Abstract: An isolated protein which is at least partially encoded by a polynucleotide sequence encoding a novel sulfotransferase is provided together with a composition which includes the isolated protein. A transgenic organism transformed by a polynucleotide encoding a protein which is at least partially encoded by a novel sulfotransferase is also provided. The invention also includes a process for in-vivo and in-vitro making a sulfated polysaccharide from an unsulfated polysaccharide or increasing the sulfur content of an already sulfated polysaccharide.

Abstract: A method of producing a low molecular weight organic compound (e.g. a plant or bacteria secondary metabolite) in increased yields involving use of a microorganism cell, which comprises a gene involved in the biosynthesis pathway leading to a low molecular weight organic aglycon compound and a glycosyltransferase gene capable of glycosylating the produced aglycon.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and materials, such as newly characterised genes, and novel processes, for converting a host from a phenotype whereby the host is unable to carry out glucosinolate (GSL) biosynthesis or chain elongation from an amino acid GSL-precursor to a phenotype whereby the host carries out said biosynthesis or elongation.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and materials relating generally to plant derived flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMOs) capable of catalysing oxidation of a thio- to a sulphinyl-group during glucosinolate biosynthesis. It further relates to plant derived MYB factors capable of transcriptional regulation of biosynthetic genes. These have utility in the modification of glucosinolate biosynthesis.

Abstract: A composition is provided that includes a biologically active compound bound by a glycoprotein matrix. A method is also provided for the manufacture of a composition of the invention. The glycoprotein matrix can be formed by permitting the growth of glycoprotein producing bacteria in the presence of the active ingredient. The composition of the invention provides a method for increasing the stability and bioactivity of the active ingredient. A method is also provided for administering an active ingredient to a host by utilizing a composition of the invention.

Abstract: In a competitive receptor binding assay for detecting TSH-receptor auto-antibodies in a biological sample, the sample is reacted in a reaction mixture which contains (i) a TSH-receptor or TSH-receptor preparation; (ii) a primary competitor, for example labelled TSH; and (iii) an agent for separating a complex composed of the TSH-receptor and the elements bound thereto of the reaction mixture from the liquid phase. According to the invention, the reaction is carried out in the presence of at least one monoclonal or polyclonal antibody specific against a partial peptide sequence of the TSH eceptor. This specific antibody is used to immobilize a complex of TSH-receptor and primary competitor and/or as secondary competitor for another part of the TSH-receptor auto-antibodies expected in a sample. The primary or secondary competitors are or can be selectively labelled.

Abstract: A method for purifying a polysaccharide from group B &bgr;-hemolytic Streptococcus (GBS) bacteria includes contacting a bacterial fermentation stock with a hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) resin. Additional steps may include a phenol/saline extraction and an ion exchange chromatography. The method results in a product having very high purity. The product of the purification provides a composition which is highly useful in both research and therapeutic settings.

Abstract: Combinations, called matrices with memories, of matrix materials that are encoded with an optically readable code are provided. The matrix materials are those that are used in as supports in solid phase chemical and biochemical syntheses, immunoassays and hybridization reactions. The matrix materials may additionally include fluophors or other luminescent moieties to produce luminescing matrices with memories. The memories include electronic and optical storage media and also include optical memories, such as bar codes and other machine-readable codes. By virtue of this combination, molecules and biological particles, such as phage and viral particles and cells, that are in proximity or in physical contact with the matrix combination can be labeled by programming the memory with identifying information and can be identified by retrieving the stored information. Combinations of matrix materials, memories, and linked molecules and biological materials are also provided.

Abstract: An antibody targeted to an antigen is brought into contact with a body component in situ. The resulting antibody/antigen complex is labeled and may be amplified. The label is then detected either in situ or ex situ.

Abstract: The present invention includes a method to detect canine IgE using a canine Fc epsilon receptor (Fc.sub..epsilon. R) to detect canine IgE antibodies in a biological sample from a canid. The present invention also relates to kits to perform such methods.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel methods and compositions for the detection of analytes using the nuclear reorganization energy, .lambda., of an electron transfer process.

Abstract: A method is provided for the detection of low levels of a microorganism in a sample in the presence of competing microflora, comprising the steps of: (a) exposing the sample to a solid support to which are adsorbed antibodies specific for said microorganism; (b) washing the solid support to remove unbound material; (c) combining the solid support with sterile nutrient broth which permits replication of said microorganism; (d) incubating the solid support with said nutrient broth at a temperature and for a time sufficient to allow said microorganism to replicate and be recaptured by said antibodies on said solid support; (e) releasing the bound microorganism from the solid support into a solution; and (f)assaying the solution for the microorganism. A kit for performing the assay also is provided.

Abstract: The present invention includes a method to detect IgE using a human Fc epsilon receptor (Fc.sub..epsilon. R) to detect IgE antibodies in a biological sample from a cat, a dog, or a horse. The present invention also relates to kits to perform such methods.

Abstract: The present invention is drawn to methods for the synthesis of sialyl Lewis.sup.x derivatives modified at the C-2 and/or C-6 position of GlcNAc employing chemoenzymatic synthesis. The derivatives find use in the treatment and prevention of diseases.

Abstract: Bites from Amblyomma americanum, a hard tick, have been associated with a Lyme disease-like illness in the southeastern and south-central United States. Present in 2% of ticks collected in four states were uncultivable spirochetes. Through use of the polymerase chain reaction, partial sequences of the flagellin and 16s rRNA genes of microorganisms from Texas and New Jersey were obtained. The sequences showed that the spirochete was a Borrelia sp. but distinct from other known members of this genus, including B. burgdorferi, the agent of Lyme disease. Species-specific differences in the sequences of the flagellin protein, the flagellin gene and the 16s rRNA gene between the new Borrelia species and previously known species provide compositions and methods for assay for determining the presence of this new spirochete, or for providing evidence of past or present infection by this spirochete in animal reservoirs and humans.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and articles of manufacture for the detection of Giardia cysts and Crytosporidium oocysts.

Abstract: Method for synthesis of GalNAc.alpha.-serine or GalNAc.alpha.-threonine containing compounds, including at least one reaction where an .alpha.-saccharide or .alpha.-glycoside of GalNAca is used as gylcosyl donor and a derivative of serine of threonine is used as acceptor in a transglycosylation reaction with N-acetyl-.alpha.-D-galactosaminidase as the catalyst, wherein said acceptor has been modified in its N-terminal .alpha.-amino group and optionally in its c-terminal carboxyl group.

Abstract: The present invention is drawn to methods for the synthesis of Lewis.sup.a derivatives modified at the C-2 and/or C-6 position of GlcNAc employing chemo-enzymatic synthesis. The derivatives find use in the treatment and prevention of diseases.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel protein of pathogenic forms of Neisseria, as well as genes which encode PilC, i.e., the pilC loci. DNA sequences of pilC genes are useful as probes to diagnose the presence of microorganisms containing type 4 pilin as well as permitting production of polypeptides which are in turn useful in diagnostic tests and/or as components of vaccines. The invention also provides antibodies directed against pilC epitopes. These antibodies are useful for diagnostic tests as well as therapy.

Abstract: The invention relates to the isolation and cloning of the structural gene, hipP, for the NTHi pili serotype 5 and the LKP operon. The invention relates to DNA molecules capable of hybridizing to the DNA sequences of the Haemophilus influenzae genome related to the pili. The invention further relates to a DNA molecule which encodes a pili protein, particularly a tip adhesion protein. The DNA molecules of the invention can be used in a method for assaying a sample, such as a blood sample, for the presence of Haemophilus influenzae in the sample. Accordingly, the invention further relates to the use of the DNA molecules as a diagnostic. The invention also relates to a recombinant Haemophilus influenzae pili protein, such as a tip adhesion protein. The protein can be employed in a method for immunizing an animal, such as a human, as a therapeutic or diagnostic.

Abstract: The invention provides Response regulator polypeptides and DNA (RNA) encoding Response regulator polypetides and methods for producing such polypeptides by recombinant techniques. Also provided are methods for utilizing Response regulator polypeptides to screen for antibacterial compounds.

Abstract: An improved method for determining binding compounds from a mixture of similar compounds, particularly a phage peptide library, is provided. The method comprises contacting a mixture of candidate compounds with a target molecule presented on two or more different substrates.

Abstract: A preparation of recombinant 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase is disclosed, wherein the preparation has at least 0.024 unitsg specific activity. Preferably, the preparation has at least 0.24 units/mg specific activity and is a crude cell extract. Preferably, at least 90% of the synthase molecules have not been substantially proteolytically cleaved. A preparation of recombinant HMG-CoA synthase wherein the preparation retains 50% activity after storage at 4.degree. C. for six months is also disclosed. A method of evaluating the efficacy of candidate anti-isoprene and anti-cholesterol drugs is also disclosed which comprises exposing the candidate drug to a recombinant 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA synthase preparation.

Abstract: Neoglycoconjugates and new intermediates for the synthesis thereof are synthesized by use of Endo-.beta.-N-acetylglucosaminidase from Arthrobacter protophormiae (Endo-A) in a medium containing an organic solvent.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to an assay for Lyme disease which detects the antibody to Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease. More specifically, the assay employs antigens derived from amino acid regions in the flagellum of Borrelia burgdorferi. These antigens are immunoreactive with antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi but are not substantially immunoreactive with antibodies to Treponema pallidum, the syphilis causing agent. DNA sequences of the antigens, clones and vectors containing the DNA sequences are also disclosed. Polypeptides derived therefrom can be used as reagents for the detection of antibody to Borrelia burgdorferi in the body fluids from individuals with Lyme disease.

Abstract: Device for detecting the presence or amount of an analyte of interest, comprising a reflective solid, optical support and a label capable of generating fluorescent signal upon excitation with a suitable light source wherein said support comprises an attachment layer comprising a chemical selected from the group consisting of dendrimers, star polymers, molecular self-assembling polymers, polymeric siloxanes, and film forming latexes wherein the support provides an enhanced level of exciting photons to the immobilized fluorescent label compound, and wherein the support also increases the capture of fluorescent signal.

Abstract: A synthetic method in which is included at least one process, which is characterized by that a glycosidase (EC 3.2) is used to catalyse a reaction between a partially protected galactose derivative, or a partially protected glucose derivative, and a glycosyl doner, which is an oligosaccharide or a monosaccharide glycoside, is described. The process is suitable for synthesis of carbohydrate derivatives or for synthesis of partially protected carbohydrate intermediates which are suitable for further synthesis e.g. of blood group determinants A and B, or other carbohydrates.

Abstract: A method of testing for the presence of Salmonella serotypes S. enteritidis and S. dublin is provided. Novel monoclonal antibodies are used to detect the presence of an epitope specific for these serotypes in cultures which have been grown on selected media which enhance the expression of said epitope in fimbrial sites. Test kits utilizing the antigen or its epitopic parts, antibodies and/or the media are further provided.

Abstract: The presently disclosed invention relates to a method of rapid detection and identification of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, rickettsiae and fungi. The method involves staining all microorganisms or fragments thereof in a sample. The stained sample is introduced onto an optical waveguide coated with a capture molecule specific for the microorganism of interest, and the bound microorganism or fragment thereof is then optically detected. For example, detection of B. anthracis and Salmonella was achieved in times of approximately one minute. The sensitivity of this method is on the order of about 3 cells/.mu.l.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are purified isolated mammals polypeptides having the property of potentiating the bacterial growth inhibitory activity of bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein and pharmaceutical formulations comprising these polypeptides. Also disclosed is a method for obtaining mammalian polypeptides having the property of potentiating the bacterial growth inhibitory activity of bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein potentiating activity, and methods for treating gram-negative bacterial infections in mammals and for neutralizing lipopolysaccharides. Also disclosed is a method for the treatment of diseases caused by endotoxins in mammals.

Abstract: Novel calcium free subtilisin mutants are taught, in particular a subtilisin which has been mutated to eliminate amino acids 75-83.

Abstract: A phosphorescence assay system. The phosphorescent label for immunoassays is palladium (II) octaethylporphine alphaisothiocyanate. The labeling agent has a Stokes shift of not less than 150 nanometers. Method for preparing the palladium (II) phosphorescent label is also shown.

Abstract: Antigenic compositions are disclosed for use in diagnostic kits and the like for detecting the presence of antibodies specific for Campylobacter pylori, bacteria often associated with the occurrence of Type B gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. Samples of bodily fluids, for instance, may be contacted with immobilized antigen which is then washed and tested for the occurrence of significant levels of antigen/antibody complex. Levels exceeding a predetermined positive threshold are indicative of antibodies to Campylobacter pylori in the sample tested. Kits employing the antigenic compositions of the invention preferably include means for detecting the antigen/antibody complex such as materials and reagents for conducting an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Western blot technique, liposome-based assay or other known detection tests.

Abstract: Genetically engineered E. coli carry vectors containing inserts that code for Clostridium histolyticum collagenase. These inserts code for: (a) a form of collagenase having a molecular weight of about 68,000 daltons in the essential absence of larger forms of collagenase; (b) the 68 kd form of collagenase and a fusion polypeptide consisting of the collagenase protein fused to at least a portion of the .beta.-galactosidase protein of E. coli or (3) the 68 kd form of collagenase and polypeptides of molecular weight of from above about 68,000 daltons to about 100,000 daltons and having the enzymatic activity of C. histolyticum collagenase as indicated by digestion of .sup.3 H-acetylated collagen and by specific inhibition by 1,10-phenanthroline plus EDTA. The collagenase genes in the transformed E. coli are expressed efficiently in the transformed cells to yield enzymatically active and immunologically cross-reactive collagenase.

Abstract: A dry reagent prepared by lyophilizing a labelled ligand-immobilized receptor complex or a labelled receptor-immobilized ligand complex is, on rehydration, useful for detecting analytes in samples in a variety of displacement assays.

Abstract: The invention comprises a factor having the following characteristics:a) It inhibits granulocyte-macrophage colony and cluster formation;b) It has a molecular weight of about 8 kDa as determined by SDS-PAGE;c) It has a weak anionic charge at pH 7.4 as shown by anion exchange chromatography;d) It has a flattened isoelectric titration curve as shown by anion exchange chromatography; andd) It is a protein.The invention also comprises methods of making and using the factor and compositions comprising the factor.

Abstract: In order to increase the enzymatic reactivity of .beta.-galactosidase, an azide, thiocyanate, cyanate and/or thiosulphate is added to the reaction mixture.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for cloning and producing the FnuDI restriction endonuclease by (1) introducing the restriction endonuclease gene from F. nucleatum D into a host whereby the restriction gene is expressed; (2) fermenting the host which contains the vector encoding and expressing the FnuDI restriction endonuclease, and (3) purifying the FnuDI restriction endonuclease from the fermented host which contains the vector encoding and expressing the FnuDI restriction endonuclease activity.

Abstract: A method of controlling the regioselectivity of the glycosidic bond between glycosyl donor and glycosyl acceptor in the enzymatic production of an oligosaccharide compound which either consists of or is a fragment or an analog of the cabohydrate part in a glycoconjugate, by reverse hydrolysis or transglycosidation reactions, is described. The synthesis is carried out in that a donor substance which is a mono- or oligosaccharide or a glycoside thereof, is caused to react, in the presence of a glycosidase, with an acceptor substance which is an O-, N-, C- or S-glycoside consisting of a monosaccharide, oligosaccharide or a saccharide analog and at least one aglycon which is O-, N-, C- or S-glycosidically bonded in 1-position, the .alpha. or .beta.-configuration being selected on the glycoside bond between the glycosyl group and the aglycon in the acceptor substance, and the oligosaccharide compound being separated from the reaction mixture.

Abstract: An epoxy group in a molecule can enzymatically be transferred to another molecule, thereby synthesizing carbohydrates carrying an epoxy group in the aglycone position.

Abstract: A gene having a DNA sequence complementary to that of the glucoamylase polypeptide mRNA from a fungal species, preferably Aspergillus awamori, is prepared. The mRNA is an approximately 2.2 kilobase poly A RNA obtained from fungal cells grown under conditions of glucoamylase induction. Reverse transcription of the mRNA provides a glucoamylase probe used to identify genomic digest fragments containing glucoamylase gene regions, which are sequenced to locate the introns and exons. The genomic fragments are spliced together to form a gene having a DNA sequence with altered or deleted introns which codes for fungal glucoamylase protein and is capable, when correctly combined with a cleaved DNA expression vector, of expressing a non-native protein having glucoamylase enzyme activity upon transformation of a host organism by the vector. The host is preferably bacteria or yeast. The transformed yeast host may be used to produce ethanol.

Abstract: Novel compositions and methods for cloning DNA in a broad range of Gram-negative bacteria. Relatively small vectors are prepared substantially free of DNA sequences coding for transfer functions, while having a broad host range replication function. While the plasmid is not self-transmissible, it is transmissible by means of a helper plasmid, which desirably has a narrow host range replication function. Exogenous DNA may be inserted into the first plasmid and conjugally transferred to the target host by means of a convenient bacterial host.

Abstract: A novel method for protecting a bacterium from a naturally occurring bacteriophage and the cloning vectors and transformants for carrying out the aforementioned method are disclosed.

Abstract: A method for stabilizing and selecting host cells containing recombinant DNA which expresses a functional polypeptide and the novel organisms and cloning vectors for the practice thereof. The invention further provides a simple, convenient, and inexpensive method to lyse host cells for purification of intracellular products.

Abstract: Novel and useful ribonucleotides of analogs of the well known antibiotics lincomycin and clindamycin. These ribonucleotides are unexpectedly highly active against Streptococcus hemolyticus and Staphylococcus aureus in vivo.

Abstract: A method of increasing the yield of a desired product, such as an antibiotic, by an organism which normally must first become inducibly resistant to that product before it can produce the product in maximum yields comprises producing constitutively resistant cells of the organism by supplementing a culture of the organism with an agent in which only cells able to specifically modify the 23S ribosomal RNA constitutively, rather than inducibly, survive thereby producing an organism in which the resistance to the product is expressed without the need for activation by the induction process; followed by purification and utilization of that organism for increased product production.

Abstract: Microbiological process for preparing the antibiotic lincomycin at temperatures ranging from 18.degree. C. to 45.degree. C. using the newly discovered microorganism Streptomyces vellosus. The subject process advantageously results in the preparation of lincomycin without the concomitant production of lincomycin B (4'-depropyl-4'-ethyllincomycin). The absence of lincomycin B production results in increased lincomycin recovery efficiency.