Abstract: A polypeptide, with an amino acid sequence different from that of knottin protein, having a scaffold moiety with a helix moiety inserted in the scaffold moiety is described. The scaffold moiety comprises a knottin protein, or a fragment of knottin protein.

Abstract: Described are methods for the identification and validation of (1) functional intracellular targets and (2) nucleic acids (intramers) which are capable of binding to and modifying the function of said intracellular targets. These nucleic acids or, alternatively, compounds showing the same or a similar target specificity and/or effect are useful for the preparation of therapeutics, particularly for gene therapy.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for identifying compounds (lead structures) which specifically bind to (a) desired RNA target motif and can inhibit or eliminate the function thereof or (b) suppress a compound associated with a desired RNA target motif and can thereby inhibit or eliminate the function thereof. The inventive method is based on the attachment of a ligand (=a compound to be identified) to a RNA target motif which is coupled to a modified ribozyme so that the ribozyme is transformed into an active or inactive conformation resulting in the cleaving of a signal-giving ribozyme substrate. The identified compounds enabling modification of the cellular function of the RNA target motifs enable specific medicaments to be produced. The invention also relates to a polynucleotide comprising a hammerhead ribozyme and an aptamer for a target molecule.

Abstract: The invention relates to a nucleic acid, especially an isolated nucleic acid, that is capable of binding to a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for ADP ribosylation factors, and to the derivatives thereof.