Abstract: The invention is directed to two forms of isolated or purified human NHE2 polypeptide sequences, NHE2-LF and NHE2-SF, as well as the polynucleotide coding sequences that encode the human NHE2-LF and NHE2-SF polypeptides. Also featured are NHE2-LF- and NHE2-SF-related hosts, cell membrane preparations, vectors, and antibodies, as well as methods of using cells recombinantly expressing the human NHE2-LF or NHE2-SF, to identify agents that modulate human NHE activity.

Abstract: This invention pertains to methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular conditions. More specifically, the invention relates to diagnostics and therapeutics involving isolated molecules that can be used to inhibit cardiac apoptotic cell-death.

Abstract: Retroviral vector particles are provided which contain: 1) oncoretroviral gag, pol, and env proteins, including an oncoretroviral gag capsid protein which has been mutated so as to contain a nuclear localization signal (NLS) sequence; and 2) at least one exogenous gene. The particles can be used to transduce non-proliferating cells, including stem cells and neurons. The presence of the NLS sequence allows the at least one exogenous gene to enter into the nucleus of a target cell, thus allowing integration of the gene into the genome of the target cell.

Abstract: Retroviral vector particles are provided which contain: 1) oncoretroviral gag, pol, and env proteins, including an oncoretroviral gag matrix protein which has been mutated so as to contain a nuclear localization signal (NLS) sequence; and 2) at least one exogenous gene. The particles can be used to transduce non-proliferating cells, including stem cells and neurons. The presence of the NLS sequence allows the at least one exogenous gene to enter into the nucleus of a target cell, thus allowing integration of the gene into the genome of the target cell.