Abstract: The present invention provides a polypeptide capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. In the present invention, C-terminal of the ziconotide is linked to N-terminal of a cell membrane penetrating peptide via one glycine to obtain a polypeptide capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. The polypeptide of the present invention is suitable for intravenous, intraperitoneal or nasal administration with convenient operation and low clinical risk. It has a long pharmacological effect in vivo, excellent analgesic effect, and slight peptide side effect after intravenous, intraperitoneal or nasal administration, and is suitable for large-scale clinical applications. The polypeptide of the invention has the advantages of simple preparation, controllable preparation process and quality during the preparation, and is suitable for large-scale industrial production.

Abstract: The present invention relates to peptides, proteins, nucleic acids and cells for use in immunotherapeutic methods. In particular, the present invention relates to the immunotherapy of cancer. The present invention furthermore relates to tumor-associated T-cell peptide epitopes, alone or in combination with other tumor-associated peptides that can for example serve as active pharmaceutical ingredients of vaccine compositions that stimulate anti-tumor immune responses, or to stimulate T cells ex vivo and transfer into patients. Peptides bound to molecules of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), or peptides as such, can also be targets of antibodies, soluble T-cell receptors, and other binding molecules.

Abstract: Methods are provided for targeting cancer cells that over-express voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs or “sodium channels”) and causing osmotic lysis of these cancer cells by initially inhibiting the sodium, potassium-adenosine triphosphatase (Na+, K+-ATPase or “sodium pump”), and then stimulating the VGSCs by pulsed magnetic field gradients to cause sodium and water to enter the cancer cells.

Abstract: Compounds, compositions, and methods for treatment and/or prevention of at least one disease, disorder, and/or condition by inhibiting binding of an E-selectin, galectin-3, or E-selectin and galectin-3 to ligands a disclosed. For example, heterobifunctional inhibitors of E-selectin and galectin-3 are described and pharmaceutical compositions comprising at least one such agent is described.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to modified viruses, e.g., oncolytic vaccinia viruses, which have been modified to contain an exogenous nucleic acid that expresses a protein that modulates STAT3 activity. It is based, at least in part, on the discovery that vaccinia viruses modified to contain nucleic acid encoding PIAS3 and that express PIAS3 or a fragment thereof can inhibit STAT3 activity and enhance the anti-cancer activity of the vaccinia virus. Accordingly, this disclosure provides for oncolytic vaccinia viruses and methods of using them in the treatment of cancers.

Abstract: The invention relates to compositions and methods for modulating the expression of alpha-ENaC, and more particularly to the downregulation of alpha-ENaC expression by chemically modified oligonucleotides.

Abstract: The present invention relates to Protoxin-II variants, polynucleotides encoding them, and methods of making and using the foregoing.

Abstract: The invention relates to compositions and methods for modulating the expression of alpha-ENaC, and more particularly to the downregulation of alpha-ENaC expression by chemically modified oligonucleotides.

Abstract: Disclosed is a composition of matter comprising an isolated polypeptide, which is a peripherally-restricted NaV1.7 inhibitor. In some disclosed embodiments, the isolated polypeptide is an inhibitor of NaV1.7. Other embodiments are conjugated embodiments of the inventive composition of matter and pharmaceutical compositions containing the inventive composition of matter. Isolated nucleic acids encoding some embodiments of inventive polypeptides and expression vectors, and recombinant host cells containing them are disclosed. A method of treating or preventing pain is also disclosed.

Abstract: Compounds containing TRPV6-binding peptides and their use in the detection and diagnosis of cancer are described. Also described are methods for detecting and staging cancer that use the compounds of the invention. Compounds containing TRPV6-binding peptides are useful for the delivery of diagnostic and therapeutic agents to cells or tumors that express TRPV6.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods of treating ophthalmic conditions such as dry eye and uveitis by administering a pharmaceutical composition including a toxin-based therapeutic peptide. The peptide can include an acid or amide at the C-terminus and can be attached to an organic or inorganic chemical entity that has an anionic charge.

Abstract: Analogs of ShK toxin and methods for using such ShK analogs. The ShK analogs generally comprise ShK toxin attached to a chemical entity (e.g. an atom, molecule, group, residue, compound, moiety, etc.) that has an anionic charge. The ShK analogs may be administered to human or non-human animal subjects to cause inhibition of potassium channels or to otherwise treat diseases or disorders. In some embodiments, the chemical entity to which the ShK toxin is attached may be chosen to provide selective inhibition of certain potassium channels (e.g., Kv 1.3 channels) over other potassium channels (e.g., Kv 1.1 channels). In come embodiments, the chemical entity to which the ShK toxin is attached may include a fluorophore and such fluorophore-tagged ShK analogs may be used in flow cytometry alone, or in conjunction with class II tetramers that can detect autoreactive cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to Protoxin-II variants, polynucleotides encoding them, and methods of making and using the foregoing.

Abstract: Described herein is a method for the treatment or prevention of atrial fibrillation and/or atrial flutter comprising administration of an effective amount of one or more of a potassium channel blocker and an effective amount of one or more of a late sodium channel blocker. Also provided are methods for modulating ventricular and atrial rhythm and rate. Also provided are pharmaceutical formulations that are suitable for such combined administration.

Abstract: A targeted osmotic lysis (TOL) of tumor cells that over-express voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) has been developed that uses a combined therapy of a drug that blocks sodium, potassium-adenosine triphosphatase (Na+, K+-ATPase) that is then followed by an activation of VGSCs, for example, by electrical or pharmacological stimulation. Activation of VGSCs conducts sodium into the cancer cells in much greater amounts than non-cancer cells. Water follows this sodium gradient into the cancer cells, causing swelling and lysis. Because non-cancerous cells do not over-express VGSCs, less sodium and less water will enter the cells, and the non-cancerous cells will not lyse. This method is applicable to all cells that over-express VGSCs, including, but not limited to, highly invasive breast cancer, prostate cancer, small cell lung cancer, non-small cell lung carcinoma, lymphoma, mesothelioma, neuroblastoma, and cervical cancer.

Abstract: Compounds, compositions and methods are provided for treatment of diseases or complications associated therewith, in which a selectin plays a role. More specifically, particular glycomimetics and uses thereof are described. For example, use of particular glycomimetics for treating sickle cell disease or a cancer involving a selectin, or complications associated with either, is described.

Abstract: Methods of treating or preventing cancer, or ameliorating a symptom thereof, by administering a muscarinic receptor inhibitor to inhibit cancer metastasis and/or a ? adrenergic receptor inhibitor to inhibit tumor initiation are provided. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions for treating or preventing cancer comprising a muscarinic receptor inhibitor and/or a ? adrenergic receptor inhibitor.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for improving muscular function or treating a muscular disorder in an individual by administering to the individual a pharmacologically effective amount of a compound that inhibits microtubule-dependent NADPH Oxidase 2 reactive oxygen species signaling production. In addition compounds that block sarcolemmal Ca2+ channel activation and/or renin-angiotensin signaling may be administered with the inhibitor of microtubule-dependent NADPH Oxidase 2 reactive oxygen species signaling production.

Abstract: The invention includes an isolated peptide comprising all or part of the amino acid sequence: EGKLSSNDTE GGLCKEFLHP SKVDLPR (SEQ ID NO: 1), wherein the peptide inhibits calcium channel activity. The peptides of the invention are useful for preventing or treating cancer.

Abstract: A cyclic organic compound which comprises 16 amino acids or 17 amino acids and has no carboxyl group C-terminally and/or no amino group N-terminally. Optionally, one of the amino acids is a nonnatural amino acid. The ring closure is formed between a side chain of one amino acid and the C-terminus of another amino acid, or the ring closure is effected with the aid of a nonnatural amino acid. A process for producing and using the compound for regulating vectorial ion channels, for treating diseases associated with the lung function and for treating oedemas is provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to mutant channelrhodopsins having improved properties, nucleic acid constructs encoding same, expression vectors carrying the nucleic acid construct, cells comprising said nucleic acid construct or expression vector, and their respective uses.

Abstract: The present invention investigate the two modes of glutamate release and the releasing rate of glutamate, and thus can provide a useful technique for neuron protection and acceleration of neurotransmission by controlling the glutamate release in astroctye. Thus, the present invention provides an inhibitor of the fast-mode release and/or the slow-mode release of astrocytic glutamate, a screening method of the inhibitor and a pharmaceutical composition or method of ameliorating, preventing and/or treating the disease associated with the over-release of glutamate via the Ca2+-activated anion channel, with the inhibition of fast-mode glutamate release.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for increasing the binding reversibility of a ?-conotoxin to a N-type calcium channel, which comprises preparing a ?-conotoxin having a Ile and/or Ala residue at a position of amino acid (11 and/or 12), respectively in the second loop between cysteine residues (2 and 3) of the ?-conotoxin represented by the formula I, such that the prepared ?-conotoxin has the increased binding reversibility to N-type calcium channel. In addition, the present invention relates to a novel ?-conotoxin and a pharmaceutical composition having plausible properties in view of blocking activity to and specificity to N-type calcium channel, and dramatically improved binding reversibility to N-type calcium channel.

Abstract: A peptide with the following sequence YCQKFLWTCDSERPCCEGLVCRLWCKIN (SEQ ID NO 1) or a derivative thereof, and nucleic acids coding for the peptide having the sequence (SEQ ID NO 1). Also the use of this peptide as an antagonist and/or reverse agonist of T-type calcium channels. A use of the peptide for preparing a drug, in particular an analgesic one.

Abstract: The present invention provides a therapeutic tool against intimal hyperplasia consisting of the use of Kv1.3 channel blocking substances, able to selectively stop cell migration and multiplication of VSMCs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the identification and isolation of a novel family of ATP regulated calcium transmembrane channel polypeptides designated herein as “LTRPC7” (Long Transient Receptor Potential Channel). Channels comprising these polypeptides close in response to concentrations of cytoplasmic ATP in the millimolar range, are subject to inhibition by high intracellular levels of calcium and/or magnesium, and do not respond to depletion or reduction in intracellular calcium stores. The invention further relates to the methods of utilizing LTRPC7 for binding, and the methods for modulating LTRPC7 activity and for measuring LTRPC2 permeability. The invention further relates to the methods of modulating expression of LTRPC7.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a peptide and analogs thereof that selectively inhibit the Nav1.7 sodium channel. The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions useful for treating or preventing a disorder responsive to the blockade of sodium ion channels, especially Nav1.7 sodium ion channels. The present invention further provides methods of treating a disorder responsive to the blockade of sodium channels, and particularly Nav1.7 sodium channels, in a mammal suffering from excess activity of said channels, compositions and methods for providing analgesia by administering a peptide of the invention.

Abstract: Provided herein are peptide modulators of ion channels. Specifically, the peptide modulators comprise the amino acid sequence VEDEC wherein V is valine, E is glutamate, D is aspartate, C is cysteine. In certain embodiments, the modulator is attached to the C-terminal end of Slo1 protein isoform. The present invention also claims conjugations of the first valine that make the peptide modulator more membrane permeable, such as myristoyl moieties and arginine-rich cell penetrating peptides. The present invention contemplates use of the peptide modulators in the treatment of diseases/malfunctions such as epilepsy, chronic pain, migraine, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, urinary incontinence, hypertension, erectile dysfunction, irritable bowel syndrome, renal disorders of electrolyte imbalance, and possibly in certain kinds of cancer.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for ameliorating inflammatory and/or neuropathic pain in a subject by modifying the activity of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in cells of the subject by inhibition of the interaction of the unique domain of the tyrosine kinase Src enzyme and the NMDA receptor complex.

Abstract: The invention relates to mutant channelrhodopsins having improved properties, nucleic acid constructs encoding same, expression vectors carrying the nucleic acid construct, cells comprising said nucleic acid construct or expression vector, and their respective uses.

Abstract: A biologic intervention method and apparatus generates a persistent modification to an AV node that is physiologically stable after the agent has matured but is alterable with subsequent application of an agent. Specifically, the generic agent is used to modulate a node in a cardiac conduction system including rate control using one and a combination of a family of K+ channel or equivalent. Specifically, the channel is implemented to slow conduction by generating an outward current during optimization of action potential and repolarization phase thus decreasing the current that is available to excite downstream cells. A Kv 1.3 channel, for example, may be used as the biologic channel. The invention enables reversal of the modulation or adjustment for various heart rates (BPM) based on medical and patient-specific needs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel TRPV1 inhibitory peptide and a composition for skin-aging prevention and wrinkle improvement comprising the same as an active ingredient. The TRPV1 inhibitory peptide of the present invention inhibits the expressions of MMP and proinflammatory cytokines induced by UV exposure and reduces skinfold thickness and intracellular Ca2+ so that it can be effectively used as an active ingredient of the composition for skin-aging prevention, wrinkle improvement, skin-whitening, or alleviating inflammation, irritation, or pain.

Abstract: Provided herein are self-assembling compounds that can form ion channels in lipid bilayers or cell membranes and ion-channel-forming compositions comprising the self-assembling compounds. Also provided are methods of making and using the ion channels formed from a plurality of molecules of the self-assembling compounds. Further, provided are methods of treating or preventing conditions and diseases that are related to the dysfunction of ion channels, including chloride channels.

Abstract: A targeted osmotic lysis (TOL) of tumor cells that over-express voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) has been developed that uses a combined therapy of a drug that blocks sodium, potassium-adenosine triphosphatase (Na+, K+-ATPase) that is then followed by an activation of VGSCs, for example, by electrical or pharmacological stimulation. Activation of VGSCs conducts sodium into the cancer cells in much greater amounts than non-cancer cells. Water follows this sodium gradient into the cancer cells, causing swelling and lysis. Because non-cancerous cells do not over-express VGSCs, less sodium and less water will enter the cells, and the non-cancerous cells will not lyse. This method is applicable to all cells that over-express VGSCs, including, but not limited to, highly invasive breast cancer, prostate cancer, small cell lung cancer, non-small cell lung carcinoma, lymphoma, mesothelioma, neuroblastoma, and cervical cancer.

Abstract: In one or a plurality of embodiments, there is provided a target molecule of amylospheroid, which is expressed in mature neurons and to which the amylospheroid binds to induce death of cells. Further, in one or a plurality of embodiments, there is provided a method and a substance for inhibiting death of mature neurons induced by the amylospheroid. In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a use of Na+/K+-ATPase ?3 as a binding target molecule of amylospheroid. In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method for suppressing death of mature neurons induced by the amylospheroid, including inhibiting protein-protein interaction between the amylospheroid and the Na+/K+-ATPase ?3, and the like.

Abstract: An immunostimulating agent, which can stimulate immunity effectively, is described. The immunostimulating agent contains an active ingredient including a calcium receptor activator such as ?-Glu-X-Gly [wherein X represents an amino acid or a derivative thereof other than Cys], ?-Glu-Val-Y [wherein Y represents an amino acid or a derivative thereof], ?-Glu-Ala, ?-Glu-Gly, ?-Glu-Met, ?-Glu-Thr, ?-Glu-Val, ?-Glu-Orn, Asp-Gly, Cys-Gly, Cys-Met, Glu-Cys, Gly-Cys, Leu-Asp, ?-Glu-Met(O), ?-Glu-?-Glu-Val, ?-Glu-Val-NH2, ?-Glu-Val-ol, ?-Glu-Ser, ?-Glu-Tau, ?-Glu-Cys(S-Me)(O), ?-Glu-Leu, ?-Glu-Ile, ?-Glu-t-Leu, ?-Glu-Cys(S-Me), a cation having a valency of 2 or more, protamine, polylysine, spermine, spermidine, putrescine, cinacalcet, a cinacalcet analogue compound, and a salt of any one of the aforementioned components.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to variants and peptides of the mitochondrial protein, voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) and to polynucleotides encoding same. In particular, the present invention is directed to N-terminal truncated and mutated VDAC and specific amino acid and polynucleotide sequences thereof useful in inhibiting apoptosis, and to pharmaceutical compositions comprising same useful in the treatment of diseases associated with excess apoptosis.

Abstract: Analogs of ShK toxin and methods for using such ShK analogs. The ShK analogs generally comprise ShK toxin attached to a chemical entity (e.g. an atom, molecule, group, residue, compound, moiety, etc.) that has an anionic charge. The ShK analogs may be administered to human or non-human animal subjects to cause inhibition of potassium channels or to otherwise treat diseases or disorders. In some embodiments, the chemical entity to which the ShK toxin is attached may be chosen to provide selective inhibition of certain potassium channels (e.g., Kv1.3 channels) over other potassium channels (e.g., Kv1.1 channels). In come embodiments, the chemical entity to which the ShK toxin is attached may include a fluorophore and such fluorophore-tagged ShK analogs may be used in flow cytometry alone, or in conjunction with class II tetramers that can detect autoreactive cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to breast cancer and methods for identifying therapeutics and diagnosis. In general, methods for identifying therapeutic agents directed to calcium flow arc disclosed. Also provided arc methods for diagnosis of breast cancer and/or a predisposition to breast cancer and methods of treatment of breast cancer. The methods include identifying therapeutic agents which modulate a CRAC channel and/or a glycoprotein activator of a CRAC channel. Also provided arc diagnostic methods that utilize a CRAC channel and/or a glycoprotein activator of a CRAC channel.

Abstract: Potassium channels Kv1.3 are known to be implicated in immunological diseases and graft rejections. Disclosed are peptides capable of blocking with high affinity and specificity potassium channels Kv1.3, their pharmaceutical compositions, and methods for their use to block Kv1.3 potassium channels, to treat various immunological conditions and to diagnostic applications. Methods for their chemical synthesis and correct folding are also disclosed. Exemplary peptides correspond to protein components (Vm23 and Vm24) isolated from the venom of the Mexican scorpion Vaejovis mexicanus smithi. Vm23 and Vm24 bind to hKv1.3 channels in an almost irreversible manner, showing a Kd value in the order of 3 picomolar range, when applied to human lymphocytes cultures in vitro. Vm24 was chemically synthesized and used in in vivo experiments to successfully treat sensitized rats (on the DTH-response).

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and methods for the treatment, inhibition and/or reduction, and detection of metastatic tumors. In some embodiments, the inventive methods include systemic (e.g., intravenous) administration of a chlorotoxin agent that may or may not be labeled. In some embodiments, the inventive methods allow treatment, inhibition and/or reduction, and detection of metastases in the brain. In some embodiments, neovascularization is inhibited and/or newly formed vessels are caused to regress.

Abstract: The invention relates to the manufacture of a unit dose of a medicament for relieving the symptoms and/or restoring and/or protecting the neurons of patients suffering from Parkinson's disease. According to the invention, apamine is used in an amount of between 1 and 10 micrograms inclusive, for the manufacture of a unit dose for subcutaneous injection, every one to six weeks, of a medicament for relieving the symptoms and/or restoring and/or protecting the neurons of patients suffering from Parkinson's disease. The invention finds use in particular in the field of pharmacy.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of the peptide toxin APETx2 that blocks the ASIC3 cationic channels and that is derived from the Anthopleura elegantissima sea anemone, and to the use of the analogs and derivatives thereof as a drug, particularly as an analgesic pain associated with the activation of ASIC3 (Acid Sensing Ion Channel 3) channels, in particular pain occurring upon an inflammation and potentially upon any painful situation associated with tissue acidosis (ischemiae, fractures, hematoma, oedema, phlyctena, local infections, tissue lesions, ocular wounds, tumours, etc.).

Abstract: This invention relates to an oral or enteral pharmaceutical preparation comprising at least one synthetically cyclised alpha-conotoxin peptide having an amide cyclised backbone such that the peptide has no free N- or C-terminus, said peptide having the ability to inhibit a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor and comprising four cysteine residues bonded in pairs to form two disulfide bonds, wherein the N-terminus of the corresponding linear/non-cyclised conotoxin peptide is linked to the C-terminus by a peptide linker, in a vehicle which is pharmaceutically suitable for oral or enteral administration.

Abstract: The invention includes an isolated peptide comprising all or part of the amino acid sequence: EGKLSSNDTE GGLCKEFLHP SKVDLPR (SEQ ID NO: 1), wherein the peptide inhibits calcium channel activity. The peptides of the invention are useful for preventing or treating cancer.

Abstract: The present invention provides a synthetic regulator of protein function, which regulator is a light-sensitive regulator. The present invention further provides a light-regulated polypeptide that includes a subject synthetic regulator. Also provided are cells and membranes comprising a subject light-regulated polypeptide. The present invention further provides methods of modulating protein function, involving use of light. The present invention further provides methods of identifying agents that modulate protein function.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for treating stroke and compositions for use in the same. The methods employ a chimeric peptide of an active peptide and an internalization peptide. The internalization peptide is a tat variant that promotes uptake of itself and a linked active peptide into a cell without substantial binding to N-type calcium channels. Use of the tat variant allows treating of stroke free of certain side effects associated with binding to N-type calcium channels. Tat variant peptides can also be linked to other active agent for use in treating other diseases.

Abstract: The internalization sequence at the C-terminal end of the ROMK protein has been identified and sequenced. It has been discovered determined that endocytosis is triggered by binding of the ROMK internalization sequence to ARH protein, which is co-localized and expressed with ROMK. New methods of treating or preventing hyperkalemia have been discovered that include administering to a patient who is at risk of developing hyperkalemia or who has hyperkalemia, a therapeutically effective amount of an agent that blocks the interaction of the ROMK internalization sequence with ARH protein, thereby preventing or reducing ARH-induced endocytosis of ROMK.

Abstract: The invention provides a product comprising: a membrane-spanning protein; a lipid membrane formed from amphiphilic molecules and membrane-spanning protein molecules; and a substrate, wherein the membrane protein is directly coupled to the substrate. The invention also provides a method for producing such a product which i) comprises treating a substrate with a hydrophilic coating agent; ii) providing at least one membrane-spanning protein; iii) bringing the protein into contact with the treated substrate under conditions for the coupling of the protein directly to the treated substrate; and iv) adding amphiphilic molecules to the protein-coupled substrate to form a lipid membrane. The product is useful for biosensors, protein arrays and the like.

Abstract: The invention relates to the manufacture of a unit dose of a medicament for relieving the symptoms and/or restoring and/or protecting the neurons of patients suffering from Parkinson's disease. According to the invention, bee's venom is used in an amount of between 33 and 330 micrograms inclusive, for the manufacture of a unit dose for subcutaneous injection, every one to six weeks, of a medicament for relieving the symptoms and/or restoring and/or protecting the neurons of patients suffering from Parkinson's disease. The invention finds use in particular in the field of pharmacy.