Abstract: The present disclosure describes methods, devices, reagents, and kits for the detection of one or more target molecules that may be present in a test sample. The described methods, devices, kits, and reagents facilitate the detection and quantification of a non-nucleic acid target (e.g., a protein target) in a test sample by detecting and quantifying a nucleic acid (i.e., an aptamer). The methods described create a nucleic acid surrogate for a non-nucleic acid target, thus allowing the wide variety of nucleic acid technologies, including amplification, to be applied to a broader range of desired targets, especially protein targets. The disclosure further describes aptamer constructs that facilitate the use of aptamers in a variety of analytical detection applications.

Abstract: Disclosed are human mitogen-activated (MAP) kinase kinase isoforms (MKKs). MKKs mediate unique signal transduction pathways that activate human MAP kinases p38 and JNK, which result in activation of other factors, including activating transcription factor-2 (ATF2) and c-Jun. The pathways are activated by a number of factors, including cytokines and environmental stress. Methods are provided for identifying reagents that modulate MKK function or activity and for the use of such reagents in the treatment of MKK-mediated disorders.