Classified Patents Abstracts

Classified Patents Abstracts

Mutation/Genetic Engineering

6132776

Methods of screening for nucleoside analogs that

are incorporated by HIV reverse

transcriptase and cause

incorrect base pairing

Methods and compositions related to HIV are disclosed.Using the methods of the present invention, nucleosideanalogs may be screened for the ability to be incorporatedby reverse transcriptase of human immunodeficiency virus(‘‘HIV RT’’) and cause incorrect base pairing. Progressivemutation of the virus by such nucleoside analogs rendersit nonviable.

Loeb; Lawrence A., Essigmann; John M. USAassigned to University of Washington

6132965

Methods and compositions for diagnosis of

hyperhomocysteinemia

A method for diagnosing hyperhomocysteinemia by molec-ular genetic means is disclosed.

Austin; Richard C., Hirsh; Jack, Weitz; Jeffrey I.CANADA assigned to Hamilton Civic HospitalsResearch Development

6132967

Ribozyme treatment of diseases or conditions

related to levels of intercellular adhesion

molecule-1 (ICAM-1)

Enzymatic RNA molecules which cleave ICAM-1 mRNA.

Grimm; Susan, Stinchcomb; Dan T., McSwiggen;James, Sullivan; Sean, Draper; Kenneth G. USAassigned to Ribozyme Pharmaceuticals

6132980

Antibodies specific for TRP-2 a human tumor

antigen recognized by cytotoxic

T lymphocytes

The infusion of TIL586 along with interleukin-2 (IL-2) intothe autologous patient with metastatic melanoma resulted inthe objective regression of tumor. A gene encoding a tumorantigen recognized by TIL586 was previously isolated andshown to encode gp75 or TRP-1. The present inventionrelates to the identification of a second tumor antigenrecognized by an HLA-A31 restricted CTL clone derivedfrom the TIL586 cell line. This antigen derived from theTRP-2 protein tumor antigen and peptides thereof arecapable of sensitizing target cells for lysis by a CTL cloneat 1 nM peptide concentration. Modified peptides were alsorecognized by the CTL clone.

Wang; Rong Fu, Rosenberg; Steven A. USA assignedto the United States of America as represented by theDepartment of Health and Human Services

6132983

Luciferases

Proteins are provided having luciferase activity with greaterheat stability than wild-type luciferases by replacing theglutamate equivalent to that at position 354 of Photinuspyralis luciferase or 356 of Luciola luciferases with analternative amino acid, particularly lysine. DNA, vectorsand cells that encode for and express the proteins are alsoprovided as are test kits and reagents for carrying outluminescence assays using the proteins of the invention.Preferred proteins have a second replaced amino acid at aposition equivalent to position 215 of P. pyralis luciferase or217 of Luciola luciferases.

Lowe; Christopher Robin, White; Peter John, Mur-ray; James Augusts Henry, Squirrell; David JamesGreat Britain assigned to the Secretary of State forDefence in Her Britannic Majesty’s Government ofthe United Kingdom of Great Britain andNorthern Ireland

PII: S0734 -9750 (01 )00064 -7

Biotechnology Advances 19 (2001) 227–259

6132987

Recombinant mammalian monocyte chemotactic

protein-1 (MCP-1) receptors (MCP-1R, CCR-2)

DNAs encoding receptors for the chemokine, monocytechemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), are disclosed. Recombinantreagents and methods for expressing the DNAs are alsoprovided. Exemplary receptor proteins are MCP-1RA andMCP-1RB, which correspond to alternatively spliced tran-scripts of the human MCP-1R gene. The receptor proteins ofthe invention are useful in assays to identify agonists andantagonists of MCP-1.

Charo; Israel F., Coughlin; Shaun R. USA assigned toThe Regents of the University of California

6132989

Methods and compositions for enhanced stability

of nonadenoviral DNA

The invention provides compositions of a nonadenoviralvector containing a polynucleotide sequence encodingadenoviral pTP operationally linked domain. The inventionalso provides compositions of an adenoviral pTP bindingdomain. The invention also provides methods for increasingthe expression of a polynucleotide by expressing the poly-nucleotide in a nonadenoviral vector containing an adenovi-ral pTP binding domain in the presence of adenoviral pTP.The invention additionally provides methods to increaseexpression of a heterologous polynucleotide in an individualby obtaining cells from the individual, genetically altering thecells to express a nonadenoviral vector containing an adeno-viral pTP binding domain and a gene encoding pTP andreadministering the genetically altered cells to the individual.

Kay; Mark A., Lieber; Andre USA assigned toUniversity of Washington

6132991

Human interleukin-3 (IL-3) variant

fusion proteins

The present invention relates to fusion molecules composedof human interleukin-3 (hIL-3) variant or mutant proteins(muteins) functionally joined to a second colony stimulatingfactor (CSF), cytokine, lymphokine, interleukin or IL-3variant. These hIL-3 variants contain amino acid substitu-tions and may also have amino acid deletions at both the N-and C-termini. The invention also relates to pharmaceuticalcompositions containing the fusion molecules and methodsfor using them.

Bauer; S. Christopher, Abrams; Mark Allen, Braford-Goldberg; SarahRuth,Caparon;MaireHelena, Easton;Alan Michael, Klein; Barbara Kure, McKearn; JohnPatrick, Olins; Peter O., Paik; Kumnan, Thomas; JohnWarren USA assigned to G.D. Searle and Company

6132992

Expression vectors encoding bispecific fusion

proteins and methods of producing biologically

active bispecific fusion proteins in a

mammalian cell

The present invention provides an expression vector encodingmonospecific or bispecific fusion protein. In one embodiment,the expression vector encodes a monospecific fusion protein,which vector comprises a recombinant monospecific single-chain cassette comprising a DNA sequence encoding a firstbinding domain capable of binding a cell surface antigen. Inanother embodiment, the expression vector encodes a bispe-cific fusion protein, which vector comprises a recombinantbispecific single-chain cassette comprising a DNA sequenceencoding a first binding domain capable of binding a cellsurface antigen and a DNA sequence encoding a secondbinding domain capable of binding a cell surface antigen,each domain capable of binding a different antigen. Thepresent invention also provides a method for producing abiologically active monospecific or bispecific fusion proteinin a mammalian cell. This method comprises: (a) transfectingthemammalian cell with the recombinant expression vector ofthe invention; (b) culturing the mammalian cell so transfectedin step (a); and (c) recovering the biologically active bispecificfusion protein so as produced by the culturedmammalian cell.

Ledbetter; Jeffrey A., Gilliland; Lisa K., Hayden;Martha S., Linsley; Peter S., Bajorath; Jurgen, Fell;H. Perry USA assigned to Bristol-Myers Squibb

6132999

L-Threonine-producing microbacteria and a

method for the production of L-threonine

The present invention provides a novel microbial strain anda method for effectively producing L-threonine. The novelstrain can grow on a medium containing molasses, a muchcheaper raw material than sucrose. The exemplary novelstrain Escherichia coli BKIIM B-5318 bears the plasmidpPRT614, which has threonine biosynthesis genes (thr A, Band C), the expression of which is regulated by a lambda-phage PR promoter and temperature-sensitive C1 repressor.The present microorganism is prototrophic with regard toisoleucine. The strain E. coli BKIIM B-5318 produces morethan 70 g/l of L-threonine when cultured at 38–41�C for32 h in a medium containing molasses.

Debabov; Vladimir Georgievich, Kozlov; UriIvano-vich, Khurges; Evgenyi Moiseevich, Lifshits; VytalyiArkadievich, Zhdanova; Nelli Isaakovna, Gusyatiner;Michail Markovich, Sokolov; Alexander Konstanti-novich, Bachina; Tatiana Alexandrovna, Christoser-dov; Andrei Yurevich, Tsigankov; Uri Dmitrievich,Yankovsky; Nikolai Kazimirovich, Mashko; SergiVladimirovich, Lapidus; Alla Lvovna, Gavrilova;Oksana Fedorovna, Rodionov; Oleg AlexandrovichRussian Federation assigned to Ajinomoto

Classified Patents Abstracts / Biotechnology Advances 19 (2001) 227–259228

6133008

Method for cloning and producing the TfiI

Restriction endonuclease in Escherichia coli

A genomic DNA library of Thermus filiformis was con-structed using pBR322 as a cloning vector. The methylaseselection method was used to clone the TfiI methylase gene(tfiIM). A clone carrying an active TfiI methylase wasidentified. After sequencing the complete TfiI methylase geneand its downstream DNA sequence, a recombinase homologwas found. Because the methylase and its cognate endonu-clease gene are located in proximity to each other in aparticular restriction–modification system, efforts weremadeto clone the upstreamDNA by inverse PCR. After two roundsof inverse PCR, one open reading frame (ORF1) was foundupstream of the TfiI methylase gene. This ORF1, containing aShine-Dalgarno sequence and a TATA box on the upstreamside, was cloned and expressed, and TfiI endonuclease activ-ity was detected in crude cell extracts. It is concluded thatORF1 encodes TfiI restriction endonuclease.

Xu; Shuang-yong, Hsieh; Pei-Chung USA assignedto New England Biolabs

6133009

Type II Restriction endonuclease, HpyCH4V,

obtainable from Helicobacter pylori CH4 and a

process for producing the same

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided anovel restriction endonuclease and its DNA obtainable fromHelicobacter pyloriCH4 (NEB#1236), hereinafter referred toas ‘‘HpyCH4V,’’ which endonuclease: (1) recognizes thenucleotide sequence 50-TGCA-30 in a double-stranded DNAmolecule as shown below, (wherein G represents guanine, Crepresents cytosine, A represents adenine, T represents thy-mine and N represents either G, C, A, or T); (2) cleaves saidsequence in the phosphodiester bonds between the G and C asindicated with the arrows; and (3) cleaves double-strandedpBR322 DNA to produce 21 fragments, including fragmentsof 576, 498, 441, 335, 315, 312, 296, 244 and 205 base pairs,and 12 fragments smaller than 200 base pairs.

Morgan; Richard D., Xu; Qing USA

6133010

Chlamysin B antibacterial protein, a protein gene

for and an expression system for same

This invention relates to the novel antibacterial proteinChlamysin B, a novel protein gene encoding the ChlamysinB protein and an expression system using such gene inEscherichia coli.

Myrnes; Bjornar, Nilsen; Inge Waller, Overbo; Kersti,Sandsdalen; Erling Norway assigned to Biotec

6133017

Attenuated strain of Leishmania

Differentially expressed Leishmania genes and proteins aredescribed. One differentially expressed gene (A2) isexpressed at significantly elevated levels (more than about10-fold higher) in the amastigote stage of the life cycle whenthe Leishmania organism is present in macrophages than inthe free promastigote stage. The A2 gene encodes a 22-kDaprotein (A2 protein) that is recognized by kala-azar con-valescent serum and has amino acid sequence homologywith an S-antigen of Plasmodium falcilparum Vietnameseisolate VI. Differentially expressed Leishmania genes andproteins have utility as vaccines, diagnostic reagents, astools for the generation of immunological reagents and thegeneration of attenuated variants of Leishmania.

Matlashewski; Gregory, Charest; Hugues Canadaassigned to McGill University

6133023

Lactic acid bacterial regulatable

expression system

Expression vectors capable of being replicated in lactic acidbacterial cells comprising a promoter region comprising (a)a promoter sequence element the function of which isregulatable by an environmental or growth condition factorand (b) at least one further nucleotide sequence element, theposition, orientation, presence and/or sequence of whichelement has a regulatory effect on the expression of a geneoperably linked to the promoter region in which vectors theposition, orientation, presence and/or sequence of at leastone of said elements (a) or (b) is modified relative to theposition, orientation, presence and/or sequence of the cor-responding nonmodified element whereby the expression ofthe gene is altered, and a lactic acid bacterium, which istransformed with such a vector as defined above, is pro-vided. The recombinant cells containing such a regulatableor inducible gene expression system are useful as food orfeed starter cultures or as strains for the production of geneproducts such as pharmaceutically or immunologicallyactive compounds including oligo- or polypeptides derivedfrom a Mycobacterium species including M. tuberculosis.

Madsen; Soeren Michael, Vrang; Astrid, Arnau; Jose,Ravin; Peter, Johnsen; Mads Groenvald, Israelsen;Hans Denmark assigned to Bioteknologisk Institut

6133027

Inducible expression system

The present invention features compositions and methodsfor the inducible expression of a polypeptide, especially apolypeptide normally cytotoxic to the eukaryotic host cell inwhich it is to be expressed. A nucleotide sequence encodinga polypeptide of interest is operably linked to an inducible

Classified Patents Abstracts / Biotechnology Advances 19 (2001) 227–259 229

promoter (e.g, a promoter composed of a minimal promoterlinked to multiple copies of tetO, the binding site for thetetracycline repressor (tetR) of the Escherichia coli tetracy-cline resistance operon Tn10). Expression from the induci-ble promoter is regulated by a multichimeric transactivatingfactor, composed of a first ligand-binding domain thatnegatively regulates transcription (e.g., a prokaryotic tetra-cycline repressor polypeptide), a transcriptional activationdomain, and a second ligand-binding domain that positivelyregulates the transcriptional activation function of the trans-activator [e.g., a ligand-binding domain of a steroid receptor,preferably an estrogen receptor (ER)]. Transcription of thenucleotide sequence under control of the inducible promoteris activated by the multichimeric transactivator when boththe ligand that binds the first ligand-binding domain (e.g.,tetracycline) is absent and the ligand that binds the secondligand-binding domain (e.g., a steroid) is present. Thisinducible expression system is particularly useful in theexpression of the cytotoxic protein VSV G for the produc-tion of pseudotyped retroviral vectors.

Yee; Jiing-Kuan, Friedmann; Theodore, Chen; Shin-Tai USA assigned to City of Hope, The Regents ofthe University of California

6133244

Method for immunization against hepatitis B

Nucleotide vector composition containing such vector andvaccine for immunization against hepatitis. Nucleotide vec-tor comprising at least one gene or one complementary DNAcoding for at least a portion of a virus, and a promoterproviding for the expression of such gene in muscle cells.The gene may be the S gene of the hepatitis B virus. Anucleotide vector composition when administered to evenchronic HBV carriers is capable of breaking T cell toleranceto the surface antigens of hepatitis B virus. A vaccinepreparation containing said bare DNA is injected into thehost previously treated with a substance capable of inducinga coagulating necrosis of the muscle fibers.

Michel; Marie-Louise, Mancini; Maryline Franceassigned to Institut Pasteur, Institute National de laSante et la Recherche Medicale

6133245

Antisense DNA constructs for expression of

hybrid mRNAs driven by inducible,

tissue-specific promoters

A gene is regulated by introducing into a cell an inducible,tissue-specific antisense DNA construct. The antisense DNAconstruct comprises any inducible, tissue-specific gene, intowhich a DNA sequence antisense to any DNA sequence ofthe gene targeted for regulation has been inserted. Theinducible, tissue-specific antisense DNA construct tran-scribes a hybrid messenger RNA containing an RNA

sequence antisense to a sequence of the messenger RNAof the gene targeted for regulation. The hybrid messengerRNA also contains the RNA sequence of the inducible,tissue-specific gene. Some examples of suitable induciblegenes include those selected from the group consisting ofmammalian cytosolic phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase(PEPCK) (GTP, EC 4.1.1.32), mammalian atrial natriureticfactor (ANF), and mammalian a myosin heavy chain (a-MHC). In a preferred embodiment, the inducible, tissue-specific gene is the rat PEPCK gene.

Malbon; Craig C., Moxham; Christopher M. USAassigned to the Research Foundation of State Uni-versity of New York

6133246

Antisense oligonucleotide compositions and

methods for the modulation of JNK proteins

Compositions and methods for the treatment and diagnosisof diseases or disorders amenable to treatment throughmodulation of expression of a gene encoding a Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK protein) are provided. Oligonucleo-tides are herein provided, which are specifically hybrid-izable with nucleic acids encoding JNK1, JNK2 and JNK3,as well as other JNK proteins and specific isoforms thereof.Methods of treating animals suffering from diseases ordisorders amenable to therapeutic intervention by modulat-ing the expression of one or more JNK proteins with sucholigonucleotide are also provided. Methods for the treatmentand diagnosis of diseases or disorders associated withaberrant expression of one or more JNK proteins are alsoprovided. Methods for inducing apoptosis and for treatingdiseases or conditions associated with a reduction in apop-tosis are also provided.

McKay; Robert, Dean; Nicholas, Monia; Brett P.,Nero; Pamela S., Gaarde; William A. USA assignedto Isis Pharmaceuticals

6133421

Polypeptides and polypeptide subunits of a

stereospecific nitrile hydratase enzyme

The present invention provides a nitrile hydratase nucleicacid fragment isolated from Pseudomonas putida, whichencodes a nitrile hydratase activity capable of catalyzing thehydrolysis of certain racemic nitriles to the corresponding R-or S-amides. Also provided are transformed microorganismscapable of the active expression of said nitrile hydrataseactivity. Additionally, the invention provides a transformantharboring the nitrile hydratase gene in conjunction with anamidase gene, both of which may be coexpressed producingactive nitrile hydratase and amidase enzymes, respectively.Methods for the production of such enantiomeric materialsare also provided.


Fallon; Robert Donald, Nelson; Mark James, Payne;Mark Scott USA assigned to E.I. du Pont de Nemoursand Company

6133422

Thrombin inhibitor

There is provided a thrombin inhibitor polypeptide andDNA (RNA) encoding such polypeptide. Also provided isa procedure for producing such polypeptide by recombi-nant techniques. The antithrombin polypeptide is used totreat various diseases where prevention of blood clottingis necessary and is of therapeutic value. The presentinvention also discloses a method of producing theantithrombin polypeptide and methods for its use as apharmaceutical composition.

Rosen; Craig A., Cao; Liang, Adams; Mark D.,Fuldner; Rebecca A. USA assigned to HumanGenome Sciences

6133423

Don-1 gene and polypeptides and uses therefor

The present invention relates to the identification andcharacterization of a novel gene called Don-1 related toepidermal growth factors (EGF) such as the neuregulins, andmethods of preparing and using alternate splice forms of thisgene to express new Don-1 polypeptides.

Gearing; David P., Busfield; Samantha J. USAassigned to Millennium Pharmaceuticals

6133424

ppRB110 — nuclear phosphoprotein — the

retinoblastoma susceptibility gene product

This invention relates in general to a phosphoprotein productof the retinoblastoma susceptibility gene. In particular, thisinvention relates to a phosphoprotein ppRB110 primarilylocated in the cell nucleus, which has a DNA bindingactivity. The invention also relates to the amino acidsequence of the phosphoprotein and to the specific purifiedantiretinoblastoma phosphoprotein antibody. The inventionfurther relates to a method of diagnosing retinoblastoma andother retinoblastoma genes involved in cancers, treatingsuch kind of cancers and regulating the oncogenicity ofother genes.

Lee; Wen-Hwa, Lee; -H. P. Eva Y. USA assigned toThe Regents of the University of California

6133502

Monocyte chemoattractant protein and its

receptor transgenic animal

Provided is a nonhuman animal in which an exogenousgene, a mutant gene thereof of a monocyte chemoattractantprotein and/or a receptor thereof is introduced. The presenttransgenic animals can be utilized as a pathologic modelanimal for heart diseases, respiratory diseases, joint diseases,kidney diseases, arteriosclerosis, psoriasis, hyperlipidemia,allergic diseases, bone diseases, blood diseases, cerebrovas-cular disorders, traumatic cerebral disorders, infections dis-eases, dementia or chronic inflammatory diseases, etc. Thus,it is possible to elucidate the mechanism of pathogenesis ofthese diseases, to determine therapies, and to screen forcandidate compounds for the purpose of research anddevelopment of therapeutic drugs.

Kasuga; Hisao, Kitayoshi; Takahito, Isaka; MasamiJapan assigned to Takeda Chemical Industries

6133506

Keto-acyl-(ACP) reductase promoter from

Cuphea lanceolata

Promoters in the 50 nontranslated region of genes fromCuphea lanceota that code for b-ketoacyl-(ACP) reductaseare disclosed, as well as alleles and derivatives of saidpromoters. These promoters in the 50 nontranslated regionmay, for example, be coupled with foreign genes, formingchimeric genes, and be transmitted to plants in appropriatevector systems.

Topfer; Reinhard, Horicke-Grandpierre; Christa,Klein; Barbara, Schell; Jeff Germany assigned toMax-Planck-Gesellschaft zur Forerung Der Wissen-schaft E.V.

6143153

DNA sequencing

To sequence long strands of DNA, clone strands havinglengths longer than 100 bases are, in one embodiment,marked on one end with biotin. These strands are dividedinto four aliquots and each aliquot: (1) is uniquely chemi-cally treated to randomly terminate the strands at the non-biotinylated end at a selected type of base; and (2) is movedcontinuously by electrophoresis through a different one offour identical channels. In the one embodiment, the strandsare randomly terminated at a selected base type and they aremoved into avidin, which due to high affinity, combineswith the biotin marked ends of shorter strands before thelonger strands are fully resolved in the gel. The avidin ismarked with fluorescein, the strands are scanned and thesignals are decoded. In another embodiment, the strands are


synthesized, with termination at a selected base type andmarked either by the above method or by ethidium bromide.

Middendorf; Lyle R., Brumbaugh; John USA assignedto The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska

6143495

Unimolecular segment amplification

and sequencing

Disclosed are compositions and a method for amplificationof and multiplex detection of molecules of interest involvingrolling circle replication. The method is useful for simulta-neously detecting multiple specific nucleic acids in a samplewith high specificity and sensitivity. The method also has aninherently low level of background signal. A preferred formof the method consists of an association operation, anamplification operation, and a detection operation. Theassociation operation involves association of one or morespecially designed probe molecules, either wholly or partlynucleic acid, to target molecules of interest. This operationassociates the probe molecules to target molecules present ina sample. The amplification operation is rolling circlereplication of circular nucleic acid molecules, termed ampli-fication target circles that are either a part of, or hybridizedto, the probe molecules. A single round of amplificationusing rolling circle replication results in a large amplificationof the amplification target circles. Following rolling circlereplication, the amplified sequences are detected usingcombinatorial multicolor coding probes that allow separate,simultaneous, and quantitative detection of multiple differ-ent amplified target circles representing multiple differenttarget molecules. Since the amplified product is directlyproportional to the amount of target sequence present in asample, quantitative measurements reliably represent theamount of a target sequence in a sample. Major advantagesof this method are that a large number of distinct targetmolecules can be detected simultaneously, and that differ-ences in the amounts of the various target molecules in asample can be accurately quantified. It is also advantageousthat the DNA replication step is isothermal, and that signalsare strictly quantitative because the amplification reaction islinear and is catalyzed by a highly processive enzyme.

Lizardi; Paul M., Caplan; Michael Mexico assignedto Yale University

6143500

Nucleic acids and methods for detecting

pathogenic Xanthomonas campestris using

the same

The present invention is drawn to nucleic acid fragmentsspecific to Xanthomonas campestris pathogenic to plantsbelonging to the family Gramineae, as well as methods fordetecting the pathogenic X. campestris using the same. Thenucleic acid fragment of the invention has a nucleotide

sequence which is at least 15 consecutive nucleotides ofthe nucleotide sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:1 or in thecomplementary chain thereof, or has no less than 15nucleotides and hybridizes with the nucleic acid havingthe sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:1 or with the comple-mentary chain thereof under stringent conditions.

Nishino; Tomoki Japan assigned to Japan Tobacco

6143520

Expression vectors and methods of use

The present invention is related to vectors and methods forincreasing the expression of a desired gene product. Pref-erably, this invention is used with genes expressing proteinsthat are not well tolerated by mammalian cells or where highlevels of expression are necessary. In certain preferredembodiments, it can be used as part of a multitieredexpression system and with methods of intracellularly tar-geting a molecule.

Marasco; Wayne A., Richardson; Jennifer, Parolin;Maria Cristina, Sodroski; Joseph G. Italy assigned toDana-Farber Cancer Institute

6143522

Methods of modulating apoptosis

The invention provides novel methods for modulatingapoptosis in eukaryotic cells using peptides and proteinsderived from p33ING1 or oligonucleotides derived from theING1 gene. The invention also provides method of deter-mining the apoptotic characteristic of a eukaryotic cell.

Helbing; Caren C., Riabowol; Karl, Johnston; Ran-dall N., Garkavtsev; Igor Canada assigned to Uni-versity Technologies International

6143524

Peptide and protein fusions to thioredoxin,

thioredoxin-like molecules, and modified

thioredoxin-like molecules

Provided is a fusion molecule comprising a DNA sequenceencoding a thioredoxin-like protein fused to a DNAsequence encoding a second peptide or protein. The peptideor protein may be fused to the amino terminus of thethioredoxin-like molecule, the carboxyl terminus of thethioredoxin-like molecule, or within the thioredoxin-likemolecule, for example, at the active-site loop of the mole-cule. The fusion molecule may be modified to introduce oneor more metal-binding/chelating amino-acid residues to aidin purification. Expression of this fusion molecule under thecontrol of a regulatory sequence capable of directing itsexpression in a desired host cell produces high levels of


stable and soluble fusion protein. The fusion protein, locatedin the bacterial cytoplasm, may be selectively released fromthe cell by osmotic shock or freeze/thaw procedures. It maybe optionally cleaved to liberate the soluble, correctly foldedheterologous protein from the thioredoxin-like portion.

McCoy; John, DiBlasio-Smith; Elizabeth, Grant;Kathleen, LaVallie; Edward R. USA assigned toGenetics Institute

6143526

Biosynthetic genes for spinosyn

insecticide production

Spinosyn biosynthetic genes, spinosyn-producing microor-ganisms transformed with the biosynthetic genes, methodsusing the biosynthetic genes to increase production ofspinosyn insecticidal macrolides, and methods using thegenes or fragments thereof to change the products producedby spinosyn-producing microorganisms.

Baltz; Richard H., Broughton; M. Christine, Craw-ford; Kathryn P., Madduri; Krishnamurthy, Merlo;Donald J., Treadway; Patti J., Turner; Jan R., Wal-dron; Clive USA

6143536

DNA encoding a thermostable DNA polymerase

A nucleic acid amplifying enzyme having a short reactiontime and high fidelity is provided. The enzyme of thisinvention is a thermostable DNA polymerase having anucleic acid extension rate of at least 30 bases per secondand a 30–50 exonuclease activity. Also provided are amethod and kit for amplifying nucleic acid.

Imanaka; Tadayuki, Takagi; Masahiro, Morikawa;Masaaki Japan assigned to Toyo Boseki KabushikiKaisha

6143541

Gene encoding a protein having symmetric

hydrolase activity for 4-substituted

1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives and its

expression product

This invention provides DNA fragments for efficientlypreparing a protein having asymmetric hydrolase activityfor 4-substituted 1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives, trans-formants obtained by using such a DNA fragment, and aprocess for preparing the aforesaid enzyme. Specifically,an isolated gene derived from the chromosome of Strepto-myces viridosporus and encoding a protein having asym-metric hydrolase activity for 4-substituted 1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives, plasmids having the aforesaid

gene integrated thereinto, transformants obtained by usingsuch a plasmid, and a process for preparing the aforesaidenzyme by using such a transformant are disclosed. Aprocess for the enzymatic conversion of 4-substituted 1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives by using the aforesaid enzymeis also disclosed.

Arisawa; Akira, Matsufuji; Motoko, Tsuruta;Takurou, Dobashi; Kazuyuki, Nakashima; Takashi,Isshiki; Kunio, Yoshioka; Takeo Japan assigned toMercian Corporation

6143548

Chromatographic purification of adeno-associated

virus (AAV)

The present invention relates to the purification of large-scale quantities of active (infectious) adenovirus and adeno-associated virus (AAV), especially for use in therapeuticapplications. In particular, the invention provides improvedmethods for contacting such viruses with suitable chromato-graphic materials in a fashion such that any damage to thevirus, particularly to surface components thereof, resultingfrom contact with such chromatographic materials is mini-mized or eliminated. The result is the ability to rapidly andefficiently purify commercial-level quantities of active(infectious) virus suitable for use in therapeutic applications,e.g., gene transfer/therapy procedures.

O’Riordan; Catherine E., Erickson; Amy E., Smith;Alan E. USA assigned to Genzyme

6143550

Bacillus thuringiensis strains and their

insecticidal proteins

The present invention relates to transformed micro-organ-isms comprising DNA molecules encoding Bacillus thur-ingiensis proteins with insecticidal activity. The inventionrelates more particularly to transformed micro-organismscomprising DNA molecules encoding the protease resistanttoxins BTS02618Aa or BTS02618Ab.

Lambert; Bart, Jansens; Stefan, Van Audenhove;Katrien, Peferoen; Marnix, Van Rie; Jeroen, VanAarssen; Van Roel Belgium assigned to Aventis CropScience

6143551

Delivery of polypeptide-encoding plasmid DNA

into the cytosol of macrophages by attenuated

Listeria suicide bacteria

The invention relates to the introduction of DNA or RNAsequences into a mammalian cell to achieve controlled


expression of a polypeptide. It is therefore useful in genetherapy, vaccination, and any therapeutic situation in whicha polypeptide should be administered to a host or cells ofsaid host, as well as for the production of polypeptides bymammalian cells, e.g., in culture or in transgenic animals.

Goebel; Werner Germany assigned to ScheringAktiengesellschaft

6143557

Recombination cloning using engineered

recombination sites

Recombinational cloning is provided by the use of nucleicacids, vectors and methods, in vitro and in vivo, for movingor exchanging segments of DNA molecules using engi-neered recombination sites and recombination proteins toprovide chimeric DNA molecules that have the desiredcharacteristic(s) and/or DNA segment(s).

Hartley; James L., Brasch; Michael A. USA assignedto Life Technologies

6143559

Methods for the production of chicken

monoclonal antibodies

The present invention provides methods for producing anti-bodies against a variety of antigens, including mammalianantigens with highly conserved epitopes. In addition, thepresent invention provides improved methods and compo-sitions for the cloning and manipulation of immunoglobulingenes as well as antibodies derived therefrom.

Michael; Nancy M., Accavitti; Mary Ann, Thomp-son; Craig B. USA assigned to Arch DevelopmentCorporation

6143561

DNA encoding plastid pyruvate dehydrogenase

and branched chain oxoacid

dehydrogenase components

Provided are nucleic acid sequences encoding E1a, E1b, andE2 subunits of plastid pyruvate dehydrogenase complexesand branched chain oxoacid dehydrogenase complexes.

Randall; Douglas D., Mooney; Brian P., Johnston;Mark L., Luethy; Michael H., Miernyk; Jan A. USAassigned to The Curators of the University of Missouri

6143565

Stable insect virus–cell expression system

A stable transformed insect cell line has been achieved byinfecting an insect cell culture with fluid obtained from afemale parasitoid wasp, such as Glyptapanteles indiensis.The fluid contains poly-DNA virus DNA capable of inte-grating into the host cell genome. Susceptible insect cellsinclude both Lepidopteran and Coleopteran cells.

Dougherty; Edward M., McKelvey; Terry A., Stoltz;Donald A., Lynn; Dwight E., Gundersen-Rindal;Dawn E. Canada assigned to the United States ofAmerica as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture

6143566

Methods of performing homologous

recombination-based modification of nucleic acids

in recombination deficient cells and use of the

modified nucleic acid products thereof

A simple method for modifying genes in a recombination-deficient host cell is disclosed. Such modifications includegenerating insertion, deletions, substitutions, and/or pointmutations at any chosen site in the independent origin-basedcloning vector. The modified gene can be contained in anindependent origin based cloning vector that is used tointroduce a modified heterologous gene into a cell. Such amodified vector may be used in the production of a germlinetransmitted transgenic animal, or in gene targeting protocolsin eukaryotic cells.

Heintz; Nathaniel, Model; Peter, Yang; XiangdongW. USA assigned to the Rockfeller University

6143727

Specific expression vectors and methods of use

Gene therapy by using specific expression vectors within theepidermis or epidermal cells. These vectors incorporate regu-latorysequencesof tissueanddifferentiation-specificgenes.

Roop; Dennis R., Rothnagel; Joseph A., Green-halgh; David A. USA assigned to Baylor Collegeof Medicine

6143866

Tumor necrosis factor inhibitor and method for

obtaining the same

At least two substantially purified tumor necrosis factor(TNF) inhibitors are disclosed which are glycoproteins thatare active against TNF. The isolation of 3O and 40 kDa TNFinhibitor from urine is disclosed. The deglycosylated form ofthe 30-kDa TNF inhibitor and 40-kDa TNF inhibitor are


described as being active against TNF. The 40-kDa TNFinhibitor is active against both TNF a and TNF b. The aminoacid sequence of the 30-kDa TNF inhibitor and the 40-kDaTNF inhibitor is disclosed. Methods for isolating the TNFinhibitors from human U937 cell medium and producing theproteins by recombinant-DNA methods are also described.

Brewer; Michael T., Hale; Karin K., King; MichaelW., Kohno; Tadahiko, Squires; Charles, Thompson;Robert C., Vanderslice; Rebecca W., Vannice; JamesUSA assigned to Amgen

6143869

CD30 ligand oligomers and polypeptides

There is disclosed a polypeptide (CD30-L) and DNAsequences, vectors and transformed host cells useful inproviding CD30-L polypeptides. The CD30-L polypeptidebinds to the receptor known as CD30, which is expressed ona number of cell types, among which are Hodgkin’s Diseasetumor cells, large cell anaplastic lymphoma cells, adult T-cell leukemia (T-ALL) cells, and a number of other malig-nant cell types. CD30-L polypeptides find use as carriers fordelivering diagnostic and cytotoxic agents to cells express-ing the CD30 receptor.

Goodwin; Raymond G., Smith; Craig A., Armitage;Richard J., Gruss; Hans-Juergen USA assigned toImmunex Corporation

6143870

Thrombin receptor homolog

The present invention provides nucleotide and amino acidsequences that identify and encode a novel thrombin receptorhomolog (TRH) expressed in human liver. The presentinvention also provides for antisense molecules to the nucleo-tide sequences which encode TRH, diagnostic tests based onTRH encoding nucleic acid molecules, expression vectors forthe production of purified TRH, antibodies capable of bind-ing specifically to TRH, hybridization probes or oligonucleo-tides for the detection of TRH-encoding nucleotidesequences, genetically engineered host cells for the expres-sion of TRH, and antagonists, antibodies and inhibitors withspecific binding activity for the polypeptide TRH.

Coleman; Roger, Au-Young; Janice, Bandman; Olga,Seilhamer; Jeffrey J. USA assigned to Incyte Phar-maceuticals

6143875

Antibody to DNase involved in apoptosis

The present invention relates to novel DNases a, b and gcapable of selectively cleaving the linker sites of chromatin

DNA. The present invention also relates to novel DNase ginvolved in fragmentation of chromatin DNA in apoptosis.The present invention further relates to amino acid sequenceof DNase g, DNA encoding said enzyme, nucleotidesequence of said DNA, recombinant vector containing saidDNA, transformant containing said recombinant vector,production method of DNase g comprising culture of saidtransformant, and antibody having affinity for said DNase g,precursor thereof and the amino acid sequence of fragmentsthereof. The DNase g of the present invention takes part inthe control system of apoptosis, and effectively contributesto the development of medications for the prevention, treat-ment and diagnosis of apoptosis-inhibitory or promotivediseases such as cancer, autoimmune diseases and viralinfections. In addition, the DNases a and b of the presentinvention increase upon viral infection to cleave viral DNA,and are useful for the development of therapeutic agents forviral infections.

Tanuma; Sei-ichi Japan

6143878

Sox-9 gene and protein and use in the regeneration

of bone or cartilage

An isolated DNA molecule encoding a Sox-9 gene whichcodes for the Sox-9 polypeptide. The human Sox-9 gene hasbeen mapped to chromosome 17 in the same region asCMPD-1, the locus for Campomelic Dysplasia (CD). Sox-9appears to have a role in mammalian skeletal development,and is used in the treatment of diseases involving bond orcartilage deficiency.

Koopman; Peter Anthony, Goodfellow; Peter NevilleGreat Britain assigned to the University of Queens-land

6143961

Inbred corn plant RQAA8 and seeds thereof

According to the invention, there is provided inbred cornplant RQAA8. This invention thus relates to the plants,seeds and tissue cultures of the forementioned inbred cornplant and to methods for producing a corn plant producedby crossing one of the inbred plants with itself or withanother corn plant, such as another inbred. This inventionfurther relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossinginbred plant RQAA8 with another corn plant, such asanother inbred, and to crosses with related species. Thisinvention further relates to the inbred and hybrid geneticcomplements of the inbred corn plant RQAA8, and also tothe RFLP and genetic isozyme typing profiles of inbredcorn plant RQAA8.

Larkins; James R. USA assigned to Dekalb Genetics


6143962

Inbred maize line PH2KN

An inbred maize line, designated PH2KN, the plants andseeds of inbred maize line PH2KN, methods for producing amaize plant, either inbred or hybrid, produced by crossing theinbred maize line PH2KN with itself or with another maizeplant, and hybrid maize seeds and plants produced by cross-ing the inbred line PH2KN with another maize line or plantand to methods for producing a maize plant containing in itsgenetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenicmaize plants produced by that method. This invention alsorelates to inbred maize lines derived from inbred maize linePH2KN, to methods for producing other inbred maize linesderived from inbred maize line PH2KN and to the inbredmaize lines derived by the use of those methods.

Hoffbeck; Loren John USA assigned to Pioneer Hi-Bred International

6143963

Waxy wheat starch type having waxy proteins

in granule

Broadly, the present invention relates to mutating starchgenes in polyploid cereal grains. Specifically, this inventionconcerns mutant wheat plants, mutant wheat grain and thestarch therefrom.

Keeling; Peter L., Dunlap; Francie G., Chang; MingUSA assigned to ExSeed Genetics L.L.C.

Instrumentation, Assays and Equipment Design

6150113

Method for increasing specificity in

competitive immunoassays

The invention is an improved immunoassay and method fordetection of antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc).The improved assay comprises the addition of a reducingagent to decrease the number of false-positive reactions inthe assay.

Decker; Richard H., Weare; John A. USA assigned toAbbott Laboratories

6150120

Methods to assay a thrombopoietin signaling

defect in polycythemia vera platelets

Impaired TPO-mediated platelet protein tyrosine phosphor-ylation was consistently observed in patients with poly-cythemia vera (PV) as well as those with idiopathicmyelofibrosis (IMF), in contrast to patients with essentialthrombocytosis, chronic myelogenous leukemia, secondaryerythrocytosis, iron deficiency anemia, hemochromatosisor normal volunteers. Moreover, the platelet TPO receptor,Mpl, was not detectable by immunoblotting with an anti-body to the extracellular domain, by chemical crosslinkingof TPO to the surface of platelets, or by flow cytometryusing an antibody to the extracellular domain, in 34 of 34PV patients and also in 13 of 14 IMF patients. ImpairedTPO-induced protein tyrosine phosphorylation in PV andIMF platelets was uniformly associated with markedlyreduced or absent expression of the extracellular domainof Mpl. Thus, the reduced detectablility of Mpl by these

methods can be used a marker of PV and IMF. Theabnormality appears to distinguish PV from other forms oferythrocytosis and may be involved in the platelet functiondefect associated with PV.

Spivak; Jerry L. Moliterno; Alison USA assigned tothe Johns Hopkins University

6150121

Assessing immunological state of

transplant recipients

Disclosed herein are methods for monitoring the immuno-logical status of transplant recipients. Fibroblast cells derivedfrom transplanted organs are used in proliferation assayswith lymphocytes taken from the recipient after transplanta-tion. The comparison of assay results in the presence of, andin the absence of (or in the presence of reduced levels of) acytokine growth factor such as interleukin-2, is used todetermine whether the organ is being rejected. Also dis-closed are kits for practicing these methods.

Hamawy; Majed M., Knechtle; Stuart J. USAassigned to Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation

6150126

Daphnia reproductive bioassay for testing toxicity

of aqueous samples and presence of an

endocrine disrupter

The invention provides a Daphnia reproductive bioassay fordetecting and confirming the presence of a toxic substance


in an aqueous sample, and/or for screening the substance asan endocrine disrupter. According to the assay, a test sampleis brought into contact with adult, oviporous Daphnia of asingle clone under conditions of crowding and growthconditions to stimulate sexual reproduction and the produc-tion of males. The bioassay is based upon the measurementof endpoints that convey quantitative information about thebiological activity of the substance: survivorship, numbersof female offspring, numbers of male offspring, number ofresting eggs, number of offspring that display developmentaldeformities or behavioral abnormalities, and nutritionalstatus of the offspring. Also provided are kits for use inconducting the bioassay.

Dodson; Stanley I., Merritt; Christine M., Shurin;Jonathan B., Redman; Kristin Girvin USA assignedto Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation

6150131

Method for detecting antivirals that inhibit

acylation/palmitylation of hemagglutinin

The present invention relates to assays for the identificationof compounds that block palmitylation of influenza virusHA and inhibit virus assembly. In another aspect of theinvention, the compounds which inhibit virus assembly,infection and/or replication and which demonstrate a goodtherapeutic index may be used to treat influenza infection.

Palese; Peter USA

6150139

Bacterocide compositions and their preparation

from micrococcus varians

A bacteriocin having activity against bacteria includingListeria monocytogenes is obtained by culturing cells of astrain of Micrococcus varians, particularly cells of depositedstrains CNCM I-1586 and CNCM I-1587, to obtain culturedcells and a supernatant and by separating the supernatantfrom the cultured cells to obtain the supernatant whichcontains the bacteriocin which, in turn, may be isolatedfrom the supernatant.

Mollet; Beat, Peel; John, Pridmore; David, Rekhif;Nadji, Bruno; Suri Switzerland assigned to Nestec

6150158

Agricultural product microscreen method

and apparatus

Methods and apparatuses for screening compounds foragricultural activity have now been developed whichemploy, e.g., intact plants grown in microtiter plates on verysmall amounts of plant growth media containing a test

compound. In comparison to the standard greenhousescreen, the microscreen requires vastly less space, labor,and test compound. However, unlike in vitro screens,responses of intact plants are assayed. Using the micro-screen, high-throughput screening of test compounds can beaccomplished using whole plant responses as the assay.

Bhide; Arvind Krishna, Bush; Carol L., Frentzel, Jr.;Theodore William, Koeppe; Mary Kolean, Rosanio,Jr.; Louis G. USA assigned to E.I. du Pont deNemours and Company

6150159

Cell culture vessel

A cell culture vessel formed generally about an elongate axisand being provided with a neck and a removable closuremember, and at a distal end thereof an end closure portion;said vessel being adapted for tissue culture growth andformed of a sterilizable plastics material, wherein the inter-nal surface of the vessel is wettable for the attachment ofcells; said vessel being characterized in that its cross-sectionin a direction perpendicular to said elongate axis is non-cylindrical whereby it cannot rotate smoothly by rolling onits surface(s).

Fry; R.F. Luxembourg assigned to Cellon

6150164

Methods and compositions of a bioartificial kidney

suitable for use in vivo or ex vivo

A novel cell seeded hollow fiber bioreactor is described as apotential bioartificial kidney. Endothelial cells along withpericyte, vascular smooth muscle, and/or mesangial cells orany mesenchymally derived support cells are seeded along ahollow fiber in a perfused bioreactor to reproduce theultrafiltration function and transport function of the kidney.Maintenance of tissue-specific function and ultrastructuresuggests that this bioreactor provides an economical devicefor treating renal failure.

Humes; H. David USA assigned to The Regents ofthe University of Michigan

6150172

Method and kit for extracting prion protein

A method for extracting prion protein from a biologicalmaterial, e.g., an animal tissue or product. In a specificexample, abnormal prion protein is extracted from homo-genized sheep brain with hexafluoro-2-propanol. Thehexafluoro-2-propanol is separated from the aqueous brainpreparation by increasing the ionic strength of the aqueoussolution. Prion protein in the organic extract can be


further purified, or the extract can be tested, e.g., byimmunoassay, for the presence of prion protein, and moreparticularly, abnormal prion protein. The extraction proc-ess permits testing for the presence of abnormal priorprotein, e.g., for diagnosis of transmissible spongiformencephalopathies (TSE).

Schmerr; Mary Jo, Alpert; Andrew J. USA assignedto the United States of America as represented by theSecretary of Agriculture

6150180

High-throughput screening assay systems in

microscale fluidic devices

The present invention provides novel microfluidic devicesand methods that are useful for performing high-throughputscreening assays. In particular, the devices and methods ofthe invention are useful in screening large numbers ofdifferent compounds for their effects on a variety of chem-ical, and preferably, biochemical systems.

Parce; John Wallace, Kopf-Sill; Anne R., Bousse;Luc J. USA assigned to Caliper Technologies

6150500

Activators of endothelial nitric oxide synthase

The regulatory peptides for constitutive nitric oxide syn-thase enzymes, and a peptide specific to inducible nitricoxide synthase, as well as derivatives of the peptides,homologous peptides, nucleic acids encoding the peptides,derivatives, and homologous peptides, and antibodies to thepeptides, derivatives, and homologous peptides, are dis-closed. The peptides, derivatives, homologous peptides,antibodies, and nucleic acids, as well as peptidomimetics,can be used in methods of modulating the activity of nitricoxide synthase enzymes, and also in methods of treatingdiseases or conditions modulated by production of nitricoxide by nitric oxide synthases. Assays for identifyingagents that modulate the activity of the nitric oxide synthaseenzymes are also described.

Salerno; John C. USA

6150505

Fibrin microbeads prepared from fibrinogen,

thrombin and factor XIII

The present invention provides fibrin microbeads that arebiologically active and comprise extensively cross-linkedfibrin(ogen) without using glutaraldehyde, and a method forpreparing the fibrin microbeads. The present invention alsoprovides a composition comprising cells bound to the fibrinmicrobeads, and methods for culturing and separating cells

using the fibrin microbeads of the present invention. Finally,the present invention provides methods for transplantingcells and engineering tissue using the fibrin microbeads ofthe present invention.

Marx; Gerard, Gorodetsky; Raphael Israel assignedto Hadasit Medical Research Services and Devel-opment

6150508

Monoclonal antibodies specific for the

extracellular domain of prostate-specific

membrane antigen

The present invention relates to monoclonal antibodies thatbind to the extracellular domain of prostate-specific mem-brane antigen (PSMA), hybridoma cell lines producing theantibodies, and methods of using such antibodies for diag-nosis and treatment of cancer. In particular, 35 monoclonalantibodies reactive with PSMA expressed on the cell surfaceare exemplified. Additionally, the present invention relatesto a novel protein variant (PSM0) of PSMA detected by anumber of the antibodies of the invention. The hydrolaseactivity of PSMA and PSM0 allows the use of an immu-noenzymatic assay for their detection.

Murphy; Gerald P., Boynton; Alton L., Holmes; EricH., Tino; William Thomas USA assigned to North-west Biotherapeutics

6150517

Methods for making oligonucleotide probes for

the detection and/or quantitation of

nonviral organisms

A method for preparing probes, as well as several probes foruse in qualitative or quantitative hybridization assays, isdisclosed. The method comprises constructing an oligonu-cleotide that is sufficiently complementary to hybridize to aregion of rRNA selected to be unique to a nonviral organismor group of nonviral organisms sought to be detected, saidregion of rRNA being selected by comparing one or morevariable region rRNA sequences of said nonviral organismor group of nonviral organisms with one or more variableregion rRNA sequences from one or more nonviral organ-isms sought to be distinguished. Hybridization assay probesfor Mycobacterium avium, M. intracellulare, the M. tuber-culosis-complex bacteria,Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Legion-ella, Salmonella, Chlamydia trachomatis, Campylobacter,Proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus, Enterobacter cloacae,Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas group I, Neisseria gonor-rhoeae, bacteria, and fungi also are disclosed.

Hogan; James John, Smith; Richard Dana, Kop; JoAnn, McDonough; Sherrol Hoffa USA assigned toGen-Probe


6153147

Beverage analysis sample

The device includes a housing having a main body includingan analysis chamber with at least one chemical reagentcomposition contained therein and a vessel portion forreceiving and capturing a fluid specimen taken from abeverage. The device is structured to transfer the capturedfluid specimen from the vessel portion to the analysischamber wherein the chemical reagent composition, whenexposed to the fluid specimen, performs a visible presump-tive color assay to determine whether undesirable substan-ces, such as fulnitrazepam, sodium gamma hydroxybutyricacid or caffeine, are contained in the beverage. One or morewindows are provided on the housing for viewing the resultsof the visible presumptive color assay. The fluid specimenand one or more chemical reagent compositions remaincontained within the analysis chamber to prevent contami-nation of the beverage as well as tampering with thecaptured fluid specimen.

Craig; James J. USA

6153192

Peptides with a characteristic antigenic

determinant of A1-microglobulin

A peptide according to the present invention is not morethan 40 amino acids long and contains a sequence which isat least six amino acids long from the amino acid partialsequence between the amino acids 144 and 183 of humana1-microglobulin or/and a sequence which is at least sixamino acids long from the amino acid partial sequencebetween the amino acids 1 and 20 of human a1-micro-globulin. An antibody according to the present invention iscapable of specific binding to a peptide according to thepresent invention as well as to human a1-microglobulin. Inorder to determine human a1-microglobulin in a sampleliquid by an immunoassay, the sample liquid is brought intocontact simultaneously or sequentially with defined amountsof the components antibody and peptide whereby one of thecomponents is labelled and the determination is carried outby means of this label.

Kopetzki; Erhard, Klein; Christian, Mangold; Dieter,Stock; Werner, Schlipfenbacher; Reiner Germanyassigned to Boehringer Mannheim

6153195

Method of delivering drugs to cells specific for an

HL-60 lectin

Pharmaceutical compositions useful in the treatment ofautoimmune conditions include as an active ingredient asoluble lectin having a molecular weight of about 14 kDa ora fragment thereof. The lectin or fragment binds b-galacto-side-containing moieties independent of the presence or

absence of Ca + 2, stimulates hemagglutination of trypsinizedrabbit erythrocytes in standard lectin assays wherein thestimulation is inhibited by lactose or thiogalactoside, has anamino acid sequence containing at least one N-glycosylationsite and is at least 90% homologous to the amino acidsequence shown in positions 2-135 of Fig. 1 or the relevantportions thereof. The composition is used for treatment ofautoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, myas-thenia gravis, and multiple sclerosis, as well as modulatingthe immune response in allergic reactions or to organ ortissue transplant rejection. The inventive composition can becombined with general immunosuppressants. Drugs can bedelivered by coupling the lectin to a drug to form a lectin–drug complex and administering the lectin–drug complex toa subject.

Seilhammer; Jeffrey J., Nedwin; Glenn, Bringman;Tim, Couraud; Pierre-Olivier France assigned toIncyte Pharmaceuticals

6153374

Method for identifying inhibitors of soraphen A

resistant acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase

An assay to identify inhibitors of soraphen A resistantacetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase comprising measuring thereactivity of acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase in the pres-ence and in the absence of a compound suspected toinhibit soraphen A resistant acetyl-coenzyme A carboxy-lase reactivity, and comparing the reactivity measurementsto identify inhibitors of soraphen A resistant acetyl-coen-zyme A carboxylase.

Vahlensieck; Hans-Friedrich, Hinnen; Albert Ger-many assigned to Novartis Finance

6153376

Screening using Saccharomyces cerevisiae

mannosyltransferase encoding genes

The present invention relates to an antifungal in vitro and invivo screening assays for identifying compounds whichinhibit mannosyltransferases involved in protein O- and N-glycosylation. The antifungal screening assay for identifyinga compound, which inhibits mannosyltransferases involvedin protein O- and N-glycosylation, comprises the steps of:(a) subjecting proteins to a specific mannosyltransferaseprotein encoded by a Saccharomyces cerevisiae mannosyl-transferase encoding gene, wherein said gene is selectedfrom the group consisting of KRE2/MNT1, YUR1, KTR1,KTR2, KTR3, KTR4, KTR5, KTR6 and KTR7; (b) sub-jecting step (a) to a screened compound and determining theabsence or presence of protein O- and N-glycosylation,wherein the absence of protein O- and N-glycosylation isindicative of an antifungal compound. An in vitro methodfor the diagnosis of diseases caused by fungal infection in apatient is also disclosed.


Bussey; Howard, Lussier; Marc, Sdicu; Anne-MarieCanada assigned to McGill University

6153378

Diagnosis of, and vaccination against, a positive

stranded RNA virus using an isolated,

unprocessed polypeptide encoded

by a substantially complete

genome of such virus

The unprocessed polyprotein initially translated from thegenome of a positive-stranded RNA virus contains epitopicconfigurations that are not retained in the processed pro-teins. The structural protein region, in particular, loses anepitopic configuration upon processing at the cleavage sitebetween the genomic region encoding the core protein andthe genomic region encoding the protein adjacent to thecore protein, such as the envelope protein in HCV. Com-positions, methods and assays relating to the diagnosis anddetection of the presence of the positive-stranded RNAvirus, or antibodies to the positive-stranded RNA virus, ina sample. Compositions and methods for the induction ofimmune responses in, and vaccination of, an animal arediscussed. Combination of the unprocessed core regionwith a nonstructural protein (such as an NS5 or anunprocessed NS3–NS4 fusion from HCV) is discussed.

Liao; Jaw-Ching, Wang; Cheng-Nan Taiwan assignedto Bionova

6153381

Screening for antibiotics

Assays for the detection of b-lactamase induction can beused to identify compounds that kill bacteria (i.e., bacter-iocidal activity) or inhibit bacterial growth (i.e., bacterio-static activity). The b-lactamase can be encoded, forexample, by a b-lactamase gene carried by a bacterial host.The identified compounds can be used to treat bacterialinfections in organisms such as mammals. The new methodscan be used, for example, for high throughput screening oflibraries of potential inhibitors.

Rothstein; David M. USA assigned to MillenniumPharmaceuticals

6153382

Viral growth inhibition

A synthetic molecule comprises at least one oligonucleotidecomprising an RNA binding sequence or sequences corre-sponding to the site bound by the HIV protein rev and

capable of binding to rev within cells. The binding sequenceor sequences, by binding with rev within cells, can act tocause inhibition of growth of any HIV present in the cells,and so has potential therapeutic use in treatment of patientsinfected with HIV. The invention also provides an assay foridentifying that inhibit rev binding.

Karn; Jonathan, Gait; Michael John, Heaphy; Shaun,Dingwall; Colin Great Britain assigned to Ribotargets

6153384

High throughput screening assays for nucleic acid

ligase modulators

Screening assays for identifying ligase activity modulatorsare provided, in both solid phase and liquid phaseformats. Solid phase formats detect ligase activity byligating a labelled nucleic acid to a capture nucleic acidin the presence of the ligase modulator and detection ofthe labelled nucleic acid. Liquid phase assays detectligation-dependent changes in interactive labels betweennucleic acids such as proximity quenching of fluorescentlabels. Compositions, apparatus and integrated systems forassays are also provided.

Lynch; Anthony Simon, Sanadi; Ashok Ramesh,Sivaraja; Mohanram USA assigned to Tularik

6153394

Immunoassay for equine protozoal

myeloencephalitis in horses

An immunoassay for Sarcocystis neurona antibodies inequines is described. The immunoassay uses blocking ofSarcocystis antigens by antibodies to Sarcocystis sp. otherthan S. neurona in connection with the immunoassay.

Mansfield; Linda S., Murphy; Alice J., Rossano;Mary G. USA assigned to Board of Trustees operat-ing Michigan State University

6153405

Lantibiotic mutants and chimeras of enhanced

stability and activity, leader sequences thereof,

genes encoding the same, and methods of

producing and using the same

Nisin–subtilin mutant and chimeric prepeptides were con-structed and expressed in a Bacillus subtilis strain thatpossesses all of the cellular machinery for making subtilin,except for the presubtilin gene. The chimera SL–Nis1 – 11–Sub12 – 32 was prepared. The prepeptide has the subtilin


leader sequence (SL), the N-terminal portion of the struc-tural region was derived from nisin, and the C-terminalportion of the structural region was derived from subtilin.This chimera was accurately and efficiently converted tothe mature lantibiotic, as demonstrated by a variety ofphysical and biological activity assays. In contrast, a (SL–Sub1 – 11–Nis12 – 34) chimera was processed into a hetero-geneous mixture of products, none of which appeared to bethe correct chimeric lantibiotic. The mixture did, however,contain an active minor component with a biologicalactivity that exceeded nisin itself.

Hansen; J. Norman USA assigned to the Universityof Maryland

6153413

Method for processing bacterial cellulose

The purpose of the present invention is to provide aconvenient method for restoring the various properties ofBC even after it is once dried. The present inventionrelates to a method for processing a bacterial cellulosecomprising dehydrating and drying under tension thebacterial cellulose produced in an agitated culture followedby homogenization, and to a method for processing abacterial cellulose comprising dehydrating and drying thebacterial cellulose produced in an agitated culture undersuch conditions that a degree of planar orientation (h1/h2)(wherein h1 and h2 mean the height of a peak originatingin the crystallographic plane (110) and the crystallographicplane (110), respectively, in a diffraction curve obtainedwith X-ray diffractometry by a reflection method) will betwo or more, followed by homogenization. An excellentretention aid for fillers and sheet with a high strength maybe prepared by using the bacterial cellulose obtained by theabove methods.

Watanabe; Kunihiko, Shibata; Akira, Ougiya; Hir-oshi, Hioki; Nobuya, Morinaga; Yasushi Japanassigned to Bio-Polymer Research

6153421

Cloned genomes of infectious hepatitis C viruses

and uses thereof

The present invention discloses nucleic acid sequences,which encode infectious hepatitis C viruses and the use ofthese sequences, and polypeptides encoded by all or part ofthese sequences, in the development of vaccines and diag-nostics for HCV and in the development of screening assaysfor the identification of antiviral agents for HCV.

Yanagi; Masayuki, Bukh; Jens, Emerson; SuzanneU., Purcell; Robert H. USA assigned to the United

States of America as represented by the Secretary ofthe Department of Health and Human Services

6153429

Cell lines useful for in vitro assay for identification

of carcinogens

Disclosed test cells are useful for evaluating the carcinoge-nicity of a compound using a transformation assay. The testcell preferably is transfected with an oncogenic viralrecombinant nucleic acid molecule encoding a transformingprotein. Cell growth is scored to identify the presence orabsence of a transformation characteristic, such as formationof foci, loss of growth factor or serum requirements oranchorage independence. The development of such a trans-formation characteristic indicates that the compound beingtested is carcinogenic.

Kowalski; Linda A. Canada assigned to Vera Genics

6153440

Simultaneous measurement of free

triiodothyronine and free thyroxine by

equilibrium dialysis and immunoassay

The present invention provides methods for the simulta-neous measurement of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine(T4) in biological fluids such as serum by direct equilibriumdialysis and immunoassay. Specifically, the method com-prises dialyzing the serum sample to equilibrium in aphysiological buffer system so that the free T3 and the freeT4 are separated from T3 and T4 bound to serum proteins.The method further comprises combining a measured quan-tity of the dialyzed serum sample having free T3 and free T4

with reagents comprising a measured quantity of T3 labelledwith a detectable marker and a measured quantity of T4

labelled with a detectable marker; an anti-T3 antibody ofsufficient specificity and in sufficient quantity to bind ameasurable quantity of the free T3, and an anti-T4 antibodyof sufficient specificity and in sufficient quantity to bind ameasurable quantity of the free T4. The method thencomprises allowing reaction of the free T3 and the free T4

and the labelled T3 and the labelled T4, with the anti-T3

antibody and the anti-T4 antibody to proceed substantially toequilibrium to thereby produce antibody bound labelled T3

and antibody bound labelled T4. Finally, the method com-prises separating the unbound labelled T3 from the antibodybound labelled T3 and the unbound labelled T4 from theantibody bound labelled T4; and determining the levels ofT3 and T4 in the sample by comparing relative amounts ofantibody bound labelled T3 and T4 and unbound labelled T3

and T4. In one embodiment of this method, the assay isa radioimmunoassay.

Chopra; Inder J. USA assigned to The Regents of theUniversity of California


6153442

Reagents and methods for specific

binding assays

The present invention relates to compounds that are bis-biotins. These compounds comprise two biotinyl radicalsconnected by a chain of atoms, usually at least 16 atoms inlength. The bis-biotin is conjugated to a member of aspecific binding pair (‘‘sbp member’’) wherein the chain isnot part of the sbp member. Also disclosed are composi-tions comprising a complex of avidin and a bis-biotin asdescribed above. The compounds and compositions of theinvention find use in an assay for an analyte wherein thereis employed a reagent system comprising an avidin reagentand a biotin reagent. The improvement of the presentinvention comprises using as the biotin reagent a bis-biotinas described above. Also disclosed are kits comprising thepresent bis-biotins and methods of preparing a bis-biotiny-lated conjugate of a member of a specific binding pair(‘‘sbp member’’) for use in a specific binding assay.

Pirio; Marcel Rene, Davalian; Dariush, Ishkanian;Jacqueline Sadakan, Ullman; Edwin F. USA assignedto Dade Behring

6153732

Kit for detecting analyte indicative of type II

collagen resorption in vivo

Immunoassay test kit for detecting analyte indicative of typeII collagen resorption in vivo, including an immunologicalbinding partner which binds to an amino-terminal or car-boxy-terminal 3-hydroxypyridinium cross-linked telopep-tide of type II collagen isolatable from a urine sample of agrowing adolescent. Preferably the immunological bindingpartner does not cross-react more than 10% with the type Iand type III collagen telopeptides of formulas III, VI, VIII,X, IX, and XI.

Eyre; David R. USA assigned to WashingtonResearch Foundation

6153739

Polynucleotides encoding human uridine

diphosphate galactose-4-epimerase

A human UDP galactose-4-epimerase polypeptide and DNA(RNA) encoding such polypeptide and a procedure forproducing such polypeptide by recombinant techniques aredisclosed. Also disclosed are methods for utilizing suchpolypeptide for the treatment of galactosemia. Also dis-closed are diagnostic assays for the detection of mutations inthe nucleic acid sequencing encoding human UDP galac-tose-4-epimerase protein and for detecting an altered level ofhuman UDP galactose-4-epimerase protein in a samplederived from a host.

Ji; Hongjun, Rosen; Craig A. USA assigned toHuman Genome Sciences

6154706

Apparatus and method for kinetic analysis of the

intraoperative assay for parathyroid hormone

An apparatus for predicting a residual hormone concen-tration in a patient after a removal of a portion of thepatient’s glandular tissue, which secretes the hormone,includes an input device constructed to receive a pluralityof measured hormone concentrations corresponding to aplurality of human fluid samples taken from a patient at aplurality of sample times, respectively; and further includesa computer processor configured to iteratively calculate aresidual hormone concentration. In accordance with onefeature of the present invention, the computer processor isconfigured to generate data denoting a residual amount ofglandular tissue that will remain in the patient after theremoval of the portion of the patient’s glandular tissue; andthe apparatus further comprises an output device con-structed to output the generated data denoting the residualamount of glandular tissue. The computer processor isfurther configured to iteratively calculate a half-life valueof the hormone concentration in the patient.

Remaley; Alan T., Ruddel; Mark, Miller; Phillip C.USA

6160342

Resistor-incorporated spark plug and

manufacturing method of resistor-incorporated

spark plug

In a spark plug, the resistor composition constituting aresistor contains semiconductive ceramic particles, offeringa superior load life characteristic. Also, the value of(a2�a1)/a1�� 0.30, where a value of electric resistancebetween a terminal and a center electrode is a1 at 20�C anda2 at 150�C, so that deterioration of the radio frequency noiseprevention performance at high temperatures can be effec-tively suppressed. The resistor composition contains semi-conductive ceramic particles whose temperature coefficientof electric resistance shows a positive value, or a negativevalue of relatively small absolute value, (e.g., TiO2 particleshaving a rutile type crystalline structure, titanate or zirconateof alkali earth metal elements, titanium suboxide, etc.), ortitanium metal. Thus, the invention provides a resistor-incorporated spark plug, which is enabled to offer a stableload life characteristic even when a high load acts thereon,and which is unlikely to deteriorate in the radio frequencynoise prevention performance even under high temperatures.

Nishikawa; Kenichi, Tanaka; Yutaka, Honda; Toshi-taka, Sugimoto; Makoto Japan assigned to NGKSpark Plug


Enzymes and Enzyme Systems

6156553

Recombinant enzyme with dextranase activity

The present invention relates to a cloned DNA sequenceencoding an enzyme with dextranase activity, a recombinantexpression vector comprising said DNA sequence, a fila-mentous fungus host cell, a method for producing saidrecombinant dextranase, and the isolated and purifiedenzyme. The invention also relates to compositions com-prising the recombinant enzyme, oral care compositions andproducts and the use for removing of dental plaque.

Christensen; Tove, Fuglsang; Claus Crone, Halkier;Torben, Johansen; Charlotte Denmark assigned toNovo Nordisk

6156555

Method of preparing an enzyme participating in

C-terminal amidation

A purified enzyme-I is obtained that participates in C-terminal amidation by acting on a peptide C-terminalglycine adduct to form a peptide C-terminal a-hydroxy-glycine adduct. The enzyme has an optimum pH of about5 to 7, an optimum temperature of 25�C to 40�C and amolecular weight of about 25 or about 36 kDa, and metalions and ascorbic acid act as a cofactor. A purifiedenzyme-II is obtained that participates in C-terminalamidation by acting on the peptide C-terminal a-hydrox-yglycine adduct to produce a C-terminal amidated com-pound. The enzyme has an optimum pH of about 5 to 6,an optimum temperature of 15�C to 35�C and a molecularweight of about 40 or about 43 kDa. Enzyme-I does notact on the peptide C-terminal a-hydroxyglycine adductand enzyme-II does not act on the peptide C-terminalglycine adduct. The enzymes may be purified from abiological material such as horse serum by affinity chro-matography using a peptide C-terminal glycine adduct asa ligand. The enzymes may also be obtained from hostcells transformed with a plasmid containing a cDNAcoding for the enzymes. Assay of activity of the enzymesis carried out by measuring the C-terminal a-hydroxygly-cine adduct or the C-terminal amidated compound thathas been isolated by methods such as high performanceliquid chromatography with the use of an acetonitrile-containing buffer.

Iida; Toshii, Kaminuma; Toshihiko, Fuse; Yuka,Tajima; Masahiro, Yanagi; Mitsuo, Okamoto; Hir-oshi, Kishimoto; Jiro, Ifuku; Ohji, Kato; Ichiro Japanassigned to Shiseido

6159699

Enzyme linked chemiluminescent assay

A method is provided for determining in a medium thepresence or amount of an analyte which is capable ofbinding to a ligand partner to form a ligand complex,which method comprises: (a) contacting the medium witheither: (i) a ligand partner conjugated with an enzymebeing capable of catalysing a reaction, or one or morereactions in a cascade thereof, to produce hydrogen per-oxide, or (ii) a ligand partner and either a competinganalyte or an analog of said analyte, a competing analyteor analyte analog being capable of forming a ligandcomplex with the ligand partner and the competing analyteor analyte analog being conjugated with an enzyme capa-ble of catalysing a reaction, or one or more reactions in acascade thereof, to produce hydrogen peroxide; (b) option-ally separating complexed and uncomplexed enzyme con-jugates; (c) causing or allowing the reaction or cascade ofreactions to occur to produce hydrogen peroxide by con-tacting the complexed or uncomplexed enzyme conjugatewith a corresponding enzyme substrate; (d) contactinghydrogen peroxide with a substance capable of exhibitingchemiluminescence in the presence of hydrogen peroxideselected from the group consisting of acridinium com-pounds and analogs thereof having a conjugate base witha pKa less then 9 to generate a chemiluminescent reaction;and (e) detecting the occurrence of said chemiluminescentreaction to determine the presence or amount of theanalyte. Kits for use in connection with the method arealso disclosed.

Brown; Richard Charles, Weeks; Ian Great Britainassigned to Molecular Light Technology

6159706

Application of enzyme prodrugs as

anti-infective agents

The present invention provides a method for targeting toxicantimetabolites to gram-negative infections. It provides ameans of taking advantage of a key disease resistancemechanism to activate these drugs locally, and to overcomethe resistance phenotype of the microbes. The inventionfurther provides a method for selecting for antibiotic sensi-tivity, since a likely mechanism by which organisms arelikely to gain resistance to the prodrugs is via loss of enzymeactivity, which will make the bacteria sensitive to antibioticsonce again.

Shepard; H. Michael USA assigned to NewBiotics


6159718

Enzyme with polygalacturonase activity

An enzyme exhibiting polygalacturonase activity, whichenzyme is immunologically reactive with an antibody raisedagainst a purified polygalacturonase derived from Aspergil-lus aculeatus, CBS 101.43. The enzyme may be producedby recombinant DNA techniques and may be used fordegradation of plant cell walls, for instance, in the wineand juice production.

Dalboege; Henrik, Andersen; Lene Nonboe, Kofoed;Lene Venke, Kauppinen; Markus Sakari, Christgau;Stephan, Haldt-Hansen; Hans Peter, Halkier; TorbenDenmark assigned to Novo Nordisk

6159720

Enzyme endoglucanase and cellulase preparations

containing the same

A highly active cellulase suitable for use in a removal of napof cellulose-containing fibers, a process for reducing cellu-lose-containing fibers and a process for decoloring denim-dyed cellulose-containing fibers, and its gene are provided.A novel cellulase NCE4 isolated from Humicola insolens isa highly active cellulase, and can be used for varioustreatments of cellulose-containing fibers.

Murashima; Kouichirou, Moriya; Tatsuki, Hamaya;Toru, Koga; Jinichiro, Sumida; Naomi, Aoyagi;Kaoru, Murakami; Takeshi, Kono; Toshiaki Japanassigned to Meiji Seika Kaisha

6159746

Solid phase immunoassay to detect inhibitors of

proteolytic enzymes

Solid phase immunoassay for detecting specific inhibitors ofproteolytic enzymes in biological fluids, which comprises:(a) contacting a tubulin peptide covalently linked to asupport with a solution containing a proteolytic activitytogether with a protease inhibitor, (b) detecting the inhibitoractivity against the selected proteases by contacting thesupport with a solution containing a labelled monoclonalantibody, which specifically recognises the free end of thetubulin peptide linked to the support.

Islam; Khalid, Carrano; Lucia, Denaro; MaurizioItaly assigned to Gruppo Lepetit

6162635

Enzyme-producing strain of Bacillus bacteria

This invention presents a newly discovered, novel strain ofBacillus bacteria that produces lipase enzymes for thedegradation of oleaginous materials such as fats, greases

and cooking oils, protease enzymes to degrade proteins andamylases to break down starch. This novel strain and theenzymes produced thereby have a number of applications,including wastewater treatments, agricultural uses, laundryand dish detergents, drain cleaners and spot removers,among others.

Lawler; David, Smith; Steven USA assigned toRoebic Laboratories

6162783

Liquid detergents containing proteolytic enzyme

and protease inhibitors

Aqueous liquid detergent compositions are described whichcomprise a proteolytic enzyme wherein the proteolyticactivity is reversibly inhibited by a peptide protease inhibitorselected from the group consisting of aldehydes and tri-fluoromethyl ketones.

McIver; John McMillan, Huber; Alan Carl, McKillop;Kirsten Louise USA assigned to Procter and Gamble

6162790

Inhibitors of interleukin-1B converting enzyme

The present invention relates to novel classes of compoundswhich are inhibitors of interleukin-1b converting enzyme.This invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositionscomprising these compounds. The compounds and pharma-ceutical compositions of this invention are particularly wellsuited for inhibiting ICE activity and consequently, may beadvantageously used as agents against interleukin-1 andapoptosis-mediated diseases, including inflammatory dis-eases, autoimmune diseases, proliferative, infectious, anddegenerative diseases. This invention also relates to methodsfor inhibiting ICE activity and methods for treating inter-leukin-1-mediated diseases using the compounds and com-positions of this invention.

Bemis; Guy W., Duffy; John P., Fridman; WolfHerman, Golec; Julian M.C., Livingston; David J.,Mullican; Michael D., Murcko; Mark A., Zelle;Robert E. Great Britain assigned to Vertex Pharma-ceuticals

6162791

Thiadiazole compounds useful as inhibitors of

cysteine activity-dependent enzymes

Novel 1,2,4-thiadiazole compounds are provided, which areeffective as inhibitors of cysteine activity-dependentenzymes and, in particular, of cysteine proteases. The com-pounds are useful in treating acne by inhibition of trans-glutaminase, common cold by inhibition of humanrhinovirus 3C protease and inflammatory joint disease by


inhibition of cathepsins. The compounds of the presentinvention are 3,5-disubstituted 1,2,4-thiadazole of the gen-eral formula (I): [Figure] where Z is a nitrogen-containinggroup with recognition sequence for the enzyme and Y is asubstituent that tunes the reactivity of the inhibitor towardsthe thiol group of the cysteine activity-dependent enzyme.The Y group may also serve in recognition.

Karimian; Khashayar, Tam; Tim Fat, Leung-Toung;Regis C.S.H., Li; Wanren Canada assigned to Apotex

6162800

N-(pyrimidinyl)-aspartic acid analogs as

interleukin-1B converting enzyme inhibitors

Disclosed are compounds, compositions and methods forinhibiting interleukin-1b (IL-b) protease activity. The com-pounds, N-(pyrimidinyl)-aspartic acid a-substituted methylketones and aspartic acid aldehydes, have the formula (I)set out herein. These compounds are inhibitors of 1bconverting enzyme and as such, are useful whenever suchinhibition is desired. For example, they may be used asresearch tools in pharmacological, diagnostic and relatedstudies and in the treatment of diseases in mammals inwhich IL-b protease activity is implicated.

Dolle; Roland E., Prouty; Catherine P., Chaturvedula;Prasad V., Schmidt; Stanley J. USA assigned toVertex Pharmaceuticals

6165769

Pectin degrading enzymes from

Bacillus licheniformis

Pectin degrading enzymes derived from or endogeneous toBacillus licheniformis or other Bacillus species which are atleast 99% homologous to B. licheniformis based on aligned16S rDNA sequences have optimum activity at pH higherthan 8. The pectin degrading enzymes belongs to theenzyme classes pectate lyases (EC 4.2.2.2), pectin lyases(EC 4.2.2.10) and polygalacturonases (EC 3.2.1.15) and areuseful in industrial processes under alkaline conditions suchas in textile processing and as an active ingredient, e.g., inlaundry detergents and hard surface cleaning products.

Andersen; Lene Nonboe, Schulein; Martin, Lange;Niels Erik Krebs, Bjornvad; Mads Eskelund, Schnorr;Kirk Denmark assigned to Novo Nordisk

6165954

Enzyme compositions and methods for contact

lens cleaning

Enzyme compositions and methods employing enzyme com-positions are disclosed which are useful for cleaning contactlenses. In one embodiment, a composition in accordance with

the present invention comprises an enzyme component effec-tive when released in a liquidmedium to remove debris from acontact lens located in the liquid medium; and an activity-regulating component effective when released in the liquidmedium to deactivate the enzyme component located in theliquid medium. This composition is preferably structured sothat the enzyme component is released in the liquid mediumbefore the activity-regulating component is so released. Theperiod of time between the release of the enzyme componentand the activity-regulating component is sufficient to allowthe enzyme component to effectively remove debris fromcontact lens, which is introduced into the liquid mediumbefore or at the same time the enzyme component is releasedin the liquid medium.

Huth; Stanlev W. USA assigned to Allergan

6166190

Isolated nucleic acid molecule encoding

human skeletal muscle-specific

ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme

An isolated nucleic acid molecule encoding humanskeletal muscle-specific ubiquitin-conjugating enzymeand comprising a nucleotide sequence coding for theamino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:22 isdisclosed. The isolation of this molecule makes it possi-ble to detect its expression in various tissues, analyze itsstructure and function, and produce the human proteinsencoded by this molecule by the technology of geneticengineering. In this way, it is possible to analyze thecorresponding expression products, elucidate the pathol-ogy of diseases associated with the molecule, for exam-ple, hereditary diseases and cancer, and diagnose andtreat such diseases.

Fujiwara; Tsutomu, Watanabe; Takeshi Japanassigned to Otsuka Pharmaceutical

6166288

Method of producing transgenic animals for

xenotransplantation expressing both an enzyme

masking or reducing the level of the gal epitope

and a complement inhibitor

A method of xenotransplanting organs, tissues, cells or non-viable components, which reduces or prevents antibody-mediated rejections, including hyperacute rejection, is pro-videdwherein transgenic animals are produced that express atleast one enzyme which masks or reduces the level of theantigenic Gala(1,3)Gal or gal epitope, and at least onecomplement inhibitor such as CD59, DAF and/or MCP. Thetransgenic animals, which express both a gal epitope-reduc-ing enzyme and a complement inhibitor, will have masked orreduced levels of the gal epitope and will be much less likelyto produce an antibody-mediated rejection following trans-plantation, and the expression of the complement inhibitor


will also suppress complement activation and reduce evenfurther a severe immune reaction following the transplanta-tion of donor organs, tissue, cells or nonviable componentsfrom the transgenic animals so produced. In addition, trans-genic animals are provided which express a plurality ofcomplement inhibitors or other proteins from a locus of genesat a single integration site. The present invention is thusadvantageous in that it can provide xenogeneic organs,tissues, cells and nonviable components which can be trans-

planted safely and effectively into humans with a reduction orelimination of antibody-mediated rejection to an extent notpreviously possible, and which will significantly reduce theneed to obtain donor organs, tissues, cells or nonviablecomponents from human or primate donors.

Diamond; Lisa E., Logan; John S., Byrne; GeurardW., Sharma; Ajay USA assigned to Nextran

Healthcare Products and Medicine

6153188

Glycosylation variants of iduronate 2-sulfatase

The present invention provides a highly glycosylatediduronate-2-sulfatase enzyme comprising an iduronate-2-sulfatase polypeptide with at least 5 kDa more sugar thaniduronate-2-sulfatase purified from a natural source, e.g.,human liver. The present invention also provides anenzymatically active polypeptide fragment or variant ofsuch a highly glycosylated iduronate-2-sulfatase. Thepresent invention further provides an isolated nucleic acidencoding iduronate-2-sulfatase, as well as an expressionvector, a host cell and a method for producing the presenthighly glycosylated iduronate-2-sulfatase enzyme. In oneembodiment, the present invention is directed to a methodfor producing a glycosylated iduronate-2-sulfatase enzymewhich comprises culturing a host cell containing a nucleicacid encoding an enzymatically active iduronate-2-sulfa-tase polypeptide wherein the host cell glycosylates thepolypeptide to a greater degree than a native iduronate-2-sulfatase polypeptide expressed by a natural humanliver cell.

Wilson; Peter J., Morris; Charles Phillip, Anson; Don-ald Stewart, Occhiodoro; Teresa, Bielicki; Julie, Clem-ents; Peter Roy, Hopwood; John Joseph Australiaassigned to Women’s and Children’s Hospital

6153194

Borrelia burgdorferi outer membrane proteins

The present invention presents three Borrelia burgdorferimembrane proteins: Oms28, Oms45, and Oms66, each ofabout 28, 45, and 66 kDa, respectively; and with averagesingle channel conductances of about 0.6, 0.22, and 9.7 nS,respectively. Also disclosed are the methods for purifyingthese proteins from B. burgdorferi, methods for producingantibodies to these proteins, and the resulting antibodies.These proteins and their immunogenic fragments, and anti-bodies capable of binding to them are useful for inducing animmune response to pathogenic B. burgdorferi as well asproviding a diagnostic target for Lyme disease. Further

disclosed are the nucleotide and amino acid sequences, thecloning of the genes encoding the proteins and theirrecombinant proteins, and methods for obtaining the fore-going. Other B. burgdorferi outer membrane spanningproteins (Oms) are obtainable by the isolation and purifica-tion methods of the present invention.

Skare; Jonathan T., Shang; Ellen S., Champion;Cheryl I., Blanco; David R., Miller; James N., Lovett;Michael A., Mirzabekov; Tajib A., Kagan; Bruce L.,Tempst; Paul, Foley; Denise M. USA assigned to TheRegents of the University of California

6153199

Avian recombinant live vaccine using, as vector,

the avian infectious laryngotracheitis virus

The living recombinant avian vaccine comprises, as a vector,an ILTV virus comprising and expressing at least oneheterologous nucleotide sequence, this nucleotide sequencebeing inserted in the insertion locus defined between thenucleotides 1624 and 3606 at the SEQ ID NO: 5. Thevaccine may, in particular, comprise a sequence coding foran antigen of an avian pathogenic agent selected among thegroup consisting of the Newcastle disease virus (NDV), theinfections bursal virus (IBDV), the Marek disease virus(MDV), the infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), the chickenanaemia virus (CAV), thee chicken pneumovirosis virus,preferably under the control of a strong eukaryotic promoter.A multivalent vaccine formula is also disclosed.

Audonnet; Jean-Christophe, Bublot; Michel, Riviere;Michel France assigned to Merial

6153201

Oral immunization with papillomavirus

virus-like particles

The present invention is directed to a method of expressingthe papillomavirus capsid protein coding sequence in a cellusing an expression system under conditions facilitating


expression of the protein in the cell. In another aspect of theinvention, it has been discovered that virus-like particle(s)(VLPs), fragment(s), capsomer(s) or portion(s) thereof areformed from the papillomavirus capsid protein. It wasfurther discovered that the virus-like particle(s) comprisesantigenic characteristics similar to those of native infectiouspapillomavirus particles. In one embodiment of the inven-tion, there is provided a method of expressing the L1 majorcapsid protein of human papillomavirus type-6 (HPV-6) andtype-11 (HPV-11) in Sf-9 insect cells using the baculovirusexpression system, and the production of type 6 (HPV-6),type-11 (HPV-11), type-16 (HPV-16) and type-18 (HPV-18)virus-like particles. In yet another embodiment, the inven-tion provides a method of vaccinating a mammal forpapillomavirus by administering papillomavirus virus-likeparticles orally to a mammal in an amount sufficient toinduce an immune response to the papillomavirus.

Rose; Robert C., Williamson; Anna-Lise, Rybicki;Edward P. SOUTH AFRICA assigned to Universityof Rochester, University of Cape Town

6153407

Erythropoietin DNA having modified 50 and 30

sequences and its use to prepare EPO therapeutics

Provided are nucleic acids encoding erythropoietin (EPO)proteins and having modifications in the 50 and 30 noncodingsequences relative to the corresponding sequences in nativeEPO DNA. The invention also relates to the use of suchnucleic acids to produce EPO proteins, which may havealtered activity as compared to EPO proteins expressed fromnucleic acids having native 50 and 30 sequences.

Sytkowski; Arthur J., Grodberg; Jennifer USAassigned to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

6153408

Altered major histocompatibility complex (MHC)

determinant and methods of using

the determinant

An altered MHC class I determinant comprises a1, a2, a3,b2-microglobulin (b2 M) polypeptide domains encoded by amammalian MHC Class I locus in which the a3 domain iscovalently linked to the b2 M domain. An altered MHCClass II determinant comprises a1, a2, b1, and b2 polypep-tide domains encoded by a mammalian MHC Class II locus,in which the domains are covalently linked to form apolypeptide comprising the b2 –a2 –a1 – b1 domains insequence. The altered MHC Class I and Class II determi-nants can be associated with an antigen to elicit an immuneresponse. The invention can be used in the immunization ortreatment of diseases such as AIDS, multiple sclerosis, lupuserythematosus, toxic shock or snake bite.

Abastado; Jean-Pierre, Mottez; Estelle, Kourilsky;Philippe, Casrouge; Armanda, Ojcius; David, Lone;

Yu-ChunFrance assigned to Institut Pasteur and InstitutNational de la Sante et de la Recherche Medicale

6153418

Consensus phytases

A process for obtaining a consensus protein from a group ofamino acid sequences of a defined protein family, proteinsand polynucleotides so obtained, and compositions contain-ing such proteins.

Lehmann; Martin Germany assigned to Roche Vita-mins

6153421

Cloned genomes of infectious hepatitis C viruses

and uses thereof

The present invention discloses nucleic acid sequenceswhich encode infectious hepatitis C viruses and the use ofthese sequences, and polypeptides encoded by all or part ofthese sequences, in the development of vaccines and diag-nostics for HCV and in the development of screening assaysfor the identification of antiviral agents for HCV.

Yanagi; Masayuki, Bukh; Jens, Emerson; SuzanneU., Purcell; Robert H. USA assigned to the UnitedStates of America as represented by the Secretary ofthe Department of Health and Human Services

6153580

Analog of Haemophilus Hin47 with reduced

protease activity

An isolated and purified analog of Haemophilus influen-zae Hin47 protein has a decreased protease activity whichis less than about 10% of that of natural Hin47 proteinand preferably substantially the same immunogenic prop-erties as natural Hin47 protein. An isolated and purifiednucleic acid molecule encoding the Hin47 analog may beprovided in a recombinant plasmid which may be intro-duced into a cell which is grown to produce the Hin47analog. Immunogenic compositions comprising the Hin47analog and the encoding nucleic acid may be formulatedas vaccines for in vivo administration to a host, includinga human, to confer protection against diseases caused by abacterial pathogen, including Haemophilus species, suchas H. influenzae, which produces Hin47 protein or aprotein capable of inducing antibodies in the host specif-ically reactive with Hin47 protein. The Hin47 analog andthe encoding nucleic acid also may be employed indiagnostic applications.

Loosmore; Sheena M., Yang; Yan-Ping, Chong; Pele,Oomen; Raymond P., Klein; Michel H. Canada


6153583

OP-3 induced morphogenesis

Disclosed are (1) nucleic acid and amino acid sequences fora novel morphogenic protein; (2) methods for producing andexpressing the protein in a biologically active form; and (3)methods for utilizing the protein to induce tissue morpho-genesis in a mammal, including methods for increasing aprogenitor cell population in a mammal, methods for stim-ulating progenitor cells to differentiate and maintain theirdifferentiated phenotype in vivo or in vitro, methods forinducing tissue-specific growth in vivo and methods for thereplacement of diseased or damaged tissue in vivo.

Oppermann; Hermann, Ozkaynak; Engin, Kubera-sampath; Thangavel, Rueger; David C., Pang; RoyH.L., Cohen; Charles M. USA assigned to Stryker

6153584

Therapeutic uses of BPI protein products in

BPI-deficient humans

New therapeutic uses for BPI protein products that involvetreatment of subjects with a BPI deficiency condition,including selective BPI deficiency, and newborns, particu-larly BPI-deficient newborns.

Levy; Ofer USA

6156306

Pancreatic B-cells for allogeneic transplantation

without immunosuppression

The invention provides cells which express a gene or genes,derived from the adenovirus E3 region, which block allog-raft rejection. One class of genes blocks the intracellulartransport and/or intracellular maturation within the cells ofproteins called MHC Class I products. Without limitation asto theory, it is believed that blocking the appearance of thisclass of proteins on the transplanted cell’s surface preventsthe host’s immune system from rejecting the graft. Anotherclass of proteins acts to permit TNF a-mediated cellcytolysis. In one embodiment, the invention is directedtowards engrafting the cells that secrete insulin, which arecalled alternatively, pancreatic b-cells and islet cells, andthereby provide a treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Brownlee; Michael, Horwitz; Marshall S., Federoff;Howard J., Efrat; Shimon USA assigned to AlbertEinstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University

6156307

Immortalization of dendritic cells with

v-myc oncogene

The present invention refers to immortalized dendritic cells,to a process for their production from primary cultures and

to their use for the activation, in vivo or in vitro, of Tlymphocytes in an antigen-specific way.

Granucci; Francesca Italy assigned to Biotop s.a.s. diRita Cassarin

6156310

Topoisomerase III

Topoisomerase III polypeptides and DNA and RNA encod-ing such Topoisomerase III polypeptides and a procedurefor producing such polypeptides by recombinant techniquesare disclosed. Also disclosed are methods for utilizing suchTopoisomerase III for the treatment of infection, particu-larly bacterial infections. Antagonists against such Top-oisomerase III and their use as a therapeutic to treatinfections, particularly bacterial infections, are also dis-closed. Also disclosed are diagnostic assays for detectingdiseases related to the presence of Topoisomerase IIInucleic acid sequences and the polypeptides in a host.Also disclosed are diagnostic assays for detecting poly-nucleotides encoding Staphylococcal Topoisomerase IIIand for detecting the polypeptide in a host.

Gwynn; Michael N., Kallendar; Howard, Palmer;Leslie M. USA assigned to SmithKline Beecham

6156311

Modulators of expression and function of LRP in

Alzheimer’s disease

The present invention broadly relates to the treatment,diagnosis, and prophylactic prevention of Alzheimer’sdisease. More specifically, the present invention relatesto methods and compositions for preventing the endocy-tosis and cellular internalization of integral membraneamyloid b-precursor protein (APP) and its subsequentcatabolism by blocking or interfering with the associationor binding of APP with members of the low-densitylipoprotein receptor family.

Strickland; Dudley K., Hyman; Bradley T., Kounnas;Maria Z., Moir; Robert D., Tanzi; Rudolph E. USAassigned to the American National Red Cross, Gen-eral Hospital

6156316

Oncogene fusion protein peptide vaccines

Fusion-point spanning peptides, for example, BCR–ABLfusion breakpoint peptides associated with chronic myelog-enous leukemia (CML), bind major histocompatibility com-plex molecules, such as HLA Class I molecules, and inducecytotoxic T cell proliferation. The breakpoint peptides canbe used as vaccines.


Scheinberg; David A., Sette; Alessandro, Bocchia;Monica USA assigned to Sloan-Kettering Institute forCancer Research, Cytel

6156317

Immunoreactive peptide CTL epitopes of

human cytomegalovirus

The invention provides a plurality of peptides (andimmunologically functional variants thereof) which areimmunogenic epitopes recognized by CD8 + Class IMHC restricted cytotoxic T-lymphocytes of patients har-boring latent cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection. Thepeptides are capable of activating CTLs and CTLp’s inthe absence of active viral replication, and thus are usefulfor eliciting a cellular immune response against HCMVby normal and immunodeficient subjects. Polypeptide andlipopeptide vaccines, with and without adjuvants, areALSO disclosed.

Diamond; Don Jeffrey, York; Joanne USA assignedto City of Hope

6156322

Polynucleotides and polypeptides in pathogenic

mycobacteria and their use as diagnostics,

vaccines and targets for chemotherapy

The invention provides a nucleotide sequence representing apathogenicity island found in species of pathogenic myco-bacteria. The islands are shown as SEQ ID NOs: 3 and 4 andcomprise several open reading frames encoding polypepti-des. These polypeptides and their use in diagnosis andtherapy form a further aspect of the invention.

Hermon-Taylor; John, Doran; Tim, Millar; Douglas,Tizard; Mark, Loughlin; Mark, Sumar; Nazira, Ford;John Great Britain assigned to St. George’s HospitalMedical School

6156567

Truncated transcriptionally active

cytomegalovirus promoters

Recombinant adenoviruses, methods of making them, usesfor them, including in immunological, immunogenic, vac-cine or therapeutic compositions, or, as a vector for cloning,replicating or expressing DNA and methods of using thecompositions and vector, expression products from them,and uses for the expression products, are provided. Moreparticularly, recombinant canine adenoviruses (CAV) andmethods of making them, uses for them, expression productsfrom them, and uses for the expression products, includingrecombinant CAV2 viruses, are provided. Additionally,

truncated promoters, expression cassettes containing thepromoters, and recombinant viruses and plasmids containingthe promoters or expression cassettes are provided.

Fischer; Laurent USA assigned to Merial

6156749

Use of NK-1 receptor antagonists for treating

movement disorders

The present invention provides the use of an orally active,long-acting, CNS-penetrant NK-1 antagonist for the manu-facture of a medicament for oral administration for thetreatment or prevention of movement disorders, methodsof treatment using such an NK-1 receptor antagonist andpharmaceutical compositions comprising it.

Rupniak; Nadia Melanie Great Britain assigned toMerck Sharp and Dohme

6156877

Compounds for diagnosis and/or therapy

of tumours

Compounds are provided for use in the diagnosis and/ortherapy of tumors and/or as immunosuppressive agent. Thecompounds are antibodies, which bind to IL-4 receptors andIL-4 receptor-binding fragments thereof. A preferred com-pound is monoclonal antibody MR-6 produced by thehybridoma deposited at the European Collection of AnimalCell Cultures with the accession number 88033002. Theinvention also extends to the use of the compounds for invitro removal of graft vs. host reactive T-lymphocytes priorto bone marrow transplantation and to a novel protein ofmolecular weight 200,000 daltons functioning as a receptorfor IL-4.

Ritter; Mary Alice, Larche; Mark Great Britainassigned to Royal Postgraduate Medical School ofHammersmith Hospital

6159447

Compositions for controlling

bacterial colonization

A composition for controlling bacterial growth/colonizationis provided. The composition comprises a selected enzyme,a selected anchor molecule coupled to the enzyme to forman enzyme–anchor complex, with the anchor being capableof attaching to a substrate proximal to a bacterial colony.The attachment to the substrate permits prolonged retentiontime of the enzyme–anchor complex where the bacterialcolony is present to increase the effectiveness of the com-plex. The invention is also for a method of controllingcolonization of bacterial plaque in the oral cavity, as well


as a method of forming a composition for controlling theproliferation of bacterial colonies in the oral cavity.

Budny; John A., Budny; Matthew J. USA assigned toPharmaCal Biotechnologies LLC

6159464

Viral vectors to inhibit leukocyte infiltration or

cartilage degradation of joints

Methods for treating a connective tissue disorder by intro-ducing at least one gene encoding a product into at least onetarget cell of a mammalian host for use in treating themammalian host are disclosed. These methods includeemploying recombinant techniques to produce a vectormolecule containing the DNA sequence encoding for theproduct and infecting the target cell of the mammalian hostusing the vector. The injection can be done in vivo, bydirectly injecting the vector into the host, or can be done invitro by transfecting a population of cultured target cellswith the vector and transplanting them each into the host.Nonviral means can also be used to introduce the DNAsequence to the host. Administration of more than one geneof interest results in an enhanced therapeutic benefit. Alsodisclosed is a method for treating a connective tissuedisorder by introducing at least one gene encoding a productinto at least one target cell of a joint of a host for use intreating multiple joints of the host. Injection of a vectormolecule containing the DNA sequence encoding for aproduct of interest, or nonviral introduction of such aDNA sequence, to one joint of a mammalian host resultsin a therapeutic benefit in that joint as well as other joints inthe host.

Glorioso; Joseph C., Evans; Christopher H., Robbins;Paul D., Ghivizzani; Steven C. USA assigned toUniversity of Pittsburgh of the Commonwealth Sys-tem of Higher Education

6159470

Vaccination and methods against diseases

resulting from pathogenic responses by specific

T cell populations

The present invention provides vaccines and a means ofvaccinating a mammal so as to prevent or control specific Tcell mediated pathologies or to treat the unregulated repli-cation of T cells. The vaccine is composed of a T cellreceptor (TCR) or a fragment thereof corresponding to aTCR present on the surface of T cells mediating thepathology. The vaccine fragment can be a peptide corre-sponding to sequences of TCRs characteristic of the T cellsmediating said pathology. Means of determining appropriateamino acid sequences for such vaccines are also provided.The vaccine is administered to the mammal in a manner thatinduces an immune response directed against the TCR of Tcells mediating the pathology. This immune response down-

regulates or deletes the pathogenic T cells, thus ablating thedisease pathogenesis. The invention additionally provides aspecific b-chain variable region of the T cell receptor,designated Vb17, which is central to the pathogenesis ofrheumatoid arthritis (RA). Also provided are means todetect, prevent and treat RA.

Howell;MarkD., Brostoff; StevenW., Carlo; Dennis J.USA assigned to The Immune Response Corporation

6159712

Methods for enhancing the production of

interferon in cell culture

Methods for enhancing the production of interferons inanimal cell culture are described. These methods rely onthe manipulation of the cellular levels of certain inducers ofinterferon production, in particular, cellular levels of double-stranded RNA-dependent kinase (dsRNA-PKR, or PKR). Incell cultures that overproduce PKR, interferon synthesis isinduced to high levels, and significant amounts of interferoncan be recovered without conventional induction of inter-feron by virus.

Lau; Allan S. USA assigned to The Regents of theUniversity of California

6159714

Catalytic DNA

Nucleic acid able to cause specific cleavage of a bondbetween two ribonucleotides in an RNA-containing mole-cule. The RNA-containing molecule has the structure:wherein each X and Y is independently any nucleotide base;n and m are independently between 5 and 40; H is U, A orC; Z is a hairpin loop, having between 6 and 60 bases, andeach U, C, G and A is a uracil-, cytosine-, guanosine-, oradenosine-containing ribonucleotide, respectively, and N isany ribonucleotide. The nucleic acid has the structure:wherein each X0 and Y0 are complementary nucleotide basesto each corresponding X and Y, and Mo is a series ofnucleotide bases active to cause the cleavage, and whereinMo contains no ribonucleotides.

Usman; Nassim, Cedergren; Robert J., Chartrand;Pascal, Harvey; Stephen C. Canada assigned toRibozyme Pharmacueticals

6159716

Human protein kinase HOACF72

hYAK1 polypeptides and polynucleotides and methods forproducing such polypeptides by recombinant techniquesare disclosed. Also disclosed are methods for utilizing


hYAK1 polypeptides and polynucleotides in the design ofprotocols for the treatment of bone loss including osteo-porosis; inflammatory diseases such as adult respiratorydisease syndrome (ARDS), rheumatoid arthritis, osteoar-thritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), psoriasis, der-matitis, asthma, allergies; infections such as bacterial,fungal, protozoan and viral infections, particularly infec-tions caused by HIV-1 or HIV-2; HIV-associated cachexiaand other immunodeficiency disorders; septic shock; pain;injury; cancers; anorexia; bulimia; Parkinson’s disease;cardiovascular disease including restenosis, atherosclerosis,acute heart failure, myocardial infarction; hypotension;hypertension; urinary retention; angina pectoris; ulcers;benign prostatic hypertrophy; and psychotic and neuro-logical disorders, including anxiety, schizophrenia, manicdepression, delirium, dementia, severe mental retardationand dyskinesias, such as Huntington’s disease or Gillesdela Tourett’s syndrome, among others, and diagnosticassays for such conditions.

Creasy; Caretha L., Livi; George P., Dunnington;Damien J., Shabon; Usman USA assigned to SmithK-line Beecham

6159949

ftsY of Staphyloccus aureus

The invention provides ftsY polypeptides and polynucleo-tides encoding ftsY polypeptides and methods for producingsuch polypeptides by recombinant techniques. Also pro-vided are methods for utilizing ftsY polypeptides to screenfor antibacterial compounds.

Black; Michael Terence, Jaworski; Deborah Dee,Kosmatka; Anna Lisa, Traini; Christopher Michael,Warren; Richard, Wang; Min USA assigned toSmithKline Beecham

6160088

KDEL receptor inhibitors

The present invention relates to inhibitors of the KDELreceptor and therapeutic uses therefor. Certain proteins arefunctionally retained in the cellular endoplasmic reticulumvia an interaction between a KDEL sequence and itsreceptor. According to the invention, blocking this interac-tion with a KDEL receptor inhibitor promotes the secretionof such proteins. In specific embodiments of the invention,KDEL receptor inhibitors may be used to promote thesecretion of heat shock proteins, thereby rendering thesecreted heat shock proteins more accessible to the immunesystem and improving the immune response to heat shockprotein-associated antigens.

Rothman; James E., Mayhew; Mark, Hoe; Mee H.USA assigned to Sloan-Kettering Institute For Cancer

6160093

Compounds and methods for treatment and

diagnosis of mycobacterial infections

The present invention provides polypeptides comprising animmunogenic portion of a M. vaccae protein and DNAmolecules encoding such polypeptides, together with meth-ods for their use in the diagnosis and treatment of mycobac-terial infection. Methods for enhancing the immune responseto an antigen including administration of M. vaccae culturefiltrate, delipidatedM. vaccae cells or delipidated and degly-colipidated M. vaccae cells are also provided.

Visser; Elizabeth New Zealand assigned to GenesisResearch and Development

6160094

aroA

The invention provides aroA polypeptides and DNA (RNA)encoding aroA polypeptides and methods for producingsuch polypeptides by recombinant techniques. Also pro-vided are methods for utilizing aroA polypeptides to screenfor antibacterial compounds.

Brown; James Raymond, Chalker; Alison Frances,Payne; David John, Shilling; Lisa Kathleen, Traini;Christopher Michael USA assigned to SmithKlineBeecham

6160107

Nucleic acids encoding antigens associated with

polymyositis and dermatomositis

Proteins including at least one epitope of the Mi-2 antigen,which are used for the diagnosis of dermatomyositis, andproteins including at least one epitope of the PM-Scl antigen,which are used for the diagnosis of polymyositis, particularlypolymyositis –scleroderma overlap disorders, are provided inan easily purified form for use in immunoassays and purifi-cation of the associated autoantigens. DNAs that encodethese proteins and that may also be used in diagnostic assaysor as probes to obtain related DNA are also provided.

Targoff; Ira N., Ge; Qun USA assigned to OklahomaMedical Research Foundation, Board of Regents ofthe University of Oklahoma

6162427

Combination of G-CSF with a chemotherapeutic

agent for stem cell mobilization

The invention relates to the use of G-CSF in combinationwith a chemotherapeutic agent (in particular, cyclophospha-


mide) to produce a pharmaceutical preparation for boostingthe mobilization of hematopoietic stem cells from bonemarrow in the treatment of diseases requiring peripheralstem cell transplantation. The claimed combination results inmore efficient leukapheresis, e.g., before myeloblative ormyelotoxic therapy.

Baumann; Matthias, Ochlich; Peter-Paul Germanyassigned to Roche Diagnostics

6162433

Nonantibiotic selectable markers for

live vaccines

The invention relates to DNA constructs encoding a safe,selectable marker, other than an antibiotic resistancemarker, vectors and/or cells including said constructs;and vaccines based on said constructs for use in animalsand particularly humans. The safe, selectable markerbeing a marker that confers resistance to an agent, otherthan an antibiotic, which would otherwise deleteriouslyaffect the growth of a cell in which said constructwas placed.

Khan; Mohammed Anjam, McNeill; Hesta Varey,Hoemaeche; Carlos Estenio Great Britain assignedto Medeva Europe

6162439

Human immunodeficiency virus type 2

polypeptides and methods of

producing them

This invention is directed toward polypeptides derived fromnovel lentiviruses. A novel lentivirus, designated the humanimmunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV-2), was isolated fromWest African patients with acquired immune deficiencysyndrome (AIDS). Several isolates were obtained and des-ignated HIV-2ROD, HIV-2IRMO, and HIV-2EHO. A recombi-nant lambda phage library was constructed from HIV-2ROD-infected CEM genomic DNA. Overlapping molecular cloneswere obtained and the nucleotide sequence of the complete9.5-kilobase (kb) HIV-2ROD genome ascertained. Thegenetic organization of HIV-2 is analogous to that of otherretroviruses and consists of the 50LTR-gag-pol-centralregion-env-nef-30LTR. The central region also encodes forthe regulatory proteins Tat and Rev, as well as the ancillaryproteins Vif, Vpr, and Vpx. The proteins encoded by thisproviral clone will provide novel immunologic, biochemic,and diagnostic reagents useful for the detection of HIV-2.

Alizon; Marc, Montagnier; Luc, Guetard; Denise,Clavel; Francois, Sonigo; Pierre, Guyader; MireilleFrance assigned to Institut Pasteur

6162600

Indications for the use as medicaments of

multipotent parapox immunity inducers from

attenuated, nonimmunogenic pox viruses or

parapox viruses

The use is disclosed of multipotent parapox immunityinducers from attenuated, nonimmunogenic pox or parapoxviruses (pox inducers) to produce medicaments with newindication ranges in human medicine.

Mayr; Anton Germany

6162620

Processes for the production of HCMV

glycoproteins, antibodies thereto and HCMV

vaccines, and recombinant vectors therefor

HCMV glycoproteins B and H have been identified. The gBprotein is encoded by DNA in the HindIII F fragment of theHCMV genome lying between 1378 and 4095 bases fromthe F/D boundary. The gH protein is encoded by DNA inthe HindIII L fragment lying between 228 and 2456 basesfrom the L/D boundary. The genes have been incorporatedin recombinant vaccinia vectors and expressed in hostanimals to raise HCMV-neutralising antibody, thereby indi-cating vaccine potential. The glycoproteins can also be usedin a variety of different ways, as vaccines or in theproduction, purification or detection of HCMV antibody.

Smith; Geoffrey Lilley, Cranage; Martin Patrick,Barrell; Barclay George Great Britain assigned toCogent

6162638

Attenuated strains of Leishmania and uses thereof

Attenuated strains of Leishmania are provided in which atleast one gene contributing to virulence of the strain andexpressed in both the promastigote and amastigote forms ofthe strain is functionally disabled, such as, by deleting atleast a portion of the gene or by mutagenesis of the gene.The attenuated strain may be used for administration to ahost to confer protection against disease caused by a virulentLeishmania strain or as a diagnostic reagent.

Papadopoulou; Barbara, Ouellette; Marc, Olivier;Martin Canada assigned to Universite Laval

6162897

17q-Linked breast and ovarian cancer

susceptibility gene

The present invention relates generally to the field of humangenetics. Specifically, the present invention relates to meth-


ods and materials used to isolate and detect a human breastand ovarian cancer predisposing gene (BRCA1), somemutant alleles of which cause susceptibility to cancer, inparticular, breast and ovarian cancer. More specifically, theinvention relates to germline mutations in the BRCA1 geneand their use in the diagnosis of predisposition to breast andovarian cancer. The present invention further relates tosomatic mutations in the BRCA1 gene in human breastand ovarian cancer and their use in the diagnosis andprognosis of human breast and ovarian cancer. Additionally,the invention relates to somatic mutations in the BRCA1gene in other human cancers and their use in the diagnosisand prognosis of human cancers. The invention also relatesto the therapy of human cancers which have a mutation inthe BRCA1 gene, including gene therapy, protein replace-ment therapy and protein mimetics. The invention furtherrelates to the screening of drugs for cancer therapy. Finally,the invention relates to the screening of the BRCA1 gene formutations, which are useful for diagnosing the predisposi-tion to breast and ovarian cancer.

Skolnick; Mark H., Goldgar; David E., Miki; Yoshio,Swenson; Jeff, Kamb; Alexander, Harshman; Keith

D., Shattuck-Eidens; Donna M., Tavtigian; Sean V.,Wiseman; Roger W., Futreal; P. Andrew USAassigned to Myriad Genetics, University of UtahResearch Foundation, the United States of Americaas represented by the Department of Health andHuman Services

6162907

DNA encoding insulinotropic hormone

Derivatives of glucagon-like peptide I (GLP-1) and espe-cially GLP-1 (7–36) have been found to have insulinotropicactivity. The invention pertains to the use of GLP-1 (7–36)for the treatment of Type II diabetes mellitus.

Habener; Joel F. USA assigned to The GeneralHospital

Food, Feed and Beverage Products

6153662

Aromatic maleimides and methods of using

the same

Aromatic maleimides and methods using the same aredisclosed. Polymerization of compositions, which includethe compounds of the invention, may be activated byirradiating the composition with radiation.

Miller; Christopher W., Hoyle; Charles E., Jonsson;E. Sonny SWEDEN assigned to University of South-ern Mississippi, First Chemical

6153773

Method for preparation of purified glycerides

and products

A method of preparing purified ester compositions is pro-vided. The process can be utilized to isolate and purifymonoglycerides and propylene glycol monoesters, to anadvantage. It can also be used to isolate preferred diesterproducts. The invention also concerns equipment for con-duct of the processes, provision of preferred food additives,and provision of preferred food industry compositions. Theprocess generally involves use of liquid– liquid extractions,to an advantage.

Kolstad; Jeffrey J., Benson; Richard D., Bloomer;Scott D., Tsobanakis; Paraskevas USA assigned toCargill

6156361

Method for treating a food product

A method for treating a food product, especially nuts, forincreased shelf life includes soaking the food product in asolution of antioxidant substance and oil, water, or anaqueous oil solution, mixing the nuts with a coating mixturein a reduced pressure air environment, replacing the air withnitrogen gas. The nuts may then be removed from thenitrogen and allowed to dry.

Gilgen; John F. USA assigned to Remac

6156368

Lactose-containing food composition for infants

A lactose-containing food composition for infants is pro-vided to improving the stool color of infants closer to that ofbreast-fed infants, which contains the lactose-containingfoods for infants of which the only protein source is sub-stantially cow’s milk protein and/or a processed product ofcow’s milk protein modified to be administered to infants,


and raffinose added into the foods for infants at a ratio of atleast 0.05% (by weight) in a ready-to-use state. This foodcomposition provides foods for infants more suitable forinfant growth (infant formula, protein hydrolyzed formula,formula for low-birth-weight infants, follow-up formula,etc.) without causing a green stool, which is observed whenadministering a conventional food for sucking infants, ofwhich the only protein source is substantially cow’s milkprotein and/or a processed product of cow’s milk protein.

Hayasawa; Hirotoshi, Takahashi; Kouichi, Nanba;Kazuyoshi, Simizu; Takashi, Sayama; Kouji, Shi-mizu; Yosuke, Aritsuka; Tsutom, Nagura; TaizoJapan assigned to Morinaga Milk Industry

6159503

Pectin process and composition

A composition comprising a dry cationic pectin salt, whichwhen suspended inwater, swells to heat stable particles havinga mean equivalent diameter greater than 100 mm. Food,cosmetic, superabsorbent and skin adhesive compositionscontain the dry cationic pectin salt. The process for makingthe dry cationic pectin salt uses the following steps: (a)converting a pectin startingmaterial into a pectinate in a liquidmedium, (b) drying the pectinate, and (c) selecting conditionsin steps (a) and/or (b) that allow for the production ofpectinate, which when suspended in water swells to heatstable particles having a mean equivalent diameter greaterthan 100 mm.

Glahn; Poul-Egede Denmark assigned to Hercules

6159508

Xylitol-containingnonhuman foodstuff andmethod

A pet foodstuff and treatment method for reducing theincidence of dental canes in nonhuman animals is provided.The treatment method includes orally administering thexylitol by allowing the pet to consume the xylitol-containingfoodstuff in an effective amount. The pet foodstuff iscomposed of an effective amount of xylitol and an ediblepet food. The xylitol may be present as a coating or in bulk.

Wolf; Phyllis, Peldyak; John USA assigned to Adore-A-Pet

6159724

Process for preparing culture mediums for

culturing yeasts and lactic acid bacteria

A culture medium which is completely free of chemicaladditives and which can be used for the individual culture ofyeast and of lactic acid bacteria or for the coculture of yeastsand lactic acid bacteria is prepared. The preparation of themedium is carried out by a process comprising of making in abioreactor a first medium using a dilute aqueous mixture

containing a yeast autolysate and whole-meal or wheat germ,starch and gluten.a-Amylase enzymes and amyloglucosidaseare added thereto for hydrolyzing the starch into a sugar.Furthermore, proteolytic enzymes of food quality are alsoadded for hydrolyzing gluten into aromatic peptides and freeamino acids for microbial growth. The first medium is furthersterilized and table salt may be added, however, no otherchemical additives are ever added to the first medium. Asecond medium is prepared similarly as the first medium,however, in place of the second medium containing gluten, itcontains proteins for which the proteolytic enzymes of foodquality are added for hydrolyzing the proteins into aromaticpeptides and into free amino acids for microbial growth. Thesecond medium is also further sterilized and table salt may beadded, while no other chemical additives are added; andfurthermore, the hydrolyses of the first and second mediumsare carried out without pH regulation. The mediums are thencombined to form a culture medium useful for making yeastcultures, lactic acid bacteria cultures and cocultures of yeastand lactic acid bacteria.

Ehret; Aloyse France assigned to Agrano

6159725

Transformed yeast strains

Transformed yeasts are provided which constitutivelyexpress a hexose transporter gene. The transformed yeastcan be used in the beer, bread, wine and whisky production.

Klaassen; Paul, Van Rooijen; Rutger Jan Netherlandsassigned to Gist-brocades

6162477

Process and apparatus for treating food products

with ozone

A process for decolorizing, sanitizing and deodorizing afood product with ozone. The food product and water aremixed to form an initial solution and supplied to a pumpingdevice to pressurize the solution. An ozone-containing gasis injected into the initial solution in order to allow thetreatment of the food product, without the occurrence ofliquid/gas demixing. The apparatus includes a pumpingdevice for pressurizing the solution, a contactor into whichthe pressurized solution is fed, a source of ozone, and atleast one injector for injecting ozone into the solution.

Crisinel; Pascal, Le Royer; Sylvie France assigned toL’Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l’Etude etl’Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude

6162483

Fat compositions for use in food

Fatty acid esters, such as the unsaturated fatty acid esters ofsterols and/or stanols, are used as a replacement for a


substantial portion or all of the undesirable saturated andtrans-unsaturated fats used as structure giving hardstocks inedible foods such as margarines, mayonnaise, cooking oils,cheeses, butter and shortening. Because of the similarity inthe crystallinity and physical properties of the esters to thoseof the undesirable hardstock fats, the substitution or replace-ment contributes favorably to the flavor, texture and othersensory properties of the foods. Only the fatty acid portionof the phytosterol esters defined herein as texturizing agentis digested or absorbed with the sterol part being unabsorb-able, thereby resulting in a reduction in total caloric uptake.Furthermore, the phytosterol fatty acid esters reduce theabsorption of both dietary and biliary cholesterol from thedigestive tract, thereby lowering the blood serum cholesterollevel, especially the LDL-cholesterol.

Wester; Ingmar, Finland assigned to Raisio Benecol

6165380

Method for transferring heat utilizing heat

transfer/cooling fluid having trimethyl glycine

A heat transfer/cooling fluid for low temperatures containingfrom about 15% to about 70% of trimethyl glycine or deriv-

atives thereof and from about 30% to about 85% of water. Theheat transfer/cooling fluid is environmental-friendly and non-toxic. It has good heat transfer properties and is suitable for,e.g., the needs of the food industry and solar panels.

Ilves; Antti, Lindstrom; Matti Finland assigned toNeste OY

6165526

Microbial decontamination of food

Food is rendered sterile by UV irradiation, preferably withUV at 265 ± 15 nm. A sterilization unit may include UVsources and a heat source, which may be a broad band UVsource, a source of IR or microwave radiation. A combinedmicrowave/UV unit can be used to defrost frozen food andsimultaneously sterilize it or maintain sterility. Heating priorto UV irradiation can enhance the sterilization, as can rapidcooling after irradiation. Irradiation can also be enhanced bydisplacing the food during irradiation, e.g., by supporting iton a rotatable support and/or by displacing it relative to thesupport surface.

Newman; Paul Bernard Great Britain

Agriculture and Forestry Biotechnology

6156539

16-kDa insecticidal toxin from Bracon hebetor,

nucleic acids encoding said toxin, and

methods of use

This invention relates to the purification of a group ofinsecticidally effective toxins isolated from the wasp,Bracon hebetor, characterized by their neurotoxic effecton insect pest and low mammalian toxicity. The cDNAsequences for two of these toxins have been isolated, andthe complete coding sequence is provided. This inventionalso discloses methods for producing recombinant toxins,as well as methods of utilizing these toxins as insectici-dal agents.

Johnson; Janice H., Kral, Jr.; Robert M., Krapcho;Karen USA assigned to NPS Pharmaceuticals

6156569

Prolonged culturing of avian primordial germ

cells (PGCs) using specific growth factors, use

thereof to produce chimeric avians

A culture system for maintaining avian PGCs for longperiods in tissue culture is provided. This culture system

uses LIF, bFGF, IGF and SCF. The resultant PGCs areuseful for the production of transgenic and chimericavians, in particular, chickens or turkeys.

de Leon; F. Abel Ponce, Blackwell; Catherine, Gao;Xiu Ying, Robl; James M., Stice; Steven L., Jerry;D. Joseph USA assigned to University of Massa-chusetts Office of Vice Chancellor for Research atAmherst

6156573

Hybrid Bacillus thuringiensis D-endotoxins with

novel broad-spectrum insecticidal activity

Disclosed are novel synthetically modified Bacillus thur-ingiensis chimeric crystal proteins having improved insecti-cidal activity against coleopteran, dipteran and lepidopteraninsects. Also disclosed are the nucleic acid segments encod-ing these novel peptides. Methods of making and usingthese genes and proteins are disclosed as well as methodsfor the recombinant expression, and transformation ofsuitable host cells. Transformed host cells and transgenicplants expressing the modified endotoxin are also aspects ofthe invention.


Malvar; Thomas, Gilmer; Amy Jelen USA assignedto Monsanto

6159472

Intradermal avian immunization with

inactivated vaccines

The present invention relates to methods for immunizingbirds using small volumes of vaccine. According to theinvention, effective immunization can be accomplishedwith small, relatively concentrated quantities of inactivatedvaccine administered by intradermal means.

Hein; Rudolf George USA assigned to Akzo Nobel

6159477

Canine herpesvirus based recombinant live

vaccine, in particular against canine distemper,

rabies or the parainfluenza 2 virus

Disclosed and claimed is a recombinant canine herpesvi-rus (CHV). The recombinant CHV includes and expressesat least one heterologous nucleotide sequence encoding anantigen. The antigen can be canine distemper virus HA,canine distemper virus F, rabies virus G, canine parvovi-rus VP2, parainfluenza virus type 2 HA, parainfluenzavirus type 2 F, Borrelia burgdorferi OspA, or B. burg-dorferi OspB. At least one heterologous nucleotidesequence can be in at least one insertion site selectedfrom the group consisting of ORF3 (SEQ ID NO:4),ORF5 (SEQ ID NO:5), the thymidine kinase gene, andthe intergenic region corresponding to genes coding forthe large subunit and the small subunit. Immunological orvaccine compositions as well as methods for inducing animmunological response are also disclosed and claimed.

Audonnet; Jean-Christophe, Baudu; Philippe Franceassigned to Merial

6159478

Recombinant canine herpesviruses

The present invention includes novel recombinant canineherpesvirus (CHV) and novel recombinant CHV genomes,and particularly to those CHV and CHV genomes thatcontain heterologous nucleic acid molecules. The presentinvention also relates to the use of such genomes and virusesin a variety of applications, including as therapeutic compo-sitions to protect animals from disease. The present inven-tion also relates to novel isolated CHV nucleic acidmolecules, to CHV proteins encoded by such nucleic acidmolecules, and to antibodies raised against such CHVproteins as well as to the use of such CHV nucleic acidmolecules, proteins and antibodies as therapeutic composi-tions to protect an animal from CHV. The present invention

also includes constructs comprising CHV nucleic acidmolecules that include heterologous nucleic acid molecules,to recombinant vectors including such constructs, and to theuse of such constructs and vectors in the production ofrecombinant CHV and recombinant CHV genomes.

Haanes; Elizabeth J., Frank; Rexann S. USA assignedto Heska

6162429

Detection prevention and treatment of

Papillomatous Digital Dermatitis

The present invention relates to the use of Serpens spp.bacteria or bacterin in compositions, such as vaccines, andmethods for the detection, prevention and/or treatment ofPapillomatous Digital Dermatitis in ruminants. The presentinvention also provides biologically pure Serpens spp. strainHBL-112, and biologically pure Serpens spp. strain HBL-112 bacterin.

Wallis; Dale, Wallis; James L. USA assigned toHygieia Biological Laboratories

6162430

Insect control with multiple toxins

A method is provided that accelerates the rate of kill ofpests such as from the order Lepidoptera. The methodcomprises treating the pests or their loci with at least twodifferent insect toxins, which are expressed from at leastone recombinant microbe. Pairs of toxins that do notcompete with each other on the same binding site andthat differ in their pharmacology have been found toprovide synergistic control. Preferred insecticidal microbesare baculoviruses.

Hammock; Bruce D., Herrmann; Rafael, Moskowitz;Haim Israel assigned to The Regents of the Univer-sity of California

6162435

Recombinant Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae vaccine

A Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae protein prepared byrecombinant DNA or synthetic means, DNA sequencescoding for the protein, an expression vector and trans-formed host containing the DNA sequences, a vaccinebased on the protein, a vaccine based on the DNAsequences, methods of treating swine to prevent enzooticpneumonia using the vaccines, and diagnostic tests basedon the protein or antibodies raised against it for detectingthe presence of Mhyo infection in swine herds.

Minion; F. Chris, Hsu; Tsungda USA assigned toIowa State University Research Foundation


6162461

Chicken anemia virus mutants and vaccines and

uses based on the viral proteins VP1, VP2 and

VP3 or sequences of that virus coding therefor

The coding information for three putative chicken anemiavirus proteins (VP1, VP2, VP3) was inserted into abaculovirus vector and expressed in insect cells. Theimmunogenic properties of the chicken anemia virus(CAV) proteins produced separately or together ininsect-cell cultures were analyzed by inoculating theminto chickens. Only lysates of insect cells which havesynthesized equivalent amounts of all three recombinantCAV proteins or cells which synthesized mainly VP1 plusVP2 induced neutralizing antibodies directed against CAVin inoculated chickens. Progeny of those chickens wereprotected against clinical disease after CAV challenge.Inoculation of a mixture of lysates of cells that wereseparately infected with VP1-, VP2- and VP3-recombinantbaculovirus did not induce significant levels of neutraliz-ing antibody directed against CAV and their progeny werenot protected against CAV challenge. Our results indicatethat expression in the same cell of at least two CAVproteins, VP1 plus VP2, is required to obtain sufficientprotection in chickens. Therefore, recombinant CAV pro-teins produced by baculovirus vectors can be used as asubunit vaccine against CAV infections.

Noteborn; Matheus Hubertus Maria, Koch; GuusNetherlands assigned to Leadd

6162634

Enzyme-producing strain of Bacillus bacteria

This invention presents a newly discovered, novel strain ofBacillus bacteria that produces lipase enzymes for the degra-dation of oleaginous materials such as fats, greases and cook-ing oils, protease enzymes to degrade proteins and amylases tobreak down starch. This novel strain and the enzymes pro-duced therebyhave a number of applications, includingwaste-water treatments, agricultural uses, laundry and dishdetergents, drain cleaners and spot removers, among others.

Lawler; David, Smith; Steven USA assigned toRoebic Laboratories

6162974

Seed vigor by preharvest defoliation of

maize plants

An increase in the quality of maize seed, especially withrespect to improved seed vigor, is achieved by defoliatingmaize plants during a specific period after pollination. Amaize seed assemblage is then obtained that is characterizedby an enhanced seed vigor.

Martin; Barry, Schoper; John, Carrigan; Laurie USAassigned to Pioneer Hi-Bred International

6165755

Chicken neuropeptide gene useful for improved

poultry production

The nucleotide sequence of a gene encoding two chickenneuropeptides is disclosed, together with the amino acidsequences of these neuropeptides. The neuropeptides areuseful to modify the body composition of poultry.

Sherwood; Nancy G.M., McRory; John E. Canadaassigned to University of Victoria Innovation andDevelopment

6166306

Method of producing hybrid Catharanthus using

male sterility

A method is disclosed for creating and utilizing geneticmale-sterile Catharanthus for hybrid periwinkle production.The method makes use of a mutated male sterility allele,which suppresses pollen production in otherwise fertileplants. Individual plants expressing the male sterility factorare incapable of self-pollination and can be used as femaleparents in hybrid seed production. Methods are disclosed fortransferring this system into any inbred line of interest foruse in hybrid seed production in Catharanthus.

Bowman; Robert N. USA assigned to GoldsmithSeeds

Fuels, Chemicals and Metals from Bioprocesses

6160140

Production of materials rich in conjugated

isomers of long-chain polyunsaturated

fatty acid residues

The invention concerns an isomerisation process, whereinmaterials comprising nonconjugated long-chain polyunsa-

turated fatty acids are subjected to base in the presence ofan alcohol with greater than or equal to three C-atoms andgreater than or equal to two OH-groups and having a ratioC-atoms:OH-groups of greater than or equal to 1.25. Theresulting reaction product, containing the conjugated iso-mers, is obtained in higher yield at lower temperatures andis not contaminated by presence of non-food grade solvent.


Bhaggan; Krish, Cain; Frederick William, Harris;John Bernard, Taran; Victoria Netherlands assignedto Unilever Patent Holdings

6162441

Method for the production of anti-Escherichia coli

O157:H7 antibody

Disclosed is a method for producing anti-Escherichia coliO157 antibodies. Anti-E. coli O157:H7 antibodies are pro-duced in egg-laying hens and isolated from the eggs. E. coliO157:H7 is cultured in a brain–heart infusion broth and killedby the treatment with hot water for 5–10 min. After beingcollected by centrifugation, the dead bacteria are homogen-ized. Serving as an antigenic material, the bacterial homoge-nate is injected into egg-laying hens to induce antibodiesagainst E. coli O157:H7 in the eggs. The induced antibodiesare isolated from the yolk of the eggs and the eggs containingthe antibodies against E. coliO157:H7 can be utilized, in theirentirety, for foods. Alternatively, the yolks are separated fromthe eggs and freeze-dried. The resulting dried egg componentcanbeapplied toprocessed foodstuffs, aloneor in combinationwithwhole eggs. Since the antibodies againstE. coliO157:H7are contained in frozen eggs, it is very convenient to store theantibodies. The storage in the frozen eggs also makes itpossible to apply the antibodies to almost all foods at any time.

Chae; Hyun-Seok, Kim; Dong-Woon, Ahn; Chong-Nam, Cho; Sung-Geun, Sim; Jeong-Seok, Kim; Yong-Gon South Korea assigned to Republic of Korea(Management: Rural Development Administration)

6162637

Aspergillus niger which produces vanillic acid

from ferulic acid

Method for the production of vanillic acid and vanillin bybioconversion from ferulic acid in a medium containingphospholipids cultured with at least one microorganism fromthe classes Ascomycetes, Basidiomycetes or Actinomycetes.Vanillin is also produced by bioconversion of vanillic acidby at least one microorganism of the class Basidiomycetes ina medium containing cellobiose.

Lesage-Meessen; Laurence, Delattre; Michel, Haon;Mireille, Asther; Marcel France assigned to InstitutNational de la Recherche Agronomique — I.N.R.A.

6165517

Process for preparing acetophenone, products

produced therefrom and organoleptic uses of

said products

A process for producing acetephenone from a source ofcinnamic acid is carried out with high amounts of oxygen

and sugar in the presence of a bacteria species. Fragrancecompositions and foodstuff compositions are augmentedand enhanced by the presence of the product compound.

Farbood; Mohamad I., Kim; Augustine Yonghwi;Blocker; Robert W. USA assigned to InternationalFlavors and Fragrances

6166086

Small molecules that increase the conversion of

food to body weight gain

The present invention relates to peptide-like compounds,e.g., aminocarboxylic acid amide derivatives, and to meth-ods of using the same in the field of general health care,for example, to improve resistance to stress, improveproduction of desired characteristics or useful products inanimals, to increase weight gain, and to decrease feedefficiency. The invention has applications in the field ofanimal husbandry. It also relates to administering b-alethineto improve feed efficiency in an animal, comprisingadministering to animal an amount of b-alethine sufficientto reduce the amount of food required to increase a unit ofweight in the animal.

Taub; FloydE.USAassigned toDovetail Technologies

6166230

Sterol extraction with polar solvent to

give low sterol, high triglyceride,

microbial oil

The present invention relates to a process of treating an oil,the process comprising contacting the oil with a polarsolvent to extract at least one compound that is soluble inthe solvent, and then separating the solvent containing thecompound from the so treated oil. The oil is microbiallyderived, and extracted either from a fermentation broth or afiltrate thereof using hexane. The compound to be extractedis usually a sterol or a diglyceride. The solvent is ethanolhaving up to 5% water. The oil can contain a polyunsatu-rated fatty acid such as C18, C20 or C22 w-3 or w-6 fattyacid, such as arachidonic acid.

Bijl; Hendrik Louis, Wolf; Johannes Hendrik, Schaap;Albert Netherlands assigned to Gist-brocades

6166231

Two-phase extraction of oil from biomass

LA method of separating edible oil from biological materialis disclosed. A biomass slurry containing microbial materialin an aqueous suspension is collected. The slurry is typicallyplaced in a centrifuge and then in a homogenizer. Theresulting slurry is fed into a contacting device, such as a


packed column, and mixed with a solvent that is essentiallyimmiscible in water, for example, hexane. The solventextracts the oil from the biomass slurry and then separatesfrom the slurry. Edible oil is recovered from the solvent andfurther processed.

Hoeksema; Scot Douglas USA assigned to MartekBiosciences

Biological Waste Treatment and Pollution Control

6159371

Constructed wetlands remediation system

Constructed wetlands, utilizing a plurality of cells, in whichnitrification and denitrification occurs simultaneously, at lowflow rates and lower temperatures. The constructed wetlandsprovide improved remediation in a shorter period of time.

Dufay; John A. USA assigned to Albuquerque PublicSchools District No. 12

6159510

Method of bioconversion of industrial or

agricultural cellulose containing wastes

A method of bioconversion of organic industrial or agricul-tural cellulose containing wastes into proteinaceous product.The method comprises comminution of the wastes withmoistening and addition of a starting culture inducing theirbiological degradation and conversion into simple carbohy-drates. The carbohydrates are fermented into digestibleproducts. The starting culture comprises cleaving enzymesproduced by edible microorganisms such as fungus andbacteria selected from the group consisting of Ilumicolagrisea, Trichoderma harzanum, Ruminococcus albus.

Lizak; Yuri Israel assigned to Bio-Feed

6163932

Process using ammonia-rich water for the

selection and enrichment of nitrifying

micro-organisms for nitrification

of wastewater

The present invention comprises a method for biologicaloxidation of nitrogen in water, e.g., wastewater, nitrification,by using ammonia-rich water for the selection and enrichmentof nitrifying micro-organisms in a separate aerated reactionvolume, where organic matter already has been reduced. Thenitrifying micro-organisms will get a competing edge com-pared to other species, as they are being able to obtain energyfrom the oxidation of ammonia into nitrate. Themethod can beapplied to the activated sludge process by the introduction of asludge aeration zone on the recycled sludge, and also be

combined with a sludge anoxic zone, for denitrification,enabling a more reliable operation of biological nitrogen aswell as phosphorus removal, by maximal use of reactionvolumes with lower detention time and lower costs. It canalso be applied to a fixed bed process. The possibility ofstimulating the micro-organisms to higher activity by chang-ing the physical–chemical conditions is also included, as wellas improving the sludge separation characteristics. Themethod is enabling an overall view of the process, integratingdifferent process stages for optimisation and best possibleoperational results.

Rosen; Bjorn Hubert Sweden assigned to Scanviron-ment

6165356

In situ microbial filter used

for bioremediation

An improved method for in situ microbial filter bioreme-diation having increasingly operational longevity of an insitu microbial filter emplaced into an aquifer. A method forgenerating a microbial filter of sufficient catalytic densityand thickness, which has increased replenishment interval,improved bacteria attachment and detachment character-istics and the endogenous stability under in situ conditions.A system for in situ field water remediation.

Carman; M. Leslie, Taylor; Robert T. USA assignedto The Regents of the University of California

6165364

Method to solve the swelling sludge problem in

waste treatment plants by controlling

mycelium bacteria

Wastewater in an activated sludge waste treatment plantis treated with a quantity of peracetic acid whichdestroys harmful filamentous microorganisms while pre-serving the beneficial microorganisms used in the purifi-cation procedure.

Maunuksela; Jyri, McIntyre; Gwenda Great Britainassigned to Oy Finnish Peroxides


Classified Patents Abstracts

Documents

Transcript of Classified Patents Abstracts