Immunological control of beta-amyloid levels in vivo

Abstract

Disclosed herein are compositions and methods useful for controlling β-amyloid levels. In particular, the instant invention relates to an antibody that catalyzes hydrolysis of β-amyloid at a predetermined amide linkage are provided. The present invention also provides a vectorized antibody that is capable of crossing the blood brain barrier and is also capable of catalyzing the hydrolysis of β-amyloid at a predetermined amide linkage. Also provided are methods for modulating β-amyloid levels in vivo using antibodies that bind to β-amyloid. These compositions and methods have therapeutic applications, including the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

1 - 36 . (canceled) 
     
     
         37 . A method of preventing or treating a disease characterized by an amyloid deposit of Aβ in a patient, comprising:
 administering an Aβ peptide and an adjuvant in a regime effective to induce an immune response comprising antibodies to the Aβ peptide, the adjuvant enhancing the immune response to the Aβ peptide, and thereby prevent or treat the disease in the patient.   
     
     
         38 . The method of  claim 37 , wherein the patient is a human. 
     
     
         39 . The method of  claim 37 , wherein the disease is Alzheimer's disease. 
     
     
         40 . The method of  claim 37 , wherein the adjuvant and the Aβ peptide are administered together as a composition.