Abstract: The invention relates to polypeptides comprising, as constituent A, at least three monomers of a member of the TNF ligand family and, as constituent B, at least two peptide linkers that link the monomers of the member of the TNF ligand family to one another. The invention also relates to the use of these polypeptides for treating diseases and for producing a medicament or a vaccine. The invention also relates to methods for producing and isolating these polypeptides, to nucleic acids that code for these polypeptides, to vectors containing these nucleic acids, to host cells transfected with these vectors, and to pharmaceutical compositions containing these inventive objects. Finally, the invention relates to methods for the extracorporeal manipulation, depletion and/or removal of components contained in body fluids, e.g. by means of apheresis.

Abstract: A protein used as a biomarker for diagnosing IgA nephropathy and TGBM (thin-glomerular-basement-membrane) using urine through a target proteomics method. A diagnosis biomarker protein and a kit for diagnosing IgA nephropathy and TGBM and predicting progress of the nephropathy in advance using the protein are provided. The degree of the progression of the disease can be grasped by detecting IgA nephropathy and TGBM, enabling early diagnosis and confirming progress from the patient's urine. In addition, a monoclonal antibody produced based on the diagnosis biomarker protein can be used for an immunoassay kit (ELISA, antibody coated tube test, lateral-flow test, potable biosensor). The monoclonal antibody is used in early diagnosis and progression detection of IgA nephropathy and development of a novel drug for the purpose of treatment.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for fabricating aerogels, a method for fabricating surface-modified aerogels, and a method for fabricating biocomposites. Take the fabricating method of biocomposites for example, first, a precursor solution is provided and the precursor solution comprises a hydrophilic ionic liquid, a catalyzed hydrolysis and/or condensation reagent, at least one biomolecule. Next, a curing process is performed for the precursor solution to hydrolyze and polymerize the at least one alkoxide monomer and/or aryloxide monomer to wrap at least one biomolecule and thus form biocomposite. Afterwards, an extracting process is performed by a solvent for the biocomposite to substitute the ionic liquid in the biocomposite. Finally, a drying process for the biocomposite is carried out after the extracting process so as to remove the solvent in the biocomposite. Therefore, the biocomposite is formed.

Abstract: The invention relates to materials and procedures for the use of the hepcidin binding domain (HBD) on ferroportin. A 20 amino acid peptide of the HBD was synthesized and shown to recapitulate the characteristics and specificity of hepcidin binding to cell surface ferroportin. The affinity of hepcidin for the HBD peptide permits a rapid, sensitive assay of hepcidin in biological fluids.

Abstract: Disclosed are cloning and expression of a plurality of protein fragments of virB10, a Type IV Secretion System (TIVSS) in Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Such recombinant protein fragments are useful in the ELISA detection of anaplasma pathogen. The use of same as kits for ELISA is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides highly impact-resistant, water-soluble or water dispersible, low-dust granules comprising an active ingredient and methods for obtaining the same.

Abstract: A porous ?-tricalcium phosphate material for bone implantation is provided. The multiple pores in the porous TCP body are separate discrete voids and are not interconnected. The pore size diameter is in the range of 20-500 ?m, preferably 50-125 ?m. The porous ?-TCP material provides a carrier matrix for bioactive agents and can form a moldable putty composition upon the addition of a binder. Preferably, the bioactive agent is encapsulated in a biodegradable agent. The invention provides a kit and an implant device comprising the porous ?-TCP, and a bioactive agent and a binder. The invention also provides an implantable prosthetic device comprising a prosthetic implant having a surface region, a porous ?-TCP material disposed on the surface region and optionally comprising at least a bioactive agent or a binder. Methods of producing the porous ?-TCP material and inducing bone formation are also provided.

Abstract: A method to facilitate recovery troponin I and/or troponin T from a sample comprising addition of troponin C to the sample or to a surface from which the troponin I and/or troponin T are recovered.

Abstract: The present invention comprises compositions and methods for making monoclonal antibodies. The present invention further comprises vectors that replicate the immune system components, particularly an antigen-presenting cell (APC) element of the immune synapse. Additionally, the present invention may further comprise synthetic T-cells.

Abstract: A magnetic particle and fabrication method thereof. The magnetic particle comprises a polymer core, a magnetic material layer covering the polymer core, and a silicon containing layer covering the magnetic material layer. In addition, the magnetic particle may further comprise a coupling agent on the silicon containing layer, and an active molecule connected to the coupling agent. The magnetic particles provide controllable size, uniform diameter distribution, high magnetization, improved storage stability, and modified surface for targeting biomolecules for biomaterial separation and environmental analysis.

Abstract: The present invention features novel compositions, linkers, derivatized solid supports, and methods for the efficient solid phase synthesis of oligonucleotides, including RNA, DNA, RNA-DNA chimeras, and analogs thereof.

Abstract: The invention provides proteins attached to solid supports, and methods of preparing such solid support-bound proteins are provided. The proteins are attached to solid supports by means of an unnatural amino acid incorporated into the protein, which unnatural amino acid includes a reactive group that can react with a second reactive group that is attached to a solid support.

Abstract: The subject invention concerns a composite comprising an organic fluid-swellable, fibrous matrix, such as collagen, and a mineral phase, such as calcium carbonate or phosphate mineral phase, for use as a biomimetic of bone. In another aspect, the subject invention concerns a process for making a composite involving the inclusion of acidic polymers to a supersaturated mineralizing solution, in order to induce an amorphous liquid-phase precursor to the inorganic mineral, which is then absorbed (pulled by capillary action) into the organic matrix. Advantageously, once solidified, a high mineral content can be achieved, with the inorganic mineral crystals embedded within the collagen fibers (intrafibrillarly) and oriented such that they are aligned along the long axes of the fibers of the organic matrix, thereby closely mimicking the natural structure of bone.

Abstract: A porous glass composite material comprising at least one alkoxodisilane (precursor) having the general formula (or1)3Si-spacer-Si(OR2)3,wherein R1 and R2 are the same or different and may be hydrogen; substituted and unsubstituted, branched and unbranched C1-20-Alkyls; substituted and unsubstituted, branched and unbranched C1-20-alkenyls; substituted and unsubstituted, branched and unbranched C1-20-alkynyls; substituted, unsubstituted, and multiple ring aryl groups; or combinations thereof; and water. Devices including he glass composite materials are also described. Examples include chromatographic and other separation media, drug delivery vehicles, and electric and mechanical actuators.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method for immobilizing biomolecules on a polymeric surface of a carrier material and a carrier material functionalized with a biomolecule according to the general formulas (IV) and (V), which can be produced according to the method, wherein P indicates the polymeric surface of the carrier material and M indicates the biomolecule bound to the linker compound via an amino group (formula IV) or a carbonyl group (formula V) and R2 has the meaning OR4 or NR4R5; R1, R4 and R5, independently of one another, indicate H, and alkyl group or an aryl group; R3 indicates H, an alkyl, an aryl, an acyl, an alkoxycarbonyl or an aryloxycarbonyl group; and the alkyl, aryl, acyl, alkoxycarbonyl and/or aryloxycarbonyl group of the radicals R1, R3, R4 and R5, independently of one another, are substituted or unsubstituted.

Abstract: The subject invention concerns a composite comprising an organic fluid-swellable matrix, such as collagen, and mineral phase, such as calcium carbonate or phosphate mineral phase, for use as a biomimetic of bone. In another aspect, the subject invention concerns a process for making a composite involving the inclusion of acidic polymers to a supersaturated mineralizing solution, in order to induce an amorphous liquid-phase precursor to the inorganic mineral, which is then absorbed (pulled by capillary action) into the interstices of the organic matrix, and subsequently mineralizes via solidification and crystallization of the precursor phase. The present invention further concerns a method of treating a patient suffering from a bone defect by applying a biomimetic composite to the bone defect site.

Abstract: The subject invention concerns a composite comprising an organic fluid-swellable, fibrous matrix, such as collagen, and a mineral phase, such as calcium carbonate or phosphate mineral phase, for use as a biomimetic of bone. In another aspect, the subject invention concerns a process for making a composite involving the inclusion of acidic polymers to a supersaturated mineralizing solution, in order to induce an amorphous liquid-phase precursor to the inorganic mineral, which is then absorbed (pulled by capillary action) into the organic matrix. Advantageously, once solidified, a high mineral content can be achieved, with the inorganic mineral crystals embedded within the collagen fibers (intrafibrillarly) and oriented such that they are aligned along the long axes of the fibers of the organic matrix, thereby closely mimicking the natural structure of bone.

Abstract: A deformable stamp for patterning a surface. The stamp can be placed in contact with an entire 3-dimensional object, such as a rod, in a single step. The stamp can also be used to pattern the inside of a tube or rolled over a surface to form a continuous pattern. The stamp may also be used for fluidic patterning by flowing material through channels defined by raised and recessed portions in the surface of the stamp as it contacts the substrate. The stamp may be used to deposit self-assembled monolayers, biological materials, metals, polymers, ceramics, or a variety of other materials. The patterned substrates may be used in a variety of engineering and medical applications.

Abstract: This invention provides novel methods and reagents for specifically delivering biologically active compounds to phagocytic mammalian cells. The invention also relates to specific uptake of such biologically active compounds by phagocytic cells and delivery of such compounds to specific sites intracellularly. The invention specifically relates to methods of facilitating the entry of antiviral and antimicrobial drugs and other agents into phagocytic cells and for targeting such compounds to specific organelles within the cell. The invention specifically provides compositions of matter and pharmaceutical embodiments of such compositions comprising conjugates of such antimicrobial drugs and agents covalently linked to particulate carriers generally termed microparticles. In particular embodiments, the antimicrobial drug is covalently linked to a microparticle via a cleavable linker moiety that is non-specifically cleaved in a phagocytic cell.

Abstract: A high molecular weight (“HMW”) protein of Chlamydia, the amino acid sequence thereof, and antibodies that specifically bind the HMW protein are disclosed as well as the nucleic acid sequence encoding the same. Also disclosed are prophylactic and therapeutic compositions, comprising the HMW protein, a fragment thereof, or an antibody that specifically binds the HMW protein or a portion thereof, or the nucleotide sequence encoding the HMW protein or a fragment thereof, including vaccines.

Abstract: A porous ?-tricalcium phosphate material for bone implantation is provided. The multiple pores in the porous TCP body are separate discrete voids and are not interconnected. The pore size diameter is in the range of 20-500 ?m, preferably 50-125 ?m. The porous ?-TCP material provides a carrier matrix for bioactive agents and can form a moldable putty composition upon the addition of a binder. Preferably, the bioactive agent is encapsulated in a biodegradable agent. The invention provides a kit and an implant device comprising the porous ?-TCP, and a bioactive agent and a binder. The invention also provides an implantable prosthetic device comprising a prosthetic implant having a surface region, a porous ?-TCP material disposed on the surface region and optionally comprising at least a bioactive agent or a binder. Methods of producing the porous ?-TCP material and inducing bone formation are also provided.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for bone implants that allow for the directed application of an osteogenic compound. The implant is preferably constructed of a biodegradable polymer formed into a structure having micro-architectural features and includes features that allow for in-situ application of a liquid biodegradable polymer to securely attach the implant to the surrounding tissue. The implant is constructed with a nozzle connected to a fluid supply that can be injected through a central channel and one or more distribution channels. The implant is designed so as to provide structural support to the damaged area. The implant and the fluid supply are preferably biodegradable polymers that contain an osteogenic material.

Abstract: A porous ?-tricalcium phosphate material for bone implantation is provided. The multiple pores in the porous TCP body are separate discrete voids and are not interconnected. The pore size diameter is in the range of 20-500 ?m, preferably 50-125 ?m. The porous ?-TCP material provides a carrier matrix for bioactive agents and can form a moldable putty composition upon the addition of a binder. Preferably, the bioactive agent is encapsulated in a biodegradable agent. The invention provides a kit and an implant device comprising the porous ?-TCP, and a bioactive agent and a binder. The invention also provides an implantable prosthetic device comprising a prosthetic implant having a surface region, a porous ?-TCP material disposed on the surface region and optionally comprising at least a bioactive agent or a binder. Methods of producing the porous ?-TCP material and inducing bone formation are also provided.

Abstract: A magnetic substance-biosubstance complex structure comprises a magnetic substance-containing carrier and a bio-substance immobilized on the carrier, the biosubstance being immobilized through a spacer comprising an amino acid sequence on a surface of the carrier.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of immunizing a host against disease caused by infection by a strain of Chlamydia, specifically C. pneumoniae. The method involves nucleic acid immunization, including DNA immunization, and employs a vector containing a nucleotide sequence which encodes an ATP/ADP translocase of a strain of Chlamydia pneumoniae. The nucleotide sequence is operably linked to a promoter to effect expression of the ATP/ADP translocase in the host. The host may be a human host. Modifications are possible within the scope of this invention.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of nucleic acid, including DNA, immunization of a host, including humans, against disease caused by infection by a strain of Chlamydia, specifically C. pneumoniae, employing a vector containing a nucleotide sequence encoding a 98 kDa outer membrane protein of a strain of Chlamydia pneumoniae and a promoter to effect expression of the 98 kDa outer membrane protein gene in the host. Modifications are possible within the scope of this invention.

Abstract: The present invention describes improved microfluidic systems and procedures for fabricating improved microfluidic systems, which contain one or more levels of microfluidic channels. The methods for fabrication the systems disclosed can provide a convenient route to topologically complex and improved microfluidic systems. The microfluidic systems can include three-dimensionally arrayed networks of fluid flow paths therein including channels that cross over or under other channels of the network without physical intersection at the points of cross over. The microfluidic networks can be fabricated via replica molding processes utilizing mold masters including surfaces having topological features formed by photolithography. The present invention also involves microfluidic systems and methods for fabricating complex patterns of materials, such as biological materials and cells, on surfaces utilizing the microfluidic systems.

Abstract: A mediator molecule is immobilized on the surface of a metallic or ceramic implant material. An anchor molecule (e.g., dialdehyde or cyanogen bromide) having a functional group that covalently binds the mediator molecule is covalently bound to the surface, and the mediator molecule is coupled to the functional group of the anchor molecule. The implant material may comprise titanium, titanium alloy, aluminium or stainless steel or hydroxylapatite. Oxide units on the implant material surface can be increased preferably by treating with hot chromic-sulphuric acid for 0.5 to 3 hours at a temperature between 100 to 250° C. prior to binding the anchor molecule. Also, prior to binding the anchor molecule, the surface of the implant material can be activated by reacting with a silane derivative. Mediator molecules include BMP protein, ubiquitin and antibiotics, and the implant material may be an artificial joint or coronary vessel support such as a stent.

Abstract: Nanopatterned devices are easily fabricated, over large surface areas when desired, by forming a multilayer article of deformable substrate, brittle layer, and coating layer, and deforming the multilayer film such that a plurality of cracks are formed therein. The cracks have different physicochemical properties than the non-cracked coating layer, and advantageously serve as attachment points for culturing microorganisms.

Abstract: Peptides are disclosed that include SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO: 2, SEQ ID NO:3, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:5, and SEQ ID NO:6, or a conservative variant or mimic thereof, wherein the conservative variant or mimic specifically binds an antibody that specifically binds SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO: 2, SEQ ID NO:3, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:5, SEQ ID or NO:6. These peptides are of use in generating an immune response against C. pneumoniae, or in preventing infection with against C. pneumoniae.

Abstract: Hydroxyapatite is treated by a combination of nitridation and the application of bone morphogenetic protein or DNA encoding such a protein to improve the tissue compatibility and affinity of the hydroxyapatite, rendering the hydroxyapatite more useful as a material for biomedical implants.

Abstract: Novel conjugates of 5-fluoro-uracil and novel 5-fluoro-uracil immunogens and monoclonal antibodies generated by these immunogens which are useful in immunoassays for the quantification and monitoring of 5-fluoro-uracil in biological fluids.

Abstract: Arrays including microparticles having probe and marker moieties are used for the detection of a target in a sample. Microparticles are randomly immobilized on at least a portion of a substrate. A detection scheme is performed to detect the marker associated with the microparticle and the identity of the probe, and any target bound to the probe.

Abstract: Toxin derivatives are prepared by proteolytic treatment of holotoxin, and their toxicity is reduced by contacting the preparation with a ligand, which can be a metal or an antibody or another ligand. This ligand selectively binds to the toxin but not to the toxin derivative. Removing the ligand and toxin bound to the ligand further reduces toxicity. A second ligand is used to remove conjugates of the toxin and the first ligand. Compositions contain the purified derivative, optionally plus the toxin and the ligand.

Abstract: A substrate comprises a surface, and a plurality of moieties, on at least a portion of the surface. The moieties are moieties of formula: Surf-L—Q—T, where —T comprises a reactant ligand, and Surf- designates where the moiety attaches to the surface. The substrate can be made into a protein chip by the reaction of a reactant ligand and a fusion polypeptide, where the fusion polypeptide includes a capture polypeptide moiety which corresponds to the reactant ligand.

Abstract: The present invention relates to bio-molecule resistant surfaces for use in assays, particularly in assay devices such as arrays and microfluidic devices. The biomolecule resistant surface of the present invention are prepared by coating a substrate with hydrophilic terminated alkoxysilanes having formula (A): wherein R is an alkyl group of a size that allows for sufficient hydrolysis and n is 1, 2 or 3; R1 is a hydrophilic moiety; LC is a C1 to a C10 linker chain consisting of a group selected from alkyl, aryl, alkaryl and aralkyl and m is 1, 2, or 3; R2 is a C1 to a C7 alkyl group and x is 0, 1, or 2; and m+n+x is equal to 4.

Abstract: A method for making a medical device having at least one biomolecule immobilized on a substrate surface is provided. One method of the present invention includes immobilizing a biomolecule comprising an unsubstituted amide moiety on a biomaterial surface. Another method of the present invention includes immobilizing a biomolecule on a biomaterial surface comprising an unsubstituted amide moiety. Still another method of the present invention may be employed to crosslink biomolecules comprising unsubstituted amide moieties immobilized on medical device surfaces. Additionally, one method of the present invention may be employed to crosslink biomolecules comprising unsubstituted amide moieties in solution, thereby forming a crosslinked biomaterial or a crosslinked medical device coating.

Abstract: A method for selective labeling of phosphate groups in natural and synthetic oligomers and polymers in the presence of chemically related groups such as carboxylic acid groups. The method is specifically applicable to biological oligomers and polymers, including phosphopeptides, phosphoproteins and phospholipids. In a specific embodiment, selective labeling of phosphate groups in proteins and peptides, for example, facilitates separation, isolation and detection of phosphoproteins and phosphopeptides in complex mixtures of proteins. Selective labeling can be employed to selectively introduce phosphate labels at phosphate groups in an oligomer or polymer, e.g., in a peptide or protein. Detection of the presence of the label, is used to detect the presence of the phosphate group in the oligomer or polymer. The method is useful for the detection of phosphoproteins or phosphopeptides.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of applying mass spectrometry to analyzing peptides or proteins, especially in the proteome setting. More particularly, the invention relates to a mass spectrometry-based method for detection of protein/peptide phosphorylation wherein the side chains of glutamic acid and/or aspartic acid residues of said peptides or proteins are chemically modified as to improve the selectivity/efficiency of identification of the phosphorylated protein/peptide.

Abstract: The present invention features novel compositions, linkers, derivatized solid supports, and methods for the efficient solid phase synthesis of oligonucleotides, including RNA, DNA, RNA-DNA chimeras, and analogs thereof.

Abstract: Biomacromolecules encapsulated or immobilized within mesoporous or nanoporous materials via surfactant-templated sol-gel reactions and methods for production of these encapsulated or immobilized biomacromolecules are provided.

Abstract: A sensor is provided including a polymer capable of having an alterable measurable property from the group of luminescence and electrical conductivity, the polymer having an intermediate combination of a recognition element, a tethering element and a property-altering element bound thereto and capable of altering the measurable property, the intermediate combination adapted for subsequent separation from the polymer upon exposure to an agent having an affinity for binding to the recognition element whereupon the separation of the intermediate combination from the polymer results in a detectable change in the alterable measurable property, and, detecting said detectable change in the alterable measurable property.

Abstract: In a dextran coated surface disposed on a carrier, the connections between the dextran and the carrier surface are formed by a photolinker, the dextran coating being attached to the carrier surface by co-immobilization of a mixture of dextran and the photolinker.

Abstract: This invention provides materials and methods for the site specific attachment of virtually any moiety to a layered silicate surface. The methods involve covalently attaching the moiety to an arginine tag; and contacting the arginine tag with the layered silicate (e.g., mica) surface.

Abstract: A porous ?-tricalcium phosphate material for bone implantation is provided. The multiple pores in the porous TCP body are separate discrete voids and are not interconnected. The pore size diameter is in the range of 20-500 ?m, preferably 50-125 ?m. The porous ?-TCP material provides a carrier matrix for bioactive agents and can form a moldable putty composition upon the addition of a binder. Preferably, the bioactive agent is encapsulated in a biodegradable agent. The invention provides a kit and an implant device comprising the porous ?-TCP, and a bioactive agent and a binder. The invention also provides an implantable prosthetic device comprising a prosthetic implant having a surface region, a porous ?-TCP material disposed on the surface region and optionally comprising at least a bioactive agent or a binder. Methods of producing the porous ?-TCP material and inducing bone formation are also provided.

Abstract: Newly elucidated sequences of hepatitis C virus type 4 and type 5 are described, together with those of a newly discovered type 6. Unique type-specific sequences in the NS4, NS5 and core regions enable HCV detection and genotyping into types 1 to 6. Antigenic peptides and immunoassays are described.

Abstract: The invention relates to heparinase III and mutants thereof. Modified forms of heparinase III having reduced enzymatic activity which are useful for a variety of purposes, including sequencing of heparin-like glycosaminoglycans (HLGAGs), removing active heparan sulfate from a solution, inhibition of angiogenesis, etc. have been discovered according to the invention. The invention in other aspects relates to methods of treating cancer and inhibiting tumor cell growth and/or metastasis using heparinase III, or products produced by enzymatic cleavage by heparinase III of HLGAGs.

Abstract: Methods and reagents are provided for specifically targeting biologically active compounds such as antiviral and antimicrobial drugs, or prodrugs containing the biologically active compound to specific sites such as specific organelles in phagocytic mammalian cells. The biologically active compound or prodrug is linked to a microparticle with a linker that is non-specifically or specifically cleaved inside a phagocytic mammalian cell. Alternatively, the biologically active compound or prodrug is impregnated into a porous microparticle or coated on a nonporous microparticle, and then coated with a coating material that is non-specifically or specifically degraded inside a phagocytic mammalian cell. The prodrug contains the biologically active compound linked to a polar lipid such as ceramide with a specific linker such as a peptide that is specifically cleaved to activate the prodrug in a phagocytic mammalian cell infected with a microorganism.

Abstract: Chlamydia pneumoniae polypeptides are provided. The C. pneumoniae polypeptides can be used to prepare pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment or prevention of disease. In addition, the proteins can be used in methods for the diagnosis of C. pneumoniae infection.

Abstract: The present invention provides biotechnologically useful oligo(ethylene glycol)-terminated 1,2-dithiolane compositions and conjugates of these compositions with biological or non-biological receptor, ligand, sequestering, or reporter moieties. The invention also provides methods for the preparation of these compositions. Further, the invention provides self-assembled monolayer (SAM) compositions on a metal and methods for their preparation.