Abstract: Solid substrates for cell culture are UV-cross-linked PVA-based hydrogel polymer particles. The particles are biocompatible with living cells and support cell adherence. Bioaffecting molecules may be reversibly entrapped within the particles. The particles are capable of forming self-assembled aggregates with cultured cells in aqueous suspension. Preferably, the PVA-based polymer is PVA-SbQ.

Abstract: A UV-cross-linkable PVA-based polymer coating for cell culture that provides support for cell adhesion. The polymer coating may also contain bioaffecting molecules reversibly entrapped within the polymer coating that provides necessary nutrients to cell culture. Preferably, the UV-cross-linkable PVA-based polymer is PVA-SbQ.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for testing agents for their effects on growth and differentiation of cells, primarily stem cells of various origin, are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods for inducing growth and differentiation of bone marrow stem cells primarily along the pathway to neuronal progenitor cells.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and devices which can be used to test bioactive agents alone or in conjunction with 3D scaffolds for their effect on cell growth, differentiation, and other cellular functions.

Abstract: Human restrictin proteins and nucleic acid sequences encoding them are provided. Antibodies which recognize human restrictin in human brain are disclosed. In the human brain, restrictin occurs as two major polypeptides of 180 and 160 kD located in fiber tracts. These polypeptides are similar to those seen in rat brain. Surprisingly, restrictin has also been found in the peripheral nerves of rats and humans The antibodies also detect a 170 kD polypeptide in MATRIGEL, an extracellular matrix product of rat EHS sarcoma cells widely used as a tissue culture substrate. Monoclonal antibodies to human restrictin and assays using the human restrictin protein, antibodies and DNA sequences are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides an anti-N-CAM monoclonal antibody which enhances, rather than inhibits, neurite outgrowth both in vitro and in vivo. The antibody has positive regulatory effects on nerve cells of both the central and peripheral nervous systems, and is useful for enhancing neurite outgrowth in m vitro studies and for improving nerve regeneration and repair in vivo.

Abstract: Human restrictin proteins and nucleic acid sequences encoding them are provided. Antibodies which recognize human restrictin in human brain are disclosed. In the human brain, restrictin occurs as two major polypeptides of 180 and 160 kD located in fiber tracts. These polypeptides are similar to those seen in rat brain. Surprisingly, restrictin has also been found in the peripheral nerves of rats and humans. The antibodies also detect a 170 kD polypeptide in MATRIGEL, an extracellular matrix product of rat EHS sarcoma cells widely used as a tissue culture substrate. Monoclonal antibodies to human restrictin and assays using the human restrictin protein, antibodies and DNA sequences are also provided.