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

Abstract: The present invention provides an immortalized human cardiomyocyte cell line. The present invention further provides a method for preparing a human immortalized cell line derived from a post-mitotic primary cell culture.

Abstract: The present invention provides nucleotide and amino acid sequences that identify and encode a new cathepsin C homolog (RCP) expressed in THP-1 cells. The present invention also provides for antisense molecules to the nucleotide sequences which encode RCP, expression vectors for the production of purified RCP, antibodies capable of binding specifically to RCP, hybridization probes or oligonucleotides for the detection of RCP-encoding nucleotide sequences, genetically engineered host cells for the expression of RCP, diagnostic tests for activation of monocyte/macrophages based on RCP-encoding nucleic acid molecules, and use of the protein to produce antibodies capable of binding specifically to the protein and use of the protein to screen for inhibitors.

Abstract: Novel scavenger receptors having an SR structure and a collectin-like structure are provided, which can be utilized in the elucidation of mechanisms of macrophage and basic immunity; in the elucidation of mechanisms of the development of a wide variety of diseases such as arteriosclerosis, diabetic complications and Alzheimer's disease, hyper ?-lipoproteinemia, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypo ?-lipoproteinemia, transplantation, atherectomy, post angiogenic restenosis, bacterial infections; in the diagnostic, prophylactic and therapeutic methods thereof; and in the development of reagents and drugs for the same. The novel scavenger receptors include proteins comprising an amino acid sequence set out in SEQ ID NO: 2, 4 or 24 or proteins having equivalent properties to the same, or derivatives or fragments thereof as well as isolated polynucleotides comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding these proteins, and related molecules such as antibodies, antagonists and the like.

Abstract: High affinity monoclonal antibodies for recognizing estrogen receptor (clone SP1) with immunohistochemistry and methods for creating such an antibody are disclosed. The lagomorph derived ER antibody provides a significant advantage over the currently available mouse ER antibodies in that there is no need for target retrieval when performing immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, the very low background when the lagomorph derived ER antibody is used in immunohistochemistry is also impressive. The immunohistochemistry comparative study with about fifty clinical specimens showed that the new ER (clone SP1) antibody had favorable results when compared to mouse monoclonal ER antibodies (clone 1D5). The lagomorph derived ER antibody may prove of great value in the assessment of ER status in human breast cancer. Humanized versions of the ER antibody may also provide therapeutic benefits.

Abstract: The present invention relates to genetically altered hybridomas, myelomas and B cells. The invention also relates to utilizing genetically altered hybridomas, myelomas and B cells in methods of making monoclonal antibodies. The present invention also provides populations of hybridomas and B cells that can be utilized to make a monoclonal antibody of interest.

Abstract: We claim an isolated polypeptide having ability of binding with cholesterol. Said polypeptide is useful for investigating regulation of intestinal cholesterol absorption and cholesterol levels. Also, we claim a composition comprising said polypeptide bound to cholesterol or ezetimibe and a fusion protein comprising the polypeptide thereof.

Abstract: Coalescence of cells or other membrane-bound entities is facilitated by anchoring an outwardly projecting first oligonucleotide in one member and an outwardly projecting second oligonucleotide, complementary to the first, in a second member and incubating under hybridizing conditions. Liposomes may be coalesced with cells to deliver hydrophilic agents thereto, such as DNA probes or drugs. Kits containing complementary oligonucleotides containing hydrophobic anchoring moieties may be used.

Abstract: An improved method of nuclear transfer employing long-term cultured somatic cells as the donor cells and enucleated oocytes as the recipient cells to produce dividing cybrids. Such cybrids are useful for developing viable animals clones when nurtured in a suitable host environment.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for dedifferentiating nuclei from somatic cells are provided. Such methods and compositions are useful for facilitating processes such as, for example, cloning and immortalization of cells.

Abstract: Modified antibodies, or antigen-binding fragments thereof, to the extracellular domain of human prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) are provided. The modified anti-PSMA antibodies, or antigen-binding fragments thereof, have been rendered less immunogenic compared to their unmodified counterparts to a given species, e.g., a human. Pharmaceutical compositions including the aforesaid antibodies, nucleic acids, recombinant expression vectors and host cells for making such antibodies and fragments are also disclosed. Methods of using the antibodies of the invention to detect human PSMA, or to ablate or kill a PSMA-expressing cell, e.g., a PSMA-expressing cancer or prostatic cell, either in vitro or in vivo, are also provided.

Abstract: Detection of mutations associated with hereditary diseases is complicated by the diploid nature of mammalian cells. Mutations present in one allele are often masked by the wild-type sequence of the other allele. Individual alleles can be isolated from every chromosome within somatic cell hybrids generated from a single fusion. Nucleic acids from the hybrids can be analyzed for mutations in an unambiguous manner. This approach was used to detect two cancer-causing mutations that had previously defied genetic diagnosis. One of the families studied, Warthin Family G, was the first kindred with a hereditary colon cancer syndrome described in the biomedical literature.

Abstract: Methods of identifying inhibitors of the fusion of two types of cells, particularly when fusion is mediated by the interaction of a viral protein and such cellular proteins as CD4 and chemokine receptors, are disclosed. The methods are suitable for identifying substances that are useful for the treatment and prevention of viral diseases. Particularly preferred methods are useful for the identification of inhibitors of HIV-1 infection.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing patient cancerous disease modifying antibodies using a novel paradigm of screening. By segregating the anti-cancer antibodies using cancer cell cytotoxicity as an end point, the process makes possible the production of anti-cancer antibodies for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. The antibodies can be used in aid of staging and diagnosis of a cancer, and can be used to treat primary tumors and tumor metastases. The anti-cancer antibodies can be conjugated to toxins, enzymes, radioactive compounds, and hematogenous cells.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods of agglutinating or capturing cells comprising providing a mixture comprising a population of cells and a population of bacteriophage expressing a first antibody on the surface of the bacteriophage, the first antibody being specific for an antigen-bearing moiety expressed by at least a portion of the cells in the cell population, wherein the first antibody binds to the portion of the cells causing the bacteriophage to also bind to the portion of the cells, adding to the mixture a second antibody specific for the bacteriophage, wherein binding of the second antibody to bacteriophage bound to the portion of the cells causes the portion of the cells to agglutinate or be captured.

Abstract: Provided is a protein used in the development of a therapeutic agent for neuron- or endocrine cell-related diseases, in which the transport system is involved. The protein has an amino acid sequence with one or more amino acids deleted, substituted, inserted or added relative to the amino acid sequence set forth under SEQ ID NO:1 in the Sequence Listing and which has a property to interact with GDP/GTP exchange factor II.

Abstract: A rapid, simple-to-use method for preparing hybrid cells, applicable to fully differentiate, non-dividing cells, entails bringing at least two different cells into contact under conditions that promote cell fusion and then purifying the resultant hybrid without antibiotic or metabolic selection. This approach yields hybrid cells useful in a variety of applications, including clinical treatment regimens, as cellular modulators of the immune system.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods of creating a stem cell. Specifically described are methods of creating a pluripotent stem cell by reprogramming a differentiated cell. The method of creating the stem cell comprises the steps of obtaining a cytoplast from an existing embryonic stem cell; fusing the cytoplast with a differentiated cell to produce a cybrid; and culturing the cybrid to yield a pluipotent stem cell.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the mutagenesis of eucaryotic nucleotide sequences, preferably from plants, algae and/or fungi and a method for the production of genetically modified eucaryotic cells. The subject of the invention is the genetically altered nucleotide sequences of the type disclosed, vectors containing such nucleotide sequences, as well as genetically altered eucaryotic cells, tissue and/or parts of plants, algea and/or fungi and/or regenerated whole plants and the use thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel hybridoma cell line which secretes monoclonal antibodies capable of binding to the AT1 subtype of the Angiotensin II receptor. It also relates to monoclonal antibodies secreted by the hybridoma, which antibodies may be used in diagnostic test kits as well as having therapeutic applications.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing patient cancerous disease modifying antibodies using a novel paradigm of screening. By segregating the anti-cancer antibodies using cancer cell cytotoxicity as an end point, the process makes possible the production of anti-cancer antibodies for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. The antibodies can be used in aid of staging and diagnosis of a cancer, and can be used to treat primary tumors and tumor metastases. The anti-cancer antibodies can be conjugated to toxins, enzymes, radioactive compounds, and hematogenous cells.

Abstract: Proteins having the activity of saccharose phosphate synthetase (SPS) and a process for obtaining the same.

Abstract: A technique for controlling membrane denaturation reactions other than physical shear force was developed. For example, the present invention provides, a method for causing membrane disruption at a specific site by reacting a stimulus such as light with a compound that is activated by the stimulus, where the reaction occurs on a membrane such as a biomembrane. It also provides a membrane structure such as cells in which a specific site has been disrupted, which are obtained by the present method. Introduction of substances such as genes also became possible by using this membrane structure. Further provided is a membrane-destroying member for disrupting a membrane at a specific site. Thus, the present invention enabled, for example, easy membrane penetration using components constituting microelectrodes, micromanipulators, and microinjectors, which were conventionally hardly usable in penetrating cell membranes.

Abstract: Recombinant cells which express a fluorescent holo-phycobiliprotein fusion protein and methods of use are described. The cells comprises a bilin, a recombinant bilin reductase, an apo-phycobiliprotein fusion protein precursor of the fusion protein comprising a corresponding apo-phycobiliprotein domain, and a recombinant phycobiliprotein domain-bilin lyase, which components react to form the holo-phycobiliprotein fusion protein. Also described are holo-phycobiliprotein based transcription reporter cells and assays, which cells conditionally express a heterologous-to-the-cell, fluorescent, first holo-phycobiliprotein domain.

Abstract: The present invention provides a purified and isolated nucleic acid encoding mycobacterial isocitrate lyase, as well as mutated forms of the nucleic acid. Further provided are purified and isolated isocitrate lyase proteins and mutated isocitrate lyase proteins. Additionally, the present invention provides vectors which comprises nucleic acid sequences encoding mycobacterial isocitrate lyase and mutated forms of this nucleic acid, as well as host cells containing these vectors. Also provided is a mycobacterium containing one or more mutations in its isocitrate lyase gene. Further provided by the present invention are agents that inhibit the activity or expression of a mycobacterial lyase protein, a method of identifying these, and a method of producing them. Finally, the present invention also provides a method of identifying genes required for persistence of mycobacteria.

Abstract: Immunostimulatory compositions that contain fused cells formed by fusion between dendritic cells and non-dendritic cells, methods of using these compositions, and methods of generating dendritic cell hybrids.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for the production of achromosomal and anucleate cells useful for applications such as diagnositic and therapeutic uses, as well as research tools and agents for drug discovery.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for the production of achromosomal and anucleate cells useful for applications such as diagnositic and therapeutic uses, as well as research tools and agents for drug discovery.

Abstract: This invention relates to immunological reagents and methods specific for a mammalian, transmembrane protein termed Pgp, having a non-specific efflux pump activity established in the art as being a component of clinically-important multidrug resistance in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The invention provides methods for developing and using immunological reagents specific for certain mutant forms of Pgp and for wild-type Pgp in a conformation associated with substrate binding or in the presence of ATP depleting agents. The invention also provides improved methods for purifying hematopoietic stems cells expressing Pgp and diagnostic and therapeutic methods for cancer cells expressing Pgp.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for the production of achromosomal and anucleate cells useful for applications such as diagnositic and therapeutic uses, as well as research tools and agents for drug discovery.

Abstract: Provided is a method of screening or enriching a sample containing polynucleotides from a mixed population of organisms. The method includes creating a DNA library from a plurality of nucleic acid sequences of a mixed population of organisms and separating clones containing a polynucleotide sequence of interest on an analyzer detects a detectable molecule on a probe or bioactive substrate. The analyzer includes FACS devices, SQUID devices and MCS devices. The separated or enrich library can then be further process by activity based screening or sequence based screening. In addition, the enriched sequence can be compared to a database and to identify sequences in the database which have homology to a clone in the library thereby obtaining a nucleic acid profile of the mixed population of organisms.

Abstract: A method for the genetic modification and improvement of Porphyra species utilizing protoplast fusion is disclosed. The method of the invention features the use of conchoporangial branch conchocelis for at least one of the sources of protoplasts for protoplast fusion. Protoplasts produced from conchosporangial branch conchocelis of one species may be mixed with protoplasts produced from either blade material or conchocelis of a second species and fused using either a chemical fusing agent like polyethylene glycol (PEG) or electrofusion. Alternatively, an algal species other than a Porphyra species may be the second source of protoplasts. After fusion has occurred, fusion products are isolated and regenerated to whole plants or used as multicellular material.

Abstract: Detection of mutations associated with hereditary diseases is complicated by the diploid nature of mammalian cells. Mutations present in one allele are often masked by the wild-type sequence of the other allele. Individual alleles can be isolated from every chromosome within somatic cell hybrids generated from a single fusion. Nucleic acids from the hybrids can be analyzed for mutations in an unambiguous manner. This approach was used to detect two cancer-causing mutations that had previously defied genetic diagnosis. One of the families studied, Warthin Family G, was the first kindred with a hereditary colon cancer syndrome described in the biomedical literature.

Abstract: Detection of mutations associated with hereditary diseases is complicated by the diploid nature of mammalian cells. Mutations present in one allele are often masked by the wild-type sequence of the other allele. Individual alleles can be isolated from every chromosome within somatic cell hybrids generated from a single fusion. Nucleic acids from the hybrids can be analyzed for mutations in an unambiguous manner. This approach was used to detect two cancer-causing mutations that had previously defied genetic diagnosis. One of the families studied, Warthin Family G, was the first kindred with a hereditary colon cancer syndrome described in the biomedical literature.

Abstract: Individual alleles can be isolated from every chromosome within somatic cell hybrids generated from a single fusion event. Nucleic acids or proteins from the hybrids can be analyzed for polymorphisms to provide unambiguous determinations. Information thus obtained can be used to develop and implement personalized medical interventions for individuals having particular polymorphic markers.

Abstract: An oncogene designated PAX8-PPAR&ggr;1 contains a PAX8 coding region fused to PPAR&ggr; coding region. Molecular characterization of PAX8-PPAR&ggr;1 molecules provides nucleotide and amino acid sequences useful for detection and treatment of certain tumors, particularly thyroid follicular carcinomas.

Abstract: The present invention features a method of producing a multimeric protein from a hybrid cell formed from the fusion of two or more cells, each of which cell is engineered to express one component of the multimeric protein, as well as a method for screening for successful fusion of the cells to produce a desired hybrid cell. The methods of the invention are widely applicable to the production of proteins having two or more components.

Abstract: The invention provides isolated nucleic acids molecules, designated MTP-1 nucleic acid molecules, which encode novel MTP-1-related transporter molecules. The invention also provides antisense nucleic acid molecules, recombinant expression vectors containing MTP-1 nucleic acid molecules, host cells into which the expression vectors have been introduced, and nonhuman transgenic animals in which an MTP-1 gene has been introduced or disrupted. The invention still further provides isolated MTP-1 proteins, fusion proteins, antigenic peptides and anti-MTP-1 antibodies. Diagnostic methods utilizing compositions of the invention are also provided.

Abstract: Isolated cDNA molecules which encode the tumor rejection antigen precursor MAGE-10, the protein itself, antibodies to it, and uses of these are part of the invention.

Abstract: The invention is concerned with fusions of dendritic cells and antigen presenting cells. Also provided are methods of making and using these cell fusions, including methods of adoptive immunotherapy. The fusions according to the invention can also be used in methods for antigen discovery.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cell which expresses a surface marker associated with a professional antigen presenting cell, and a fusogenic membrane protein, where the cell may also express at its surface a tumor cell marker. Also disclosed is a fusion hybrid formed by the fusion of a tumor cell and a professional antigen presenting cell (APC) such that the resulting fusion hybrid expresses an APC marker, a tumor cell marker, and a fusogenic membrane glycoprotein. Also disclosed are compositions comprising the cells and fusion hybrids, and methods of making and using the hybrids.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of of transferring genomic DNA from apoptotic bodies to engulfing cells, wherein DNA is transferred from a donor cell to a recipient cell. More specifically the method includes providing somatic donor cells comprising desired DNA; generating apoptotic bodies of said donor cells; incubation of the apoptotic bodies with engulfing recipient cells under biological conditions allowing uptake of DNA from the apoptotic bodies by said recipient cells; and optionally selecting recipient cells which have integrated DNA from the apoptotic bodies. The present method is useful in various pharmaceutical applications, such as in vaccine preparations and gene identification procedures.

Abstract: A new and useful apparatus for producing cell electrofusion is provided. The apparatus comprises: a. a chamber with a substrate disposed therein, b. means for directing the cells to be fused toward one side of the substrate; and c. a device for inducing fusion of the portion of the cells.

Abstract: The invention provides a human cornichon protein (CORN) and polynucleotides which identify and encode CORN. The invention also provides expression vectors, host cells, agonists, antibodies and antagonists. The invention also provides methods for treating and preventing disorders associated with expression of CORN.

Abstract: Methods for de-differentiating or altering the life-span of desired “recipient” cells, e.g., human somatic cells, by the introduction of cytoplasm from a more primitive, less differentiated cell type, e.g., oocyte or blastomere are provided. These methods can be used to produce embryonic stem cells and to increase the efficiency of gene therapy by allowing for desired cells to be subjected to multiple genetic modifications without becoming senescent. Such cytoplasm may be fractionated and/or subjected to subtractive hybridization and the active materials (sufficient for de-differentiation) identified and produced by recombinant methods.

Abstract: A rapid, simple-to-use method for preparing hybrid cells, applicable to fully differentiate, non-dividing cells, entails bringing at least two different cells into contact under conditions that promote cell fusion and then purifying the resultant hybrid without antibiotic or metabolic selection. This approach yields hybrid cells useful in a variety of applications, including clinical treatment regimens, as cellular modulators of the immune system.

Abstract: According to the invention, there is provided a human or animal cell expressing an antibody directed against a surface antigen on an antigen-presenting cell (APC) and lacking parental tumor-derived immunoglobulin.

Abstract: The present invention provides an anti-IgM antibody conjugate comprising: a monoclonal antibody which binds selectively to IgM antibody, does not bind to IgG1 or IgG2 antibody, and has a G isotype; and a cytotoxic moiety conjugated to said monoclonal antibody. The present invention also provides a method for collecting hybridoma producing IgG isotype monoclonal antibodies comprising: treating a hybrid cell population with a monoclonal antibody which has a G isotype and binds selectively to IgM antibody but does not bind to IgG1 or IgG2 antibody; subjecting said resulting immuncomplexed cells to sorting; and collecting the cells which have not complexed with said antibodies.

Abstract: A method produces an anti-tumor response in a mammalian subject in need of anti-tumor treatment. Hybrids of tumor cells with dendritic cells or dendritic-like cells can be administered to the subject. The tumor cell of the hybrid corresponds to the tumor of the subject. Alternatively, autologous immune cells of the subject can be administered in which the immune cells are activated in vitro by co-cultivation with these hybrids.

Abstract: The invention is related to antibodies which specifically react with connective tissue type-human mast cells, a production method of the antibodies, hybridomas which produce the antibodies, a production method of the hybridomas and antigen proteins recognized by the antibodies. After cord blood cells were cultured in the presence of SCF and IL-6, they were further cocultured with primary culture of human skin fibroblasts, and connective tissue type-human mast cells were thus obtained. A rat was immunized using the cells, hybridomas were prepared and selected by an ordinary method, and novel monoclonal antibodies were harvested from the culture supernatant of the selected hybridomas. The monoclonal antibodies specifically reacted with connective tissue type-human mast cells.