Abstract: The present invention features methods for enhancing the ability of a genotype 2b NS5B sequence to function in a replicon, for producing replicons containing a functional genotype 2b NS5B, and for using replicons to measure the ability of a compound to affect HCV replication that is sustained with the genotype 2b polymerase. Also featured is a genotype 1b NS4B adaptive mutation. The ability to produce replicons containing a functional genotype 2b NS5B is illustrated by the production of chimeric replicons based on HCV genotype 1b where substantially all the NS5B sequence is replaced with a genotype 2b NS5B.

Abstract: The present invention features methods for enhancing the ability of a genotype 2b NS5B sequence to function in a replicon, for producing replicons containing a functional genotype 2b NS5B, and for using replicons to measure the ability of a compound to affect HCV replication that is sustained with the genotype 2b polymerase. Also featured is a genotype 1b NS4B adaptive mutation. The ability to produce replicons containing a functional genotype 2b NS5B is illustrated by the production of chimeric replicons based on HCV genotype 1b where substantially all the NS5B sequence is replaced with a genotype 2b NS5B.

Abstract: HCV mutations emerged in chimpanzees treated with a N5B polymerase inhibitor (Compound A) or a NS3 protease inhibitor (Compound B). Short term treatment with Compound A was followed by the initial emergence of an HCV with a S282T polymerase mutation following treatment. Short term treatment with Compound B selected for HCV with a R155K or D168T protease mutation.

Abstract: A method for measuring HCV NS3/4A activity from a HCV NS3/4A sequence, comprising obtaining and cloning the sequence into a mammalian expression vector, transiently transfecting a mammalian cell with the vector, which includes a reporter construct encoding a HCV NS3/4A cleavage site fused to a detectable label, measuring signal production from the label resulting from cleavage at the cleavage site, and measuring effects on signal production by addition of a test compound.

Abstract: The present invention features NS5B polypeptides from different clinically important HCV genotypes. The polypeptides can be used individually, or as part of a panel of RNA-dependent RNA polymerases, to evaluate the effectiveness of a compound to inhibit NS5B activity.

Abstract: The present invention features NS5B polypeptides from different clinically important HCV genotypes. The polypeptides can be used individually, or as part of a panel of RNA-dependent RNA polymerases, to evaluate the effectiveness of a compound to inhibit NS5B activity.

Abstract: The present invention features NS5B polypeptides from different clinically important HCV genotypes. The polypeptides can be used individually, or as part of a panel of RNA-dependent RNA polymerases, to evaluate the effectiveness of a compound to inhibit NS5B activity.

Abstract: A chromogenic assay is described for the identification and isolation of drug-resistant HIV protease mutants. Coversely, the assay is useful to screen for new inhibitors of HIV protease, e.g., inhibitors not affected by drug-resistance of the HIV protease. This color screening assay contains a vector comprising a regulatable promoter which controls the transcription of two adjacent structural sequences, one sequence coding for HIV protease or mutant thereof, the other sequence coding for beta-galactosidase with an amino acid substrate insert cleavable by HIV protease. A library of HIV proteases is also described and is isolated in the form of a collection of such vectors, which is a color screen vector library.

Abstract: A trash entry chute device for mounting on a top-opening trash container, which device supports and holds open a limp plastic film bag for use as a disposable liner for the container. The device comprises a chute having a flange which supports the device on the container and diverts trash into the chute, and bag support means in opposite positions on the outside surface of the chute. When a bag is supported by the device, the chute fits into the mouth of the bag, holding it open to receive trash.