Abstract: In the present invention, a procedure is described which allows for the efficient delivery of gene and cell based vaccines to the rectal mucosal tissue, and which results in efficient and prolonged transferred gene expression in the mucosal tissue resulting in a potent local mucosal immune response directed against the antigen encoded by the administered nucleic acid. This invention provides a unique and potent approach for the development of vaccines and vaccination strategies to develop mucosal immune protective responses in the lower GI and GU tract in the prevention and/or treatment of sexually transmitted diseases and other conditions. This approach also provides a means for the successful transfer of genetic material in gene therapy approaches in the treatment or prevention of colonic diseases.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are vectors and methods for use in the prevention and treatment of acne. Specifically exemplified are adenovirus vectors or plasmid DNA that encode a variety of target antigens from proprionibacterium acnes with or without cytokines, chemokines or co-stimulatory receptors. These vectors in both viral and DNA vector form are prolific molecular adjuvants and can be used in combination with vectors and DNA encoding the lipase, hyaluronidase, phosphatase and other genes on the same operon, to elicit protective immune responses against colonization of the bacterium in the skin follicles.

Abstract: A method for decreasing metalloproteinase activity in a patient that comprises the step of administering to said patient a therapeutic composition comprising the cytokine oncostatin-M, or a biologically active fragment, mutant, analog or fusion construct thereof. Also, a method for increasing TIMP activity in a patient that comprises the step of administering to said patient a therapeutic composition comprising the cytokine oncostatin-M, or a biologically active fragment, mutant, analog or fusion construct thereof. In addition a method for inhibiting or treating progression of a tumor in a patient that comprises the step of administering to said patient a therapeutic composition comprising oncostatin-M, or a biologically active fragment, mutant, analog, or fusion construct thereof, said method being effective to inhibit invasion by a tumor cell through an extracellular space, extracellular matrix, basement membrane, interstitial tissue or connective tissue.

Abstract: Interferon .beta..sub.2 has been identified as the major factor responsible for stimulating hepatocytes to produce anti-inflammatory agents. A method for its use in so stimulating hepatocytes is described herein.