Abstract: An effective prophylactic mucosal gene expression vaccine (GXV), made up of a cocktail of at least 4 different plasmid DNAs encoding corresponding RSV antigens, coacervated with chitosan to formulate nanospheres. In a murine model of RSV infection, intranasal administration with GXV results in significant induction of RSV-specific antibodies, nasal IgA antibodies, cytotoxic T lymphocytes, and IFN-? production in the lung and splenocytes. A single dose of GXV induces a drastic reduction of viral titers.

Abstract: The cytokine ML-1 is a target for treating airway inflammation. Candidate therapeutic agents for treating airway inflammation can be screened for the ability to bind to an ML-1 protein or polynucleotide, from the ability to decrease functional properties of ML-1, or for the ability to decrease ML-1 gene expression. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising such reagents can be used to treat airway inflammation associated with a variety of lung disorders, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, allergic inflammatory responses, and cystic fibrosis.

Abstract: Nanoparticle coacervates of nucleic acids and polycations serve as effective vaccines when administered orally. They can induce immunity to a variety of disease causing agents and raise a protective response to allergens.

Abstract: Administration of an expression gene construct for IFN-.gamma. to an affected organ is an effective means of reversing antigen-induced inflammation. Suitable allergic diseases for treatment include atopic asthma, rhinitis, and dermatitis.