| TRUSTEES OF TUFTS COLLEGE Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120130044 | Stable Analogs of Peptide and Polypeptide Therapeutics - The present invention relates to compositions of peptide and polypeptide analogs that are resistant to proteolysis, pharmaceutical uses thereof, and methods of preparation thereof. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120129255 | FUNCTIONALIZATION OF SILK MATERIAL BY AVIDIN-BIOTIN INTERACTION - The present invention provides for compositions and methods of linking silk fibroin to active agents through the specific interaction between avidin and biotin, providing for functionalization of silk-based protein biomaterials. An avidin- or biotin-modified silk is a biomaterial platform for functionalization with a variety of correspondingly linked active agents, such as antibodies and growth factors. A variety of functionalized silk materials, such as silk hydrogel, silk micro/nanoparticles and silk films, can be prepared by the methods of the present invention. The functionalization strategies of the present invention are relatively easy, fast and feasible, and are thus useful in many biomedical applications. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120123519 | TUBULAR SILK COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - Described are tubular silk fibroin compositions and methods for their manufacture and use. Tubular compositions as described herein can be produced in a range of high burst strengths, can easily be made in a range of inner diameters, can be derivatized with functional moieties, and can be produced in a range of permeabilities suitable for particularized uses. In one aspect, the tubular compositions can be used in the repair or replacement of damaged or diseased blood vessels, including, but not limited to vessels smaller than about 6 mm. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120121820 | FABRICATION OF SILK FIBROIN PHOTONIC STRUCTURES BY NANOCONTACT IMPRINTING - A method of manufacturing a nanopatterned biophotonic structure includes forming a customized nanopattern mask on a substrate using E-beam lithography, providing a biopolymer matrix solution, depositing the biopolymer matrix solution on the substrate, and drying the biopolymer matrix solution to form a solidified biopolymer film. A surface of the film is formed with the nanopattern mask, or a nanopattern is machined directly on a surface of the film using E-beam lithograpy such that the biopolymer film exhibits a spectral signature corresponding to the E-beam lithograpy nanopattern. The resulting bio-compatible nanopatterned biophotonic structures may be made from silk, may be biodegradable, and may be bio-sensing devices. The biophotonic structures may employ nanopatterned masks based on non-periodic photonic lattices, and the biophotonic structures may be designed with specific spectral signatures for use in probing biological substances, including displaying optical activity in the form of opalescence. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120095277 | Methods and compositions for inhibition of multi-drug resistance by hyaluronan oligomers - Pharmaceutical compositions and methods for sensitizing multi-drug resistant cancer or radiation resistant cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents are provided. Compositions include ligands of hyaluronan receptors, including glycosaminoglycans such as hyaluronan oligomers and derivatives of these oligomers, hyaluronan binding proteins, antibodies specific for hyaluronan receptors, hyaluronan mimetics, inhibitors of hyaluronan synthesis, and stimulators of hyaluronan degradation. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120077808 | Niacin Mimetics, and Methods of Use Thereof - Disclosed are heterocyclylalkyl-substituted and heteroaralkyl-substituted pyridines, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts and prodrugs thereof, that are active against a range of mammalian therapeutic indications. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120077807 | NIACIN MIMETICS, AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - Disclosed are 6-(morpholinoalkyl)-substituted pyridines, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts and prodrugs thereof, that are active against a range of mammalian therapeutic indications. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120077779 | Inhibitors of Fibroblast Activation Protein Alpha - Disclosed are peptide-based compounds that include boronic acid or cyano functionality, which efficiently and selectively inhibit fibroblast activation protein alpha. Among other therapeutic utilities, the peptide-based compounds may be useful for the treatment of cancer. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120076771 | SURFACE MODIFICATION OF SILK FIBROIN MATRICES WITH POLY(ETHYLENE GLYCOL) USEFUL AS ANTI-ADHESION BARRIERS AND ANTI-THROMBOTIC MATERIALS - The present invention provides compositions and methods for the production of silk fibroin matrices surface-PEGylated on one or more surfaces. Such surface-PEGylated silk fibroin matrices can be used in biomedical applications, such as anti-adhesive and anti-thrombosis materials. Silk matrices may be surface-PEGylated, for example, by a reaction with a functional group-activated PEG. Controlling the degree of PEGylation on surface of silk fibroin matrix can regulate both the degradation rate of the silk matrix, and the differentiated adhesion of cells or differentiated adsorption of proteins on the surface of the silk matrix. The present invention also provides for silk fibroin matrices having one or more surfaces possessing differentiated adhesion properties, which allows for tissue integration on the adherent side and inhibition of tissue adhesion to the opposing tissues or organs. Embedding active agents in silk fibroin matrices provides more benefits, such as promoting tissue ingrowth on the adherent side of the matrix. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120070427 | VORTEX-INDUCED SILK FIBROIN GELATION FOR ENCAPSULATION AND DELIVERY - The present invention provided for a novel process of forming silk fibroin gels, and controlling the rate of β-sheet formation and resulting hydrogelation kinetics, by vortex treatment of silk fibroin solution. In addition, the vortex treatment of the present invention provides a silk fibroin gel that may be reversibly shear-thinned, enabling the use of these approach for precise control of silk self-assembly, both spatially and temporally. Active agents, including biological materials, viable cells or therapeutic agents, can be encapsulated in the hydrogels formed from the processes, and be used as delivery vehicles. Hence, the present invention provide for methods for silk fibroin gelation that are useful for biotechnological applications such as encapsulation and delivery of active agents, cells, and bioactive molecules. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120034291 | NANOIMPRINTING OF SILK FIBROIN STRUCTURES FOR BIOMEDICAL AND BIOPHOTONIC APPLICATIONS - The present invention provides for photonic nanoimprinted silk fibroin-based materials and methods for making same, comprising embossing silk fibroin-based films with photonic nanometer scale patterns. In addition, the invention provides for processes by which the silk fibroin-based films can be nanoimprinted at room temperature, by locally decreasing the glass sition temperature of the silk film Such nanoimprinting process increases high throughput and improves potential for incorporation of silk-based photonics into biomedical and other optical devices. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20110301127 | METHODS OF REDUCING MICROBIAL RESISTANCE TO DRUGS - The instant methods and compositions represent an advance in controlling drug resistance in microbes. AcrAB-like efflux pumps have been found to control resistance to drugs, even in highly resistant microbes. Accordingly, methods of treating infection, methods of screening for inhibitors of AcrAB-like efflux pumps, and methods of enhancing antimicrobial activity of drugs are provided. Pharmaceutical composition comprising an inhibitor of an AcrAB-like efflux pump and an antimicrobial agent are also provided. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110293685 | SCAFFOLDS FOR TISSUE ENGINEERING AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE - The methods and compositions described herein relate to novel 3-dimensional porous scaffolds useful for tissue re-generation, enhancement, or tissue repair. Electrospinning or other methods are used to create mats comprised of fibers that can be seeded with cells and subsequently rolled into a desired shape/form to replace a desired tissue. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110275788 | FIBROUS PROTEIN FUSIONS AND USE THEREOF IN THE FORMATION OF ADVANCED ORGANIC/INORGANIC COMPOSITE MATERIALS - The claimed invention provides a fusion polypeptide comprising a fibrous protein domain and a mineralization domain. The fusion is used to form an organic-inorganic composite. These organic-inorganic composites can be constructed from the nano- to the macro-scale depending on the size of the fibrous protein fusion domain used. In one embodiment, the composites can also be loaded with other compounds (e.g., dyes, drugs, enzymes) depending on the goal for the materials, to further enhance function. This can be achieved during assembly of the material or during the mineralization step in materials formation. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110251095 | MARA FAMILY HELIX-TURN-HELIX DOMAINS AND THEIR METHODS OF USE - An important advance in the battle against drug resistance by elucidating the domains of MarA which are critical in mediating its function. Accordingly, MarA family protein helix-turn-helix domains, mutant MarA family protein helix-turn-helix domains and methods of their use, for example, in screening assays to identify compounds which are useful as antiinfective agents and in screening assays to identify loci which are involved in mediating antibiotic resistance are described. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110223153 | MODIFIED SILK FILMS CONTAINING GLYCEROL - The present invention provides for compositions and methods for preparing aqueous insoluble, ductile, flexible silk fibroin films. The silk films comprise silk fibroin and about 10% to about 50% (w/w) glycerol, and are prepared by entirely aqueous processes. The ductile silk film may be further treated by extracting the glycerol from and re-drying the silk film. Active agents may be embedded in or deposited on the glycerol modified silk film for a variety of medical applications. The films may be into 3-dimentional structures, or placed on support surfaces as labels or coatings. The glycerol modified silk films of the present invention are useful in variety of applications such as tissue engineering, medical devices or implants, drug delivery, and edible pharmaceutical or food labels. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110218142 | Inhibitors of Dipeptidylpeptidase IV - The present invention relates to inhibitors of post-proline cleaving enzymes, such as inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase IV, as well as pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods for using such inhibitors. In particular, the inhibitors of the present invention are improved over those in the prior art by selection of particular classes of sidechains in the P1 and/or P2 position of the inhibitor that contain a carboxylic acid moiety. The compounds of the present invention can have a better therapeutic index, owing in part to reduced toxicity and/or improved specificity for the targeted protease. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110206772 | POLYSACCHARIDE COMPOSITION AND METHODS OF ISOLATION OF THE EMULSION STABILIZING CATIONIC POLYELECTROLYTIC POLYSACCHARIDE - The present invention relates to purification and use of a novel emulsion stabilizing polysaccharide. In particular, a polyelectrolyte exopolysaccharide with high molecular weight comprising a high molecular weight polymer with a tri-saccharide repeating unit is disclosed. In one aspect of the invention, methods are directed to isolating and purifying a high molecular weight exopolysaccharide (EPS) from a cell supernatant. In another aspect, methods are disclosed for isolating a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and a high molecular weight | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110195852 | METHODS FOR DETERMINING THE CONCENTRATION OF AN ANALYTE IN SOLUTION - Disclosed is a method for measuring the concentration of an analyte or analytes in a solution. Although the methods can be conducted using a number of different assay formats, in one embodiment, the assays are conducted in reaction vessels defined, at least in part, by the distal ends of fiber optic strands. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110172149 | Method of Regulating Glucose Metabolism, and Reagents Related Thereto - The present invention provides methods and compositions for modification and regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, generally to reduce insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, obesity, hyperlipidemia, hyperlipoprotein-emia (such as chylomicrons, VLDL and LDL), and to regulate body fat and more generally lipid stores, and, more generally, for the improvement of metabolism disorders, especially those associated with diabetes, obesity and/or atherosclerosis. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110171239 | pH INDUCED SILK GELS AND USES THEREOF - This invention provides for compositions, methods and devices for rapidly converting silk fibroin solution into a silk fibroin gel using direct application of voltage, in a process called electrogelation. The silk fibroin gel may be reversibly converted back to liquid form by applying reverse voltage or may be converted further to β-sheet structure by applying shear force or other treatments. The electrogelated silk may be used as an extracted bulk gel, spray or stream of gel for processing into materials or devices, or may be used as silk gel coating to devices. Active agents may be embedded in the silk gel for various medical applications. This invention also provides for methods and compositions for preparing adhesive silk pH-gels. For example, the method comprises reducing pH level of a silk fibroin solution to increase the bulk or local proton concentration of the silk fibroin solution, thereby forming adhesive silk gels. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110158980 | METHODS TO TREAT AND SCREEN FOR AGENTS TO TREAT OBESITY - Described herein are methods for treating obesity or promoting weight loss using agents that alter pyruvate flux in an adipocyte. Methods are provided for administering an agent or combination of agents to an obese individual to alter the flux of pyruvate in an adipocyte. Also described herein is a method for modifying triglyceride storage in an adipocyte by contacting an adipocyte with an agent or combination of agents that alter pyruvate flux. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110152214 | SILK POLYMER-BASED ADENOSINE RELEASE: THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL FOR EPILEPSY - This invention relates to sustained release formulations comprising silk fibroin biopolymer and adenosine, that provide for sustained, focal release of adenosine at therapeutic levels for the treatment of epilepsy and/or the prevention of epileptogenesis. An embodiment provides for a silk-based, adeno sine-releasing implant that alleviates seizures or prevents epileptogenesis. Another embodiment provides for a method of treating epilepsy or preventing epileptogenesis comprising focally administering adenosine in a sustained-release, silk-based adenosine delivery system. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110150881 | INHIBITORS OF EXTRACELLULAR HSP90 - The present invention describes inhibitors of extracellular Hsp90. The inhibition of extracellular Hsp90 leads to a reduction of the invasiveness of the tumor cells. Furthermore, the invention relates to the use of molecules inhibiting extracellular Hsp90 function for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment or prevention of invasion and/or metastatic potential of cancer cells. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110135697 | EDIBLE HOLOGRAPHIC SILK PRODUCTS - The present invention relates to edible silk holographic elements and methods for making the same. Edible silk holographic elements are used to label pharmaceuticals and foods, or may be formulated to deliver pharmaceuticals. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110118215 | 7,8 And 9-Substituted Tetracycline Compounds - 7, 8 and 9-substituted tetracycline compounds, methods of treating tetracycline responsive states, and pharmaceutical compositions containing the 7, 8 and 9-substituted tetracycline compounds are described. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110109910 | NON-INVASIVE OPTICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF BIOMATERIAL MINERALIZATION - In one aspect, the present invention generally provides methods for characterizing mineralization of a material, e.g., a biomaterial, by illuminating the material with radiation and analyzing radiation scattered from the material in response to the illumination. For example, in some embodiments, a material can be illuminated with polarized radiation at a plurality of wavelengths and the elastically scattered radiation corresponding to two or more of those wavelengths can be collected at two polarizations: one parallel and the other perpendicular to the illumination polarization. A differential intensity of the scattered radiation at the two polarizations can be analyzed as a function of wavelength to obtain information regarding the morphology of mineral deposits in the sample. Further, the total scattered radiation can be analyzed to derive information regarding the level of mineralization. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110105855 | EARLY DETECTION OF COGNITION IMPAIRMENT IN ELDERLY POPULATION - We have discovered novel methods and systems for detecting cognitive impairment in a subject by analyzing the level of xantophylls in macula lutea or red blood cell sample from the subject. We have discovered that decrease of xanthopyll level in the subject is indicative of cognitive impairment. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110092467 | 7-And 9-Carbamate, Urea, Thiourea, Thiocarbamate, And Heteroaryl-Amino Substituted Tetracycline Compounds - Substituted tetracycline compounds, methods of synthesis, and methods of use are discussed. Tetracyclines useful for treating tetracycline related disorders are also discussed. Intermediates useful for synthesizing other tetracycline compounds are also included. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110086821 | Tetracycline Compounds for Treatment of Cryptosporidium Parvum Related Disorders - Methods and compositions for treating | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110082305 | 7-Phenyl-Substituted Tetracycline Compounds - 7-phenyl-substituted tetracycline compounds, methods of treating tetracycline responsive states, and pharmaceutical compositions containing the 7-phenyl-substituted tetracycline compounds are described. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110082108 | Peptidomimetic Inhibitors of Post-Proline Cleaving Enzymes - The present invention relates to inhibitors of post-proline cleavage enzymes, such as inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase IV, as well as pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods for using such inhibitors. In particular, the inhibitors of the present invention are improved over those in the prior art by selection of particular classes of side chains in the P1 and/or P2 position of the inhibitor. The compounds of the present invention can have a better therapeutic index, owing in part to reduced toxicity and/or improved specificity for the targeted protease. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110076384 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAKING BIOMATERIAL STRUCTURES - A system and method for making a biomaterial device includes a support structure providing a shape for a biomaterial device. At least one applicator has a supply of biomaterial solution and is positioned along the support structure. The at least one applicator forms a biomaterial fiber by applying shear force to the biomaterial solution and delivering the biomaterial fiber to the support structure. A controller causes relative movement between the support structure and the at least one applicator, and the biomaterial fiber is arranged on the support structure according to the relative movement to form the biomaterial device. The biomaterial may be silk fibroin which may be wound onto a reciprocating and rotating mandrel. Control over the properties of the biomaterial device is achieved through appropriate selection of material processing, winding strategy, and post-winding processing. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110046686 | 3-DIMENSIONAL SILK HYDROXYAPATITE COMPOSITIONS - Described herein are methods and compositions comprising a mixture of silk polymer and hydroxyapatite. The methods described herein can be used to prepare a mixture of silk polymer and hydroxyapatite and further provide mixtures that can be molded into a desired shape. Also encompassed herein are compositions comprising a mixture of silk polymer and hydroxyapatite having a desired shape, which can further be implanted, for example, to facilitate bone healing or tooth structure or support. Such compositions can also include agents, such as therapeutic agents, or cells. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20100298540 | Crystal Structure of a MarR Family Polypeptide - The crystal structure of the product, crystals of the MarR protein, a regulator of multiple antibiotic resistance in | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100294716 | Templated Native Silk Smectic Gels - One aspect of the present invention relates to a method of preparing a fibrous protein smectic hydrogel by way of a solvent templating process, comprising the steps of pouring an aqueous fibrous protein solution into a container comprising a solvent that is not miscible with water; sealing the container and allowing it to age at about room temperature; and collecting the resulting fibrous protein smectic hydrogel and allowing it to dry. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of obtaining predominantly one enantiomer from a racemic mixture, comprising the steps of pouring an aqueous fibrous protein solution into a container comprising a solvent that is not miscible with water; sealing the container and allowing it to age at about room temperature; allowing the enantiomers of racemic mixture to diffuse selectively into the smectic hydrogel in solution; removing the smectic hydrogel from the solution; rinsing predominantly one enantiomer from the surface of the smectic hydrogel; and extracting predominantly one enantiomer from the interior of the smectic hydrogel. The present invention also relates to a smectic hydrogel prepared according to an aforementioned method. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100292091 | MARA FAMILY HELIX-TURN-HELIX DOMAINS AND THEIR METHODS OF USE - An important advance in the battle against drug resistance by elucidating the domains of MarA which are critical in mediating its function. Accordingly, MarA family protein helix-turn-helix domains, mutant MarA family protein helix-turn-helix domains and methods of their use, for example, in screening assays to identify compounds which are useful as antiinfective agents and in screening assays to identify loci which are involved in mediating antibiotic resistance are described. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100279112 | SILK FIBROIN MATERIALS AND USE THEREOF - The present invention provides processes for producing porous silk fibroin scaffold material. The porous silk fibroin scaffold can be used for tissue engineering. The porosity of the silk fibroin scaffolds described herein can be adjusted as to mimic the gradient of densities found in natural tissue. Accordingly, methods for engineering of 3-dimensional tissue, e.g. bone and cartilage, using the silk fibroin scaffold material are also provided. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100227766 | Chemical Switches for Detecting Reactive Chemical Agents - Certain embodiments of the present invention relate to the preparation of microbeads that exhibit a “turn on” fluorescence response within seconds of exposure to an analyte vapor (e.g., a chemical warfare agent or a reactive stimulant). This sensing approach is modeled after the mechanism for inhibition of acetylcholinesterase enzyme activity, and utilizes a specific and irreversible reaction between phosphonyl halides and a fluorescent indicator. The present invention also relates to a sensor and a method for sensing an analyte through detection of changes in the fluorescing properties of the inventive microbeads. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100216215 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THE CONCENTRATION OF MULTIPLE MICROORGANISMS AND TOXINS FROM LARGE LIQUID TOXINS - A method for the simultaneous concentration of multiple toxins from large volumes of water. The method includes the steps of providing a disposable separation centrifuge bowl, the centrifuge bowl including a positively charged material at it's inner core. A large water sample contaminated with toxins from a group consisting of protozoa, bacteria, bacterial spores, and toxins is delivered to the centrifuge bowl. A centrifugal force is applied to the separation bowl. The water sample is concentrated to remove large particles of the toxins in the bowl due to the centrifugal forces. The concentrated water sample is passes through the positively charged inner core to capture any remaining concentrated targets by electrostatic forces and the concentrated targets are eluted. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100205123 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IDENTIFYING UNWANTED OR HARMFUL ELECTRONIC TEXT - The present invention relates to systems and methods for identifying and removing unwanted or harmful electronic text (e.g., spam). In particular, the present invention provides systems and methods utilizing inexact string matching methods and machine learning and non-learning methods for identifying and removing unwanted or harmful electronic text. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100203226 | METHOD FOR FORMING INORGANIC COATINGS - The present invention is directed to a method for forming an inorganic coating on a protein template. The method comprises contacting the template with an anionic polymer interface followed by an inorganic material for a sufficient period of time to allow mineralization of the inorganic material thus forming an inorganic coating on the template. Preferably, the coating is aligned. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100196447 | SILK BIOMATERIALS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - The present invention provides an all-aqueous process and composition for production of silk biomaterials, e.g., fibers, films, foams and mats. In the process, at least one biocompatible polymer, such as poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) (a well-documented biocompatible material), was blended with the silk protein prior to processing e.g., electrospinning. We discovered that this step avoids problems associated with conformational transitions of fibroin during solubilization and reprocessing from aqueous solution which lead to embrittled materials. Moreover, the process avoids the use of organic solvents that can pose problems when the processed biomaterials are exposed to cells in vitro or in vivo. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100191328 | TISSUE-ENGINEERED SILK ORGANS - This invention relates to a lamellae tissue layer, comprising a grooved silk fibroin substrate comprising tissue-specific cells. The silk fibroin substrates provides an excellent means of controlling and culturing cell and extracellular matrix development. A multitude of lamellae tissue layers can be used to create a tissue-engineered organ, such as a tissue-engineered cornea. The tissue-engineered organ is non-immunogenic and biocompatible. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100191168 | ENDOVASCULAR CEREBROSPINAL FLUID SHUNT - An implantable shunt device for draining cerebrospinal fluid from a patient's subarachnoid space. The device includes a shunt having opposed first and second ends. A one-way valve is located at the first end of the shunt. A helical tip is disposed at the second end. The helical tip is constructed to penetrate a sinus wall of the patient. Upon implantation, a hollow passageway extends between the helical tip and one-way valve such that fluid can be drained through the helical tip and out through the valve. The endovascular cerebrospinal fluid shunt of the present invention can be placed into a patient percutaneously via a catheter inserted into the venous system of the body through a needle hole, without the need for open surgery and the skin incisions required with current shunt devices. The device also allows for more physiologic drainage of cerebrospinal fluid since the device is shunting cerebrospinal fluid into the same cerebral venous system that occurs naturally in normal people. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100178304 | METHOD FOR SILK FIBROIN GELATION USING SONICATION - This invention provides for a process of rapidly forming silk fibroin gelation through ultrasonication. Under the appropriate conditions, gelation can be controlled to occur within two hours after the ultrasonication treatment. Biological materials, including viable cells, or therapeutic agents can be encapsulated in the hydrogels formed from the process and be used as delivery vehicles. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100168032 | Smart Pro-Drugs of Serine Protease Inhibitors - The present invention relates to prodrugs of protease inhibitors, such as inhibitors of the proteosome, DPP IV, FAPα and the like. These “pro-inhibitors” are activated, i.e., cleaved, by an “activated protease” to release an active inhibitor moiety in proximity to a “target protease”. The identity of activating protease and target protease can be the same (such as pro-inhibitors being referred to as “Target-Activated Smart Protease Inhibitors” or “TASPI”) or different (e.g., “Target-Directed Smart Protease Inhibitors” or “TDSPI”). After activation of the pro-inhibitor, the active inhibitor moiety can self-inactivate by, e.g., intramolecular-cyclization or cis-trans isomerization. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100160265 | 7, 8 AND 9-SUBSTITUTED TETRACYCLINE COMPOUNDS - 7, 8 and 9-substituted tetracycline compounds, methods of treating tetracycline responsive states, and pharmaceutical compositions containing the 7, 8 and 9-substituted tetracycline compounds are described. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100120116 | NANOPATTERNED BIOPOLYMER OPTICAL DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a nanopatterned biopolymer optical device includes providing a biopolymer, processing the biopolymer to yield a biopolymer matrix solution, providing a substrate with a nanopatterned surface, casting the biopolymer matrix solution on the nanopatterned surface of the substrate, and drying the biopolymer matrix solution to form a solidified biopolymer film on the substrate, where the solidified biopolymer film is formed with a surface having a nanopattern thereon. In another embodiment, the method also includes annealing the solidified biopolymer film. A nanopatterned biopolymer optical device includes a solidified biopolymer film with a surface having a nanopattern is also provided. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100105753 | Inhibitors of Fibroblast Activation Protein, and Methods of Use Thereof - One aspect of the present invention relates to synthetic peptide derivatives that inhibit fibroblast activation protein α (FAP) activity. Another aspect of the invention relates to methods for treating a mammal suffering from cancer by administering a therapeutically effective amount of synthetic peptides derivatives that inhibit FAP activity. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100096763 | BIOPOLYMER OPTOFLUIDIC DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer optofluidic device including providing a biopolymer, processing the biopolymer to yield a biopolymer matrix solution, providing a substrate, casting the biopolymer matrix solution on the substrate, embedding a channel mold in the biopolymer matrix solution, drying the biopolymer matrix solution to solidify biopolymer optofluidic device, and extracting the embedded channel mold to provide a fluidic channel in the solidified biopolymer optofluidic device. In accordance with another aspect, an optofluidic device is provided that is made of a biopolymer and that has a channel therein for conveying fluid. | 04-22-2010 |
| 20100089773 | TOTAL ORGANIC COMPOUND (TOC) ANALYZER - The invention disclosed is a total organic carbon (TOC) analyzer comprised of an electrochemical cell comprising a diamond-film electrode doped with boron or other conductivity inducing material. The diamond-film electrode is the working electrode and carries out the oxidation of TOC to produce carbon dioxide. The apparatus further comprises sensors for detecting the carbon dioxide produced. Such sensors include but are not limited to a tunable diode laser and/or ion-selective electrode. The invention also discloses a method for measuring TOC in an aqueous solution using a total organic carbon analyzer. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100070068 | BIOPOLYMER SENSOR AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer sensor including providing a biopolymer, processing the biopolymer to yield a biopolymer matrix solution, adding a biological material in the biopolymer matrix, providing a substrate, casting the matrix solution on the substrate, and drying the biopolymer matrix solution to form a solidified biopolymer sensor on the substrate. A biopolymer sensor is also provided that includes a solidified biopolymer film with an embedded biological material. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100068740 | MICROFLUIDIC DEVICE WITH A CYLINDRICAL MICROCHANNEL AND A METHOD FOR FABRICATING SAME - A method of manufacturing a microfluidic device having at least one cylindrical microchannel includes providing a substrate, casting an uncured polymer matrix solution onto the substrate, embedding an elongated rod in the uncured polymer matrix solution, curing the polymer matrix solution to form a solidified body, and extracting the elongated rod to form the cylindrical microchannel in the solidified body. In another embodiment, the method includes forming an optical feature on a surface of the microfluidic device. A microfluidic device is also provided, the device including a polymer body, and at least one cylindrical microchannel in the polymer body, the cylindrical microchannel having a diameter between approximately 40 ?m and 250 ?m, inclusive. An additional microfluidic device is provided that functions as an optofluidic spectrometer. The optofluidic spectrometer includes a polymer body, a diffraction grating integrated within the polymer body, and a cylindrical microchannel behind the diffraction grating on the polymer body. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100065784 | ELECTROACTIVE BIOPOLYMER OPTICAL AND ELECTRO-OPTICAL DEVICES AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer optical device includes providing a polymer, providing a substrate, casting the polymer on the substrate, and enzymatically polymerizing an organic compound to generate a conducting polymer between the provided polymer and the substrate. The polymer may be a biopolymer such as silk and may be modified using organic compounds such as tyrosines to provide a molecular-level interface between the provided bulk biopolymer of the biopolymer optical device and a substrate or other conducting layer via a tyrosine-enzyme polymerization. The enzymatically polymerizing may include catalyzing the organic compound with peroxidase enzyme reactions. The result is a carbon-carbon conjugated backbone that provides polymeric “wires” for use in polymer and biopolymer optical devices. An all organic biopolymer electroactive material is thereby provided that provides optical functions and features. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100063404 | BIOPOLYMER OPTICAL WAVEGUIDE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer optical waveguide includes providing a biopolymer, unwinding the biopolymer progressively to extract individual biopolymer fibers, and putting the unwound fibers under tension. The tensioned fibers are then cast in a different polymer to form a biopolymer optical waveguide that guides light due to the difference in indices of refraction between the biopolymer and the different polymer. The optical fibers may be used in biomedical applications and can be inserted in the body as transmissive media. Printing techniques may be used to manufacture the biopolymer optical waveguides. | 03-11-2010 |
| 20100055438 | CONCENTRATED AQUEOUS SILK FIBROIN SOLUTION AND USE THEREOF - The present invention provides for concentrated aqueous silk fibroin solutions and an all-aqueous mode for preparation of concentrated aqueous fibroin solutions that avoids the use of organic solvents, direct additives, or harsh chemicals. The invention further provides for the use of these solutions in production of materials, e.g., fibers, films, foams, meshes, scaffolds and hydrogels. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100046902 | BIOPOLYMER PHOTONIC CRYSTALS AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer photonic crystal includes providing a biopolymer, processing the biopolymer to yield a biopolymer matrix solution, providing a substrate, casting the matrix solution on the substrate, and drying the biopolymer matrix solution to form a solidified biopolymer film. A surface of the film is formed with a nanopattern, or a nanopattern is machined on a surface of the film. In another embodiment, a plurality of biopolymer films is stacked together. A photonic crystal is also provided that is made of a biopolymer and has a nanopatterned surface. In another embodiment, the photonic crystal includes a plurality of nanopatterned films that are stacked together. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100028451 | SILK MICROSPHERES FOR ENCAPSULATION AND CONTROLLED RELEASE - A method was developed to prepare silk fibroin microspheres using lipid vesicles as templates to efficiently load therapeutic agents in active form for controlled release. The lipids are subsequently removed through the use of a dehydration agent, such as methanol or sodium chloride, resulting in β-sheet structure dominant silk microsphere structures having about 2 μm in diameter. The therapeutic agent can be entrapped in the silk microspheres and used in pharmaceutical formulations for controlled-release treatments. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100009919 | Apolipoprotein A1 Mimetics and Uses Thereof - The present invention provides peptidomimetics derived from Apolipoprotein A-I, which is useful for beneficially influencing lipid parameters and/or plasma cholesterol levels. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treatment for elevated levels of plasma cholesterol. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20090312355 | Non-Flushing Niacin Analogues, and Methods of Use Thereof - One aspect of the present invention relates to substituted pyridines and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof that are active against a range of mammalian maladies. Another aspect of the invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition, comprising a compound of the present invention or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient. The present invention also relates to methods of treating a range of mammalian maladies or conditions, including but not limited to hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, coronary heart disease, angina, pellagra, Hartnup's syndrome, carcinoid syndrome, arterial occlusive disease, obesity, hypothyroidism, vasoconstriction, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, lipodystrophy, or dyslipidemia, raising serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, and lowering serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. | 12-17-2009 |
| 20090306338 | Stabilized GLP-1 Analogs - Polypeptide analogs of the invention that include a) a base amino acid sequence at least 80% identical to one of a GLP-1 fragment; and b) amino acid residues attached to the carboxy terminus of the base amino acid sequence, where the analogs have GLP-1-like activity of longer duration than native GLP-1 and/or the GLP-1 receptor has a greater affinity for the analogs than native GLP-1. Other polypeptide analogs of the invention include a) a base amino acid sequence at least 50% identical to a GLP-1 fragment in which the amino acid residue in the base amino acid sequence corresponding to the P′ | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090306022 | 7-SUBSTITUTED TETRACYCLINE COMPOUNDS - The present invention pertains, at least in part, to novel 7-substituted tetracycline compounds. These tetracycline compounds can be used to treat numerous tetracycline compound-responsive states, such as bacterial infections and neoplasms, as well as other known applications for minocycline and tetracycline compounds in general, such as blocking tetracycline efflux and modulation of gene expression. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090298873 | METHODS OF REDUCING MICROBIAL RESISTANCE TO DRUGS - The instant methods and compositions represent an advance in controlling drug resistance in microbes. AcrAB-like efflux pumps have been found to control resistance to drugs, even in highly resistant microbes. Accordingly, methods of treating infection, methods of screening for inhibitors of AcrAB-like efflux pumps, and methods of enhancing antimicrobial activity of drugs are provided. Pharmaceutical composition comprising an inhibitor of an AcrAB-like efflux pump and an antimicrobial agent are also provided. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090258842 | 7-Phenyl-Substituted Tetracycline Compounds - 7-phenyl-substituted tetracycline compounds, methods of treating tetracycline responsive states, and pharmaceutical compositions containing the 7-phenyl-substituted tetracycline compounds are described. | 10-15-2009 |
| 20090232963 | DIAZONIUM SALT MODIFICATION OF SILK POLYMER - A method for modifying silk polymer by coupling a chemical moiety to a tyrosine residue of a silk polymer is described herein for the purpose of altering the physical properties of the silk protein. Thus, silk proteins with desired physical properties can be produced by the methods described herein. These methods are particularly useful when the introduction of cells to a mammal is desired, since modifications to the silk protein affect the physical properties and thus the adhesion, metabolic activity and cell morphology of the desired cells. The silk protein can be modified to produce, or modify, a structure that provides an optimal environment for the desired cells. | 09-17-2009 |
| 20090222282 | Method for Personalized Diet Design - The present invention is directed to methods of developing dietary guidelines, particularly associated with dietary consumption of fatty acids. We discovered an association of a polymorphic marker with regulation of plasma lipid levels in response to dietary intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Accordingly, the present invention provides methods for providing individualized guidance in design of dietary interventions to alter plasma lipid profiles by genotyping APOA5 locus, wherein the presence of APOA5−1131C, APOA5−3G, APOA5 IVS3+476A, and APOA5 1259C alleles or alleles that are found to be in tight linkage disequilibrium with APOA5−1131C, APOA5−3G, APOA5 IVS3+476A, and APOA5 1259C alleles, is indicative of the individual being susceptible to altered plasma lipid levels in response to intake of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. | 09-03-2009 |
| 20090221818 | Inhibitors of Fibroblast Activation Protein Alpha - Disclosed are peptide-based compounds that include boronic acid or cyano functionality, which efficiently and selectively inhibit fibroblast activation protein alpha. Among other therapeutic utilities, the peptide-based compounds may be useful for the treatment of cancer. | 09-03-2009 |
| 20090215175 | MODULATION OF THE POLIOVIRUS RECEPTOR FUNCTION - The present invention relates to the identification, the isolation and the use of molecules interfering with the function (s) mediated by the poliovirus receptor (PVR) on cells. The molecules can be used for the treatment of cells having a metastatic potential, metastasis and cancer. Further methods are provided that are useful for identifying and isolating molecules, which have the capacity to modulate PVR mediated adhesion or invasion potential of cells. | 08-27-2009 |
| 20090214439 | Fluorinated Carbohydrates and Their Use in Tumor Visualization, Tissue Engineering, and Cancer Chemotherapy - The present invention relates to fluorine-containing monosaccharides that are useful for forming extracellular fluorinated glycoconjugates. Methods of forming extracellular fluorinated glycoconjugates comprise the steps of contacting a cell with a fluorine-containing monosaccharide, and incubating the cell under conditions whereby the cell internalizes the fluorine-containing monosaccharide, or a derivative thereof, on the surface of the cell. The present invention also relates to the use of a fluorine-containing monosaccharide in cellular imaging using fluorine NMR. The invention additionally relates to the use of fluorine containing monosaccharides in the treatment of cancer and inflammatory disease. | 08-27-2009 |
| 20090209492 | Lipase Inhibitors - The present invention relates to inhibitors of lipases, such as inhibitors of endothelial lipase, as well as pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods for using such inhibitors. The prototype of these inhibitors has lipophilic portion and an electrophilic site. | 08-20-2009 |
| 20090209491 | Lactams as conformationally constrained peptidomimetic inhibitors - The present invention relates to inhibitors of post-proline cleaving enzyme, such as inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase IV, as well as pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods for using such inhibitors. In particular, the inhibitors of the present invention incorporate a lactam ring in the backbone of the inhibitors. The compounds of the present invention can have a better therapeutic index, owing in part to reduced toxicity and/or improved specificity for the target protease. | 08-20-2009 |
| 20090202614 | METHODS FOR STEPWISE DEPOSITION OF SILK FIBROIN COATINGS - The invention provides a method for the controlled assembly of layered silk fibroin coatings using aqueous silk fibroin material. The methods described herein can be used to coat substrates of any material, shape, or size. Importantly, the described methods enable control of the biomaterial surface chemistry, thickness, morphology and structure using layered thin film coatings, or bulk coatings. Furthermore, the methods can be performed in all water and do not require intensive chemical processing enabling controlled entrapment of labile molecules such as, drugs, cytokines, and even cells or viruses to generate functional coatings that can be used in a variety of applications. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090136916 | METHODS AND MICROARRAYS FOR DETECTING ENTERIC VIRUSES - The present invention relates to methods, microarrays and kits for detecting one or more human astrovirus serotypes in a sample (e.g., a fecal sample) from an individual. The method includes amplifying nucleic acid molecules of the sample with one or more primers, to thereby obtain an amplified nucleic acid product; contacting the amplified nucleic acid product with one or more serotype specific probes having a nucleic acid sequence that is specific for only one astrovirus serotype in the group of astroviruses being assessed, wherein the nucleic acid sequence includes between about 9 and 25 nucleic acid bases (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 5-24); and detecting the hybridization complex. The presence of hybridization complexes with a serotype specific probe indicates the presence of one or more specific astrovirus serotypes, and the absence of hybridization complexes with a serotype specific probe indicates the absence of the specific astrovirus serotype. Identification of the astrovirus serotypes allows for one to diagnose an individual infected with the serotype. The present invention further includes microarrays having any one of the astrovirus specific probe, or kits having microarrays and reagents for carrying out the assay. | 05-28-2009 |
| 20090131696 | Reducing Tetracycline Resistance in Living Cells - The present invention provides an improved methodology by which therapeutically to overcome resistance to tetracycline in living cells including bacteria, parasites, fungi, and rickettsiae. The methodology employs a blocking agent such as C5 ester derivatives, or 6-deoxy 13-(substituted mercapto) derivatives of tetracycline, in combination with other tetracycline-type antibiotics as a synergistic combination of compositions to be administered simultaneously, sequentially or concurrently. In another embodiment, certain novel compositions are provided which may be administered alone against, for example, a sensitive or resistant strain of gram positive bacteria such as | 05-21-2009 |
| 20090124583 | 7-N-substituted phenyl tetracycline compounds - 7-substituted tetracycline compounds, methods of treating tetracycline responsive states, and pharmaceutical compositions containing the 7-substituted tetracycline compounds are described. | 05-14-2009 |
| 20090082309 | Method of Regulating Glucose Metabolism, and Reagents Related Thereto - The present invention provides methods and compositions for modification and regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, generally to reduce insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, obesity, hyperlipidemia, hyperlipoprotein-emia (such as chylomicrons, VLDL and LDL), and to regulate body fat and more generally lipid stores, and, more generally, for the improvement of metabolism disorders, especially those associated with diabetes, obesity and/or atherosclerosis. | 03-26-2009 |
| 20090062685 | ELECTRO-OPTICAL SENSOR FOR PERIPHERAL NERVES - Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is employed to examine the neuronal activity and vascular response of a peripheral nerve for research or clinical purposes. An embodiment for implementing this approach has: a nerve stimulator; a tissue spectrometer; a stimulation probe adapted to apply a stimulation from the nerve stimulator to a peripheral nerve; at least one illumination optical fiber, where each illumination optical fiber is adapted to transmit a near-infrared source light to the peripheral nerve after the stimulation is applied; and a detection optical fiber adapted to collect and deliver to the tissue spectrometer a returning light from the peripheral nerve after each source light is transmitted to the peripheral nerve. The returning light has a returning intensity, and the tissue spectrometer can determine the returning intensity to provide readings of optical diffuse reflectance of the peripheral nerve after the stimulation is applied. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090062235 | Inhibitors of Dipeptidylpeptidase IV - The present invention relates to inhibitors of post-proline cleaving enzymes, such as inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase IV, as well as pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods for using such inhibitors. In particular, the inhibitors of the present invention are improved over those in the prior art by selection of particular classes of sidechains in the P1 and/or P2 position of the inhibitor that contain a carboxylic acid moiety. The compounds of the present invention can have a better therapeutic index, owing in part to reduced toxicity and/or improved specificity for the targeted protease. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20080318908 | USE OF GABA AND GABAB AGONISTS - The present invention provides methods of stimulating tissue growth, including islet cell growth, by administering GABA or a GABA agonist to act on GABA | 12-25-2008 |
| 20080280360 | Method for Producing Biomaterial Scaffolds - The present invention provides a multilayer scaffold for tissue engineering. The scaffold comprises at least a first layer comprised of a polymer having a pattern of microchannels therein; and at least a second layer comprised of a polymer having a pattern of microchannels therein. The first and second layers are joined together (preferably by lamination) and the channels are connected for the circulation of fluid through the layers. The scaffold is coated with bacterial cellulose. The scaffold may further include a mammalian cell. | 11-13-2008 |
| 20080275728 | Method for Personalized Diet Design for Females of Asian Origin - The present invention provides methods for personalized diet design for females of Asian origin, wherein females who are homozygous for the PLIN 11482A are advised to avoid diets high in fat and low in carbohydrates, to avoid or manage metabolic syndrome and conditions related to metabolic syndrome, such as insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. | 11-06-2008 |
| 20080275216 | Fluorous Capping Reagents and Methods for Peptide Purification - Aspects of the present invention relate to compounds for preparing fluorocarbon compounds, methods for preparing fluorocarbon compounds, and methods for purifying a mixture of compounds. One aspect of the present invention relates to a trivalent iodonium fluorocarbon. The trivalent iodonium fluorocarbon compound of the invention is useful for attaching a fluorocarbon group to a compound that has a nucleophilic functional group. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of preparing a trivalent iodonium fluorocarbon. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of preparing a fluorocarbon by treating a compound bearing a nucleophilic functional group with a trivalent iodonium fluorocarbon compound. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method or purifying a mixture comprising a first and a second compound by treating the mixture with a trivalent iodonium fluorocarbon to attach a fluorocarbon group to the second compound leaving the first compound unchanged, and purifying the mixture by fluorous-phase purification. | 11-06-2008 |
| 20080267848 | Apparatus and Methods for Non-Regenerative and Regenerative Hot Gas Sulfurization - Disclosed is a doped cerium oxide sorbent that can effectively and regenerably remove H | 10-30-2008 |
