Abstract: A carrier for cell culture is provided which improves the cell proliferativity in serum-free culture and which is free from risk from infection factor contamination. The gist of the features of the present invention is to be formed of a crosslinked poly (meth) acrylic acid (salt) particle (A) and an artificial polypeptide (P) having at least one cell-adhesive minimal amino acid sequence (X) in one molecule and to have a water retention value of from 2 to 50 g/g. The (A) is preferably a particle produced by reversed phase suspension polymerization of an aqueous monomer solution containing (meth)acrylic acid and/or an alkali metal salt of (meth)acrylic acid. The (P) preferably has at least one auxiliary amino acid sequence (Y) in one molecule of the (P). The (X) is preferably an Arg Gly Asp sequence.

Abstract: Methods of treating disorders related to CXCL13 activity utilize CXCL13 antagonists and, optionally, TNF? antagonists, such as antibodies, including specified portions or variants, polypeptides, polynucleotides, siRNA, shRNA, ribozymes, and DNAzymes. Disorders related to CXCL13 activity include inflammatory disorders, such as pulmonary disorders, for example, asthma, emphysema, and COPD, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are described for the treatment of type I insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and other conditions using newly identified stem cells that are capable of differentiation into a variety of pancreatic islet cells, including insulin-producing beta cells, as well as hepatocytes. Nestin has been identified as a molecular marker for pancreatic stem cells, while cytokeratin-19 serves as a marker for a distinct class of islet ductal cells. Methods are described whereby nestin-positive stem cells can be isolated from pancreatic islets and cultured to obtain further stem cells or pseudo-islet like structures. Methods for ex vivo differentiation of the pancreatic stem cells are disclosed. Methods are described whereby pancreatic stem cells can be isolated, expanded, and transplanted into a patient in need thereof, either allogeneically, isogeneically or xenogenically, to provide replacement for lost or damaged insulin-secreting cells or other cells.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods of preserving mammalian heart, ex vivo. Nanoparticle compositions for carrying out the invention are also disclosed.

Abstract: This invention provides novel compounds, and pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives thereof, that are useful as caspase inhibitors. These compounds have the general formula I: where R1, R2, and R3 are as described herein, Ring A contains zero to two double bonds, each X is independently selected from nitrogen or carbon, at least one X in Ring A is a nitrogen, Ring A is optionally substituted as described, and may be fused to a saturated or unsaturated five to seven membered ring containing zero to three heteroatoms, and provided that when X3 is a carbon, a substituent on X3 is attached by an atom other than nitrogen.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved method of producing a natural, acellular matrix scaffold for subsequent use in tissue-engineered replacement of tissues such as the bladder. Decellularisation is carried out on an expanded or distended bladder and the product retains the strength and compliance of natural material. The invention also provides use of the matrix scaffolds as wound healing material and to investigate tissue structure and function in vitro.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for determining or identifying compounds that modulate the function of an isolated retinal pericyte or blood vessel, wherein a change in the contractile state of said pericyte or blood vessel is determined in the presence of a test compound, said change indicating that the test compound modulates the function of pericytes and/or blood vessels.

Abstract: The object of the invention is a composition for protecting and/or preserving cells, tissues or organs, characterized in that it comprises at least one cyclodextrin, preferably closely combined with an antioxidant. The invention also relates to a process for producing this composition and its uses.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention illustrate methods of treating and preventing transplantation and side effects associated with transplantation. In particular, the present invention relates to compositions and methods for inhibition of graft rejection and promotion of graft survival. Thus, the invention relates to modulation of cellular activities, including graft rejection, promotion of graft survival, graft versus host rejection and conditions commonly associated with graft rejection. More particularly, the present invention relates to the inhibitory compounds comprising naturally occurring and man-made inhibitors of serine protease and inducers of other alpha1-antitrypsin activities.

Abstract: Provided are methods of reducing cell death, attenuating a burst of reactive oxygen species, reducing cytotoxicity, reducing intracellular oxidant stress due species in a population of cells following hypoxia by reoxygenating the cells in the presence of a reversible electron transport chain inhibitor or under hypercarbic conditions. Also provided is a method to determine the effectiveness of a reversible electron transport chain inhibitor for reducing cell death in a population of cells.

Abstract: Regeneration of a lesioned CNS axon of a mature neuron, determined to be subject to regeneration inhibition by Smad2/3 signaling, is promoted by contacting the neuron with an inhibitor of Smad2/3 signaling sufficient to promote regeneration of the axon.

Abstract: A novel P-selectin ligand glycoprotein is disclosed, comprising the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:2 or by the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:4. DNA sequences encoding the P-selectin ligand protein are also disclosed, along with vectors, host cells, and methods of making the P-selectin ligand protein. Pharmaceutical compositions containing the P-selectin ligand protein and methods of treating inflammatory disease states characterized by P-selectin- and E-selectin-mediated intercellular adhesion are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for supporting the in vitro growth of one or more eukaryotic cell type(s), the method comprising; seeding cells of said cell type(s) onto particles comprising basement membrane or a basement membrane-like substrate, and culturing said seeded cells in vitro under conditions suitable for expansion of said seeded cells, wherein said particles are less than about 500 ?m in size.

Abstract: The present invention provides a mammalian immortalized liver cell obtained by transferring a cell proliferation factor gene located between a pair of site-specific recombination sequences into a mammalian liver cell.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an in vitro method to provide biological tissue with a heparin coating comprising the following steps; linking a biotin reagent to biological tissue, linking an avidin reagent to the biotinylated biological tissue, and linking a heparin reagent to the formed layer of avidin on the biological tissue thus forming a heparin coating. The invention further discloses a heparin coating on biological tissue, the use of a heparin coating, and the biological tissue coated with a heparin layer according to the method.

Abstract: The present invention provides a compound of formula I: wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 are as defined herein. The present invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions and methods using such compositions for treating a caspase-mediated diseases and processes for preparing the compounds of the invention.

Abstract: A particle/cell separation device is described which is particularly adapted for neutrophil depletion from a preparation of whole blood or platelet-rich plasma. Also described are blood and platelet rich plasma compositions produced using the device which are neutrophil-depleted.

Abstract: Flush preservation solution for the preservation of cells in the absence of a blood supply comprising: v) water for injection; and vi) at least one saccharide such as a monosaccharide, disaccharide, trisaccharide, or polysaccharide and vii) at least one component with pH buffer properties; and viii) at least one component with calcium transport blocking properties or an anti-calcium action activity; method for the preparation thereof; use thereof in transplantation including organs from heart beating or non heart beating donors, in surgery including any situation of warm or cold ischaemia, cardioplegia or open heart surgery, whole limb or whole body preservation in experimentation on living tissues or in culturing and preserving engineered cells, tissues and organs, limbs or the whole body; method for flushing, preserving or flush preservation of cells; and a kit of parts comprising the solution components.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide Dermal Micro-organs (DMOs), methods and apparatuses for producing the same. Some embodiments of the invention provide a DMO including a plurality of dermal components, which substantially retain the micro-architecture and three dimensional structure of the dermal tissue from which they are derived, having dimensions selected so as to allow passive diffusion of adequate nutrients and gases to cells of the DMO and diffusion of cellular waste out of the cells so as to minimize cellular toxicity and concomitant death due to insufficient nutrition and accumulation of waste in the DMO. Some embodiments of the invention provide methods and apparatuses for harvesting the DMO. An apparatus for harvesting the DMO may include, according to some exemplary embodiments, a support configuration to support a skin-related tissue structure from which the DMO is to be harvested, and a cutting tool able to separate the DMO from the skin-related tissue structure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improved methods and means for transformation of soybean (Glycine max) based on a D-alanine and/or D-serine selection.

Abstract: The protein CAMP65p of C. albicans has been found to be play a significant role in both adhesion and the production of hyphae, which are important factors in both virulence and resistance to clearing. This invention provides antibodies to CAMP65p useful for administration to patients for prophylaxis and treatment of candidal infections.

Abstract: Tissue engineered organs and methods for producing the same are provided. The tissue engineered organs are useful to replace diseased or damaged host organs.

Abstract: A method for repairing damaged or diseased urinary tract tissue includes providing a urinary tract tissue graft composition that includes a distal ileal segment of small intestinal submucosa. The distal ileal segment of small intestinal submucosa may be utilized as an unseeded tissue graft composition, or the distal ileal segment of small intestinal submucosa may be positioned in a tissue culture frame, and smooth muscle and urothelial cells isolated from a tissue specimen of a subject and cultured are then seeded upon the distal ileal segment of small intestinal submucosa, thereby forming a urinary tract tissue graft.

Abstract: The present invention provides a devitalized mammalian parenchymatous tissue composition which includes an interstitial structure which can serve as a scaffold for tissue repair or regeneration. The devitalized mammalian parenchymatous tissue composition can further include the basement membrane of the tissue.

Abstract: A synthetic catalyst providing superoxide dismutase activity consists essentially of monodispersed nanoparticles of cerium oxide having a crystal lattice containing cerium in mixed valence states of Ce3+ and Ce4+ wherein the Ce4+ valence state predominates and containing an enhanced Ce3+/Ce4+ ratio and an effective number of oxygen vacancies in the crystal lattice so as to increase catalytic efficiency. A method of making the synthetic catalyst includes dissolving hydrous Ce(NO3)3 in water so as to form a solution, stirring the solution, adding hydrogen peroxide, heating and stopping when the solution develops a light yellow color.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method for the preparation of a multiring engineered heart tissue construct suitable for use in cardiac tissue augmentation and/or replacement therapy. The invention further refers to multiring EHT constructs which comprise at least two force-generating engineered heart tissue rings fused with each other and a device for preparing the same. Finally, the invention relates to force-generating engineered heart tissue rings derived from human cells and their use in drug screening and target validation assays.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel polypeptide constructs based on peptides derived from Insulin-like Growth Factor I (IGF-1). The invention also relates to novel uses for IGF-1-derived peptides, particularly for the prevention and treatment of diseases involving regulation of cellular growth or differentiation, regeneration and tissue repair.

Abstract: A bioscaffolding can be formed within a post-myocardial infarct region sufficient to cause attenuation of a rate of myocardial infarct expansion. A bioscaffolding may further be formed in the post-myocardial infarct region to cause an increase in posterior left ventricular wall thickness. The gel or bioscaffolding can be formed from a mixture of gel components of different gelation systems. For example, a bioscaffolding can be formed by mixing at least two different components of at least two different two-component gelation systems to form a first mixture and by mixing at least two different components (other than the components that make up the first mixture) of the at least two different two-component gelation systems to form a second mixture.

Abstract: This invention provides novel caspase inhibitors of formula I: wherein R1 is hydrogen, CHN2, R, or —CH2Y; R is an aliphatic group, an aryl group, an aralkyl group, a heterocyclyl group, or a heterocyclylalkyl group; Y is an electronegative leaving group; R2 is CO2H, CH2CO2H, or esters, amides or isosteres thereof; X2—X1 is N(R3)—C(R3), C(R3)2—C(R3), C(R3)2—N, N?C, C(R3)?C, C(?O)—N, or C(?O)—C(R3); each R3 is independently selected from hydrogen or C1-6 aliphatic; Ring C is a fused aryl ring; n is 0, 1 or 2; and each methylene carbon in Ring A is optionally and independently substituted by ?O, or one or more halogen, C1-4 alkyl, or C1-4 alkoxy. The compounds are useful for treating caspase-mediated diseases.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fixative composition for preservation of tissue and biological samples. Current fixative compositions have the drawback that they do not sufficiently protect against DNA/RNA degeneration. In addition their use impairs extractability and compromises amplifiability of extracted DNA. The invention solves the combined but related problems and provides a fixative composition comprising one or more alkanols, polyethylene glycol having a molecular weight of 200-600, one or more weak organic acids in a combined concentration of 0.01 to 0.10 mole per liter of the fixative composition, and water. The fixative composition is essentially free of any cross-linking agents such as formaldehyde.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for improving viability and/or stress tolerance of viable biological material and using the said material comprising applying hydrostatic pressure to said biological material; keeping the said viable biological material at the hydrostatic pressure for a predetermined time period; releasing the hydrostatic pressure; and using the said material for any desired purpose in accordance with any useful protocol. The usage of the said biological material incorporates any techniques, protocols that are applicable in the field of assisted reproductive techniques, biotechnical and/or biotechnological manipulations.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for removing carbon dioxide from whole blood. Hydrogen ions are generated from water in the blood, resulting in the formation and release of carbon dioxide from the blood.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods for the preservation and storage of living biological tissues, organs, and populations of isolated cells. Also disclosed are compositions and methods to permit biological samples (including e.g., cells, cell cultures, tissues, and organs) to be harvested from suitable donor animals, stored for prolonged periods under refrigerated, cryogenic, or near-freezing, and then transported and implanted into a site within the body of a selected recipient animal, all without significant loss of cellular viability, tissue integrity, and/or biochemical function of the stored biological sample.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions and methods for the preservation, storage, and transport of living biological tissues, organs, and populations of isolated cells. In particular, the disclosed compositions and processes permit mammalian cells, tissues, and organs to be harvested from suitable donor animals, stored for prolonged periods, and transported to the site of recipient implantation, all without significant loss of cell viability, biological activity, and/or tissue integrity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for organ preservation, comprising an inulin type fructan as an active ingredient. The composition for organ preservation can suppress the hypofunction of an organ and damage to a histological structure and can improve the state of preservation of the organ in the course of organ transplantation and the like.

Abstract: A container for use in processing a biopsy sample. Biopsy sample and materials are received within a sample processing area of the container. A semi-permeable barrier is positioned at a downstream portion of the sample processing area and prevents the prevent passage of the biopsy sample. A cap is positioned at the downstream side of the barrier, and holds fluids within the container.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a biological composition which is storable above cryogenic temperature which is comprised of a vitrification solution in a glassy state. The vitrification solution is comprised of a biological material and a vitrification agent.

Abstract: The present invention provides a paraffin-penetration treatment method for a tissue preparation, which is capable of enabling sufficient penetration of paraffin even into a tissue preparation, into which paraffin can hardly penetrate by a conventional paraffin-penetration treatment method. When the penetration of the paraffin into the tissue preparation is performed by immersing the tissue preparation in molten paraffin after a dehydrating and a degreasing treatments, the method comprises the steps of: immersing the tissue preparation in the molten paraffin so as to allow the paraffin to penetrate into the tissue preparation; cooling the tissue preparation so as to solidify the paraffin having penetrated thereinto; and immersing the tissue preparation in the molten paraffin again so as to melt the paraffin having penetrated thereinto, and the above described solidification treatment and melting treatment are conducted at least once for one tissue preparation.

Abstract: A composition comprising a compound of formula (I) or (II): wherein r and q are independently integers of 1 to 3; Rf is linear or branched chain perfluoroalkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms; j is an integer 0 or 1, or a mixture thereof, x is 1 or 2, Z is —O— or —S—, X is hydrogen or M, and M is an ammonium ion, an alkali metal ion, or an alkanolammonium ion is disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) in the prevention of hypertrophy in chondrogenic cells for cartilage replacement. A method for engineering three dimensional cartilage constructs from chondrogenic cells is provided, said method comprising a step of treating the chondrogenic cells or immature constructs with PTHrP to regulate hypertrophy. Also provided are: three dimensional cartilage produced by the method of the invention, and an engineered cartilage construct comprising chondrogenic cells and a bioactive scaffold capable of controlled release of PTHrP. In addition, the invention provides a method for the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Abstract: Novel methods, tissues and compositions for increasing the pancreatic mass of a mammalian recipient including harvesting immature pancreatic tissue from a mammalian donor and transplanting said tissue into the peritoneal cavity of a mammalian recipient under conditions that allow the pancreatic tissue to become vascularized and mature, thereby developing a functioning chimeric, endocrine pancreas that produces at least insulin in the recipient. The invention also includes mammalian immature pancreatic tissue adapted for transplantation into the peritoneal cavity of a mammalian recipient for increasing the pancreatic mass of the mammalian recipient as well as methods and compositions for treatment of the pancreatic tissue, recipient immunosuppression and recipient co-stimulatory blockade.

Abstract: The present invention makes it possible to attain various applications using antifreeze activity without an antifreeze protein. The agent for the inhibition of ice-crystal growth includes a non-proteinaceous substance, wherein an aqueous solution of the non-proteinaceous substance in a concentration of 10 mg/ml causes the deposition of non-flat disk-shaped ice crystals. The agent for the lowering of an ice-crystal growth initiation temperature includes a non-proteinaceous substance, wherein an aqueous solution of the non-proteinaceous substance in a concentration of 10 mg/ml shows thermal hysteresis by a temperature of 0.020° C. or higher. The agent for the control of water freezing includes a non-proteinaceous substance, wherein an aqueous solution of the non-proteinaceous substance in a concentration of 10 mg/ml shows thermal hysteresis by a temperature of 0.020° C. or higher and causes the deposition of non-flat disk-shaped ice crystals.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide Dermal Micro Organs (DMOs), methods and apparatuses for producing the same. Some embodiments of the invention provide a DMO including a plurality of dermal components, which substantially retain the micro-architecture and three dimensional structure of the dermal tissue from which they are derived, having dimensions selected so as to allow passive diffusion of adequate nutrients and gases to cells of the DMO and diffusion of cellular waste out of the cells so as to minimize cellular toxicity and concomitant death due to insufficient nutrition and accumulation of waste in the DMO. Some embodiments of the invention provide methods and apparatuses for harvesting the DMO. An apparatus for harvesting the DMO may include, according to some exemplary embodiments, a support configuration to support a skin-related tissue structure from which the DMO is to be harvested, and a cutting tool able to separate the DMO from the skin-related tissue structure.

Abstract: The invention is the modification of organs, tissues and cells with a storage/reperfusion solution comprising siRNAs specific for genes whose expression is associated with loss of viability or cell damage. The presence of siRNAs in the storage/reperfusion solution minimizes and/or prevents organ, tissue and cell damage such that the organs, tissues or cells can be used for in vivo transplantation. The invention is also directed generally to methods for maintaining organs, tissues and cells in a viable state using the storage/reperfusion solution.

Abstract: The invention provides non-human transgenic animals, and cell lines, host cells, tissues and isolated organs, comprising the human UDP-glucuronosyltransferase IA (UGT1A) gene locus. In one aspect, the endogenous UGT1A gene locus of the non-human transgenic animal has been partially or completely “knocked out.” In another aspect, the invention is directed to drug screening, design and discovery. In another aspect, the invention is directed to determining the toxicity or metabolism of a compound, e.g., a toxin or drug, including environmental, dietary, cosmetic, biological warfare or other known or potentially toxic compounds. In another aspect, the invention is directed to deteuiining the toxicity or metabolism of a compound during a particular metabolic state of an animal, e.g., including pregnancy, stress, diet, age or a particular genotype.

Abstract: This invention provides a method for effectively producing dehydrated larvae for educational materials without disrupting the environment. The cryptobiotic larvae for educational materials can be obtained by dehydrating larvae while gradually reducing humidity in 3 separate stages.

Abstract: Vascular endothelial growth factor alternative splice variants and methods of their use are provided.

Abstract: The subject invention pertains to compositions and methods for promoting repair of damaged nerve tissue using nerve grafts and preparation of nerve grafts. The compositions and methods of the subject invention can be employed to restore the continuity of nerve interrupted by disease, traumatic events or surgical procedures. Compositions of the subject invention comprise one or more chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG)-degrading enzymes that promote axonal penetration into damaged nerve tissue and nerve graft. The invention also concerns methods for promoting repair of damaged nerve tissue using the present compositions and nerve tissue treated according to such methods. The invention also includes storage solutions for nerve tissue.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for controlling viability of a tissue including a potassium channel opener or adenosine receptor agonist a compound for inducing local anaesthesia and a compound for reducing the uptake of water by a cell in the tissue. The present invention also relates to the use of the composition according to the invention for controlling viability of a tissue.

Abstract: Described herein are compositions and methods particularly useful in the medical arts. The compositions and methods may be used in connection with the preservation of a portion of a mammal, for example, tissues, organs, appendages, limbs, extremities, stem cells, myocytes, bone marrow, skeletal muscle as well as an array of other medical procedures, such as cardiac surgery, transplantation and/or preservation. In various embodiments, the inventive composition may be hyperoxygenated and be formulated to resemble the biochemistries of natural intracellular fluids. The inventive composition includes active ingredients to reduce ischemic, hypothermic and reperfusion injury during transplantation, thereby resulting in improved post-transplant graft function and quality, when used in connection with organ transplantation and storage procedures, for example cardiac transplantation.