Abstract: The present invention provides immunostimulatory nucleic acids that have an affinity to a specific target protein. The present invention also provides templates and methods for making and using the immunostimulatory nucleic acids. Further, methods for linking the immunostimulatory nucleic acids to antigens and using the resulting complexes to enhance an immune response are provided.

Abstract: Adjuvant compositions, vaccines, constructs for preparing the adjuvant compositions and vaccines and methods of using the adjuvant compositions and vaccines to enhance immune responses in subjects are provided herein. In particular, a rapid antibody response to the vaccine including both IgG (in the circulation) and sIgA (mucosal secretory IgA) is elicited. The adjuvants and vaccines may be used for sub-cutaneous or mucosal administration enabling low cost, effective vaccination of subjects. A method of epitope mapping to rapidly identify antigenic epitopes is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a method for determination of marinobufagenin concentration in a body specimen through conjugation of marinobufagenin to a suitable protein, thereby creating a conjugate which will trigger an antibody response in a host. The conjugated marinobufagenin is immunogenic. The antibodies so produced may be employed in an ELISA test to ascertain the concentration of marinobufagenin in a body specimen. A number of unique compounds are created in the process and are disclosed. An ELISA assay may be employed.