Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for detecting antigen responsive cells in a sample using multidimensional labeled antigen presenting compounds, such as antigen-major histocompatibility complexes (NHC). Further, the present invention relates to the use of the present multidimensional labeled antigen presenting compounds, such as antigen-major histocompatibility complexes (MHC), for detecting antigen responsive cells in a sample, preferably a single sample, such as a blood sample. The present method allows high-throughput analysis of specific antigen responsive cells, such as T- and B-cells, thereby providing, for example, high-throughput methods for monitoring of diseases or conditions and the development of immunotherapeutics, vaccines, or the identification epitopes or immunogenic amino acid sequences.

Abstract: The present invention provides an approach for the simultaneous determination of the activation states of a plurality of proteins in single cells. This approach permits the rapid detection of heterogeneity in a complex cell population based on activation states, and the identification of cellular subsets that exhibit correlated changes in activation within the cell population. Moreover, this approach allows the correlation of cellular activities or properties. In addition, the use of potentiators of cellular activation allows for characterization of such pathways and cell populations.

Abstract: The present invention provides an approach for the determination of the activation states of a plurality of proteins in single cells. This approach permits the rapid detection of heterogeneity in a complex cell population based on activation states, expression markers and other criteria, and the identification of cellular subsets that exhibit correlated changes in activation within the cell population. Moreover, this approach allows the correlation of cellular activities or properties. In addition, the use of modulators of cellular activation allows for characterization of pathways and cell populations. Several exemplary diseases that can be analyzed using the invention include AML, MDS, and MPN.

Abstract: The invention relates to compositions, kits, and methods for detecting, characterizing, preventing, and treating hepatic disorders such as hepatocellular carcinoma and/or cirrhosis. A variety of informative biomarkers corresponding thereto, are provided, wherein alterations in expression relative to a control is correlated with the presence of a hepatic disorder, likelihood of survival from a hepatic disorder, and likelihood of recurrence of a hepatic disorder.

Abstract: Methods of diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors, in particular ovarian tumors, using GD3 and GD3 inhibitors. Also provided are methods of modulating the immune system of a mammal by the administration of a GD3 and GD3 inhibitors.

Abstract: The present invention provides nanoparticles having a core comprising a magnetic material and having a surface, where the surface may be operatively linked to an antigenic peptide-major histocompatibility complex (MHC) monomer. The antigenic peptide-MHC monomer may then be recognized by a T cell receptor. These nanoparticles may further comprise a signal-generating label, such as a fluorophore. Methods employing nanoparticles of the present invention may involve magnetic resonance imaging and/or fluorescence detection, such that cell imaging and localization are performed.

Abstract: The present invention incorporates germinal centers (GCs) into three-dimensional (3D) engineered tissue constructs (ETCs). In an embodiment, we have incorporated the GC in the design of an artificial immune system (AIS) to examine immune responses to vaccines and other compounds. Development of an in vitro GC adds functionality to an AIS, in that it enables generation of an in vitro human humoral response by human B lymphocytes that is accurate and reproducible, without using human subjects. The invention also permits evaluation of, for example, vaccines, allergens, and immunogens, and activation of human B cells specific for a given antigen, which can then be used to generate human antibodies. In an embodiment of the present invention the function of the in vitro GC is enhanced by placing FDCs and other immune cells in a 3D ETC; FDCs appear more effective over a longer time (antibody production is sustained for up to about 14 days.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods of screening for HLA antibodies comprising detecting antibodies specific for native HLA antigens and denatured HLA antigens. The invention also provides for methods of removing antibodies specific for denatured HLA antigens or antibodies specific for native HLA antigens from a serum sample. In addition, the invention also provides for method of predicting whether a transplant recipient has an increased risk for rejecting the transplanted organ.

Abstract: The embodiments provide for the modulation of both the differentiation and activity of human TH17 cells. More specifically, human TH17 cell differentiation can modulated by TGF-? and IL-21, and their agonists and antagonists. Function of TH17 cells can be modulated by, for example, BLT1 or podoplanin, and their agonists and antagonists. Additionally, the embodiments provide for the identification of TH17 cells. More specifically, human TH17 cells specifically upregulate BLT1 and podoplanin.

Abstract: Extracellular domains of transmembrane heterodimeric proteins, particularly T cell receptor and major histocompatibility complex proteins, can be covalently linked to the heavy and light chains of immunoglobulin molecules to provide soluble multivalent molecular complexes with high affinity for their cognate ligands. The molecular complexes can be used, inter alia, to detect and regulate antigen-specific T cells and as therapeutic agents for treating disorders involving immune system regulation, such as allergies, autoimmune diseases, tumors, infections, and transplant rejection.

Abstract: The subject invention provides new materials and methods for the efficient isolation and purification of stem cells. Specifically, conductive immunopolymers with stem cell specific antibodies can be used to remove stem cells from biological fluids.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a method for the quantitative or qualitative detection of antigen-specific CD4+ T cells and/or CD8+ T cells in a subject, said method comprising quantitatively or qualitatively detecting the expression of cell surface marker CD25 and one or more of cell surface markers CD134 and CD137 in a suitable lymphocyte-containing sample from said subject in response to exposure to an antigen. A method for determining the immunocompetence of a subject and a method for isolating antigen-specific CD4+ and/or CD8+ T cells is also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods, compositions, and diagnostic kits for detecting acetylcholine receptor (AchR) autoreactive immune cells in a subject. The methods comprise detecting the binding of AChR-conjugate to penpheral blood AChR-specific B cells for diagnosing autoimmune disorders, including Myasthenia gravis (MG), systemic lupus erythematous (SLE), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). More specifically, the detection is achieved by using flow cytometric assay with Alexa-conjugated AchR.

Abstract: The present invention relates to set overlapping immunogenic peptides of a variable antigen, and uses thereof, in particular for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The present invention relates also to a sub-population of CD8 T cells associated with the non-progressive status in HIV-infected subjects.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an immunological method and, more particularly, a method for measuring cell-mediated immune reactivity (CMI) in mammals based on the production of IP-10. The invention further discloses an assay and a kit for measuring CMI to an antigen using whole blood or other suitable biological samples. The methods of the present invention are useful in therapeutic and diagnostic protocols for human, livestock and veterinary and wild life applications, thus the invention further relates to a method for diagnosing an infection in a mammal.

Abstract: The present invention provides a new method for the prediction of, or diagnosis of, auto-immune diseases, thereby alerting the subject to the presence of, or propensity to develop, an auto-immune disease so that preventative or therapeutic regiments may be initiated or changed so as to treat, modulate or prevent expansion of the CD4loCD40hi T cell population responsible for the destructive inflammation. The invention also discloses agents which modulate, treat or prevent expansion of CD4loCD40hi T cells. In one embodiment, the method is predictive of type 1 diabetes.

Abstract: Single chain fusion proteins that specifically bind to a TCR complex or a component thereof, such as TCR?, TCR?, or CD3?, along with compositions and methods of use thereof are provided.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of inhibiting viral infection of a mammalian cell, said method comprising reducing or inhibiting ps20 polypeptide expressed by said cell. Suitably ps20 is inhibited by contacting said cell with an antibody capable of binding to ps20 polypeptide. Suitably said antibody is ps20 neutralising antibody. The invention also provides antibody capable of binding ps20 polypeptide, siRNA targeted to a transcript encoding ps20 polypeptide, or antisense ps20 polynucleotide for use as a medicament for viral infection. The invention also provides a method of identifying an agent for inhibiting a viral infection, comprising determining level of ps20 expression in first and second samples, the first contacted with test agent; and comparing the level of ps20 expression in said first and second samples; wherein lower level of ps20 expression in said first sample relative to said second sample identifies test agent as an agent for inhibiting a viral infection.

Abstract: The present invention provides nucleotide and amino acid sequences that identify and encode a novel expressed chemokine (ADEC) from inflamed adenoid tissue. The present invention also provides for antisense molecules to the nucleotide sequences which encode ADEC, expression vectors for the production of purified ADEC, antibodies capable of binding specifically to ADEC, hybridization probes or oligonucleotides for the detection of ADEC-encoding nucleotide sequences, genetically engineered host cells for the expression of ADEC, diagnostic tests for inflammation or disease based on ADEC-encoding nucleic acid molecules or antibodies capable of binding specifically to ADEC.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method for differentiating and counting cellular components present in a biological fluid sample comprising a primary cytological analysis step typically implemented by a flow cytometry equipment (1) to obtain a set of primary results enabling the set of cellular components of the sample to be differentiated and counted in different populations; and a complementary step of cytological analysis of a particular type of cellular components, based on an identified cellular peculiarity, to obtain complementary results enabling at least one cell population or subpopulation of the sample to be differentiated and counted for identification of said cellular peculiarity. The invention is applicable in particular to hematological analyses.

Abstract: A method and kit for assaying a cell sample for the presence of at least a threshold number of cells of a given type are disclosed. The kit includes an assay device having a sample chamber for receiving the cell sample and an elongate collection chamber containing a selected-density and/or viscosity medium and having along its length, a plurality of cell-collection regions, and particles which are capable of specific attachment to cells of the selected cell type, and which are effective, when attached to the cells, to increase the density or magnetic susceptibility of the cells. In operation, particle-bound cells and particles in the cell sample are drawn through the elongate collection chamber under the influence of a gravitational or selected centrifugal or magnetic-field force until the particle-bound cells and particles completely fill successive cell-collection regions in the collection chamber.

Abstract: Methods and composition are provided for diagnosing pediat?c onset asthma based on the single nucleotide polymorphism on chromosome 1q31 wherein said single nucleotide polymorphism is set forth in Table 2 or Table 6 of the instant invention Method and composition are also provided for treating and preventing asthma or other inflammatory conditions in a patient in need thereof comp?sing administering an effective amount of an at least one inhibitor which reduces the expression of DENND1 B gene product.

Abstract: A method of performing an immunologic evaluation of a subject, comprising collecting a whole blood sample from the subject, maintaining the sample for at least 6 hours after collection, purifying a population of cells comprising lymphocytes and antigen presenting cells from the maintained sample, optionally by a process incorporating a positive or negative affinity selection step to remove granulocytes, and using the purified cells in a cell-mediated immunoassay (CMI assay).

Abstract: A method and kit for assaying a cell sample for the presence of at least a threshold number of cells of a given type are disclosed. The kit includes an assay device having a sample chamber for receiving the cell sample and an elongate collection chamber containing a selected-density and/or viscosity medium and having along its length, a plurality of cell-collection regions, and particles which are capable of specific attachment to cells of the selected cell type, and which are effective, when attached to the cells, to increase the density or magnetic susceptibility of the cells. In operation, particle-bound cells and particles in the cell sample are drawn through the elongate collection chamber under the influence of a gravitational or selected centrifugal or magnetic-field force until the particle-bound cells and particles completely fill successive cell-collection regions in the collection chamber.

Abstract: Methods for diagnosing a predisposition to developing a scoliosis (e.g., adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS)) and identifying compounds for treating scoliosis based on the modulation of Gi protein-coupled receptor activity are described. Specific embodiments of the methods involve measuring a change in impedance signals of cells expressing a receptor coupled to a Gi protein with a ligand. To identify compounds useful in treatment, the cell is contacted with a test compound and a ligand. A higher impedance in the presence relative to the absence of said test compound is indicative that the test compound is useful for treating scoliosis.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for sorting, staining or detecting T cells of the immune system using a protein kinase inhibitor.

Abstract: The present invention provides a homogeneous assay for identifying an antibody producing cell producing an antibody which binds to a selected antigen comprising: a) providing a population of antibody producing cells; b) incubating said population of antibody producing cells with a selected antigen and a labeled anti-antibody antibody, wherein said anti-antibody antibody is capable of distinguishing cells producing an antibody which binds to the selected antigen from those cells which do not; and c) identifying an antibody producing cell capable of producing an antibody which binds to the selected antigen.

Abstract: Methods of treating, reducing, and/or preventing cancer metastasis to bone using CD68 blocking agents are provided. For example, the methods can be used to reduce breast cancer metastasis to bone. Also provided are methods of treating, reducing, and/or preventing bone resorption in a subject using CD68 blocking agents. For example, the methods can be used to treat osteoporosis.

Abstract: A method of diagnosing B-CLL in a subject in need thereof is provided. The method comprising determining in a biological sample of the subject a level of CD84 isoform C (SEQ ID NO: 30), wherein an increase in the level of the CD84 isoform C (SEQ ID NO: 30) beyond a predetermined threshold with respect to a level of the CD84 in a biological sample from a healthy individual is indicative of the B-CLL.

Abstract: Methods of treating hemorheologic abnormalities in mammals are provided, as well as methods of evaluating circulatory flow mechanics by analyzing hemorheologic determinants or hemorheologic abnormalities in the blood.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods utilizing novel target genes related to immune-mediated diseases, such as asthma, allergy and autoimmune diseases. The invention is based on a molecular level description of the polarization of CD4+ precursor cells (Thp) from which T helper cells are known to originate. Particularly, the present invention provides a method of identifying a compound capable of modulating the polarization of CD4+ lymphocytes. The invention is also related to a method for assessing the presence of, or disposition to, an immune-related disorder in a subject.

Abstract: Methods for detecting an infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) in a subject are disclosed, wherein the subject is a child, a subject with a latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Method are also disclose for detecting an extra-pulmonary Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in a subject. The methods include detecting the presence of CD8+ T cells that specifically recognize an Mtb polypeptide. The methods include in vitro assays for detecting the presence of CD8+ T cells in a biological sample.

Abstract: Methods of predicting the immunogenicity of a therapeutic protein in a subject are provided and the use of this method in selecting a protein for replacement therapy having the fewest immunogenic epitopes. The method is demonstrated by reference to ADAMTS13. Isolated allelic variants of ADAMTS13 that contribute to the variability in risk for both arterial and venous thrombotic disease development are provided. The allelic variants are identified as single nucleotide polymorphisms (ns-SNPs) in the ADAMTS13 gene, which result in haplotypes identified as H1 to H14. A method for improving outcomes of transfusions/transplant products is also provided by selection of haplotype matched therapeutics.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for treating and diagnosing hematologic malignancies, Chronic lymphocytic leukemia and Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma in particular, using PD-1 ligands (PD-L1, PD-L2 or anti-PD-1 antibodies).

Abstract: The present invention relates to an assay which can be used on nasal secretions. The assay is used to determine the cause of nasal secretions, for example whether the secretions are due to an allergic reaction or a non-allergic reaction.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for determining the likelihood and/or severity of GvHD and the likelihood of the occurrence of transplant related mortality.

Abstract: Methods are provided for the detection of P-selectin associated with eosinophils and for the use of P-selectin as a biological marker for asthma. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to methods for detecting P-selectin in a sample containing eosinophils and quantifying the total number of eosinophils. In another embodiment, the present invention relates a method for determining the proportion of eosinophils that are P-selectin positive and positive for at least partially activated ?-1 integrin. In yet another embodiment, the present invention relates to kits for the detection of P-selectin and for the detection of eosinophils that are both P-selectin positive and positive for at least partially activated ?-1 integrin. In still yet another embodiment, the invention relates to a method for monitoring a biological condition.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a method for determining an allergic response by determining the extent of degranulation of human IgE sensitized cells upon activation by allergens in food products.

Abstract: Conserved polypeptides from protozoan parasitic species which are secreted through the endoplasmic reticulum/Golgi dependent secretory pathway, their identification and their use.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods of screening for HLA antibodies comprising detecting antibodies specific for native HLA antigens and denatured HLA antigens. The invention also provides for method of predicting whether a transplant recipient has an increased risk for rejecting the transplanted organ.

Abstract: The invention is drawn to a method of isolating human antibodies.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for providing a prognosis of treatment of diseases associated with inflammatory disease of the brain, including MS, e.g., relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease using molecular markers that are shown to be overexpressed or underexpressed in patients treated with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG). Also provided are methods to identify compounds that are useful for the treatment or prevention of MS, e.g., relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease.

Abstract: Diagnostic tests for characterizing an individual's risk of developing or having a cardiovascular disease. In one embodiment the present diagnostic test comprises determining the level of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in a bodily sample obtained from the individual or test subject. In another embodiment, the diagnostic test comprises determining the level of MPO mass in a bodily sample obtained from the test subject. In another embodiment, the diagnostic test comprises determining the level of one or more select MPO-generated oxidation products in a bodily sample obtained from the test subject. The select MPO-generated oxidation products are dityrosine, nitrotyrosine, methionine sulphoxide or an MPO-generated lipid peroxidation products.

Abstract: The invention concerns a peptide comprising an epitope consisting of a sequence of amino acids selected among SEQ ID NO 1, SEQ ID NO 2, SEQ ID NO 3, and having a length not more than 24 amino acids.

Abstract: The present invention primarily relates to a method for analyzing the amount of immunoregulatory integrin binding factors and/or patient endogenous antibodies which are directed against such factors, the factors having the capacity to modulate the immune functions in a subject suffering from cancer or inflammatory or autoimmune diseases, by utilizing binding reagents to determine these factors and/or the patient endogenous antibodies which are directed against such factors, whereby the prognosis and/or the therapeutic efficacy of any treatment of a subject suffering from cancer or inflammatory or autoimmune diseases can be determined and/or monitored. The invention further relates to the use of therapeutically active compounds for eliminating, inhibiting or enhancing such binding factors for the manufacture of pharmaceuticals to be used in the treatment of cancer, inflammatory conditions or autoimmune diseases.

Abstract: A method of assaying nucleotide receptor P2X7 pore activity in white blood cells contained within a mixed cell sample is provided comprising labeling white blood cells with a white blood cell-specific label; depolarizing the labeled white blood cells with an isotonic depolarizing solution; contacting the labeled white blood cells with dye and a P2X7 agonist in an amount sufficient to activate P2X7 pore activity; contacting the labeled white blood cells with a divalent cation in an amount sufficient to deactivate P2X7 pore activity; and analyzing dye uptake whereby P2X7 pore activity is quantified by the amount of dye taken up in labeled white blood cells treated with the P2X7 agonist relative to labeled white blood cells in the absence of said P2X7 agonist, said P2X7 pore activity being corrected for sample age and by subtraction of P2X7 pore activity contributed by nonviable white blood cells.

Abstract: The invention provides methods of identifying naïve T cells by expression of PTK7.

Abstract: The invention provides a method that uses enzyme-treatment of whole soybeans or partially defatted soybeans to select soybeans with improved bioactivity or bioactivities. The invention further provides a soybean plant and seed with a non-transgenic mutation conferring enhanced bioactivity as an hydrolysate when compared to hydrolysate from other seeds, for instance in a cell-based assay, including reduced cancer cell viability; increased LDL receptor activity; reduced lipid accumulation; increased adiponectin expression; decreased FAS and LPL expression; reduced production of NO and PGE2, and expression of iNOS and COX-2; higher antioxidant activity; promotion of growth of bifidobacteria; and inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria; for instance when compared to other seeds tested as hydrolysates.

Abstract: Provided are in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo methods for determining whether a patient with Pompe disease will respond to treatment with a specific pharmacological chaperone.

Abstract: An isolated aggrefatin protein elevated in multiple sclerosis patients as compared to healthy controls. Aggrefatin alone or in combination with other markers may be used as an indicator of an inflammatory condition and/or a neurodegenerative disease or condition such as multiple sclerosis, cancer, stroke, or other diseases. Aggrefatin alone or in combination with one or more other biomarkers may help monitor disease activity, detect a response to a therapy, or detect patient compliance with a therapy.