Abstract: An immunological tolerance-inducing agent comprising a mucosa-binding molecule linked to a specific tolerogen is disclosed. Further, a method of inducing immunological tolerance in an individual against a specific antigen, including hapten, which causes an unwanted immune response in said individual comprising administration by a mucosal route of an immunologically effective amount of an immunological tolerance-inducing agent of the invention to said individual, is described.

Abstract: A 65 KD heat shock protein, proteins cross-reactive therewith, or antibodies thereto can be used for detecting in humans the existence of, a tendency to develop, or the initiation of a process leading to insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Antibodies to hsp65 can be used to detect the hsp65 molecule in blood or urine. The hsp65 molecule of any species, or any other substance immunologically cross-reactive therewith, when administered with a tolerogenic carrier, can be used for the prevention or treatment of IDDM prior to development of clinical symptoms thereof.

Abstract: The invention relates to a vaccine, preferably for human use, against IgE-mediated allergic reactions. The vaccine contains a protein having the entire amino acid sequence of the constant CH2-CH3 domains of the epsilon chain of the IgE molecule or a structurally stable unit of said amino acid sequence, the protein optionally being coupled to one or more heterologous carrier proteins, and optionally containing an adjuvant. The vaccine is injected, with or without adjuvant, to raise the concentration of endogenous anti-IgE antibodies in the plasma of allergy subjects. In practice, the vaccine can be used against all types of IgE-mediated allergies since the antibodies are not dependent of the antigen specificity of the IgE molecule but will reduce the total IgE pool of the subject. Therefore, the vaccine is aimed at being used for treatment of subjects having different types of IgE-mediated allergies.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel compositions and methods useful in the, modulation or selective suppression of host immune responses to an immunogen of interest, particularly exogenous antigens and allergens such as urushiol, the active plant component causing poison ivy/oak contact sensitivity. The subject compositions are antibody molecules of either Ab.sub.1 or Ab.sub.2 (anti-idiotypic) reactivity with respect to the sensitizing antigen. Other compositions include specific T cell receptor (TCR) molecules either as T cell clones or hybridomas or as TCR preparations. Immunogenic peptides corresponding to some or all of the complementary determining regions or hyper-variable regions of the TCR are also employed. Such compositions suppress host immune responses to antigen by a variety of pathways including anti-idiotypic interactions with cells involved in antigen processing and stimulation of the immune network.

Abstract: A method of inducing symptoms similar to those in AIDS-infected individuals, particularly neurological deficit, wherein peptide T, VIP or gp120 or a derivative or peptide analog thereof is intrathecally administered to non-human mammals.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for regulating surface membrane receptor responses, where the surface membrane receptor is a glucose transporter, by modulating interaction between MHC Class I antigen and the surface membrane receptor. Various techniques may be employed for enhancing or reducing the interaction between the MHC Class I antigen and surface membrane receptor (e.g., enhancing surface expression of the MHC Class I antigen or employing agents which affect interaction between MHC Class I antigen and surface receptors). The aggregative characteristics of oligopeptides which act as agents in affecting interaction between MHC Class I antigen and surface receptors may be employed in a screening assay for determining drugs which affect interaction between Class I antigen and surface receptors. Active peptide aggregative characteristics may also be employed in a method of administration of effectors of surface receptor response modulation.

Abstract: T cells are specifically labeled according to their antigen receptor by binding of a multimeric binding complex. The complex is prepared with major histocompatibility complex protein subunits having a homogeneous population of peptides bound in the antigen presentation site. The multimeric MHC-antigen complex forms a stable structure with T cells, thereby allowing for the labeling, identification and separation of specific T cells.

Abstract: Specific and nonspecific immunomodulation, enhancement of cellular engraftment, and modulation of nonimmune cells are achieved by using various membrane-binding and soluble CD8 compositions.

Abstract: Peptides and pharmaceutical compositions comprising immunogenic peptides of a marker T cell receptor (TCR) characteristic of an immune-related disease, capable of preventing, suppressing, or treating the disease, are disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the amino acid sequence of the peptide corresponds to at least part of the second complementarity determining region (CDR2) of the TCR. Antibodies and/or T cells immunologically reactive to the TCR peptide capable of preventing, suppressing, or treating an immune-related disease by passive transfer are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides vaccines and a means of vaccinating a host so as to prevent or control specific T cell mediated pathologies. The vaccine is composed of a polypeptide whose amino acid sequence corresponds to a segment of the T cell receptor (TCR) present on the surface of the pathogenic T cells. The vaccine is administered to the host in a manner that induces an immune response directed against the TCR of pathologic T cells. This immune response down regulates or deletes the pathogenic T cells, thus ablating the disease pathogenesis. Means of determining an appropriate amino acid sequence for such a vaccine are also provided.

Abstract: A method for treating TNF-dependent inflammatory diseases in a mammal by administering a TNF antagonist, such as soluble TNFR.

Abstract: Specific and nonspecific immunomodulation, enhancement of cellular engraftment, and modulation of nonimmune cells are achieved by using various membrane-binding and soluble CD8 compositions.

Abstract: Tumor rejection antigens derived from tumor rejection precursor MAGE-3 have been identified. These "TRAS" bind to the MHC-class I molecule HLA-A2, and the resulting complexes stimulate the production of cytolytic T cell clones which lyse the presenting cells. The peptides and complexes may be used diagnostically, therapeutically, and as immunogens for the production of antibodies, or as targets for the generation of cytolytic T cell clones.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel monoclonal antibodies HE-22A, HE-35A, HE-39E, and HE-69B against human IgE, a mixture thereof, hybridomas producing the antibodies, and immunoassays of human IgE employing the antibodies, which are useful for clinical diagnosis of allergic diseases or parasitic infections.

Abstract: The invention features an isolated sample of mammalian class II major histocompatibility heterodimers which are membrane-associated or in soluble form, and which are capable of binding added antigenic peptide; methods for producing large amounts of the soluble or membrane-associated histocompatibility protein by expression of DNA encoding the .alpha. and .beta. polypeptides; and methods for loading these heterodimers with any desired antigen.

Abstract: A 65 KD heat shock protein, proteins cross-reactive therewith, antibodies thereto or T cells specific thereto can be used for detecting in humans the existence of, a tendency to develop, or the initiation of a process leading to insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Antibodies to hsp65 can be used to detect the hsp65 molecule in blood or urine. The hsp65 molecule of any species, or any other substance immunologically cross-reactive therewith, when administered with a tolerogenic carrier, can be used for the prevention or treatment of IDDM prior to development of clinical symptoms thereof. T cells, active fragments thereof or the receptor peptide thereof can also be used for prevention or treatment of IDDM.

Abstract: Peanut allergen Ara h II was identified using the sera of patients who had atopic dermatitis and a positive food challenge to peanut. The Ara h II allergen, having a molecular weight of 17 kD and a pI of 5.2, was isolated by anion exchange chromatography. Ara h II may be used to detect and quantify peanut allergens in foodstuffs.

Abstract: The subject disclosure relates to the identification of mutations in the I.sub.i protein which result in an alteration of the endoprotease cleavage pattern of the mutant I.sub.i as compared with the endoprotease cleavage pattern of the wild type product. Methods for the identification of such mutants, and the mutants themselves are useful for the identification of classes of compounds to be further tested for immunomodulatory activity. A specific example of such a use is the screening of small organic compounds for the ability to bind to an intermediate in the I.sub.i endoprotease processing pathway. An small organic molecule having the ability to bind to such an intermediate can be further screened for the ability to modulate antigen presentation. The present invention also relates to the identification of immunomodulatory peptides. Peptides which either enchance or inhibit MHC Class II-restricted presentation of antigenic peptides are identified.

Abstract: Monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies capable of recognizing at least one antigenic determinant located on the FR-900506 compound, are disclosed. FR-900506 isa compound having pharmacological activities such as immunosuppressive activity and antimicrobial activity, and has the following structure: ##STR1## Also disclosed are enzyme immunoassays for FR-900506 based on the antibodies of the invention and test kits for detection of FR-900506. A process for preparing a monoclonal antibody which selectively binds to FR-900506 is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention identifies the B7 antigen as a ligand that is reactive with the CD28 receptor on T cells. Fragments and derivatives of the B7 antigen and CD28 receptor, including fusion proteins having amino acid sequences corresponding to the extracellular domains of B7 or CD28 joined to amino acid sequences encoding portions of human immunoglobulin C.gamma.1, are described. Methods are provided for using B7 antigen, its fragments and derivatives, and the CD28 receptor, its fragments and derivatives, as well as antibodies and other molecules reactive with B7 antigen and/or the CD28 receptor, to regulate CD28 positive T cell responses, and immune responses mediated by T cells. The invention also includes an assay method for detecting ligands reactive with cellular receptors mediating intercellular adhesion.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel compositions and methods useful in the modulation or selective suppression of host immune responses to an immunogen of interest, particularly to immunogens which are exogenous antigens or allergens. Subject compositions include antibody, antibody derived, and antibody-like molecules of primary antigen reactivity with respect to the immunogen of interest. Antibodies or antibody-like or antibody-derived molecules include antibody fragments such as Fab, and complementarity determining region peptides (CDRs) which may be grafted into a framework region of any species, particularly human. They also include human antibodies, derived from sensitized human lymphocytes produced by cell fusion with heterohybridomas, or by DNA cloning and expression. Other compositions include T cell receptor (TCR) molecules, obtained either from T cell clones or hybridomas or as purified TCR preparations.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to complexes consisting essentially of an isolated MHC component and an autoantigenic peptide associated with the antigen binding site of the MHC component. These complexes are useful in treating autoimmune disease.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a lectin derived carbohydrate binding-peptide which inhibits cell-mediated immune responses and has the amino acid sequence SPYGRC. The peptide binds terminally linked .alpha.-sialic acid (2.fwdarw.3).beta.Gal- and .alpha.-sialic (2.fwdarw.6).beta.Gal-structures and is a acid fragment of the S2 subunit of pertussis toxin produced by Bordetella pertussis.

Abstract: The invention identifies the CTLA4 receptor as a ligand for the B7 antigen. The complete amino acid sequence encoding human CTLA4 receptor gene is provided. Methods are provided for expressing CTLA4 as an immunoglobulin fusion protein, for preparing hybrid CTLA4 fusion proteins, and for using the soluble fusion proteins, fragments and derivatives thereof, including monoclonal antibodies reactive with B7 and CTLA4, to regulate T cell interactions and immune responses mediated by such interactions.

Abstract: Novel antibodies that recognize endothelial cell surface molecules and block leukocyte extravasation are provided. These antibodies recognize tissue-specific endothelial cell surface molecules and block lymphocyte migration from the blood into tissues such as mucosal lymphoid organs and peripheral lymph nodes. Novel endothelial cell surface proteins involved in leukocyte extravasation and having a molecular weight of approximately 58,000 to 69,000 daltons and express a tissue-specific determinant are also described. The antibodies are used in an immunotherapeutic method to treat individuals having a disease or inflammation-associated pathology in which leukocyte extravasation plays a role.

Abstract: Antibodies which distinguish between the Pl.sup.A1 form of GPIIIa and the Pl.sup.A2 form of GPIIIa can be used in the analysis of alloantigen phenotypes, as well as in diagnostic applications relating to human platelet Pl.sup.A polymorphism.

Abstract: The present invention provides purified polypeptides which comprise at least a portion of a .delta.T cell receptor polypeptide, a .gamma.T cell receptor polypeptide, a .gamma., .delta.T cell receptor complex or a .gamma., .gamma.T cell receptor complex. Substances capable of forming complexes with these polypeptides are also provided.Additionally, methods for detecting T cells which have within them or on their surfaces a polypeptide of the present invention are provided. Moreover, methods for diagnosing immune system abnormalities are provided which comprise measuring in a sample from a subject the number of T cells which have within them or on their surfaces a polypeptide of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of reducing the severity of asthma. Specifically, the present invention discloses that anti-adhesion antibodies, such as anti-ICAM-1 or anti-CD18 family member antibodies, when administered to a mammal, are capable of decreasing the hyperresponsive reaction associated with an asthmatic response.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods and materials useful in treating autoimmune diseases. The therapeutic agents are of the formula X--MHC--peptide or MHc--peptide--X wherein X represents a functional moiety selected from a toxin and a labeling group; MHC is an effective portion of the MHC glycoprotein, said glycoprotein dissociated from the cell surface on which it normally resides; and "peptide" represents an antigenic peptide sequence associated with an autoantigen;--represents a covalent bond or a linker bound to X and MHC or to X and peptide by covalent bonds; and--represents a covalent bond, a noncovalent association, or a linker covalently bound to or associated with the MHC and peptide. These complexes can be used to target helper T-cells which are specifically immunoreactive with autoantigens.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical compositions comprising antibodies to intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1 or CD54) are useful in methods of decreasing the severity of inflammation associated with the adhesion of leukocytes to cells bearing ICAM-1. Treatment with anti-ICAM-1 antibodies reduced the severity of inflammation associated with acute organ or tissue rejection and prolonged allograft survival time. Such compositions may optionally contain other immunsuppressive agents.

Abstract: IgE binding factors (IgE-bfs) with IgE suppressor (IgE-SF) activity obtainable from human colostrum in an enriched form, a method for the prevention and/or the treatment of allergy by administering the IgE-bfs and pharmaceutical compositions comprising said IgE-bfs.

Abstract: Conjugates of stable nonimmunogenic polymers and analogs of immunogens that possess the specific B cell binding ability of the immunogen but lack T cell epitopes and which, when introduced into individuals, induce humoral anergy to the immunogen are disclosed. Accordingly, these conjugates are useful for treating antibody-mediated pathologies that are caused by foreign or self immunogens.

Abstract: Monoclonal antibodies against autoimmune RNA proteins such as La/SSB, Ro/SSA, nNP and Sm. These monoclonal antibodies, which are produced by a continuous hybridoma cell line, may be used in methods for detecting the presence of selected autoimmune RNA proteins and antibodies against such proteins in biological samples, and may be incorporated into diagnostic test kits for this purpose. The monoclonal antibodies may be applied in methods for screening subjects for systemic lupus erythematosus, subacute cutaneous erythematosus, neonatal lupus, Siogren's syndrome, complete congential heart block, and other disorders which involve the presence of antibodies against autoimmune RNA proteins.

Abstract: Antigenic epitopes associated with the extracellular segment of the domain which anchors immunoglobulins to the B cell membrane are disclosed. For IgE, the epitopes are present on IgE-bearing B cells but not basophils or the secreted, soluble form of IgE. The epitope can be exploited for therapy and diagnosis. For example, antibodies or immunotoxins specific for the epitopes associated with the anchor domain of IgE can be used to selectively destroy IgE-bearing lymphocytes, thus blocking IgE-mediated allergic reactions.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to complexes consisting essentially of an isolated MHC component and an autoantigenic peptide associated with the antigen binding site of the MHC component. These complexes are useful in treating autoimmune disease.

Abstract: B cell differentiation factor which acts on B cells and participates in their differentiation into antibody-producing cells is produced by an established cell line.

Abstract: Specific and nonspecific immunomodulation, enhancement of cellular engraftment, and modulation of nonimmune cells are achieved by using various membrane-binding and soluble CD8 compositions.

Abstract: A method for detecting the onset or presence of Lyme disease in a mammal, which comprises isolating a biological sample from the mammal, isolating from said biological sample any circulating immune complexes suspected to contain antibody reactive to Borrelia burgdorferi, dissociating the immune complexes so isolated, and examining the dissociated immune complexes for the presence of antibody. The present method offers a simple and reliable means for detecting Borrelia antibodies. Test kits and related methodology are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and composition for HIV diagnosis and treatment using monoclonal antibodies reactive with one or more neutralizing regions of HIV proteins, using the peptides or homologs thereof from that region, and using related nucleic acid segments. Exemplary neutralizing regions include selected portions of the env and gag genes from various HIV isolates. Monoclonal antibody secreting cell lines include HIV-gp110-1, -2, -3, -4, -5 and -6 (A.T.C.C. Accession Nos. HB9175, HB9176, HB9177, HV9405, HB9406 and HB9404, respectively) and HIV-p25-2, -3, -6 and -7 (A.T.C.C. Accession Nos. HB9407, HB9408, HB9409 and HB9410, respectively).