David M Beall

US Patent:

7105170, Sep 12, 2006

Filed:

Jan 7, 2002

Appl. No.:

10/250930

Inventors:

Frederick D. Quinn - Avondale Estates GA, US
Kristin A. Birkness - Atlanta GA, US
Manon Deslauriers - Quebec City, CA
Peter King - Nacogdoches TX, US
David S. Beall - Atlantic Beach FL, US

Assignee:

The United States of America as represented by the Department of Health and Human Services - Washington DC

International Classification:

A61K 39/04
A61K 49/00
A61K 39/395
C12Q 1/00
C12N 5/00
C12N 5/08

US Classification:

4242481, 424 91, 424 92, 4241301, 4241391, 4241501, 4241841, 4241851, 4242341, 435 4, 435325, 435366, 435372

Abstract:

Provided herein is an in vitro granuloma model and methods of its use. Methods of detecting and/or diagnosing latent tuberculosis in a subject are also provided, as are latency-specific antigens (and antibodies thereto), such as α-crystallin, and methods of identifying and using such molecules. Also provided are immunostimulatory compositions, for instance for use in eliciting an immune response in a subject, such as an immune response to a latent tuberculosis infection. Kits for carrying out the provided methods are also described.