Abstract: Conjugates of hydroxyalkyl starch and a protein are provided herein. The conjugates are formed by a convalent linkage between the hydroxyalkyl starch or a derivative of the hydroxyalkyl starch and the protein. Methods of producing the conjugates and the use of the conjugates also are provided herein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to new optically pure compounds displaying an improved anticancer activity compared to previously known complex mixtures of stereoisomers thereof. Such compounds are of formula (I): wherein each X independently represents any amino acid; n is 0 or 1; m is an integer between 0 and 3; k is an integer of at least 3; Psi is a reduced bond of formula replacing the peptide amide bond between Lys and Pro; and wherein Lys residues in pseudopeptide units of said compound of formula (I) are either all in L configuration or all in D configuration. A method for preparing such compounds, and therapeutic uses thereof are also provided. The synthetic method involves the selective reduction of the peptide bond between Lys and Pro in a dipeptide intermediate with borane. The therapeutic uses are against cancer, inflammation and for wound healing.

Abstract: A method of treating hair comprising applying a hair building solid agent for use on or with one or more of hair, skin and hair building solids for altering and/or maintaining the electrostatic charge of the hair and/or skin such that it has a substantially negative polarity. The method further comprises applying hair building solids to hair before and/or during and/or after applying the hair building solid agent. The hair building solid agent is applied as a spray on to the hair and/or skin and/or hair building solid.

Abstract: Novel peptidic pth receptor agonists and methods of using the same are provided.

Abstract: Peptides with general formula (I): R1-AA1-AA2-AA3-AA4-R2 its stereoisomers, mixtures thereof, and its cosmetically or pharmaceutically acceptable saits, a method of preparation, cosmetic or pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use for the treatment and/or care of conditions, disorders and/or pathologies of the skin, mucous membranes, scalp and/or hair.

Abstract: Peptides are provided that ameliorate one or more symptoms of scleroderma. In various embodiments, the peptides range in length from about 10 to about 30 amino acids, comprise a class A amphipathic helix, and bear at least one protecting group. The peptides are highly stable and readily administered via an oral route.

Abstract: Preventing skin aging by targeting multiple causes by a single bullet is of primal scientific and consumer interest.

Abstract: The invention relates to active fragments of the IL-18 binding protein, to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such active fragments, and to medical uses thereof.

Abstract: Described herein are peptide compositions of a prominin-1, which have regenerative activity. As such the peptides are useful when regeneration is needed, for example, to enhance angiogenesis, increase VEGF binding to endothelial cells, promote vasodilation, enhance cell migration, enhance cell proliferation, stimulate neuronal growth, prevent neurodegeneration, and/or promote neuroregeneration.

Abstract: Disclosed are peptide ligands for G-protein coupled receptors that are useful for treating disorders associated with G-protein coupled receptor activation.

Abstract: The current invention relates to the use of a peptide comprising an amino acid sequence in the preparation of a medicament for the regeneration of tissue, preferably for the treatment of a wound. Further the invention relates to compositions comprising such peptides, and use of said peptides in both medical and nonmedical (cosmetic) applications.

Abstract: The invention pertains to an aqueous composition containing lactoferrin, 35-70 wt % carbohydrate and/or polyol stabilizers, based on the total weight of the aqueous composition, said composition exhibiting a pH higher than 2, lower than 5. At these 5 conditions, the aqueous composition and lactoferrin contained therein may be subjected to a heat treatment without significantly affecting the physiological activity of the lactoferrin. The invention thus particularly pertains to the above aqueous composition, being heat-treated, thus containing heat-stabilized lactoferrin.

Abstract: The present invention provides screening methods for GPCRs based on the discovery that the affinity of a receptor agonist for a GPCR (such as the parathyroid hormone receptor) when not bound to a G-protein is correlated with the length of time over which the agonist is effective, independently of its pharmacokinetic properties. The invention also provides PTH- and PTHrP-derived polypeptides.

Abstract: The present invention relates to superantigen-specificantigen-binding proteins comprising an immunoglobulin-derived variable domain that comprises a complete antigen binding site for an epitope on the superantigen in a single polypeptide chain. The antigen-binding proteins of the invention may be used in the treatment skin diseases. The antigen-binding proteins of the invention may be used in compositions for topical administration.

Abstract: The invention provides novel guanylate cyclase-C agonist peptides and their use in the treatment of human diseases including gastrointestinal disorders, inflammation or cancer (e.g., a gastrointestinal cancer). The peptides can be administered either alone or in combination with an inhibitor of cGMP-dependent phosphodiesterase. The gastrointestinal disorder may be classified as either irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, or excessive acidity etc. The gastrointestinal disease may be classified as either inflammatory bowel disease or other GI condition, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and cancer.

Abstract: A dermatological formulation is disclosed comprising one or more amino acid-based antioxidants in an amount effective to reduce photodamage to skin exposed to UV radiation, and a dermatologically acceptable carrier, wherein the amino acid-based antioxidant includes an amino acid selected from the group consisting of proline, cysteine, tryptophan, threonine, histidine, serine, methionine, lysine and phenylalanine.

Abstract: The invention provides isolated nucleic acids molecules, designated 25869, 25934, 26335, 50365, 21117, 38692, 46508, 16816, 16839, 49937, 49931 and 49933 nucleic acid molecules. The invention also provides antisense nucleic acid molecules, recombinant expression vectors containing 25869, 25934, 26335, 50365, 21117, 38692, 46508, 16816, 16839, 49937, 49931 or 49933 nucleic acid molecules, host cells into which the expression vectors have been introduced, and nonhuman transgenic animals in which a 25869, 25934, 26335, 50365, 21117, 38692, 46508, 16816, 16839, 49937, 49931 or 49933 gene has been introduced or disrupted. The invention still further provides isolated 25869, 25934, 26335, 50365, 21117, 38692, 46508, 16816, 16839, 49937, 49931 or 49933 proteins, fusion proteins, antigenic peptides and anti-25869, 25934, 26335, 50365, 21117, 38692, 46508, 16816, 16839, 49937, 49931 or 49933 antibodies. Diagnostic and therapeutic methods utilizing compositions of the invention are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of a mutant CRP molecule in which tyrosine 175 is replaced by leucine (Y175L CRP) or the leucine 176 is replaced by glutamic acid (L176E CRP) for the treatment of various disease states and conditions associated with SLE, including lupus of the skin (discoid), systemic lupus of the joints, lungs and kidneys, hematological conditions including hemolytic anemia and low lymphocyte counts, lymphadenopathy and CNS effects, including memory loss, seizures and psychosis, among numerous others as otherwise disclosed herein. In another aspect of the invention, the reduction in the likelihood that a patient who is at risk for an outbreak of a disease state or condition associated with SLE will have an outbreak is an additional aspect of the present invention. The present invention relates to the use of mutant Y175L CRP or L176E CRP in the treatment of a number of disease states or conditions that occur secondary to systemic lupus SLE.

Abstract: The invention relates to covalent conjugates between endoperoxides and small peptides and organic compounds that bind to molecular cavities on the transferrin or lactoferrin receptor, and the use of compositions comprising these conjugates to treat cancer, hyperproliferative disorders, inflammatory diseases, and infections.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and compositions for treating, preventing and/or remedying psoriasis, based on compounds that have a calcitonin-related gene peptide (CGRP) antagonistic effect. Methods are also disclosed for identifying compounds with CGRP antagonist activity which thereby are suitable candidate compounds for treating psoriasis.

Abstract: A soluble receptor that binds to IL-20 having two polypeptide subunits, IL-22R and IL-20RB. The two subunits are preferably linked together. In one embodiment one subunit is fused to the constant region of the light chain of an immunoglobulin, and the other subunit is fused to the constant region of the heavy chain of the immunoglobulin. The light chain and the heavy chain are connected via a disulfide bond.

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: The present invention discloses novel complex molecules useful as anti-allergic agents. These complex molecules include in particular, peptidic or peptidomimetic molecules, having a first segment which is competent for cell penetration and a second segment which is able to reduce or abolish mast cell degranulation, and in particular to reduce or abolish allergy mediators such as histamine secretion from mast cells. Specific examples of peptides with the desired activity are disclosed.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel methods of promoting the healing or closure of perforated tympanic membranes or wounds, as well as methods for minimizing scar formation and removing necrotic tissue. In particular the invention relates to the use of components of the plasminogen activating system, especially mini-plasminogen, mini-plasmin, micro-plasminogen, micro-plasmin, delta-plasminogen, and delta-plasmintopromote wound healing processes.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of screening for compositions useful for treating, ameliorating, or preventing fibrosis and/or fibrosis-associated conditions by measuring changes in the level(s) of IL-21 and/or IL-21 receptor (IL-21R) (e.g., the level of expression of IL-21 and/or IL-21R protein and/or mRNA, the level of activity of IL-21 and/or IL-21R, the level of interaction of IL-21 with IL-21R). The invention further provides antagonists of IL-21 or IL-21R for the treatment of fibrosis and/or fibrosis-associated conditions. Further provided herein are methods of diagnosing, prognosing, and monitoring the progress (e.g., the course of treatment) of fibrosis and/or fibrosis-associated conditions by measuring the level of IL-21 and/or IL-21R (i.e., the level of activity of IL-21 and/or IL-21R, the level of expression of IL-21 and/or IL-21R (e.g., the level of IL-21 and/or IL-21R gene products), and/or the level of interaction of IL-21 with IL-21R).

Abstract: This invention pertains to the formulation of nanoparticles that have intrinsic antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity. The nanoparticles can be impregnated with one or more therapeutic agents and thereby enhance the antimicrobial and/or anti-inflammatory activity of such agents, and also other properties that the therapeutic agents provide.

Abstract: There are provided Idbf (inhibitor of Dvl and Bone formation) which is a novel Dvl-binding protein that binds to Dvl to inhibit signal transduction carried out through the Wnt/?-catenin signaling pathway, a gene for coding for the same, the use thereof, and the use of an inhibitor of the Idbf. The Idbf was known to be expressed by activation of the Wnt/?-catenin signaling pathway and bind to Dvl to block signal transduction carried out through the Wnt/?-catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, the Idbf can be used in development of medicines for inhibiting the signal transduction carried out through the Wnt/?-catenin signaling pathway, and an Idbf inhibitor can be used in preparation of medicines for activating the signal transduction carried out through the Wnt/?-catenin signaling pathway.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a therapy for vitiligo. In particular the present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising an alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) analogue either alone or in combination with one or more corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, anti-inflammatory agents and/or photochemotherapeutic agents for the treatment or prevention of vitiligo.

Abstract: This invention relates to therapeutic compounds which are inhibitors of serine proteases, to pharmaceutical compositions thereof and to their use in the treatment of the human or animal body. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method for the treatment, diagnosis or prognosis of skin diseases comprising the administration to a subject in need thereof of a therapeutically effective amount of a Serine protease inhibitor.

Abstract: This invention relates to certain Aloesin derivatives with natural amino acids, peptides, and amino sugars (formula I).

Abstract: The instant invention describes macrocyclic depsipeptide lyngbyastatins, and methods of treating disorders such as COPD, emphysema, rheumatoid arthritis, and aging related disorders.

Abstract: A cosmetic or pharmaceutical, and in particular a dermatological one, including, in physiologically adapted medium, an active principle capable of activating cytochrome C. This active principle may be composed of polypeptides or of peptides, used alone or in association with at least one other active principle. This active principle may also be included in a cosmetic composition intended to stimulate the functions of the mitochondria and to increase the cellular energy level. The active principle be also be used in a cosmetic-treatment procedure intended to protect the skin and the appendages from external aggressions and to combat cutaneous aging.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for modulating the activity of Rac1, comprising modifying the phosphorylation state of Ser179 in syndecan-4 through influencing the interaction between syndecan-4 and the guanin nucleotide exchange factor of Rac1 (RacGEF) named Tiam1 in a GTP-dependent manner. In particular, methods are provided for enhancing the epithelial phenotype of a cell and for initiating the polarization of a cell by increasing the de-phosphorylation of said Ser179 of syndecan-4, and for enhancing the migratory phenotype of a cell and for initiating the neuronal differentiation of a cell by increasing the phosphorylation of said Ser179 of syndecan-4. Polypeptides for use in modulating the activity of the small GTPase Rac are also provided, as well as a method for identifying an agent capable of indirectly modulating the activity of the small GTPase Rac 1.

Abstract: Therapeutic agents and methods useful to modulate the activity of V3.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for tissue repair are provided including cell binding peptides and growth factor binding peptides. The cell binding peptides bind to one or more of stem cells, fibroblasts, or endothelial cells. The growth factor binding peptides include platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) binding peptides and growth differentiation factor (GDF) binding peptides. The tissue for repair includes tendon, muscle, connective tissue, ligament, cardiac tissue, vascular tissue, or dermis. Implantable devices for tissue repair are provided to which the cell and growth factor binding peptides are attached, such as acellular extracellular matrix having attached binding peptide.

Abstract: A soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFRII) mutant has an amino acid substitution at position 92Glu compared with the wild TNFRII. The mutant improves the cytotoxicity capacity of neutralizing TNFalpha and lymphotoxin. The mutant and fusion protein comprising it are useful for the treatment of TNFalpha and lymphotoxin related diseases.

Abstract: Improved chemodenervation agents are provided comprising polypeptide ?-neurotoxins having high binding specificity and selectivity for the human muscular ?1 nAChR instead of the human neuronal ?7 nAChR, along with pharmaceutical compositions and methods of use.

Abstract: The invention relates to synthetic peptide amides that are ligands of the kappa opioid receptor and particularly to agonists of the kappa opioid receptor that exhibit low P450 CYP inhibition and low penetration into the brain. The synthetic peptide amides of the invention conform to the structure: wherein Xaa is a D-amino acid and G is selected from the following three groups: The compounds are useful in the prophylaxis and treatment of pain, pruritis and inflammation associated with a variety of diseases and conditions.

Abstract: The invention relates to cosmetic compositions which are intended to improve the firmness of the skin by increasing adhesion of cutaneous cells in relation to one another and the basal lamina. The aforementioned compositions comprise a cosmetically-effective quantity of peptides having general formula X-isoleucyl-lysyl-valyl-alanyl-valine-Y, known as X-SEQ ID No. 1-Y (FIG. 1). The invention also relates to the use of X-SEQ ID No. 1-Y peptides in the preparation of cosmetic compositions which are intended to improve the firmness of the skin.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for the treatment of wounds in a mammalian subject are provided. Particularly, novel polypeptides and encoding nucleic acids that stimulate keratinocyte and endothelial cell motility and/or proliferation are provided.

Abstract: A novel class of embryo derived peptides are described (Preimplantation factor) that were generated synthetically and were tested on peripheral blood immune cells and shown to block activated but not basal immunity, inhibiting cell proliferation and creating a TH2 type cytokine bias, in addition PIF enhance endometrial receptivity by increasing adhesion molecules expression. PIF biological activity appears to be exerted by specific binding to inducible receptors present on the several white cell lineages. PIF peptides, which are immune modulators therefore may have diagnostic and non toxic therapeutic applications in improving fertility, reducing pregnancy loss as well may be useful when administered for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and for prevention xenotransplants rejection.

Abstract: The invention relates to an isolated peptide comprising all or part of the amino acid sequence: GGAEFSARSR KRKANVTVFL QD (SEQ ID NO: 2), wherein the peptide reduces cell proliferation. The invention also includes variants, such as SEQ ID NO:3-5 and fragments of at least 5 amino acids of SEQ ID NO:2-5 that reduce cell proliferation. The peptides are useful for treating cancer and diseases characterized by smooth muscle proliferation, such as restenosis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions containing a novel protein and methods of using those compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of immune related diseases.

Abstract: A novel laminin polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence set forth by SEQ ID NO:3 is disclosed. Also disclosed are compositions-of-matter comprising a polysaccharide (e.g., hyaluronic acid) and the novel laminin polypeptide; or hyaluronic acid, a laminin polypeptide and an antioxidant (e.g., superoxide dismutase), as well as matrices and hydrogels comprising same which can be used for ex vivo or in vivo tissue formation and for treatment of pathologies characterized by diseased, damaged or loss of tissue.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods of improving one or more symptoms of a dermatological condition in a patient. The methods comprise topically administering a topical composition to the patient comprising a branched chain amino acid, and an enzyme activator. Also provided are kits comprising the topical composition and optionally a topical steroid.

Abstract: The present application relate to cyclic depsipeptides, or derivatives thereof, having the formula (I), and uses thereof, e.g. as inhibitors of kallikrein 7.

Abstract: Methods for using compositions comprising oligosaccharide aldonic acids for general care, as well as for treatment and prevention, of various cosmetic conditions and dermatological disorders, including those associated with intrinsic and/or extrinsic aging, as well as with changes or damage caused by extrinsic factors; general care, as well as treatment and prevention of diseases and conditions, of the oral, and vaginal mucosa; for general oral care, as well as treatment and prevention of oral and gum diseases; and for wound healing of the skin. Methods may comprise using compositions comprising oligosaccharide aldonic acids and additional cosmetic, pharmaceutical or other topical agents to enhance or create synergetic effects.

Abstract: The present invention provides a peptide and a composition which are suitable for oral ingestion, and which have a skin aging-inhibiting activity, a collagen-production promoting activity, an epidermal turnover promoting activity, and a cutaneous cell-proliferating effect. The present invention also provides a medicament and a functional food which have a skin aging-inhibiting activity, a collagen-production promoting activity, and a cutaneous cell-proliferation promoting activity. The present invention provides a composition including at least one peptide of Asn-Ile-Pro-Pro-Leu, Ile-Pro-Pro-Leu, Ile-Pro-Pro, Pro-Val-Val-Val-Pro-Pro, Val-Pro-Pro-Phe, Val-Pro-Pro, Phe-Pro-Pro-Gln, and Leu-Pro-Pro-Thr.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of modulating cell junctions via the Gp140 membrane protein. Gp140 agonists and antagonists are provided, including activating and non-activating antibodies of Gp140, as well as compositions including the same. Methods of treatment including administration of a Gp140 agonist or antagonist are also provided. Finally, implants having a Gp140 modulator coupled thereto are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an in vitro method for identifying an individual suffering from or having a predisposition to skin cancer, characterized in that it comprises the step of analysing a biological sample originating from said individual by a) detecting a polymorphism of the MATP/SLC45A2 gene (SEQ ID NO: 1), and/or analysing the expression of the MATP/SLC45A2 gene; to the use, for preparing a composition for the treatment and/or prevention of a skin cancer in an individual, of a compound which specifically increases the expression of the MATP/SLC45A2 gene in a skin cell; and to a method for the selection, in vitro, of a compound capable of being of use in the treatment of skin cancer.