Abstract: It has now been discovered that certain cannabinoids specifically activate TRPV2 channel activity. Based on the discovery, novel compositions and methods for screening, identifying and characterizing compounds that increase or decrease the biological activity of a TRPV2.

Abstract: Synthetic DNA molecules encoding the HPV31 L1 protein are provided. Specifically, the present invention provides polynucleotides encoding HPV31 L1 protein, wherein said polynucleotides are free from internal transcription termination signals that are recognized by yeast. Also provided are synthetic polynucleotides encoding HPV31 L1 wherein the polynucleotides have been codon-optimized for high level expression in a yeast cell. The synthetic molecules may be used to produce HPV31 virus-like particles (VLPs), and to produce vaccines and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the HPV31 VLPs. The vaccines of the present invention provide effective immunoprophylaxis against papillomavirus infection through neutralizing antibody and cell-mediated immunity.

Abstract: Synthetic DNA molecules encoding papillomavirus proteins are provided. The codons of the synthetic molecules are codons preferred by the projected host cell. The synthetic molecules may be used as a polynucleotide vaccine which provides effective immunoprophylaxis against papillomavirus infection through stimulation of neutralizing antibody and cell-mediated immunity.

Abstract: The invention comprises proteinaceous substances isolated from crude Ornithodoros moubata extract which inhibit adhesion of platelets to collagen. These substances do not inhibit platelet adhesion to fibrinogen, and are therefore particularly useful for inhibiting adhesion of platelets to collagen when simultaneous inhibition of platelet adhesion to fibrinogen is undesired. They are particularly useful in the prevention, prophylaxis, therapy and treatment of thrombotic diseases.