Abstract: The present invention relates to a target-activated cell/tissue-penetrating peptide for delivery of impermeable compounds (Target Activated Cell/tissue Translocation peptide for Impermeable Compound Strategy (TACTICS)), and the use thereof, and more particularly to a target-activated cell/tissue-penetrating peptide, which comprises (a) a protein transduction domain (PTD), (b) a masking domain and (c) a spacer having a cleavage site specific for a target cell/tissue enzyme and is provided with target selectivity so as to penetrate specifically into a target tissue, and to a conjugate of the peptide with a drug or drug-containing particles for imaging or therapeutic applications.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a target-activated cell/tissue-penetrating peptide for delivery of impermeable compounds (Target Activated Cell/tissue Translocation peptide for Impermeable Compound Strategy (TACTICS)), and the use thereof, and more particularly to a target-activated cell/tissue-penetrating peptide, which comprises (a) a protein transduction domain (PTD), (b) a masking domain and (c) a spacer having a cleavage site specific for a target cell/tissue enzyme and is provided with target selectivity so as to penetrate specifically into a target tissue, and to a conjugate of the peptide with a drug or drug-containing particles for imaging or therapeutic applications.

Abstract: The present invention relates to functionalized magnetic nanoparticles. In particular, the present invention provides functionalized magnetic nanoparticles for research and clinical (e.g., targeted treatment) applications.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cell-penetrating peptide/fluorescence-labeled magnetic nanoparticle complex and the use thereof. More specifically, relates to a cell-penetrating peptide/fluorescence-labeled magnetic nanoparticle complex in which a cell-penetrating peptide is chemically linked to a fluorescence-labeled magnetic nanoparticle, such that fluorescence-labeled magnetic nanoparticle can be stably introduced directly into cells without endocytosis, and a composition for cell imaging containing the complex. The disclosed invention suggests an innovative therapeutic technology which shows high stability, maximizes the effect of imaging diagnosis through optimal targeting and minimizes side effects, unlike existing viral peptide transporters.

Abstract: Compositions for transporting L-asparaginase across the cellular membrane of erythrocytes, comprising a low molecular weight protamine peptide. Process of preparation of compositions comprising conjugates of L-asparaginase and a low molecular weight protamine peptide. Method of treatment comprising administration of adapted L-asparaginase is also described.

Abstract: A nanocomposite delivery system uses chitosan as a mucoadhesive material encapsulated in a surface modified network of colloidal nanoporous nanoparticles, such as silica, or other colloid-forming materials, especially metal oxides. Drug delivery systems may be provided by binding a drug to the chitosan/silica nanocomposite, typically by adding a drug or other active agent during in-situ gellation of colloidal silica. When the active agent is, for example, amoxicillin or other antibiotic agent, the drug delivery system may be used in the treatment of stomach ulcers, for example.

Abstract: The present invention relates to multicomponent compositions and methods of administering these compositions, which specifically translocate therapeutic molecules (e.g., drugs or prodrugs) across biological membranes thus reducing potential toxic side effects on nontargeted cells and tissues.

Abstract: Provided are bioactive, low-toxicity protamine fragments, compositions, combinations, kits and methods of using these components in a variety of embodiments, including neutralizing heparin and reducing post-operative bleeding. Improved protamine fragment-insulin solutions and methods for treating diabetes are also provided.

Abstract: A photobioreactor system for efficient oxygen production for a closed ecological life support system (CELSS) is disclosed. Special features of this system include, e.g., the optical transmission system, uniform light distribution, continuous cycling of cells, gravity independent gas-exchange, and an ultrafiltration unit. The fiber optic based optical transmission system illuminates the reactor internally and includes a light source which is external to the reactor, preventing heat generation problems. Uniform light distribution is achieved throughout the reactor without interfering with the turbulent regime inside. The ultrafiltration unit exchanges spent with fresh media and its use results in very high cell densities, up to 10.sup.9 cells/ml for Chlorella vulgaris. The prototype photobioreactor system may be operated in a batch and continuous mode for prolonged periods of time. The photobioreactor may be used to convert CO.sub.2 to oxygen in an artificial lung.

Abstract: A polymeric membrane electrode gives potentiometric responses to macromolles, such as protamine, in solution or biological specimens. A protamine-responsive membrane includes a lipophilic cation-exchange material for ionic macromolecules in a specially formulated plasticized, polymeric matrix material. Potentiometric response to protamine has been observed in membranes comprising 30-70 wt. % polymeric matrix material, such as polyvinyl chloride; 1-3 wt. % salt of a tetraphenylborate, such as potassium tetrakis(4-chlorophenyl) borate or salt of an organophosph(on)ate, such as calcium bis-[4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenyl] phosphate; and 30-70 wt. % of a plasticizer, such as 2-nitrophenyl octyl ether or tris (2-ethylhexyl) phosphate.

Abstract: An anion exchange membrane for ionic macromolecules, specifically heparin, which is formed of a polymeric matrix material and an anion exchange material suitable for heparin detection can be employed in an electrochemical sensor arrangement to directly measure the concentration of heparin ions in blood or blood fluid. Potentiometric response to heparin has been observed with membranes comprising 30-70 wt. % polymeric matrix material, such as polyvinyl chloride, 0.1-12 wt. % quaternary ammonium salt, such as tridodecyl methyl ammonium chloride, and 30-70 wt. % of a plasticizer, such as dioctyl sebacate. Moreover, a solid state sensor employs tridodecyl methyl ammonium chloride (TDMAC) dissolved in a polymeric compound, such as silicone rubber, to form a membrane which is responsive to heparin concentration.

Abstract: An anion exchange membrane for ionic macromolecules, specifically heparin, which is formed of a polymeric matrix material, an anion exchange material suitable for heparin detection, and a plasticizer can be employed in an electrochemical sensor arrangement to directly measure the concentration of heparin ions in blood or blood fluid. Potentiometric response to heparin has been observed with membranes comprising 30-70 wt. % polymeric matrix material, such as polyvinyl chloride, 0.1-12 wt. % quaternary ammonium salt, such as tridodecyl methyl ammonium chloride, and 30-70 wt. % of a plasticizer, such as dioctyl sebacate.

Abstract: An arrangement for collecting blood from a source of blood employs a filter chamber having a substantially predefined volume for accumulating the collected blood, and first and second access ports for receiving the collected blood and for venting the filter chamber, respectively. A protamine filter is arranged within the filter chamber, and preferably is formed of regenerated cellulose hollow fibers which have been activated with CNBr and have protamine immobilized thereon. The amount of protamine immobilized thereon is controlled in a variety of ways, prior to installation and sealing of the filter element within the filter chamber. In a practical embodiment, the first port of the filter chamber is coupled to a conventional cannula needle for communicating transdermally with a living being or through a membrane of a blood storage container. The second port is coupled to a conventional syringe which applies a suction for facilitating withdrawal of the blood.

Abstract: Heparin in an extracorporeal blood flow circuit is removed from the blood flow with the use of a filter which contains immobilized protamine on a blood-compatible support. In medical procedures where blood is processed in an extracorporeal device, such as an artificial kidney, or a heart-lung machine, the blood is heparinized to prevent clotting thereof in the channels of the extracorporeal device, and the formation of thrombi. In accordance with the invention, the processed, heparinized blood is conducted to a filter arrangement wherein protamine is held immobilized on a support formed of a blood-compatible material. Such an arrangement actually removes heparin from the blood rather than merely negates the anticoagulation effects of the heparin, as is the case in conventional protamine infusion therapy. In the present invention, the extracorporeal blood which is returned to the patient is substantially free of both heparin and protamine.

Abstract: A rapid method for determining the isoelectric point for an amphoteric molecule of interest is provided which utilizes the pH-dependent binding affinity of the molecule for an ion-exchange material. The empirically derived pI values are within a range of 0.2 pH units or less of the reported values in the literature and may be more precisely determined by employing a narrower pH gradient as part of the procedure. The unique methodology allows isoelectric point determinations to be accomplished within one hour's time, avoids carrier ampholyte interaction or artifact formation, and allows the determination to be performed at any desired temperature with decreased risk of denaturation.