Abstract: A screening method for identifying compounds that alter the fidelity with which the initiation codon in mRNAs is recognized by the translational apparatus in eukaryotes is disclosed. This screening method was used to identify compounds having such activity. Methods of altering the fidelity of initiation codon selection are also disclosed. Methods of treating disorders characterized by single nucleotide mutations in initiation codons using compounds identified by the screening method, as well as methods of treating fungal and parasitic infections and hyperproliferative disorders using compounds identified by the screening method are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides compounds useful for detection of hydrogen peroxide and methods of using same.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods of evaluating potential antitumor compounds, and thereby identifying antitumor compounds, using placenta or a portion thereof and tumor cells, and compositions for accomplishing the same. In one embodiment, provided herein is a method of determining whether a potential antitumor compound is effective against a plurality of tumor cells, comprising introducing a plurality of tumor cells to, e.g., into or onto, a mammalian placenta or portion thereof; contacting said plurality of tumor cells for a period of time with said antitumor compound; and determining whether said antitumor compound is effective against said tumor cells, wherein said antitumor compound is effective against said tumor cells if said antitumor compound over said period of time reduces the number of said tumor cells or reduces the growth rate of said tumor cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compounds that modulate ribosomal frameshifting and nucleic acid constructs for use in methods for identifying or validation of compounds that modulate ribosomal frameshifting. In particular, the present invention relates to the use of nucleic acid constructs to identify or validate compounds capable of modulating the efficiency of programmed ribosomal frameshifting and the use of compounds that modulate the efficiency of programmed ribosomal frameshifting to inhibit the replication or infectivity of viruses that employ programmed ribosomal frameshifting.

Abstract: A cell based assay for detection for protease activity is disclosed. In the assay a cell is engineered to express a protease substrate with at least one label, preferably on its C-terminus. Cleavage of the substrate by the protease that recognizes it results in a C-terminal fragment and a N-terminal fragment, where the fragment having the label is subject to ubiquitin proteasome degradation. The assay measures the disappearance of the label due to degradation of the fragment to which it is attached. A cell free assay is also described for detection of protease activity. In the cell free assay, the protease substrate is expressed in a solution that includes the elements of the ubiquitin proteasome pathway for degradation of the fragment. The assay measures the disappearance of the label attached to the fragment that results from cleavage by the protease.

Abstract: The present invention includes a luciferase-based high-throughput screening assay that identifies compounds that are inhibitors of cellular metabolism. This assay is applicable to all bacterial and eukaryotic membranes.

Abstract: Provided herein is an assay for interrogating transient and dynamic protein-protein interactions and for screening and characterizing agents as agonists or antagonists of protein-protein interactions. The methods can provide a single assay for simultaneously assessing the bioavailability and efficacy of a test compound for increasing or decreasing a protein-protein interaction of interest.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition useful for the diagnosis of diseases associated with aberrant expression of the genes encoding the secreted proteins Futrin 1, 2, 3 and/or 4(=R-Spondin 2, 3, 1 and 4, respectively), e.g. in connection with tumors or diseases of the muscle, kidneys or bones. The present invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition containing a compound which is capable of modifying (a) the expression of the gene encoding Futrin 1, 2, 3 and/or 4 or (b) the activity of the Futrin 1, 2, 3 and/or 4 protein.

Abstract: Parkinson's disease is caused by the preferential loss of substantia nigra dopamine neurons. A Parkin Interacting Substrate, PARIS (ZNF746) is identified. The levels of PARIS are regulated by the ubiquitin proteasome system via binding to and ubiquitination by the E3 ubiquitin ligase, parkin. PARIS is a KRAB and zinc finger protein that accumulates in models of parkin inactivation and in human brain Parkinson's disease patients. PARIS represses the expression of the transcriptional co-activator, PGC-1? and the PGC-1? target gene, NRF-1 by binding to insulin response sequences in the PGC-1? promoter. Conditional knockout of parkin in adult animals leads to progressive loss of dopamine (DA) neurons that is PARIS dependent. Overexpression of PARIS causes selective loss of DA neurons in the substantia nigra, which is reversed by either parkin or PGC-1? co-expression. The identification of PARIS provides a molecular mechanism for neurodegeneration due to parkin inactivation.

Abstract: The invention provides compounds, compositions, methods, substrates, and kits useful for analyzing the metabolic activity in cells, tissue, and animals and for screening test compounds for their effect on cytochrome P450 activity. In particular, a one-step and two-step methods using luminogenic molecules, e.g. luciferins or coelenterazines, that are cytochrome P450 substrates and that are also bioluminescent enzyme, e.g., luciferase, pro-substrates are provided. The present method further provides a method for stabilizing and prolonging the luminescent signal in a luciferase-based assay using luciferase stabilizing agents such as reversible luciferase inhibitors.

Abstract: This disclosure describes methods of screening for compounds that disrupt the interaction between DNMT1 and the gamma-globin promoter or between LSD-1 and the gamma-globin promoter. This disclosure describes methods of screening for compounds that de-repress the gamma-globin gene.

Abstract: The invention provides for sequencing a nucleic acid molecule based on the detection of base incorporation by the release of pyrophosphate (PPi) using a new enzyme system comprising adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGPase) and its substrate ADP-glucose.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for screening a test compound for a compound regulating Nrf1 activity, comprising using Nrf1 and Lipin1 and/or PGC-1?. A method for screening for a compound regulating Nrf1 activity is provided by the invention.

Abstract: Progastrin levels are determined to diagnose one or more liver pathologies.

Abstract: A chemo-mechano-chemical (C1-M-C2) system includes a base supporting an actuatable structure, said structure comprising a functionalized portion and being embedded in an environmentally responsive gel capable of volume change in response to an environmental stimulus; a first fluid layer disposed over the base and in contact with the actuatable structure, said first fluid layer comprising the environmentally responsive gel; and a second fluid layer in contact with the actuatable structure, wherein the layers are positioned such that the functionalized portion is in contact with the second layer in a first relaxed state and in contact with the first layer in a second actuated state and wherein the functionalized portion interacts with at least one of the layers to provide a chemical or physical response.

Abstract: The present invention provides compounds useful for detection of hydrogen peroxide and methods of using same.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method or a cell free system of detecting dioxin-like compounds in a test sample using a whole cell lysate derived from a cell transfected to express a fusion protein comprising an AHR fused to a reporter peptide. The method in combination with bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) technique is also provided so as to improve the sensitivity.

Abstract: A polynucleotide encoding a biosensor polypeptide comprising a modified circularly-permuted thermostable luciferase and a linker linking the C-terminal portion of the thermostable luciferase to the N-terminal portion of the thermostable luciferase. The modified circularly-permuted thermostable luciferase is modified relative to a parental circularly-permuted thermostable luciferase. The linker contains a sensor region capable of interacting with a target molecule in a cell. The modified circularly-permuted thermostable luciferase has an enhanced response after interaction of the biosensor with the target molecule relative to the parental circularly-permuted thermostable luciferase in the presence of the target molecule. Alternatively, the modified circularly-permuted thermostable luciferase has an enhanced response after interaction of the biosensor with the target molecule relative to the modified circularly-permuted thermostable luciferase in the absence of the target molecule.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for detection of the modulators of proteolytic enzymes, particularly cysteine proteases, are disclosed.

Abstract: A method and kit are provided for enhancing the tolerance of an assay reagent to compounds in an assay sample, the assay reagent including a luciferase enzyme. The method includes contacting the luciferase with a tolerance enhancement agent in an amount sufficient to substantially protect luciferase enzyme activity from interference of the compound and minimize interference by at least about 10% relative to an assay not having tolerance enhancement agent.

Abstract: Novel red-shifted luciferin derivatives and uses of those compounds are provided.

Abstract: Coelenterazine analogs having luminescence properties different from those of known coelenterazine analogs are desired for various luciferases. The invention provides compounds represented by general formula (1) below.

Abstract: Some embodiments include compositions and methods of using or identifying compounds that modulate the activity of the granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor (GCFR). Some embodiments include use of compounds to treat certain disorders, such as hematopoietic or neurological disorders.

Abstract: A method of screening compounds or molecules comprising the steps of: translating a sequence encoding the amino acid sequence comprising SEQ ID No. 29 in a translation system in the presence of a test compound or molecule; and analysing the translation product(s) for the presence of one or more of (a) a peptide comprising the amino acids Pro-Gly at the C terminus and a peptide comprising the amino acid Pro at the N terminus: or (b) a peptide comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID No. 29.

Abstract: A method of quantifying autoinducer-2, including the steps of: preparing a calibration curve using 4-hydroxy-5-methyl-3(2H)-furanone as a standard sample; and quantifying autoinducer-2 in a test sample based on the calibration curve prepared.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of monitoring the response of platelets to a cyclooxygenase-1 (COX1) inhibitor such as aspirin. The method involves collecting platelet-containing mammalian blood treated with a COX1 inhibitor; mixing the blood with a COX1-dependent platelet agonist, such as arachidonic acid, monitoring extracellular ATP in the agonist-activated blood to generate a measurement, and comparing the measurement to a standard value. Devices, systems, and kits for carrying out the method are also provided.

Abstract: Luminescent detection of inorganic phosphate is carried out in an assay through the intermediary enzymatic production of ADP. ADP is converted to ATP which is used in a luminescent reaction. The assay can be used to monitor coupled enzyme reactions which use or generate inorganic phosphate and the modulation of such reactions.

Abstract: A method for determining metal ions, both qualitatively and quantitatively, is disclosed. The method utilizes emission from fluorescence resonance energy transfer from a luciferase-carbonic anhydrase conjugate or fusion protein to an acceptor ligand in the presence of metal ion bound to the protein to measure free metal ion concentrations down to picomolar concentration ranges. The method is relatively insensitive to contaminants, and so can be used to measure metal ion concentrations in cells, body fluids or environmental samples without extensive sample preparation.

Abstract: There is a need for a broadly applicable, strain non-specific, bioluminescent imaging tool that will enable researchers to study a ?-cell mass in the context of development, disease or transplantation. The disclosure, therefore, encompasses embodiments of a method of identifying a non-diabetic pancreatic ?-cell, the method comprising the steps of: delivering to a pancreatic ?-cell a composition comprising a coelenterazine; allowing the ?-cell to generate a coelenterazine-dependent bioluminescent signal; and identifying the cell as a non-diabetic pancreatic ?-cell by detecting the emitted coelenterazine-dependent bioluminescent signal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of determining Botulinum toxin (BoNT) based on a luminescence assay. The present application further relates to a peptide that is susceptible to proteolytic cleavage by BoNT which is suitable for that method.

Abstract: An antioxidant-promoting composition that increases antioxidant defense potential in a subject is disclosed. The composition contains Bacopa monniera extract comprising a Bacopa monniera active ingredient; a Silybum marianum (milk thistle) extract comprising a Silybum marianum active ingredient; a Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) extract comprising a Withania somnifera active ingredient; a Camellia sinensis (green tea) extract comprising a Camellia sinensis active ingredient; a Curcuma longa (turmeric) extract comprising at least one Curcuma longa active ingredient, and optionally a Centella asiatica (Gotu kola) extract; a Ginko biloba extract; an Aloe vera extract; and N-acetyl cysteine. The process for quantifying Nrf2 transcription factor activating potential of the botanical extracts comprising the botanical active ingredients is described.

Abstract: The invention relates to engineered CRISPR/Cas9 systems for genomic modification in mammalian cells. The present specification describes the design and testing of a polynucleotide encoding the Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes) Cas9 protein, where the nucleotide sequence has been optimized for expression in mammalian cells. The specification also describes all-in-one systems for RNA-guided genome engineering in mammalian cells, including human cells.

Abstract: Luciferase enzymes with greatly increased thermostability, e.g., at least half lives of 2 hours at 50° C., cDNAs encoding the novel luciferases, and hosts transformed to express the luciferases, are disclosed. Methods of producing the luciferases include recursive mutagenesis. The luciferases are used in conventional methods, some employing kits.

Abstract: There has been a demand for a codon-optimized gene for the mutated catalytic domain of Oplophorus luciferase, which is capable of efficiently expressing a protein both in a cultured animal cell and Escherichia coli. There has also been a demand for a substrate coelenterazine analogue showing a higher activity than that of native 19 kDa protein. The invention provides a polynucleotide comprising a polynucleotide consisting of the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2. According to the invention, bis-coelenterazine is used as a substrate coelenterazine analogue suitable for the photoprotein encoded by the polynucleotide comprising the polynucleotide consisting of the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.

Abstract: A cellular model is described for targeting dysregulation or inappropriate activation of the Sonic Hedgehog/Patched (SHH/PTCH) pathway. Also described, is a screening method using this cellular mod& to screen for pharmacological compounds that can treat or prevent skin cancer and, in particular, Basal Cell Carinoma (BCC) lesions.

Abstract: Provided herein is a large immuno-sorbent surface area assay (ALISSA) for the rapid and sensitive detection of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) and anthrax toxin. This assay is designed to capture a low number of toxin molecules and to measure their intrinsic protease activity via conversion of a fluorogenic or luminescent substrate. Also provided herein are novel peptides that can be specifically cleaved by BoNT and novel peptides that are resistant to cleavage by BoNT. The combination of these cleavable and control peptides can be used for implementation of an exemplary ALISSA used to specifically detect BoNT enzymatic activity. Furthermore, the ALISSA as described herein may also be used in a column based format for use in a high-throughput system for testing large quantities of samples.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for the treatment of norovirus infection are disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods of use for identifying modulators of NOTUM, e.g., NOTUM inhibitors. In some aspects, identified compounds are useful for modulating Wnt signaling at sites of tissue damage. The invention further provides methods of promoting regeneration by inhibiting NOTUM.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for producing a multicellular spheroid comprising injecting a cell suspension into a gel. The invention also provides a method of producing a gel comprising one or more multicellular spheroids, the method comprising injecting a cell suspension into a gel, as well as a gel obtainable by the method. Also provided is a method of assessing the effect of an agent on the property of a cell selected from any of survival, growth, proliferation, differentiation, migration, morphology, signalling, metabolic activity, gene expression and cell-cell interaction, the method comprising (i) producing a multicellular spheroid or gel according to the method of the invention, or providing a gel according to the invention; and (ii) assessing the effect of the agent on the property of a cell in the multicellular spheroid.

Abstract: A method for screening a potential modulator compound of a taste receptor wherein use is made of a BRET technique.

Abstract: The invention provides for detecting target subpopulations of cells that have high proliferative and renewal properties in animals, including circulating tumor cells, cancer stem cells, hematopoietic stem cells and endothelial progenitor cells. The invention utilizes a defined substrate and media of known property to enrich target cell subpopulations which can be used for future genetic, proteomic and morphological analyses. The method can use image-capture and analysis software to characterize cells based on physical properties, such as size, morphology and kinetic properties.

Abstract: The present invention provides compounds useful for detection of hydrogen peroxide and methods of using same.

Abstract: Described are mutant luciferases, nucleic acids that encode them, cells and animals expressing them, methods of use thereof, and kits.

Abstract: The present teachings provide a detection cell for a biological material and methods for detecting biological material including a photosensitive material optically coupled to an interior volume containing the biological material so to avoid optical components or an external light source.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides lipid-probe compounds, and compositions comprising the compounds. A subject lipid-probe compound is useful for various imaging applications, which are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for detection and analysis of intracellular binding of a bioactive agent to a cellular target. In particular, provided herein are bioactive agents tethered to fluorophores, cellular targets fused to bioluminescent reporters, and methods of detecting and analyzing the interaction of bioactive agents with cellular targets therewith.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to luciferin amides of formula (I) shown below: Each variable in formula (I) is defined in the specification. These compounds can be used to detect fatty acid amide hydrolase activities in vitro, in live cells, or in vivo.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for detection and analysis of intracellular binding of a bioactive agent to a cellular target. In particular, provided herein are bioactive agents tethered to fluorophores, cellular targets fused to bioluminescent reporters, or portions, components, or subunits of bioluminescent reporters, and methods of detecting and analyzing the interaction of bioactive agents with cellular targets therewith.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for identifying cognitive enhancers able to enhance CREB pathway function. Cognitive enhancers identified in accordance with the invention can be used in rehabilitating an animal with cognitive dysfunction and for enhancing memory or normal cognitive performance (ability or function) in the animal.

Abstract: Provided is a method for identifying a malodor inhibitor based on a response of an olfactory receptor. The present invention provides a method for identifying a malodor inhibitor including: adding a test substance and a malodor-causing substance to at least one olfactory receptor selected from the group consisting of OR5P3, OR5K1, OR2W1, OR8H1, and a polypeptide which has 80% or more identity in amino acid sequence to any one of the aforementioned polypeptides; measuring the response of the olfactory receptor to the malodor-causing substance; identifying the test substance which can suppress the response of the olfactory receptor based on the measured response; and selecting, as a malodor inhibitor, the test substance which can suppress the response of the olfactory receptor.