Abstract: A spore-forming cell comprising a first nucleotide sequence encoding a riboswitch and a transcriptional activator, wherein the riboswitch modulates translation of the transcriptional activator in response to a First inducer, and a second nucleotide sequence encoding a target gene that regulates spore formation, wherein the target gene is expressed in response to a second inducer and translation of the transcriptional activator. Also provided is a method of culturing a spore-forming cell and a method of creating a spore, as well as uses of spore-forming cells and spores.

Abstract: A genetic construct comprising a DNA polynucleotide sequence which encodes a riboswitch operably linked to a coding region, wherein the coding region encodes a target gene and the riboswitch modulates translation or transcription of the coding region. A vector or a host cell comprising the genetic construct of the invention. A method of controlling expression of a target gene in a cell using the genetic construct of the invention.

Abstract: The invention relates to improvements relating to cancer therapy based on the identification of a number of regions of CPG2 which contain epitopes which appear to be involved in the production of a host immune response and which may be modified to alter the immunogenicity in patients. Production of fusions of CPG2 with an antibody, where the CPG2 protein has been tagged provides a CPG2 protein which has reduced immunogenicity. By using partially glycosylated enzyme obtainable by P. pastoris expression, the efficacy of antibody-CPG2 fusions is enhanced.

Abstract: Nitroreductases, and genes encoding the same, are provided that demonstrate preferential catalytic conversion of the alkylating agent CB1954 into its highly cytotoxic 4-hydroxylamine (4HX) derivative, this derivative demonstrating anticarcinoma properties. Accordingly, the catalytic activity of the nitroreductase enzymes of the present invention may be employed to achieve catalysis of CB1954 into its cytotoxic derivative in a site-directed manner, such as by Directed-Enzyme Prodrug Therapy (DEPT).