Abstract: DNA encoding a recombinant antibody molecule end-specific for an amyloid-beta peptide, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and a method for preventing or inhibiting progression of Alzheimer's Disease by introducing such a DNA molecule into brain cells to express the recombinant antibody molecule and prevent the accumulation of amyloid-beta peptides in the cerebrospinal fluid.

Abstract: The invention is in the field of immunogenicity. In one embodiment, the invention relates to method of identifying T-cell epitopes in amyloid beta peptide or homologue thereof. In another embodiment, the invention relates to a vaccine comprising an amyloid beta peptide or homologue thereof, whereby the selected peptide is a peptide which lacks certain T-cell epitopes or a peptide which is modified by deleting or modifying amino acids so as to reduce or eliminate the T-cell epitopes. The selected peptides are further assessed for reduced capacity to form fibrils, reduced cytotoxicity, and a reduced ability to induce a cellular autoimmune response. The selected peptides are further assessed for ability to induce a humoral immune response. In another embodiment, the invention relates to a method of predicting the reaction of an individual to a vaccine, which comprises amyloid beta peptide or homologue thereof, based on the HLA haplotype of the subject.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods of treating a subject having Alzheimer's Disease, comprising the step of administering an antibody molecule which is targeted to &bgr; amyloid peptide or to fragment thereof. In another embodiment the invention relates to methods of treating a disease or a disorder, characterized by amyloid beta deposition. In another embodiment, the invention relates to an antibody molecule, which is free end-specific for the N-terminus or the C-terminus of an amyloid &bgr; peptide and to a pharmaceutical composition thereof. In another embodiment, the invention relates to an antibody molecule, which is targeted to the free C or N-terminus of a N-and/or C-terminus truncated amyloid &bgr; peptide fragment.

Abstract: DNA encoding a recombinant antibody molecule end-specific for an amyloid-&bgr; peptide, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and a method for preventing the accumulation of amyloid-&bgr; peptides in the extracellular milieu of neurons by causing an end-specific antibody to come into contact with such amyloid-&bgr; peptides. Such a method is useful for preventing or inhibiting progression of Alzheimer's Disease.