex mixture on the basis of specified interaction criteria. The method has the advantage of screening the entire proteome simultaneously, unlike two-hybrid systems or phage display methods which can only detect proteins binding to a single bait protein at a time.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions comprising a combination of PKC activators and PKC inhibitors and methods to modulate ?-secretase activity; improve or enhance cognitive ability; and/or reduce neurodegeneration in individuals suffering from diseases that impair cognitive ability, particularly Alzheimer's Disease. The invention also relates to methods for improving or enhancing cognitive ability. The present invention also provides methods for increasing the generation of non-amyloidogenic soluble APP (sAPP) comprising the activation of protein kinase C (PKC) in the brain and inhibiting PKC in peripheral tissues. Macrocyclic lactones (i.e. bryostatin class and neristatin class) are preferred PKC activators and Vitamin E is a preferred PKC inhibitor for use in the inventive composition.

Abstract: A method of diagnosing Alzheimer's disease in a patient comprises determining whether the phosphorylation level of an indicator protein in cells of the patient after stimulus with an activator compound is abnormally elevated as compared to a basal phosphorylation level, the indicator protein being e.g. Erk1/2 and the activator compound being e.g. bradykinin.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the combination of a methylxanthine and a carbonic anhydrase activator to provide synergistic effects. The invention further relates to the improved/enhanced cognitive ability of individuals, particularly those suffering from various disorders, such as Alzheimer's Disease, stroke, hypoxia, general dementia, ADHD, mental retardation, and “sun down” syndrome.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods to modulate ?-secretase and/or to improve cognitive ability. The invention further relates the improved/enhanced cognitive ability in diseased individuals, particularly Alzheimer's Disease patients, and treatment thereof through increased sAPP production. Macrocyclic lactones (i.e. bryostatin class and neristatin class) are compounds preferred for use with the present composition. The present invention also provides methods for increasing the generation of non-amyloidogenic soluble APP comprising the activation of protein kinase C (PKC) by administering an effective amount of PKC activator(s).

Abstract: The invention provides therapeutic methods and compositions comprising adenosine A1 antagonists for treating memory loss produced by reversible transient hypoxia and associated synaptic dysfunction.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for improving attentive cognition comprising administering a compound that potentiates intraneuronal carbonic anhydrase activity thereby improving establishment of a theta rhythm.

Abstract: This invention relates to a highly efficient artificial low-density lipoprotein (LDL) carrier system for the targeted delivery therapeutic agents across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In particular, this invention relates to artificial LDL particles comprised of three lipid elements: phosphatidyl choline, fatty-acyl-cholesterol esters, and at least one apolipoprotein. The present invention further relates to compositions, methods and kits comprising artificial LDL particles for targeting drugs to and across the BBB for the prevention and treatment of brain diseases.