Abstract: A method for enhancing recovery by epithelial cells from ischemia by targeting distinct lesions. The method comprises inhibiting internalization of intercellular junctions, E-cadherin, occludin or other membrane proteins; promoting reuse of preexisting components by targeting for activation specific signaling events during short-term ischemia; inhibiting degradation of E-cadherin or other key proteins necessary for the maintenance of the polarized epithelial cell phenotype; and enhancing the protein folding and assembly capacity in the endoplasmic reticulum and/or cytosol with agents which upregulate cytoprotective chaperones, wherein the enhancing helps to reconstruct degraded adherens and tight junctions by de novo synthesis and movement of membrane proteins, and alleviation of cellular stress by raising levels of molecular chaperones.

Abstract: Provided are compositions, transgenic animals and methods for screening and analyzing drugs for toxicity and clearance. Such methods include creating a transgenic animal that lacks expression of two or more slc22 family member—organic ion transporters. Further disclosed are methods useful in determining a subjects sensitivity and a drugs efficacy based upon single nucleotide length polymorphisms in organic ion transport genes.

Abstract: Provided are methods and compositions for constructing stable mammalian embryonic epithelial tissues and organs as well as constructing kidney tissue, and treating renal failure. Dislosed are methods of using an active epithelial growth factor having the capability of effectuating induction of growth and morphognesis is cells.