Abstract: Pseudotyped retroviruses having viral glycoproteins with modified O glycosylation regions are provided. Also provided are methods for making the pseudotyped retroviruses of the present invention and for using the pseudotyped retroviruses for transduction of target cells. Cells for stably producing the pseudotyped retroviruses or the present invention are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to compositions useful as imaging agents for use in monitoring atherosclerotic plaque regression using, for example, MRI, CT, Gamma-scintigraphy, or optical imaging techniques. Methods and compositions of using the same are described.

Abstract: Cationic liposomes with entrapped polynucleotide in the intravesicular space are described. The liposomes include cationic components such as cationic lipids such as DOTAP. Preferably the method of forming liposomes uses the dehydration-rehydration method in the presence of the polynucleotide. The polynucleotide preferably operatively encodes an antigen capable of eliciting a desired immune response, that is, is a gene vaccine.

Abstract: The present invention is related to the fields of molecular biology, virology, immunology and medicine. The invention provides a composition comprising an ordered and repetitive antigen array, wherein the antigen is an IL-15 protein, an IL-15 mutein or an IL-15 fragment. More specifically, the invention provides a composition comprising a virus-like particle, and at least one IL-15 protein, IL-15 mutein or at least one IL-15 fragment linked thereto. The invention also provides a process for producing the composition. The compositions of the invention are useful in the production of vaccines for the treatment of inflammatory and chronic autoimmune diseases. The composition of the invention efficiently induces immune responses, in particular antibody responses. Furthermore, the compositions of the invention are particularly useful to efficiently induce self-specific immune responses within the indicated context.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method utilizing mammalian expression system for generating virus-like particles (VLPs) of mammalian-hosted viruses, particularly SARS-CoV. The method of the present invention involves expression of viral structural proteins in Vero cells and thereby obtaining recombinant VLPs in the culture medium. SARS-VLPs generated by the method of the present invention are highly immunogenic and can elicit not only humoral but also cellular immune responses in a mammal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel fusogenic vesicles as highly efficient and versatile encapsulation systems for delivering a substance of choice, such as nucleic acids, proteins, peptides, antigens, pharmaceutical drugs and cosmetic agents to cells and tissues.