Abstract: Ferritin 2 is a tick secreted protein, which serves in the tick plasma as a non-heme iron transporter from the gut to the peripheral tissues. It can be exploited as an antigen for raising up host antibodies, which can reversely block this antigen in the tick and the attached tick will not have functional mechanism of the non-heme iron transport from the gut to the peripheral tissues. This mechanism is essential for the further tick development and its blocking eventually prevents transmission of tick-borne pathogens.

Abstract: An isolated conformational isomer of a bifunctional chelating agent of the formula (I): wherein the variables Q1 and Q2 are as defined in the description of the present application. Also described is a complex of the above chelating agent to an ion of a stable or radioactive metal; a conjugate of the complex covalently attached to a biological carrier; and a pharmaceutical composition containing the conjugate.

Abstract: The invention provides fusion proteins comprising an exendin-4 fused to a transferrin (Tf) via a polypeptide linker, as well as corresponding nucleic acid molecules, vectors, host cells, and pharmaceutical compositions. The invention also provides the use of the exendin-4/Tf fusion proteins for treatment of Type II diabetes, obesity, and to reduce body weight.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and composition for alteration of the presence, activity, or concentration of RNF138. Disclosed methods can be utilized to affect DNA double strand break repair. Methods and compositions can be utilized to alter RNF138 so as to prevent interaction between RNF138 and RAD51D. Specifically, methods can prevent RNF138-directed ubiquitylation of RAD51D, which is necessary for DNA double strand break repair.

Abstract: This invention provides heme-containing peptides capable of binding molecular oxygen at room temperature. These compounds may be useful in the absorption of molecular oxygen from molecular oxygen-containing atmospheres. Also included in the invention are methods for treating an oxygen transport deficiency in a mammal.

Abstract: Conjugates of 1,3-bis(1,4,7-triazacyclonon-1-yl)-2-hydroxypropanes with a variety of conjugating members are used in the formation of dinuclear metal complexes which bind to phosphate esters. By virtue of their conjugated forms, the complexes are incorporated into chromatographic media, affinity binding reagents, and dyes, which make the complexes useful in a wide range of assays, separations, and purifications. In addition, dinuclear metal complexes of 1,3-bis(1,4,7-triazacyclonon-1-yl)-2-hydroxypropanes that are not so conjugated are used in the detection of phosphate esters of biological species by either MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry or by dye displacement.

Abstract: The present technology relates gold sub-nanoclusters comprising a gold core and one or more thiolates bound to the gold core, wherein the gold core consists essentially of 23 gold atoms. Methods of preparing and using such sub-nanoclusters are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and compositions for monitoring, diagnosis, prognosis, and determination of treatment regimens in subjects suffering from or suspected of having a renal injury. In particular, the invention relates to using assays that detect one or more markers selected from the group consisting of soluble Advanced glycosylation end product-specific receptor, Bactericidal permeability-increasing protein, Interleukin 12, Fibroblast growth factor 23, and Intestinal fatty acid-binding protein as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in renal injuries.

Abstract: Carisoprodol is a centrally-acting prescription drug of known abuse. Upon ingestion it is rapidly metabolised to meprobamate, also a prescription drug with abuse potential. Current immunoassays are specific for carisoprodol and therefore have a short window of detection and, furthermore, are ineffective at detecting meprobamate. The current invention, underpinned by an antibody specific for meprobamate, overcomes these deficiencies.

Abstract: We have discovered that the activated phosphorylated form of focal adhesion kinase (hereafter “FAKp”) strengthens the microvascular endothelial cell (EC) junctions that form a barrier in pulmonary endothelia, and the increased barrier helps to prevent acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Thus certain embodiments of the invention are directed to prevention and treatment of ALI and ARDS by administering a therapeutically effective amount of FAKp to subjects at risk of developing or diagnosed as having either ALI or ARDS.

Abstract: In certain aspects the present invention provides methods and compositions related to contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging. In certain variations, contrast agents provided herein are generated in situ via genetic instructions and become potent upon sequestering available metal atoms. Exemplary contrast agents include metal-binding proteins.

Abstract: A bifunctional compound with a monosaccharide and a N2S2 ligand, and more particularly, a bifunctional compound with a N2S2 ligand and aminohexylacetyl galactosamine (ah-GalNAc4) is provided. A method for preparing the bifunctional compound with a monosaccharide and a N2S2 ligand is also provided, including activating a carboxyl group in an organic ligand, reacting the activated carboxyl group with a galactopyranoside through amidation, and then hydrolyzing. The bifunctional compound of the present invention is widely useful in nuclear medicine for preparation of liver imaging agents for assisting in correct diagnosis of diseases.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a biocompatible contrast agent and a method of its preparation. More particularly, the present invention relates to a multifunctional contrast agent manufactured by prepairing a novel polysuccinimide-based polymer by introducing an alkanolamine group to the main group of the polysuccinimide in addition to a biocompatible hydrophilic group, which improves bioavailability, and a hydrophobic group, which enables to maintain the form of stable nanoparticles during the formation of nano particles for a long period of time and to encapsulate a hydrophobic anticancer agent.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a peptide tag which can be used to bind a Technetium (Tc) or Rhenium (Re) radionuclide to a protein of interest which comprises the peptide tag and allows the imaging of such a tagged protein. In particular the present invention relates to a peptide tag which chelates a Tc or Re atom but which does not comprise a Cysteine residue.

Abstract: This invention is related to preparation of photosensitive ruthenium based aminoacid monomers and oligomers, aminoacid monomer-protein cross-linking using photo sensitat ion and conjugation on micro and nano-structures by ruthenium-chelate based monomers. Its vast range biotechnolgy applications of multifunctional, biocompatible, stabilE and specific micro and nanobio-conjugates, which will stand-alone or simultaneously enable (i) both purification and determination, (ii) both targeting and imaging and theranostics and (iii) catalysis and determination. The construction and method of preparation is applicable to silica materials, superparamagnetic particles, QDs, CNTs, Ag/Au nanoparticles and Au surfaces and polymeric materials. The photosensitive aminoacid monomer linkers can react via chemically and biocompatible to a lot of different micro and nano-surface and then to the protein when they act as a single-step cross-linking reaction using irradiation.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for the treatment of neuropathic pain are provided. Compositions of the invention may comprise proteins with a zinc-finger domain fused to a regulatory domain that is capable of either activating or repressing the expression of a target gene involved in neuropathic pain. Alternatively, compositions of the invention may comprise a nucleic acid sequence encoding a protein of the invention, which nucleic acid sequence may optionally be provided as a plasmid or within a virus or other vector for delivery to a target cell or tissue. Methods of treating neuropathic pain involving treatment of subject with the compositions of the invention are also provided. Exemplary target genes for the treatment of neuropathic pain include VR1, NaV1.8, and TrkA.

Abstract: Using an undifferentiated mouse CL6 cell line, DMSO was added to induce its differentiation into cardiac muscular cells in order to obtain gene fragments whose expression elevated upon the induction. The isolated gene had zinc finger domains and showed a significant homology to the Sp1 family genes. Furthermore, a human gene corresponding to this mouse gene was isolated. The protein encoded by this gene existed in the nucleus and bonded to a GC-box. The protein was revealed to repress the transcription regulatory activity of the CMV promoter and thus serves as a transcription factor.

Abstract: This application provides a metallopeptide catalyst comprising dirhodium bound to one or more carboxylate residues of a peptide, protein or peptidomimetic. These stable metallopeptides can achieve structure-selective protein modification though molecular recognition.

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

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to peptides isolated from rabbit factor VII and to the use of thereof for the generation of antibodies specifically directed against the latter. The disclosure also relates to the use of antibodies directed against rabbit factor VII for the detection or purification of rabbit factor VII, specifically when said rabbit factor VII is in a biological sample which also contains human factor VII.

Abstract: A radiolabeled annexin comprising at least 2 up to 20 histidine residues at its N-terminus is disclosed. At least two of said histidine residues are adjacent or separated by no more than one other amino acid. The radiolabeled annexin is a stable complex with a radionuclide such as technetium 99m. The radiolabeled annexin can be used in a method of imaging cell death in a nucleated cell within a region of a mammalian subject in vivo.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides photoactive polypeptides. A subject photoactive polypeptide is useful in a variety of applications, which are also provided.

Abstract: Provided are a method of diagnosing Alzheimer's disease using a giant magnetoresistance sensor and a magnetic bead-polyprotein complex for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease. The method of diagnosing Alzheimer's disease using the giant magnetoresistance sensor may be applied to diagnose Alzheimer's disease more easily and simply using the giant magnetoresistance sensor than using conventional fluorescent materials or genetic analyses, and the magnetic bead-polyprotein complex may be mass-produced as a diagnostic biosensor for Alzheimer's disease, and thus to be useful to monitor and treat Alzheimer's disease.

Abstract: The present invention relates to lactoferrin compositions and methods of using the compositions to treat wounds. The compositions can be administered alone or in combination with other standard wound healing therapies.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a method for immobilizing the SpA protein on the surface of a substrate with high density without causing dimerization. The following method solves the object. That is, the method for binding a protein to a surface of a substrate, comprising steps (A) to (B): step (A) of preparing said protein to the surface, step (B) of supplying said protein to the surface, wherein said protein consists of a Protein A or at least one domain of A to E of said Protein A, and said protein comprises C-terminal modified amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID:1(SFNRSEC).

Abstract: Nanoparticles can include a core linked to a polymerizable moiety that can be polymerized, cross-linked or cured. The polymerizable nanoparticles can be included in a composition for a polymerization, cross-linking or curing reaction in an amount and disposition sufficient for inhibiting or preventing volume shrinkage during polymerization, cross-linking or curing reaction. Also, the nanoparticles can be included with monomers, dendrimers, oligomers or polymers in the compositions that can be reacted to form a polymerized, cross-linked or cured product.

Abstract: A novel metalloproteinase inhibitor, analogs thereof, polynucleotides encoding the same, and methods of production, are disclosed. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treating disorders caused by excessive amounts of metalloproteinase are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention discloses a biocompatible polymer for covalently modifying magnetic nanoparticles. The biocompatible polymer may be coupled to a targeting agent and/or a fluorescent dye. The invention also discloses a magnetic nanoparticle with biocompatibilities comprising the biocompatible polymer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for augmenting SERCA2 mediated calcium ion transport into the sarcoplasmic reticulum of cardiac myocytes of a host. The method includes administering to host cardiac myocytes a zinc finger protein that induces expression of SERCA2a (or administering a nucleic acid molecule encoding such a protein), wherein expression of SERCA2a produces an augmentation in SERCA2 mediated calcium ion transport in treated myocytes, as compared to untreated myocytes. Also provided are methods of treating heart failure by administering to a patient in need thereof, a zinc finger protein or zinc finger protein fused to an effector domain, that induces expression of SERCA2a.

Abstract: This invention relates to the delivery of agents to the body. One particular class of such agents are contrast agents useful in medical imaging techniques. The agents may be metals useful as contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or in nuclear imaging, including positron emission tomography (PET), or as therapeutic agents in radiotherapy. The agents may alternatively be contrast agents useful in X-ray imaging. The invention also relates to methods by which agents for delivery to the body can be coupled to carriers and to targeting moieties effective to direct the agent to a specific locus within the body.

Abstract: A protein polymer having a larger molecular weight is provided by regularly arranging a protein having a large molecular weight. The protein polymer having a large molecular weight can be obtained using a protein monomer represented by formula (I) or a salt thereof: wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, Y, and X are as defined in the specification.

Abstract: Ferritin 2 is a tick secreted protein, which serves in the tick plasma as a non-heme iron transporter from the gut to the peripheral tissues. It can be exploited as an antigen for raising up host antibodies, which can reversely block this antigen in the tick and the attached tick will not have functional mechanism of the non-heme iron transport from the gut to the peripheral tissues. This mechanism is essential for the further tick development and its blocking eventually prevents transmission of tick-borne pathogens.

Abstract: The present invention relates to biosensors. In some embodiments, the biosensors are modified ligand binding molecules. In some embodiments, the modified ligand binding molecule is a phosphate binding protein (PBP). In some embodiments, the modified ligand binding molecules are labeled to be capable of RET, e.g., comprising a donor and acceptor moiety. In some embodiments of the invention, there is a detectable change in RET (e.g., FRET) when the modified ligand binding molecule binds and/or releases the ligand (e.g., phosphate). The invention also provides related methods, reactions and assays.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast enhancement agent comprising an elastin-like polypeptide (ELP) and one or more paramagnetic metal ions is disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of preparing ELP MRI contrast enhancement agents, formulations comprising ELP MRI contrast enhancement agents, and methods of using ELP MRI contrast enhancement agents to image biological samples and to image and deliver therapeutic agents to targeted sites in vivo. In some embodiments, the ELP MRI agents can be used in methods related to blood volume determination, in magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), and in vascular transport determinations. The ELP MRI contrast agents can also provide information on the expression of various proteins through affinity targeting or enzymatic crosslinking in order to aid in diagnosis and in the spatial definition of pathologic tissue.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cell-targeting complex comprising a targeting moiety and a deliverable compound, wherein said targeting moiety and said deliverable compound are joined by means of a (transition) metal ion complex having at least a first reactive moiety for forming a coordination bond with a reactive site of said targeting moiety and having at least a second reactive moiety for forming a coordination bond with a reactive site of said deliverable compound, and wherein said deliverable compound is a therapeutic compound.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for contrast agents, methods of making contrast agents, and methods of using contrast agents, and the like.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel muteins derived from human tear lipocalin having affinity to human c-Met receptor tyrosin kinase (c-Met). The invention also refers to a corresponding nucleic acid molecule encoding such a mutein and to a method for its generation. The invention further refers to a method for producing such a mutein. Finally, the invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition comprising such a lipocalin mutein as well as to various uses of the mutein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of at least one compound comprising the amino acid sequence: (X1)nX2X3PVX4X5X6(X7)m (Formula I), wherein X1 is any amino acid residue, X2 is an amino acid residue selected from the group consisting of aspartic acid (D) and glutamic acid (E).

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for treating neuropathies by modulating endogenous NT-3 of GDNF gene expression.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for treating trinucleotide repeat disorders.

Abstract: To provide a method of arranging ferritin by which a high rate of the number of the molecular film spots on which sole ferritin molecule was arranged in effect, with respect to total number of the molecular film spots provided for arranging ferritin (sole arrangement rate) is achieved is objected to. Specifically, in Fer8 ferritin having a sequence excluding 7 amino acids of from the second to the eighth, from an amino acid sequence (Fer0 sequence) translated from a naturally occurring DNA sequence, lysine at position 91 is substituted with glutamic acid.

Abstract: The invention relates to antibody compositions and use of the composition to detect disease processes associated with elaboration of proteases. The reagents are directed to assessing an IgG breakdown product that is the result of such proteolytic cleavage. The invention further relates to the use of a therapeutic immunospecific for IgG protease cleavage products to restore effector function to antibody compositions that are subject to protease cleavage.

Abstract: There is provided a novel method for amplifying mass spectrometric signals. More particularly, a novel method for detecting signals of a target molecule includes: i) allowing a test sample, in which it is required to determine whether or not a target molecule is present, to be contact with a gold particle whose surface is modified to selectively bind to the target molecule, ii) allowing a low molecular molecule engrafted to the gold particle to generate mass spectrometric signals after the interaction, such as binding, between the gold particle and the target molecule, and iii) amplifying the mass spectrometric signals by generating a great deal of mass spectrometric signals of the low molecular molecule even in the presence of a trace of the target molecule. Also, the assay system using the method and the gold particle prepared in the method are provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of enhancing the rate of iron release from ferritin. By increasing the amount of iron available for chelation, the invention also provides methods of treating conditions associated with iron overload. The invention also provides in one embodiment agents which are useful for treating iron overload.

Abstract: This invention relates to molecular imaging agents comprising an S78C mutant synaptotagmin I C2A domain. These agents may be useful in detecting or assessing cell death in vitro and in vivo, for example in tumours following cancer treatment.

Abstract: Degradable complexes comprising a polycation, a polyanion and a polynucleotide are useful for in vivo polynucleotide delivery applications.

Abstract: Polynucleotides encoding chimeric proteins, and methods for their production and use are disclosed. The chimeric proteins comprise a flexible linker between two zinc finger DNA-binding domains, wherein the linker contains eight or more amino acids between the second conserved histidine residue of the carboxy-terminal zinc finger of the first domain and the first conserved cysteine residue of the amino-terminal zinc finger of the second domain.

Abstract: Methods, compositions, and kits for labeling tetracysteine-tagged proteins with biarsenical fluorophores with increased specificity, including compositions, methods and kits particularly adapted for labeling of tetracysteine-tagged proteins to be resolved within an electrophoresis gel.

Abstract: The present invention relates, generally, to compositions including lactoferrin, and to compositions including both lactoferrin and lysozyme. The present invention also includes topical formulations containing the compositions, methods of making the formulations, methods of using the formulations to treat various skin disorders/conditions, to treat wounds, and to methods of producing artificial skin using the composition, and methods of treating burns using the formulation, optionally in conjunction with the application of artificial skin.

Abstract: Disclosed are libraries of DNA sequences encoding zinc finger binding motifs for display on a particle, together with methods of designing zinc finger binding polypeptides for binding to a particular target sequence and, inter alia, use of designed zinc finger polypeptides for various in vitro or in vivo applications.