Abstract: The present disclosure provides compositions and methods for monitoring cell to cell (“cell-cell”) interactions in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides for the use of these compositions and methods (i) to identify and enrich for tumor-specific antigen (TSA) reactive T cells from tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) or circulating T cells; (ii) to identify and enrich for T cells that recognize autoantigens in a particular autoimmune disease, and/or (iii) to identify and enrich for antigen specific regulatory T cells that have the potential to be exploited to treat autoimmune disease. In some embodiments, the present disclosure also provides for methods of treating diseases, e.g., cancer with such TSA reactive T cells isolated via the present methods.

Abstract: Method and composition for protection and treatment against influenza viral infection by modulating the activity of at least one essential host signaling pathways, including the Hedgehog (Hh), the Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP), the Notch (N) signaling pathways or combinations thereof, which activity is altered by the viral protein NS1. The method and composition comprise use of a compound that modulates at least one of these essential host signaling pathways for preventing or controlling symptoms associated with influenza viral infection. The method or composition can also be used either alone or in combination with other therapeutic agents for treating or protecting against influenza infection, and associated syndromes.