Abstract: Compounds that modulate natural &bgr; amyloid peptide aggregation are provided. The modulators of the invention comprise a peptide, preferably based on a &bgr; amyloid peptide, that is comprised entirely of D-amino acids. Preferably, the peptide comprises 3-5 D-amino acid residues and includes at least two D-amino acid residues independently selected from the group consisting of D-leucine, D-phenylalanine and D-valine. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the peptide is a retro-inverso isomer of a &bgr; amyloid peptide, preferably a retro-inverso isomer of A&bgr;17-21. In certain embodiments, the peptide is modified at the amino-terminus, the carboxy-terminus, or both. Preferred amino-terminal modifying groups include cyclic, heterocyclic, polycyclic and branched alkyl groups. Preferred carboxy-terminal modifying groups include an amide group, an alkyl amide group, an aryl amide group or a hydroxy group.

Abstract: Compounds that modulate natural .beta. amyloid peptide aggregation are provided. The modulators of the invention comprise a peptide, preferably based on a .beta. amyloid peptide, that is comprised entirely of D-amino acids. Preferably, the peptide comprises 3-5 D-amino acid residues and includes at least two D-amino acid residues independently selected from the group consisting of D-leucine, D-phenylalanine and D-valine. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the peptide is a retro-inverso isomer of a .beta. amyloid peptide, preferably a retro-inverso isomer of A.beta..sub.17-21. In certain embodiments, the peptide is modified at the amino-terminus, the carboxy-terminus, or both. Preferred amino-terminal modifying groups include cyclic, heterocyclic, polycyclic and branched alkyl groups. Preferred carboxy-terminal modifying groups include an amide group, an alkyl amide group, an aryl amide group or a hydroxy group.

Abstract: Abrasive mouthwash compositions suitable for a "rinse and brush" type product are described and are broadly defined as a pourable suspension containing the following essential components:a) 0.1-50% abrasive e.g. silica;b) 0.01-5% suspending agent e.g. montmorillonite clay;c) 0.1-5% surfactant e.g. sodium lauryl sulphate andd) liquid carrier e.g. water and humectant.Optional further components include flavourings, colourings, anti-plaque agents, anti-tartar agents, agents for sensitive teeth, fluoride ion sources and sweeteners.