Abstract: Provided herein are Complement Factor I (CFI) variants that exhibit at least one improved characteristic relative to a wild type CFI. CFI variants of the disclosure can exhibit tunable specificity and activity. Also included are CFI-containing fusion constructs comprising at least one domain of CFI, for example, wild type full length CFI fused to human serum albumin. Also included are methods of making and using such CFI variants and fusion constructs. The CFI variants and fusion constructs provided herein may be useful for treating a disease or condition associated with dysregulation of the complement system or a deficiency of CFI.

Abstract: The invention relates to a construct comprising a compound targeting areas in the brain involved in the regulation of body weight and an allosteric ligand to a receptor located in the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The invention also relates to compositions and uses of such construct, for example in the prevention or treatment of overweight and obesity. Preferred compounds for regulation of body weight include GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), and preferred receptors located in the BBB include the transferrin receptor (TfR). Exemplary fusions and conjugates of GLP-1 RA's and anti TfR-Fab's exhibit an increased binding to brain regions expressing the GLP-1 receptor as compared to fusions or conjugates with inactive control Fab's, in particular in brain areas protected by the BBB. In vivo mice studies confirm increased reduction in food intake as well as weight loss for the active construct compared to the inactive one.

Abstract: Provided herein are Complement Factor I (CFI) variants that exhibit at least one improved characteristic relative to a wild type CFI. CFI variants of the disclosure can exhibit tunable specificity and activity. Also included are CFI-containing fusion constructs comprising at least one domain of CFI, for example, wild type full length CFI fused to human serum albumin. Also included are methods of making and using such CFI variants and fusion constructs. The CFI variants and fusion constructs provided herein may be useful for treating a disease or condition associated with dysregulation of the complement system or a deficiency of CFI.

Abstract: The invention relates to a construct comprising a compound targeting areas in the brain involved in the regulation of body weight and an allosteric ligand to a receptor located in the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The invention also relates to compositions and uses of such construct, for example in the prevention or treatment of overweight and obesity. Preferred compounds for regulation of body weight include GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), and preferred receptors located in the BBB include the transferrin receptor (TfR). Exemplary fusions and conjugates of GLP-1 RA's and anti TfR-Fab's exhibit an increased binding to brain regions expressing the GLP-1 receptor as compared to fusions or conjugates with inactive control Fab's, in particular in brain areas protected by the BBB. In vivo mice studies confirm increased reduction in food intake as well as weight loss for the active construct compared to the inactive one.

Abstract: A wound dressing is made of multiple layers and includes a collection chamber that is in fluid communication with a drainage channel. When applied over a wound, the wound dressing provides protection for the wound while allowing air and fluids to evacuate from the wound through the collection chamber and out through the drainage channel. The wound dressing can include a valve that restricts air and fluids from entering the wound, which is beneficial for treating pneumothorax.

Abstract: A wound dressing is made of multiple layers and includes a collection chamber that is in fluid communication with a drainage channel. When applied over a wound, the wound dressing provides protection for the wound while allowing air and fluids to evacuate from the wound through the collection chamber and out through the drainage channel. The wound dressing can include a valve that restricts air and fluids from entering the wound, which is beneficial for treating pneumothorax.