Abstract: Methods and compositions for use in a evaluating and treating neoplastic disease conditions are provided. In certain embodiments of the subject invention, the presence of at least one target protein associated with cellular locomotion is determined in a cell to make an evaluation regarding the cell and/or host from which the cell was obtained. In yet other embodiments, the activity certain embodiments, the target protein is part of a nucleus-associated ribbon-like structure. Also provided are kits and pharmaceutical compositions that find use in various embodiments invention finds use in a variety of different applications, including both diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, isolated nucleic acid encoding a host cell protein that regulates Tat transactivation has been discovered. The protein is the first discovered constituent of the TAK/TEFb complex which associates with the HIV Tat, via divalent cation metals, and is necessary for the binding of Tat to TAR RNA. This protein, cyclin T1, is an 87 kDa cyclin partner for the PITALRE kinase. It is further discovered that Tat must interact with TAK in order to bind to TAR RNA with affinity and with the appropriate sequence specificity that is observed in vivo. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, formulations useful for modulation of Tat transactivation have been developed. In addition, assays have been developed for the identification of compounds useful to modulate the above-described processes.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a host cell protein has been discovered which regulates Tat transactivation. The protein is the first discovered constituent of the TAK/TEFb complex which associates with the HIV Tat, via divalent cation metals, and is necessary for the binding of Tat to TAR RNA. This protein, cyclin T1, is an 87 kDa cyclin partner for the PITALRE kinase. It is further discovered that Tat must interact with TAK in order to bind to TAR RNA with affinity and with the appropriate sequence specificity that is observed in vivo. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, formulations useful for modulation of Tat transactivation have been developed. In addition, assays have been developed for the identification of compounds useful to modulate the above-described processes.

Abstract: Polyethoxylated castor oil with a low cation content are claimed, along with particular methods for achieving such low cation content polyethoxylated castor oil. One method of production of such a low cationic content polyethoxylated castor oil according to the invention is to pre-treat the polyethoxylated castor oil with a strong cationic exchange resin to remove a substantial portion of the cations present in an untreated polyethoxylated castor oil. The low cationic content polyethoxylated castor oil of the invention can then be utilized to prepare formulations of various agents which are found to be sensitive to the previously commercially available polyethoxylated castor oil (CREMOPHOR EL.RTM.).