Abstract:
Described are variants of matriptase that are associated with cancer. The variants encode polypeptides that are missing all or part of an LDLRA1 domain and/or all or part of a LDLRA3 domain. Also described are binding agents such as antibodies that are selective for the variant matriptase polypeptides as well as conjugates thereof. The binding proteins and conjugates are useful for the identification of cancer cells or for the treatment of cancer.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to crystals of human β-secretase in apo-form and with an inhibitor, and to the three-dimensional X-ray crystal structure derived thereof.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to single domain antibodies with a specificity for BACE1. More specifically, the invention provides single variable domain antibodies derived from camelids which bind to BACE1 and are capable of inhibiting the activity of BACE1. Said antibodies can be used for research and medical applications. Specific applications include the use of BACE1 specific antibodies for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Abstract:
Methods of using DUBA polypeptides and nucleic acids in modulating cytokine production and in modulating immune response are provided. Methods of diagnosing and treating certain pathophysiological conditions using the DUBA polypeptides and nucleic acids of the invention are also provided.
Abstract:
The invention relates to a method for the in vitro diagnosis of bronchial carcinoma, particularly non-small cell lung cancer, characterised in that it includes a step comprising the detection of at least one of the major alternative transcripts of the KLK8 gene encoding kallikrein 8 in a biological sample taken from a patient suspected of having bronchopulmonary carcinoma. Said method is particularly suitable for prognosticating survival in patients with bronchial carcinoma.
Abstract:
This disclosure provides a new family of proteins implicated in causing the release of TNF receptors and other cytokine receptors from the surface of cells involved in inflammation. Receptor releasing activity was isolated and purified from a monocyte cell line, and sequenced to deduce the gene and protein structure of several different metalloproteases. The information provided in this disclosure enables the user to prepare recombinant protein or expression vectors that will cause receptor release in vivo, thus preventing signal transduction and blocking the effect of incoming cytokines. Medicaments containing cytokine receptor releasing activity are described for use in treating rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions mediated by inflammatory cytokines. The proteins of this invention are all relatively small single-chain molecules, and are therefore easier to use and more cost-effective than other currently marketed biological anti-inflammatory agents.
Abstract:
This invention refers to a process for the determination of the primary structure of the mRNA coding for human endooligopeptidase A (hEOPA) and its protein sequence. In addition, the invention relates to a process for the determination of the structure of the hEOPA gene and the production of recombinant hEOPA. Furthermore, the invention relates to a process of generating antibodies against hEOPA in mice.
Abstract:
The current invention relates to the field of neurodevelopmental disorders and more particularly to the field of neuropsychiatric disorders. The invention provides non-human, transgenic animal models for said neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, compulsive disorders and the like. The animals also have applications in the field of Alzheimer's Disease and other disorders in which -secretase activity has a role.
Abstract:
The present invention is directed to engineered polypeptides having BACE activity. In certain embodiments, the polypeptides also comprise an engineered cleavage site. Also provided are polypeptides comprising a prodomain, an engineered cleavage site, and a protease domain; the polypeptides are properly folded and are cleaved at the engineered cleavage site in vitro, producing homogeneous preparations of purified protease having BACE activity. The invention further pertains to nucleic acids, expression vectors, and host cells comprising the expression vectors for making the engineered polypeptides.
Abstract:
Administration of recombinant, truncated mammalian NEP or certain bacterial homologues of this protein is therapeutically effective in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.