RS-1 Knockout Mouse Model for X-Linked Retinoschisis (XLRS) Research
The National Eye Institute (NEI) seeks research co-development partners and/or licensees for the development of a transgenic mouse model for X-linked retinoschisis (XLRS).
A Method to Remove Fluid-motion Related Artifacts in Magnetic Resonance Thermometry Images Using Magnetic Field Gradients
This technology includes the incorporation of a magnetic field gradient waveform (consisting of two or more pulses) between excitation and encoding to eliminate signal from moving fluid for imaging applications. Proton Resonance Frequency (PRF) thermometry is a widely used Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) based technique to monitor changes in tissue temperature in response to thermal therapy. The use of PRF thermometry with thermal therapy procedures is indispensable to ensure delivery of desired thermal dose to the target tissue, and to minimize unintended damage to the normal tissue.
Gene Therapy for Treatment of CRX-Autosomal Dominant Retinopathies
Description of Technology:
Mutations in the cone rod homeobox (CRX) transcription factor lead to distinct retinopathy phenotypes, including early-onset vision impairment in dominant Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA). Adeno-Associated virus (AAV) vector-mediated delivery of a CRX cDNA under the control of a CRX promoter region partially restored photoreceptor phenotype and expression of phototransduction genes in an in vitro model of CRX-LCA.
Attenuated Human Parainfluenza Virus Type 1 Expressing Ebola Virus Glycoprotein GP as an Intranasal Ebola Vaccine
Ebola virus (EBOV) hemorrhagic fever is one of the most lethal viral infections and lacks a licensed vaccine. EBOV is transmitted by contact with body fluids from infected individuals including droplets or aerosols. Aerosolized EBOV could also be exploited for intentional virus spread. Therefore, vaccines that protect against mucosal and systemic exposure are needed.
Tumor Associated Calcium Signal Transducer 2 (TACSTD2)-Overexpressing Huh7.5 Cells That Are More Permissive to HCV Cell Entry and Replication Compared to the Model Huh7.5 Cell Line
Worldwide, 130-150 million individuals are chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), a major cause of liver-associated morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite recent advances in antiviral drugs that can cure some individuals, a rapid decline of the global disease burden is hampered by remarkably high treatment costs and a high number of undiagnosed infections. Moreover, a significant number of patients develop resistance and additional treatment modalities may be needed to dramatically reduce the worldwide incidence of HCV infection.
Development of a High-Throughput Screening Tool for RSV Inhibition Using Engineered RSV Expressing GFP and Luciferase Genes
The technology involves the genetic engineering of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) to express two additional genes, green fluorescent protein (GFP) and Renilla luciferase, from different positions within the viral genome. GFP serves as a visual marker for RSV infection, allowing researchers to monitor and track infected cells using fluorescence microscopy, while luciferase functions as a highly sensitive reporter gene that enables quantitative assessment of viral replication through enzymatic assays.
Enhanced GFP-Expressing Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): A Versatile Tool for Virology Research and Antiviral Drug Screening
The technology involves genetically engineering Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) to express enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP), enabling the monitoring of virus infection and gene expression through GFP fluorescence. This system serves as a sensitive and versatile tool for virology research, antiviral drug screening, and diagnostic applications.
Optimizing RSV Infection Monitoring and High-Throughput Screening Through GFP Expression in the First-Gene Position of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Strain A2
In this technology, researchers have engineered a modified version of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) strain A2 using reverse genetics to incorporate green fluorescent protein (GFP) into the first-gene position. This genetic modification allows for the efficient monitoring of RSV infection and the screening of potential chemical inhibitors. The GFP expression can be easily detected through fluorescence microscopy in live or fixed cells, providing a sensitive tool for both research and drug discovery.
Advancing VZV Antibody Detection: A High-Throughput LIPS Assay for Varicella Vaccine Recipients
The technology described is a sophisticated and high-throughput luciferase immunoprecipitation system (LIPS) assay designed to detect antibodies specific to Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) glycoprotein E (gE). By transfecting cells with VZV protein-Renilla luciferase fusion protein constructs and subsequently performing immunoprecipitations with protein A/G beads, this innovative assay enables the quantitative measurement of VZV gE antibody levels in blood serum samples.
Advancements in Postexposure Prophylaxis: Evaluating High-Potency Rabies-Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibodies
This technology represents a significant advancement in the field of rabies prevention, focusing on the development of highly potent rabies-neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for use in postexposure prophylaxis (PEP). With two mAbs, F2 and G5a, displaying exceptional neutralizing titers of 1154 and 3462 International Units (IUs) per milligram, respectively, these antibodies have the potential to offer enhanced protection against rabies when administered alongside rabies vaccines.