Disclosed herein are biosensors including transcription, translation, and coupled transcription/translation systems. The biosensors may be made from cell lysates, purified enzymes, or a combination thereof. The biosensors may include an inhibitor, and may include a reporter. The biosensor may be supplied in a kit for testing for a disease or condition. Methods of using the biosensor are also disclosed.

A method of identifying agents for the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis (CF) caused by the mutation F508del in the gene encoding the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator protein (F508del-CFTR), wherein a candidate agent contacts with at least one gene sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 228 to 478 or with its protein product as therapeutic targets. The ability of the candidate agent to modulate the activity of the F508del-CFTR protein and its plasma membrane traffic is determined. Gene sequences SEQ ID NOs: 228 to 478 were identified by a high-throughput siRNA cell-based microscopy screen aimed at identifying genes which enhance F508del-CFTR plasma membrane levels upon knock-down, as potential candidates for drug therapy in the treatment of CF. Further disclosing formulations comprising agents capable of targeting at least one gene sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs: 228 to 478 or their protein product.

A method for distinguishing or differentially diagnosing Alzheimer's disease from other neurodegenerative diseases, comprising determining the level of TPK1 protein in a sample from a subject, wherein a decrease in the level of TPK1 protein compared to a reference value indicates that the subject has Alzheimer's disease. Methods, compositions, test strips, test cards and/or kits for distinguishing or differentially diagnosing Alzheimer's disease from other neurodegenerative diseases by detecting a biomarker, wherein the methods, compositions, test strips, test cards and/or kits can specifically diagnose Alzheimer's disease.

The present invention concerns screening methods to identify compounds that regulate the activity of Acinetobacter baumannii SpoT enzyme, in particular compounds that are able to partially or completely inhibit the hydrolase activity of said enzyme. The screening methods rely on assessing the degree of fit of candidate compounds with the three-dimensional structure of the A. baumannii SpoT protein and/or A. baumannii SpoT-ppGpp complex represented by a well-defined set of atomic coordinates. The screening methods may further rely on assessing interaction of the candidate compound with one or more amino acid residues of a region on the surface of the SpoT protein.