Abstract: Provided is a polypeptide composition comprising one or more polypeptides, which polypeptides are immunogenic in a vertebrate such that they cause the vertebrate to produce immune system cells capable of recognizing at least one epitope from an arthropod saliva protein fraction, wherein the arthropod saliva protein fraction has a mass of 40 kDA or less, and wherein the polypeptides are selected independently from: the polypeptide sequences of SEQ ID 1-44 or sub-sequences from these sequences, the sub-sequences having 7 amino acids or more; or from polypeptide sequences having 85% homology or more with one or more of the above sequences and contained in one or more of the following databases: GenBank, Protein Data Bank (PDB), SwissProt, Protein Information Resource (PIR), Protein Research Foundation (PRF), or CDS translations of these.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel neurogenin proteins, nucleic acids and antibodies.

Abstract: Compositions and methods of using scorpion venom peptide that is a ligand for ClC channels are provided. One aspect provides a pharmaceutical composition containing an amount of GaTx2 effective to inhibit ClC activity. Methods of treating a disorder or symptom of a disorder related to aberrant ClC channel activity are also provided.

Abstract: Compositions and methods of using scorpion venom peptide that is a ligand for ABC transporters. One aspect provides a peptide having at least 80% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 1. The peptide Is believed to have a molecular mass of about 3.7 kDa and specifically interacts with cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator. Methods of treating a disorder or symptom of a disorder related to aberrant ABC transporter activity are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a novel product and method for isolating ectoparasite saliva proteins, and a novel product and method for detecting and/or treating allergic dermatitis in an animal. The present invention includes a saliva protein collection apparatus capable of collecting ectoparasite saliva proteins substantially free of contaminating material. The present invention also relates to ectoparasite saliva proteins, nucleic acid molecules having sequences that encode such proteins, and antibodies raised against such proteins. The present invention also includes methods to obtain such proteins and to use such proteins to identify animals susceptible to or having allergic dermatitis. The present invention also includes therapeutic compositions comprising such proteins and their use to treat animals susceptible to or having allergic dermatitis.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel ?-conotoxin-like peptides comprising the following sequence of amino acids: Xaa1CCSXaa2Xaa3Xaa4CXaa5Xaa6Xaa7Xaa8Xaa9Xaa10Xaa11C—NH2 in which Xaa1 is G or D; Xaa3 is proline, hydroxyproline or glutamine; each of Xaa2 to Xaa8 and Xaa11 is independently any amino acid; Xaa9 is proline, hydroxyproline or glutamine; Xaa10 is aspartate, glutamate or ?-carboxyglutamate; Xaa11 is optionally absent; and the C-terminus is optionally amidated, with the proviso that the peptide is not ?-conotoxin Ep1 or ?-conotoxin Im1. The peptides are useful in the treatment or prevention of pain, in recovery from nerve injury, and in the treatment of painful neurological conditions such as stroke.

Abstract: The present invention relates to nucleic acid sequences encoding Ostertagia ostertagi proteins and to parts of such nucleic acid sequences that encode an immunogenic fragment of such proteins, and to DNA fragments, recombinant DNA molecules, live recombinant carriers and host cells comprising such nucleic acid sequences or such parts thereof. The invention also relate to Ostertagia ostertagi proteins and immunogenic parts thereof encoded by such sequences. Furthermore, the present invention relates to vaccines comprising such nucleic acid sequences and parts thereof, DNA fragments, recombinant DNA molecules, live recombinant carriers and host cells comprising such nucleic acid sequences or such parts thereof, proteins or immunogenic parts thereof and antibodies against such proteins or immunogenic thereof. Also, the inventions relates to the use of said proteins in vaccines and for the manufacture of vaccines.

Abstract: A nucleic acid molecule or construct alone or with a promoter suitable for expression control is contemplated that codes for a haemocyanin, a haemocyanin domain or a fragment thereof with the immunological properties of at least one domain of haemocyanin, and comprises at least one intron sequence, as well as haemocyanin fusion proteins. The construct furthermore can comprise a nucleic acid sequence that codes for an antigen. Host cells are also contemplated that contain the nucleic acid molecule or construct and a recombinant expression product thereof. The invention furthermore relates to a pharmaceutical composition that comprises the expression product and antibodies obtainable by immunization of an animal therewith, as well as the use the antibodies in screening methods for the identification of tumors.

Abstract: A nucleic acid molecule or construct alone or with a promoter suitable for expression control is contemplated that codes for a haemocyanin, a haemocyanin domain or a fragment thereof with the immunological properties of at least one domain of haemocyanin, and comprises at least one intron sequence, as well as haemocyanin fusion proteins. The construct furthermore can comprise a nucleic acid sequence that codes for an antigen. Host cells are also contemplated that contain the nucleic acid molecule or construct and a recombinant expression product thereof. The invention furthermore relates to a pharmaceutical composition that comprises the expression product and antibodies obtainable by immunization of an animal therewith, as well as the use the antibodies in screening methods for the identification of tumors.

Abstract: Modifications in the sequence of Aequorea wild-type GFP provide products having markedly different excitation and emission spectra from corresponding products from wild-type GFP. In one class of modifications, the product derived from the modified GFP exhibits an alteration in the ratio of two main excitation peaks observed with the product derived from wild-type GFP. In another class, the product derived from the modified GFP fluoresces at a shorter wavelength than the corresponding product from wild-type GFP. In yet another class of modifications, the product derived from the modified GFP exhibits only a single excitation peak and enhanced emission relative to the product derived from wild-type GFP.

Abstract: The invention relates to relatively short peptides (termed &agr;-conotoxins herein), about 10-30 residues in length, which are naturally available in minute amounts in the venom of the cone snails or analogous to the naturally available peptides, and which preferably include two disulfide bonds.

Abstract: The invention relates to the discovery that various proteins isolated from ticks are effective in the treatment and prevention of allergic rhinitis. These proteins may most suitably be applied to an effected area and are thus effective to treat this condition and to ameliorate its symptoms.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of treating an excessive immune response including an aberrant/enhanced Th1 response by administering a helminthic parasite preparation in an amount sufficient to reduce the excessive immune response in an individual. This invention is generally directed to autoimmune diseases which involve an excessive immune response or an aberrant/enhanced Th1 response. More specifically, the present invention is directed to the treatment of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, both known as IBD. While the present invention discloses specific information about the treatment of IBD, the disclosure is in no way limiting. Additionally, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, lupus erythematosis, sarcoidosis and multiple sclerosis can be treated by the methods and compositions disclosed therein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the discovery that various proteins isolated from ticks are effective in the treatment of conjunctivitis. These proteins may most suitably be applied topically to an affected area and are effective to ameliorate the symptoms of this condition.

Abstract: A method of making antibodies to hirudin by immunizing with an immunogenic composition containing polymerized hirudin monomers in the absence of carrier protein is taught.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel neurogenin proteins, nucleic acids and antibodies.

Abstract: A gene coding for a peptidoglycan recognition peptide (PGRP) is cloned, a recombinant vector into which said gene is introduced is obtained, and a transformant transformed with said recombinant vector is cultivated, thereby producing the PGRP in large amounts at high purity.

Abstract: A method is provided for elevating the stability of peptides containing the sequence -Asp-Gly- or -Asn-Gly- by preventing these sequences from changing into succinimide compounds or &bgr;-transition compounds. The method comprises adding an organic acid to a solution of peptides containing these sequences to bring the pH value of the solution to a pH of between 5 and 6.5 followed by freeze-drying. In one embodiment, sucrose or mannitol is added together with the organic acid. Freeze-dried medicinal compositions obtained by using the method have excellent stability. In one embodiment of the invention, compositions produced by the method are provided and comprise hirudin or hirudin variants.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and compositions comprising DNA segments, and proteins derived from sea anemone species. More particularly, it concerns the novel ShK toxin, ShK toxin analogs, chemically-modified toxin analogs, and nucleic acid segments encoding the ShK toxin from Stichodactyla helianthus. Various methods for making and using these DNA segments, DNA segments encoding synthetically-modified ShK toxins, and native and synthetic ShK peptides are disclosed, such as, for example, the use of DNA segments as diagnostic probes and templates for protein production, and the use of proteins, fusion protein carriers and peptides in various immunological and diagnostic applications.

Abstract: Modifications in the sequence of Aequorea wild-type GFP provide products having markedly different excitation and emission spectra from corresponding products from wild-type GFP. In one class of modifications, the product derived from the modified GFP exhibits an alteration in the ratio of two main excitation peaks observed with the product derived from wild-type GFP. In another class, the product derived from the modified GFP fluoresces at a shorter wavelength than the corresponding product from wild-type GFP. In yet another class of modifications, the product derived from the modified GFP exhibits only a single excitation peak and enhanced emission relative to the product derived from wild-type GFP.

Abstract: A gene coding for a peptidoglysan recognition peptide (PGRP) is cloned, a recombinant vector into which said gene is introduced is obtained, and a transformant transformed with said recombinant vector is cultivated, thereby producing the PGRP in large amounts at high purity.

Abstract: A method for preventing the formation of platelet-rich clots or thrombus, and for deaggregating platelet-rich clots or thrombus, using hementin, a polypeptide derived from leech salivary glands. Hementin may be administered for this purpose in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient, with or without additional anticoagulants such as hirudin, hirudin analogues, or an inhibitor of factor Xa.

Abstract: Disclosed are DNA and amino acid sequences for a novel polypeptide termed Neuritin which is expressed primarily in selected regions of the brain.

Abstract: Modifications in the sequence of Aequorea wild-type GFP provide products having markedly different excitation and emission spectra from corresponding products from wild-type GFP. In one class of modifications, the product derived from the modified GFP exhibits an alteration in the ratio of two main excitation peaks observed with the product derived from wild-type GFP. In another class, the product derived from the modified GFP fluoresces at a shorter wavelength than the corresponding product from wild-type GFP. In yet another class of modifications, the product derived from the modified GFP exhibits only a single excitation peak and enhanced emission relative to the product derived from wild-type GFP.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel methods of treating pain comprising administering to a mammal in need of such treatment an effective analgesic amount of a peptide having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID. NO.:1 or SEQ ID NO: 2. The invention further provides a purified peptide having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1. The peptides of SEQ ID NO.: 1 and SEQ ID NO.: 2 can also be used in methods for identifying compounds having analgesia-inducing activity.

Abstract: A gene which codes for the protein apoaequorin is disclosed along with recombinant DNA vectors containing this gene. Homogeneous peptides having the bioluminescence properties of natural, mixed apoaeqorin are also disclosed.

Abstract: A protein isolated from crude extracts of Hirudo medicinalis is disclosed, which strongly inhibits the binding to collagen of platelets and their subsequent activation, which leads to platelet aggregation and thrombus formation. Additionally the protein prevents binding of von Willebrand factor to collagen. Described is a method for isolation and purification of the protein as well as its use for blocking collagen-stimulated platelet aggregation. The new protein (Brandinin) has a molweight of approximately 15 kD, binds to collagen but has no collagen-cleaving activity. The protein is useful in the prophylaxis, prevention and treatment of thrombotic diseaeses and for coating of blood-contacting materials, rendering them thromboresistant.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a process for purifying hirudin from a solution containing hirudin and other substances, characterized in that the process comprises a step of subjecting the solution to a metal ion affinity chromatography wherein copper ion (Cu.sup.++) is used as a metal ion and a phosphate buffer is used as an eluent.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a new .mu.-conotoxin named GIIIA. .mu.-Conotoxin PIIIA consists of 22 amino residues and is found in the Eastern Pacific fish-hunting species Conus purpurascens. This conotoxin is a new Na.sup.+ channel blocker and can be used to resolve tetrodotoxin-sensitive sodium channels into three categories: 1) sensitive to .mu.-PIIIA and .mu.-conotoxin GIIIA; 2) sensitive to .mu.-PIIIA but not to .mu.-GIIIA; and 3) sensitive to neither of these two .mu.-conotoxins. In rat brain, binding competition studies between the two .mu.-conotoxins and saxitoxin suggest at least three pharmacologically distinguishable binding sites. Thus, .mu.-conotoxin PIIIA should be a key tool for distinguishing among different sodium channel subtypes.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel polypeptides with antithrombin activity obtainable from extracts of tissues or secretions of leeches of the order Rhynchobdellida, particularly of the species Theromyzon tessulatum. The polypetides have molecular weights of about 14 kD, 9 kD and 3 kD and can be used in pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of thrombosis related disorders and events.

Abstract: Dried proteins are stabilized against loss of biological activity in formulations by adding an reconstitution stabilizer upon rehydration of the dried protein. A kit for producing and a formulation produced by dissolving the dried composition in a solvent containing the reconstitution stabilizer is also described.

Abstract: Zona pellucida is useful for growth stimulation in animals and especially in female ruminants such as heifers. Immunization of heifers with Zona pellucida obtained from young pig ovaries leads to increased weight gains that are comparable to, or exceed the weight gain achieved with by other growth stimulants given to cattle, such as steroids, antibiotics or ionophores. Zona pellucida treatment results in longer-lasting weight gain response than that achieved with conventional growth stimulants and results in less frequent cattle handling and decreased production costs.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a method of alleviating restenosis, post-PTCA or other coronary arterial intervention, and more particularly, to the use of ancrod to prevent restenosis in the coronary arteries.

Abstract: Novel complexes of nitric oxide (NO) and amines are described where the amine is a known cardiovascular agent having at least one or more primary or secondary amino groups and whereby the resulting complex is capable under physiological conditions of releasing in vivo dual active ingredients, the NO and the known cardiovascular agent. The complexes are used for treating cardiovascular diseases and for the prophylactic or therapeutic treatment of restenosis.

Abstract: Antigenic surface proteins from the intraerythrocytic merozoite stage of Babesia bigemina have been isolated using cell fusions and monoclonal antibodies produced thereby. The gene encoding a 58 kD surface protein has been identified and the DNA sequence determined and compared with sequences of other known merozoite proteins. Immunization of mammals, such as bovines, with purified isolates induces an immunological response that is effective to reduce pathological effects of babesiosis induced by Babesia bigemina. Diagnostic kits using monoclonal antibodies and antigenic surface proteins of Babesia bigemina are also disclosed.

Abstract: A novel anticoagulant/modulator factor isolated from the saliva of the meinal leech Hirudo medicinalis, specifically inhibiting bovine Xa factor but not inhibiting bovine thrombin.

Abstract: Recombinant histidine-rich protein of Plasmodium falciparum, its preparation and use. It was possible, by screening two different Plasmodium falciparum cDNA gene banks with an antiserum against a 41 kD protein and by cross-hybridization with the insert DNA of a clone obtained therewith, to isolate a gene which codes for a Histidine-Alanine-rich protein (HRP-II). This protein protects aotus monkeys from infection with P. falciparum and is thus a suitable constituent of a malaria vaccine.

Abstract: Stable forms of Taenia ovis peptide antigens, such as portions of a T. ovis oncosphere antigen which runs as a 47-52 kDa doublet, are suitable for use in vaccines to protect ruminants against infection by cestode parasites. The antigens are preferably obtained by isolation and expression of the DNA encoding them in recombinant host cells. Aspects of the invention include DNA encoding T. ovis antigens, vectors containing such DNA and host cells which express the T. ovis antigens.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses modified apoaequorin nucleotide and amino acid sequences capable of emitting light in the presence of luciferin and a light-triggering cation such as Ca.sup.2+, which possess bioluminescent activity greater than unmodified apoaequorin and methods of use therefore.

Abstract: A protein isolated from crude Haementeria officinalis extract which blocks stimulation of platelet aggregation by collagen. The protein has a molecular weight of approximately 16,000. A method of isolating the protein and using the protein to prevent or delay blood coagulation by blocking the stimulation of platelet aggregation by collagen is also described. The protein is useful in the prevention, prophylaxis, therapy and treatment of thrombotic diseases.

Abstract: A method for the concentration and purification of biomolecules is described and comprises introducing the biomolecule into an aqueous/organic solvent system and bringing about a phase separation by addition of salts, where the pH at which the concentration takes place, the solvents suitable for the aqueous/organic solvent system, and the nature of the salt are determined in a series of tests one embodiment concerns concentration of hirudin by using propanol, butanol or acetone a the solvent and sodium chloride as the salt.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for blocking Ca.sup.2+ channels within an organism are provided. For example, a toxin was isolated from the Agelenopsis aperta spider. The toxin comprised a 48 amino acid toxin having a molecular weight of approximately 5,274. This toxin was found to block calcium channels within the central nervous system. The Agelenopsis gene responsible for producing this toxin has been identified and cloned. This gene and/or its derivatives provide a mechanism by which the toxin can be produced using recombinant DNA expression technologies.The present invention further relates to methods of treating neurological diseases by applying the toxins isolated and identified. The toxin may provide beneficial effects on certain neurological conditions including seizures, ischemic-hypoxic CNS damage, and neurodegenerative disorders. It is also found that the toxins are effective as tags in probing calcium channels.

Abstract: A composition of matter useful as an inhibitor of blood platelet aggregation, for the treatment of various clinical disorders such as thrombotic, inflammatory and immunological disorders. This composition of matter is derived from the saliva of leeches of the Hirudinidae family. The composition contains various components, all having molecular weights lower than 2,000 daltons. The composition has an inhibitory activity against platelet aggregation induced by various aggregating agents, including Platelet Activating Factor-acether (PAF-acether), arachidonic acid, thrombin, ADP and epinephrine.

Abstract: The invention concerns a peptidylhydroxyglycine N-C lyase (PHL) catalyzing the reactionR-GlyOH.fwdarw.R-NH.sub.2wherein R represents a peptide residue, and GlyOH represents an .alpha.-hydroxyglycine residue linked to the C-terminus of said peptide R by an amide bond, a recombinant DNA molecule coding for a PHL, a method for the preparation of such a recombinant DNA molecule, processes for the preparation of PHL from a natural source or by means of the said recombinant DNA molecule, and the use of PHL for the preparation of an amidated peptide R-NH.sub.2.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a biochemically pure protein, termed antistasin, which exhibits both antimetastatic and anticoagulant properties. Methods of producing the protein and methods of using the protein to inhibit or reduce metastasis and/or coagulation of blood are disclosed. The complete amino acid sequences of antistasin and some variants have been determined from purified protein and cloned cDNAs.

Abstract: A protein having a molecular weight of about 6,000 daltons which is biologically active in the inhibition of Factor Xa during the blood coagulation cascade, a method for producing the protein, methods for inhibiting blood coagulation using the protein, and suitable pharmaceutical compositions.

Abstract: An efficient therapeutic medicament in a powdery form for thrombosis and related diseases is prepared by the steps of: removing dirty matters on the body surface and fecal mud in the digestive tracts from live earthworms by keeping them in a slightly acidified water bath at a specified temperature; mashing the cleaned earthworms into a mushy paste; and vacuum-drying the mushy paste of the earthworms by the stepwise temperature elevation up to 70.degree. to 80.degree. C. The results of the clinical tests of the medicament are presented.

Abstract: A novel anticoagulant/modulator factor isolated from the saliva of the medicinal leech Hirudo medicinalis, specifically inhibiting bovine Xa factor but not inhibiting bovine thrombin.

Abstract: A hirudin derivative which has the N-terminal amino acid sequence Leu-Thr-Tyr-Thr-Asp shows high biological activity. Moreover, this hirudin derivative can be obtained very efficiently by genetic engineering preparation in yeasts.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for the production of dried earthworm powder which comprises the steps of leaving a species of living earthworms in fresh water or a slightly acidic aqueous solution until the alimentary canal thereof is freed of soil, wet-grinding the living earthworms, and freeze-drying and then vacuum-drying the resulting suspension under a vacuum of 10 mmHg or below for 10 to 100 hours while raising the temperature stepwise from -60.degree. C. to 80.degree. C. This dried earthworm powder may be combined with pharmaceutically acceptable carriers to form pharmaceutical compositions which are useful for the treatment or prevention of hyperlipemia, diabetes, hypertension and hypotension in human beings.