Abstract: Disclosed herein are novel polypeptides and the nucleic acid sequences that encode them. Also disclosed are antibodies that immunospecifically bind to the polypeptide, as well as derivatives, variants, mutants, or fragments of the novel polypeptide, polynucleotide, or antibody specific to the polypeptide. Vectors, host cells, antibodies and recombinant methods for producing the polypeptides and polynucleotides, as well as methods for using same are also included. The invention further discloses therapeutic, diagnostic and research methods for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of apoptosis associated disorders involving these novel human nucleic acids and proteins.

Abstract: A novel protease, Taspase1, is described. Taspase1 is involved in the cleavage of the MLL protein, which is required for proper HOX gene regulation. Diagnostic methods utilizing Taspase1 are provided, as well as inhibitors of Taspase1. Methods of using the inhibitors of Taspase1 are also described. For example an inhibitor of Taspase1 can be used to treat a cancer, e.g., leukemia, in a subject.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the diagnosis of mixed lineage leukemia (MLL), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) according to the gene expression profile of a sample from an individual, as well as to methods of therapy and screening that utilize the genes identified herein as targets.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the diagnosis of mixed lineage leukemia (MLL), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) according to the gene expression profile of a sample from an individual, as well as to methods of therapy and screening that utilize the genes identified herein as targets.

Abstract: Novel polypeptides and methods of making and using the same are described herein. The polypeptides include cross-linking (“hydrocarbon stapling”) moieties to provide a tether between two amino acid moieties, which constrains the secondary structure of the polypeptide. The polypeptides described herein can be used to treat diseases characterized by excessive or inadequate cellular death.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods for modulating apoptosis. Methods are provided for inhibiting or preventing apoptosis by promoting formation of a complex of BAK and Voltage-Dependent Anion Channel 2 (VDAC2). The invention also provides methods of promoting or inducing apoptosis by disrupting or inhibiting formation of a VDAC2/BAK complex. Also disclosed are methods of screening for compounds that promote or disrupt the VDAC2/BAK complex.