Abstract: The invention provides polypeptides containing ?-MSH that can be used to treat diseases characterized by inflammation and/or autoimmunity. Also included in the invention are ?-MSH analogs and nucleic acids encoding polypeptides containing ?-MSH and ?-MSH analogs optionally linked to heterologous sequences. Also included in the invention are methods of delivering ?-MSH containing peptides, ?-MSH analogs, an DNA encoding ?-MSH and ?-MSH analogs.

Abstract: The invention includes methods of treating an HPV-mediated disease by administration to an individual of a pharmaceutical composition comprising a nucleic acid that encodes a polypeptide comprising an epitope of a naturally occurring HPV protein. The methods include the selection of individuals for treatment with the composition according to the age of the recipient, as well as the use of the composition to elicit a cross-reactive anti-HPV immune response.

Abstract: Methods of treating bladder disorders, including bladder cancer and inflammatory bladder diseases such as interstitial cystitis are disclosed. The methods include identifying a mammal that has or is at risk for having a bladder disorder and administering isolated nucleic acid sequences to the mammal. Nucleic acids used in the methods of the invention contain unmethylated CpG sequences, which are thought to modulate the immune response. Also included are methods that use nucleic acids encoding alpha-MSH. The nucleic acid sequences may be administered individually or together or can be included in the same nucleic acid.

Abstract: The invention provides polypeptides containing ?-MSH that can be used to treat diseases characterized by inflammation and/or autoimmunity. Also included in the invention are ?-MSH analogs and nucleic acids encoding polypeptides containing ?-MSH and ?-MSH analogs optionally linked to heterologous sequences. Also included in the invention are methods of delivering ?-MSH containing peptides, ?-MSH analogs, an DNA encoding ?-MSH and ?-MSH analogs.

Abstract: The invention provides nucleic acids encoding polyepitope polypeptides containing multiple epitopes from one or more proteins. The polyepitope polypeptides are useful as treatments for pathogenic agents or tumors.

Abstract: The invention is based on the discovery of a method for scalable, continuous flow production of a nucleic acid-containing microparticle that maintains the structural integrity of the associated nucleic acid and results in a microparticle having a purity suitable for introduction into an animal (e.g., human) host. Microparticles prepared according to the continuous flow processes described herein can be used for delivery of a nucleic acid for gene therapy, antisense therapy, vaccination, treatment of autoimmune disease, and either specific or non-specific modulation of an immune response (e.g., via cytokine regulation). The microparticles can additionally be used to deliver nucleic acid encoding a protein or peptide useful in any type of therapy.