Abstract: Methods for clinically proven safe administration of an anti-CD40 antibody by intravenous administration are provided. Also provided are methods for clinically proven safe treatment of advanced solid tumors by intravenous administration of an anti-CD40 antibody.

Abstract: The invention features a method of treating a disorder characterized by unwanted angiogenesis and/or unwanted cellular proliferation, e.g., unwanted skin or prostate cell proliferation, by increasing a TSP-2 activity. The invention also features methods of identifying compounds which modulate, e.g., inhibit or promote, TSP-2 activity, and methods of evaluating if a subject is at risk for a disorder characterized by unwanted angiogenesis and/or unwanted cellular proliferation. The invention also features fragments and analogs of TSP-2 which can by used to treat such disorders.

Abstract: The invention features a method of treating a disorder characterized by unwanted angiogenesis and/or unwanted cellular proliferation, e.g., unwanted skin or prostate cell proliferation, by increasing a TSP-2 activity. The invention also features methods of identifying compounds which modulate, e.g., inhibit or promote, TSP-2 activity, and methods of evaluating if a subject is at risk for a disorder characterized by unwanted angiogenesis and/or unwanted cellular proliferation. The invention also features fragments and analogs of TSP-2 which can by used to treat such disorders.

Abstract: Normal cells, such as fibroblasts or other tissue or organ cell types, are genetically engineered to express biologically active, anti-angiogenic compounds, in particular, thrombospondin-2. These cells are seeded into a matrix for implantation into the patient to be treated. Cells may also be engineered to include a lethal gene, so that implanted cells can be destroyed once treatment is completed. Cells can be implanted in a variety of different matrices. In a preferred embodiment, these matrices are implantable and biodegradable over a period of time equal to or less than the expected period of treatment, during which the engrafted cells form a functional tissue producing the desired biologically active agent for longer periods of time.