Abstract: The present invention provides, for the first time, nucleic acids encoding a eukaryotic mechanosensory transduction channel (MSC) protein. The proteins encoded by these nucleic acids form channels that can directly detect mechanical stimuli and convert them into electrical signals. These nucleic acids and the proteins they encode can be used as probes for sensory cells in animals, and can be used to diagnose and treat any of a number of human conditions involving inherited, casual, or environmentally-induced loss of mechanosensory transduction activity.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for screening for bioactive compounds, in particular those that bind to RNA sequences involved in the pathogenesis of disease or in regulation of a physiological function. The methods involve assessing the stability and/or the conformation of an RNA target in the presence and absence of test ligands, and identifying as a ligand any test ligand that causes a measurable change in target RNA stability and/or conformation. In a preferred embodiment, the effect of a ligand on target RNA stability and/or conformation is assessed by measuring the fluorescence polarization of a fluorescently labeled probe.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the early diagnosis of carcinomas and their preliminary stages, which comprises determining the overexpression of a cell cycle regulatory protein in a body sample. The invention also provides a kit usable for this purpose.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and device for simultaneously testing a sample for the presence, absence, and/or amounts of one or more a plurality of selected analytes. The invention includes, in one aspect, a device for detecting or quantitating a plurality of different analytes in a liquid sample. The device includes a substrate which defines a sample-distribution network having (i) a sample inlet, (ii) one or more detection chambers, and (iii) channel means providing a dead-end fluid connection between each of the chambers and the inlet. Each chamber may include an analyte-specific reagent effective to react with a selected analyte that may be present in the sample, and detection means for detecting the signal. Also disclosed are methods utilizing the device.

Abstract: An apparatus, compositions and related methods for sequencing a target nucleic acid are described. In certain embodiments, the apparatus is a microfluidic apparatus comprising an input chamber, microchannel, output chamber and a detection unit that is operatively connected to the microchannel. In preferred embodiments, the methods include hybridizing a target nucleic acid to one or more probe libraries, moving the hybridized target nucleic acid past the detector, and detecting bound probes. Probe libraries may comprise oligonucleotides or oligonucleotide analogs, preferably with each probe uniquely labeled. A linear order of labeled probes hybridized to the target nucleic acid can be detected and the target nucleic acid sequence deduced. In preferred embodiments, probe labels are detected by analysis of electron-induced fluorescence of probes labeled with conductive polymers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for nucleotide sequencing in which a nucleotide sequence of a single nucleotide or plural nucleotides can be determined by assaying reactions in one reaction solution. The nucleotide sequence can be determined according to the present method by detecting a reaction product continuously generated in an extension reaction system following the extension reaction of polynucleotide chain and thereby determining the alignment in the sequentially extending polynucleotide.

Abstract: In broad terms, the present invention includes materials and methods useful to distinguish between and among species of a genus. The present methods utilize the differences in PCR amplicon sizes to specifically identify a given species.

Abstract: The entire process of reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is simplified by using oligonucleotide-immobilized microplates made of, e.g., polypropylene, to which oligonucleotides are securely immobilized and which can be subjected to thermal cycles of PCR. RT-PCR is preferably conducted in solid-phase. Capturing of mRNA and RT-PCR can be conducted in the same plates. The cDNA synthesized from the mRNA captured on the microplates can be used more than once. Further, in combination with the microplates, a filter plate is used for the preparation of cell lysates wherein target cells are placed on the filter plate, and a lysis buffer is passed through the cell layer on the filter to transfer cell lysate directly to the microplate via well-to-well communication.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel polypeptides and to nucleic acid molecules encoding those polypeptides. Also provided herein are vectors and host cells comprising those nucleic acid sequences, chimeric polypeptide molecules comprising the polypeptides of the present invention fused to heterologous polypeptide sequences, antibodies which bind to the polypeptides of the present invention and to methods for producing the polypeptides of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel polypeptides and to nucleic acid molecules encoding those polypeptides. Also provided herein are vectors and host cells comprising those nucleic acid sequences, chimeric polypeptide molecules comprising the polypeptides of the present invention fused to heterologous polypeptide sequences, antibodies which bind to the polypeptides of the present invention and to methods for producing the polypeptides of the present invention.

Abstract: Synthetic polymer complements (SPCs) are provided, as well as methods for their synthesis and use. The SPCs may have surfaces that include functional groups that are complementary to surface sites of targets such as nanostructures or macromolecular targets, and may be capable of specifically interacting with such targets. The positions of the functional groups in one embodiment are stabilized by a polymer network. The SPCs are formed by contacting the target with a set of monomers which self-assemble on the target, and then are polymerized into a network to form the synthetic polymer complement. At least a portion of the surface of the resulting SPC thus may include an imprint of the target. The complex of the SPC and the target may be the desired product. Alternatively, the target is released, for example, by controllably expanding and contracting the crosslinked network. The SPC is isolated and used in many applications.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for producing high resolution crystals of ribosomes and ribosomal subunits as well as crystals produced by such methods. The invention also provides high resolution structures of ribosomal subunits either alone or in combination with protein synthesis inhibitors. The invention provides methods for identifying ribosome-related ligands and methods for designing ligands with specific ribosome-binding properties as well as ligands that may act as protein synthesis inhibitors. Thus, the methods and compositions of the invention may be used to produce ligands that are designed to specifically kill or inhibit the growth of any target organism.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for the systematic analysis of the structure and function of polypeptides by identifying active domains which influence the activity of the polypeptide with a target substance. Such active domains are determined by substituting selected amino acid segments of the polypeptide with an analogous polypeptide segment from an analog to the polypeptide. The analog has a different activity with the target substance as compared to the parent polypeptide. The activities of the segment-substituted polypeptides are compared to the same activity for the parent polypeptide for the target. A comparison of such activities provides an indication of the location of the active domain in the parent polypeptide. The invention also provides methods for identifying the active amino acid residues within the active domain of the parent polypeptide.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are non-endogenous, constitutively activated forms of the human 5-HT2A and human 5-HT2C receptors and uses of such receptors to screen candidate compounds. Further disclosed herein are candidate compounds identified by the screening method which act at the 5HT2A receptors. Yet further disclosed is a new class of compounds which act at the 5HT2A receptors.

Abstract: Naphthalene-1,4,5,8-tetracarboxylic bisimides of the general formula I 1

Abstract: A method for forming a combinatorial polymer pattern, which comprises immersing a particulate carrier in monomer addition reactors successively in accordance with a predetermined order using a particle transporting means, to thereby prepare a particle having a polymer having a predetermined sequence bonded thereto, and arranging such particles systematically. The method is practiced by using a plurality of reactors, each of which is provided for a specific monomer, a device for controlling the transfer of particles between the reactors, and a device for arranging particles on a substrate.

Abstract: Methods and systems of applying mass spectrometry to the analysis of peptides and amino acids, especially in the proteome setting. More particularly, the invention relates to a mass spectrometry-based method for detection of amino acid modifications, such as phosphorylation.

Abstract: Intermolecular binding can be detected by formation of a “paratope” which results in an immediate generation of a signal. The substances to be tested for interaction are bound to demitopes, wherein said demitopes are components of a paratope which binds a reporter which provides said signal when bound. Known interactions measured in this way can also be employed to screen for compounds which interfere with the interactions. In addition to testing for individual interactions, the interaction of a compound with a library or library×library interactions can also be determined and the effect of potentially interfering substances evaluated.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of AG879 and its derivatives as kinase inhibitors. The molecules can be used, per se, as inhibitors, or they can be used in connection with screening assays to identify modifiers of kinase activity.

Abstract: Biomolecular photo-based patterning methods utilize avidin-biotin technology to immobilize functional proteins on the inner surface of silica glass tubes in desired patterns. The methods are useful for nanofluidic affinity biosensor/chromatography systems and on silicon dioxide substrates for biosensor applications. The resulting patterns are optimized based on the application. A zebra shaped pattern is utilized for an affinity chromatography system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improved methods for conducting multiplexed assays of multiple target analytes in a manner that permits each target analyte to be assayed within a dynamic assay range. The invention further relates to reagents capable of implementing such methods.

Abstract: The invention concerns biosensors, the method for obtaining them and their uses in particular for detecting, assaying or locating, in direct immunofluorescence, a ligand such as an antigen or a hapten, in a heterogeneous population. Said biosensors consist of (i) at least a protein-type receptor fragment, capable of binding with a suitable ligand via an active site and in which fragment, at least one of its amino acid residues, located in the proximity of said active site is naturally present in the form of a Cys residue or is substituted in Cys residue, and (ii) a fluorophore coupled with said Cys residue(s).

Abstract: The invention of novel protein microarrays and protein microarray-based techniques to determine the presence and amounts of proteins of interest are described. These microarrays and methods of use can be used for the simultaneous detection of a multiplicity of antigens or antibodies in a high throughput assay based upon the differential affinity of molecules for one another. The microarrays can be formed by immobilizing capture proteins in an array on a membrane. Analytes of interest can be bound by the capture proteins and can be detected either by the position to which they are immobilized or by the identity of detecting proteins or agents which bind to the analytes of interest. The interactions that can be detected using the present invention can also be used to characterize proteins of unknown identity or character.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to the field of protein modification, e.g., post-translational modification. In particular, the invention provides a method for detecting protein modification profile in a sample, which method comprises: a) contacting a sample containing or suspected of containing a target protein with a capture molecule, or a plurality of capture molecules, immobilized on a solid support, said capture molecule is capable of specifically binding to said target protein, whereby said target protein is immobilized on said solid support; and b) assessing modification status and/or identity of said immobilized target protein. Kits and arrays useful for detecting protein modification are also provided. Arrays, kits and methods useful for detecting enzymatic activities, especially protein modification enzymatic activities, are further provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions containing novel proteins and methods of using those compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of immune related diseases.

Abstract: The invention provides a novel prostate cell-surface antigen, designated Prostate Stem Cell Antigen (PSCA), which is widely over-expressed across all stages of prostate cancer, including high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN), androgen-dependent and androgen-independent prostate tumors.

Abstract: The invention concerns antibodies capable of identifying the prostrate specific antigen (PSA) in non-complexed and inactive form, and their uses in methods for diagnosing an adenocarcinoma or benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for the diagnosis and treatment of a cancer or cancer. Specifically, the present invention identifies the differential expression of 2192, 2193, 6568, 8895, 9138, 9217, 9609, 9857, 9882, 10025, 20657, 21163, 25848, 25968, 32603, 32670, 33794, 54476 and 94710 genes in tissues relating to cancer, relative to their expression in normal, or non-cancer disease states, and/or in response to manipulations relevant to a cancer. The present invention describes methods for the diagnostic evaluation and prognosis of various cancers, and for the identification of subjects exhibiting a predisposition to such conditions. The invention also provides methods for identifying a compound capable of modulating a cancer or cancer. The present invention also provides methods for the identification and therapeutic use of compounds as treatments of cancer.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for identifying a Mycobacterium species responsible for a mycobacterial infection in human or animal, comprising selecting a suitable mycobacterial species and strain; preparing at least one mycobacterial antigen, respectively antigen preparation; binding the antigen, respectively the antigen preparation to a suitable carrier; causing the binding antigen to react with antibodies from serum of an individual infected with a Mycobacterium species; making visible antigen-antibody reactions for a suitable antibody (sub-)class; and identifying the responsible Mycobacterium species on the basis of the reactions which are made visible. The invention further provides a diagnostic kit which takes the form of a dip-stick on which is arranged a carrier strip with mycobacterial antigens binding thereto, and means for visualizing antigen-antibody reactions occurring on the carrier after contact with the serum for testing.

Abstract: The present invention is a substantially purified sortase-transamidase enzyme from Gram-positive bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus. A specific sortase-transamidase enzyme disclosed has a molecular weight of about 29,076 daltons and catalyzes a reaction that covalently cross-links the carboxyl terminus of a protein having a sorting signal to the peptidoglycan of a Gram-positive bacterium, where the sorting signal has a a motif of NPQ/KTN/G therein. Variants of the enzyme, methods for cloning the gene encoding the enzyme and expressing the cloned gene, and methods of use of the enzyme, including for screening for antibiotics and for display of proteins or peptides on the surfaces of Gram-positive bacteria, are also disclosed.

Abstract: A device and method for detecting anthrax or other pathogens are disclosed. Individual self-contained monitoring devices of a monitoring system can be portable or stationary (e.g. installed in air ducts or plumbing of buildings) and can be part of a network of devices. Monitoring devices may be used for the detection of a variety of airborne or surface pathogens, including but not limited to anthrax, smallpox, and Salmonella. Bioamplification-coupled proteomics assays provide rapid and reliable detection of pathogens, with self-checking capabilities reducing or eliminating false positives and false negatives. Sample preservation capability allows pathogen samples to be preserved after detection for further testing. The device of the invention can be remotely operated by minimally trained technicians or security personnel.

Abstract: Monoclonal antibodies which can bind to the Fnbp protein of Staphylococcus aureus and which are generated from a peptide from the D2 region of fibronectin binding protein B (Fnbp) of S. aureus are provided which can be useful in the treatment and protection against infection from staphylococcal bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. The monoclonal antibodies of the invention are advantageous in that they bind S. aureus in high affinity and thus can be useful in the prevention of the adherence of staph bacteria to host cells by impairing or inhibiting the ability of S. aureus Fnbp to bind to fibronectin. Kits and methods of utilizing the monoclonal antibodies of the invention are also provided.

Abstract: This invention is directed to an optically-based method and system for analyte detection using solid phase immobilization, specific analyte labels adapted for signal generation and corresponding processes for the utilization thereof. The enumeration detection method disclosed herein narrows the area for signal observation, thus, improving detectable signal to background ratio. The system is comprised of a platform/support for immobilizing a sample stage having a labeled sample (analyte complex) bound thereto, a radiation source, an optical apparatus for generating and directing radiation at said sample and a control that obtains data and then conducts analyses using digital image data. Upon engagement of the system, the sample generates a signal capable of differentiation from background signal, both of which are collected and imaged with a signal detector that generated a sample image to a data processing apparatus.

Abstract: ELISA (and ELISA-like) procedures for detection of agents, such as bioagents, proteins and nucleic acids, incorporate electrically charged (3) recognition molecules (5) that bind to the specific agent (7) being sought, deposit the charged recognition molecules and bound suspect agent in a fluid, and incorporate an electric field (E) to move and/or position those charged molecules to specific locations within the solution during the immunoassay procedure.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and compositions for screening for pharmacological agents which regulate gene expression in mammals. An exemplary assay involves (a) contacting a mammalian cell comprising a knock-in mutant of a targeted native allele encoding a reporter of gene expression, wherein the expression of the reporter is under the control of the gene expression regulatory sequences of the native allele, with a candidate agent under conditions whereby but for the presence of the agent, the reporter is expressed at a first expression level; and, (b) measuring the expression of the reporter to obtain a second expression level, wherein a difference between the first and second expression levels indicates that the candidate agent modulates gene expression.

Abstract: The invention is directed to entrapped mutated binding proteins, mutated binding proteins containing reporter groups, compositions of mutated binding proteins containing reporter groups in analyte permeable matrixes, and their use as analyte biosensors both in vitro and in vivo

Abstract: A compound represented by general formula (I) or (II) or a salt thereof and an agent for measurement of a reactive oxygen comprising said compound or a salt thereof: 1

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of isolating cells from a sample which method comprises binding said cells to a solid support by means of a non-specific ligand immobilised on said solid support, particularly to a method of isolating microorganisms from a sample. Preferred ligands for use in such methods include carbohydrates and derivatives thereof. Also described is a kit for isolating microorganisms from a sample comprising: (a) a solid support having immobilised thereon a ligand which is capable of non-specific binding to microorganisms; (b) means for binding microorganisms to said solid support; optionally (c) means for lysing said cells; and optionally (d) means for binding nucleic acid released from said lysed cells to a solid support.

Abstract: The present invention herein relates to a bioactive substance with mammalian B lymphocyte toxicity secreted by canine transmissible venereal tumor (CTVT) and its process. CTVT is the only mammalian tumor in nature that is transmitted through viable tumor cells. Transmission of CTVT between dogs is akin to an allograft. The isolation of bioactive substance secreted by CTVT includes the following steps: (1) store CTVT excised from canine skin in Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS); (2) physically extract CTVT, tumor infiltrating lymphocytes and peripheral blood lymphocytes; (3) place CTVT in culture medium and physically obtain suspension fluid with B lymphocyte toxicity; (4) drive said suspension solution through protein filters with different pore sizes to obtain bioactive substance.

Abstract: The invention relates to an enzyme-catalysed modification of substances in a mixture, comprising bringing the substance in a mixture to be modified into contact with an enzyme and a substrate.

Abstract: A process of separating a single desired stereoisomer from a racemic mixture of eight stereoisomers of a compound of formula (III), wherein R1 represents an isopropanol group, an isopropyl group or an isopropylene group, includes the steps of: contacting the racemic mixture in a suitable organic solvent with an esterifying agent and a stereospecific enzyme which stereoselectively esterifies the —OH group of the desired stereoisomer, for a time sufficient to convert a desired percentage of the desired stereoisomer to a compound of formula (IV), wherein R1 is as defined above and R4 is an alkyl or an aryl group, to give a first reaction product including the compound of formula (IV), the organic solvent, the unconverted stereoisomers of the compound of formula (III), excess esterifying agent and by-products of the reaction; and separating the compound of formula (IV) from the first reaction product. The process is of particular application for the production of (−)-menthol.

Abstract: A method is described of treating the surface of antigen-presenting cells before modification with antigens from diseased cells. In this method the antigen-presenting cells or components thereof are exposed to the effect of proteases, after which the proteases are removed.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel polypeptides and to nucleic acid molecules encoding those polypeptides. Also provided herein are vectors and host cells comprising those nucleic acid sequences, chimeric polypeptide molecules comprising the polypeptides of the present invention fused to heterologous polypeptide sequences, antibodies which bind to the polypeptides of the present invention and to methods for producing the polypeptides of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel polypeptides and to nucleic acid molecules encoding those polypeptides. Also provided herein are vectors and host cells comprising those nucleic acid sequences, chimeric polypeptide molecules comprising the polypeptides of the present invention fused to heterologous polypeptide sequences, antibodies which bind to the polypeptides of the present invention and to methods for producing the polypeptides of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention is related to an isolated mutated nucleic acid molecule encoding the BMP1B receptor polypeptide. This molecule has a sequence which differs from that of the wild type BMP1B receptor polypeptide in that the codon encoding amino-acid residue 249 encodes arginine rather than glutamine, is able to hybridize under stringent conditions to the molecule above, is a variant of the molecule above, is a complement of any of the molecules above, or is an anti-sense sequence corresponding to any of the sequences in the molecules described above.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel polypeptides and to nucleic acid molecules encoding those polypeptides. Also provided herein are vectors and host cells comprising those nucleic acid sequences, chimeric polypeptide molecules comprising the polypeptides of the present invention fused to heterologous polypeptide sequences, antibodies which bind to the polypeptides of the present invention and to methods for producing the polypeptides of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel polypeptides and to nucleic acid molecules encoding those polypeptides. Also provided herein are vectors and host cells comprising those nucleic acid sequences, chimeric polypeptide molecules comprising the polypeptides of the present invention fused to heterologous polypeptide sequences, antibodies which bind to the polypeptides of the present invention and to methods for producing the polypeptides of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for producing a polynucleotide sequence encoding an antibody variable domain, the variable domain comprising complementarity-determining regions (CDRs) located within a selected framework (the ‘master framework’), the method comprising the steps of (a) providing at least one nucleic acid molecule encoding one or more CDRs and associated framework regions (the ‘original framework’), (b) amplifying at least one CDR-encoding portion of the nucleic acid molecule(s) of step (a) using one or more pairs of oligonucleotides as amplification primers and (c) assembling a polynucleotide sequence encoding an antibody variable domain by combining the amplified CDR-encoding nucleotide sequences produced in step (b) with nucleotide sequences encoding said master framework, wherein the oligonucleotide primers of step (b) comprise nucleotide sequences which differ from the corresponding nucleotide sequences encoding said master framework.

Abstract: An improved method for the production of monoclonal antibodies is disclosed.

Abstract: A novel G protein-conjugating receptor protein containing an amino acid sequence which is the same or substantially the same as the amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO.1, or its salt; a polynucleotide encoding the same; and medicinal use, etc. thereof.