U.S. patent application number 11/447460 was filed with the patent office on 2006-09-28 for glycoprotein vi and uses thereof.
This patent application is currently assigned to Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.. Invention is credited to Samantha J. Busfield, Martine Jandrot-Perrus, William Vainchencker, Jean-Luc Villeval.
Application Number | 20060216291 11/447460 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27407686 |
Filed Date | 2006-09-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060216291 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Busfield; Samantha J. ; et
al. |
September 28, 2006 |
Glycoprotein VI and uses thereof
Abstract
The invention provides isolated nucleic acid molecules and
polypeptide molecules that encode glycoprotein VI, a platelet
membrane glycoprotein that is involved platelet-collagen
interactions. The invention also provides antisense nucleic acid
molecules, expression vectors containing the nucleic acid molecules
of the invention, host cells into which the expression vectors have
been introduced, and non-human transgenic animals in which a
nucleic acid molecule of the invention has been introduced or
disrupted. The invention still further provides isolated
polypeptides, fusion polypeptides, antigenic peptides and
antibodies. Diagnostic, screening and therapeutic methods utilizing
compositions of the invention are also provided.
Inventors: |
Busfield; Samantha J.;
(Maddington, AU) ; Villeval; Jean-Luc; (Needham,
MA) ; Jandrot-Perrus; Martine; (Vanves, FR) ;
Vainchencker; William; (Paris, FR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MILLENNIUM PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.
40 Landsdowne Street
CAMBRIDGE
MA
02139
US
|
Assignee: |
Millennium Pharmaceuticals,
Inc.
|
Family ID: |
27407686 |
Appl. No.: |
11/447460 |
Filed: |
June 6, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09503387 |
Feb 14, 2000 |
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11447460 |
Jun 6, 2006 |
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09454824 |
Dec 6, 1999 |
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09503387 |
Feb 14, 2000 |
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09345068 |
Jun 30, 1999 |
6437812 |
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09454824 |
Dec 6, 1999 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
424/144.1 ;
435/320.1; 435/325; 435/6.16; 435/69.1; 435/7.1; 530/350;
530/388.22; 536/23.5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C07K 2319/00 20130101;
C07K 16/28 20130101; C07K 2317/565 20130101; A61K 38/00 20130101;
C07K 16/2803 20130101; A61P 43/00 20180101; C07K 2319/30 20130101;
Y10S 435/81 20130101; C07K 14/705 20130101; C07K 2317/622
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
424/144.1 ;
435/006; 435/007.1; 435/069.1; 435/320.1; 435/325; 530/350;
530/388.22; 536/023.5 |
International
Class: |
A61K 39/395 20060101
A61K039/395; C12Q 1/68 20060101 C12Q001/68; G01N 33/53 20060101
G01N033/53; C07H 21/04 20060101 C07H021/04; C12P 21/06 20060101
C12P021/06; C07K 14/705 20060101 C07K014/705; C07K 16/28 20060101
C07K016/28 |
Claims
1. An isolated nucleic acid molecule selected from the group
consisting of: a) a nucleic acid molecule comprising a nucleotide
sequence which is at least 45% identical to the nucleotide sequence
of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14 or 15, the cDNA insert of the plasmid
deposited with the ATCC as Accession Number 207180 or PTA-225, or a
complement thereof; b) a nucleic acid molecule comprising a
fragment of at least 300 nucleotides of the nucleotide sequence of
SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14 or 15, the cDNA insert of the plasmid deposited
with the ATCC as Accession Number 207180 or PTA-225, or a
complement thereof; c) a nucleic acid molecule which encodes a
polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or
16, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA insert of the
plasmid deposited with the ATCC as Accession Number 207180 or
PTA-225; and d) a nucleic acid molecule which encodes a fragment of
a polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or
16, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA insert of the
plasmid deposited with the ATCC as Accession Number 207180 or
PTA-225, wherein the fragment comprises at least 15 contiguous
amino acids of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence
encoded by the cDNA insert of the plasmid deposited with the ATCC
as Accession Number 207180 or PTA-225;
2. The isolated nucleic acid molecule of claim 1, which is selected
from the group consisting of: a) a nucleic acid comprising the
nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14 or 15, the cDNA insert of
the plasmid deposited with the ATCC as Accession Number 207180 or
PTA-225, or a complement thereof; and b) a nucleic acid molecule
which encodes a polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence of
SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA
insert of the plasmid deposited with the ATCC as Accession Number
207180 or PTA-225;
3. The nucleic acid molecule of claim 1 further comprising vector
nucleic acid sequences.
4. The nucleic acid molecule of claim 1 further comprising nucleic
acid sequences encoding a heterologous polypeptide.
5. A host cell which contains the nucleic acid molecule of claim
1.
6. The host cell of claim 5 which is a mammalian host cell.
7. A non-human mammalian host cell containing the nucleic acid
molecule of claim 1.
8. An isolated polypeptide selected from the group consisting of:
a) a fragment of a polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence
of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, wherein the fragment comprises at least 15
contiguous amino acids of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16; b) a naturally
occurring allelic variant of a polypeptide comprising the amino
acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence
encoded by the cDNA insert of plasmids deposited with the ATCC as
Accession Number 207180 or PTA-225, wherein the polypeptide is
encoded by a nucleic acid molecule which hybridizes to a nucleic
acid molecule comprising SEQ ID NO:2 or 15, or a complement thereof
under stringent conditions; and c) a polypeptide which is encoded
by a nucleic acid molecule comprising a nucleotide sequence which
is at least 45% identical to a nucleic acid comprising the
nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:2 or 15, or at least 98% to a
nucleic acid comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:2 or
15, or a complement thereof.
9. The isolated polypeptide of claim 8 comprising the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16.
10. The polypeptide of claim 8, further comprising heterologous
amino acid sequences.
11. An antibody which selectively binds to a polypeptide of claim
8.
12. A method for producing a polypeptide selected from the group
consisting of: a) a polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence
of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the
cDNA insert of the plasmid deposited with the ATCC as Accession
Number 207180 or PTA-225, b) a polypeptide comprising a fragment of
the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid
sequence encoded by the cDNA insert of the plasmid deposited with
the ATCC as Accession Number 207180 or PTA-225, wherein the
fragment comprises at least 15 contiguous amino acids of SEQ ID
NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA insert
of the plasmid deposited with the ATCC as Accession Number 207180
or PTA-225; and c) a naturally occurring allelic variant of a
polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or
16, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA insert of the
plasmid deposited with the ATCC as Accession Number 207180 or
PTA-225, wherein the polypeptide is encoded by a nucleic acid
molecule which hybridizes to a nucleic acid molecule comprising SEQ
ID NO:1 or 14, or a complement thereof under stringent conditions;
comprising culturing the host cell of claim 5 under conditions in
which the nucleic acid molecule is expressed.
13. A method for detecting the presence of a polypeptide of claim 8
in a sample, comprising: a) contacting the sample with a compound
which selectively binds to a polypeptide of claim 8; and b)
determining whether the compound binds to the polypeptide in the
sample.
14. A method for detecting the presence of a nucleic acid molecule
of claim 1 in a sample, comprising the steps of: a) contacting the
sample with a nucleic acid probe or primer which selectively
hybridizes to the nucleic acid molecule; and b) determining whether
the nucleic acid probe or primer binds to a nucleic acid molecule
in the sample.
15. A kit comprising a compound which selectively hybridizes to a
nucleic acid molecule of claim 1 and instructions for use.
16. A method for identifying a compound which binds to a
polypeptide of claim 8 comprising the steps of: a) contacting a
polypeptide, or a cell expressing a polypeptide of claim 8 with a
test compound; and b) determining whether the polypeptide binds to
the test compound.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the binding of the test
compound to the polypeptide is detected by a method selected from
the group consisting of: a) detection of binding by direct
detecting of test compound/polypeptide binding; b) detection of
binding using a competition binding assay; c) detection of binding
using an assay for TANGO 268-mediated signal transduction.
18. A method for modulating the activity of a polypeptide of claim
8 comprising contacting a polypeptide or a cell expressing a
polypeptide of claim 8 with a compound which binds to the
polypeptide in a sufficient concentration to modulate the activity
of the polypeptide.
19. A method for identifying a compound which modulates the
activity of a polypeptide of claim 8, comprising: a) contacting a
polypeptide of claim 8 with a test compound; and b) determining the
effect of the test compound on the activity of the polypeptide to
thereby identify a compound which modulates the activity of the
polypeptide.
20. A method for modulating an activity of a TANG0268 polypeptide
in a subject comprising administering an anti-TANG0268 antibody to
the subject to thereby modulate an activity of a TANG0268
polypeptide.
21. The method of claim 20, wherein the TANG0268 activity is
selected from the group consisting of: a) the ability to modulate
the host immune response; b) the ability to modulate the
proliferation, differentiation and/or activity of megakaryocytes
and/or platelets; c) the ability to modulate immunoregulatory
functions; d) the ability to modulate platelet morphology,
migration, aggregation, degranulation and/or function; e) the
ability to modulate collagen binding to platelets; f) the ability
modulate collagen-induced platelet adhesion and aggregation; g) the
ability to interact with convulxin; h) the ability to bind to an
antibody from a patient with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
(ITP); and i) the ability to associate and/or co-express with
FcR.gamma..
22. A method for treating a subject having a disorder associated
with aberrant expression or activity of a TANGO268 polypeptide,
comprising administering an anti-TANGO268 antibody to the subject,
thereby treating said subject having a disorder associated with
aberrant expression or activity of a TANGO0268 polypeptide.
23. The method of claim 22, wherein the disorder associated with
aberrant expression or activity of a TANGO268 polypeptide is
selected from the group consisting of: a) immunologic disorders; b)
developmental disorders; c) embryonic disorders; d) liver
disorders; e) cerebral vascular diseases; f) venous thromboembolism
diseases; g) thrombotic disorders; h) coronary diseases; and i)
metastatic cancers.
Description
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 09/503,387, filed Feb. 14, 2000, pending, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/454,824, filed Dec. 6, 1999, now abandoned, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/345,068, filed Jun. 30, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,245,527, the
entire contents of each of these applications is hereby
incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The interaction between collagen and platelets is the first
event of the normal hemostatic response to injury. Collagen is the
major extracellular matrix protein present in the subendothelium of
blood vessels. Upon damage to the endothelium lining, as a
consequence of injury to the vessel wall, collagen fibers, fibrous
collagen I and III are exposed to platelets. This interaction leads
to platelet adhesion, activation with a second phase of adhesion,
secretion occurrence, and ultimately aggregation and development of
a hemostatic plug (Kehrel et al., 1998, Blood 91:491-9).
[0003] The mechanism of collagen-platelet interactions is complex.
It involves, on one hand, direct binding of collagen to specific
platelet receptors (e.g., .alpha..sub.2.beta..sub.1 integrin,
collagen receptor, glycoprotein IV, and glycoprotein VI) and, on
the other hand, indirect binding of collagen via bridging proteins
(e.g., von Willebrand Factor (vWF)) that bind to both collagen and
membrane receptors on platelets. Recent reports support a two-step
mechanism of collagen-platelet interaction, consisting a platelet
adhesion followed by platelet activation (Verkleij et al., 1998,
Blood 91:3808-16). The first step involves the binding of
collagen-bound vWF by the platelet receptor complex glycoprotein
Ib/IX/V, followed by the direct binding of integrin
.alpha..sub.2.beta..sub.1 to collagen (Moroi et al., 1997,
Thrombosis and Haemostasis 78:439-444 and Barnes et al., 1998,
Current Opinion in Hematology 6:314-320). This step results in
platelets adhering to the subendothelium of blood vessels under
physiological conditions. The second step of collagen-platelet
interaction involves another platelet collagen receptor,
glycoprotein VI (Barnes et al., 1998, Current Opinion in Hematology
6:314-320). This binding leads to strengthening of attachment and
platelet activation. It is believed that glycoprotein VI (GPVI) has
a minor importance in the first step of adhesion but plays a major
role in the second step of collagen-platelet interaction resulting
in full platelet activation and consequently the formation of the
platelet aggregates (Aria et al., 1995, British J. of Haematology
89:124-130).
[0004] Glycoprotein VI
[0005] Glycoprotein VI (GPVI) is a platelet membrane glycoprotein
that is involved in platelet-collagen interactions. In particular,
GPVI is a transmembrane collagen receptor expressed on the surface
of platelets. GPVI has an apparent molecular mass of 58 kDa in its
non-reduced form and 62 kDa after disulfide bond reduction as
determined by its migration via SDS-PAGE. Treatment of platelets
with N-glycanase has been shown to result in a faster migration of
GPVI in SDS-PAGE by two kDa, which probably corresponds to only one
N-glycosylation site.
[0006] The existence of a 62 kDa protein, later identified as GPVI,
was first detected as an antigen recognized by the sera of a
patient with steroid-responsive immune thrombocytopenic purpura
associated with defective collagen-induced platelet functions
(Sugiyama et al., 1987, Blood 69: 1712-1720). The patient's plasma,
as well as a preparation of full length IgG antibodies, induced
irreversible aggregation and ATP release in normal platelet-rich
plasma. However, Fab fragments prepared from the serum of this
patient blocked platelet aggregation induced by collagen (Sugiyama
et al., 1987, Blood 69: 1712-172).
[0007] The importance of GPVI in platelet/collagen interactions was
further confirmed by comparing the expression of platelet collagen
receptors from a different patient, with a mild bleeding disorder,
to that of a normal individual (Moroi et al., 1989, J. Clin.
Invest. 84(5):1440-5). The patient's platelets lacked
collagen-induced aggregation and adhesion, but retained normal
aggregation and release by other agonists. The expression of a 61
kDa membrane glycoprotein was detected on non-reduced,
two-dimensional SDS-PAGE, but was reduced compared to the
expression levels found in a normal individual. This glycoprotein
was termed glycoprotein VI (GPVI). The patient's platelets did not
bind to types I and III collagen fibrils suggesting that GPVI
functions as a collagen receptor involved in collagen-induced
platelet activation and aggregation.
[0008] GPVI has been shown to be constitutively associated with the
Fc receptor gamma (FcR.gamma.), and FcR.gamma. expression is
lacking in GPVI-deficient platelets, suggesting that GPVI and
FcR.gamma. are co-expressed in platelets (Tsuji et al., 1997, J.
Biol. Chem. 272:23528-31). Further, cross-linking of GPVI by
F(ab')2 fragments of anti-GPVI IgG has been shown to result in the
tyrosine phosphorylation of the FcR.gamma.-chain. FcR.gamma. is
tyrosine-phosphorylated upon platelet activation by collagen,
collagen related peptide (CRP; Gibbins et al., 1997, FEBS Lett.
413:255-259) or the snake venom component convulxin that acts as a
platelet agonist (Cvx; Lagrue et al., 1999, FEBS Letts.
448:95-100). Phosphorylation occurs on the immunoreceptor
tyrosine-based activation motifs (ITAM) of FcR.gamma. by kinases of
the Src family (p59Fyn and p53/56 lyn) (Briddon S J and Watson,
1999, Biochem J. 338:203-9). Phosphorylation of FcR.gamma. allows
Syk, a signaling molecule, to bind and to be in turn phosphorylated
and to activate phospholipase C.gamma.2 (PLC.gamma.2). Further,
platelet stimulation by collagen or Cvx have been shown to involve
the association of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3 kinase) and
the adapter protein linker for activator of T cells (LAT) to the
FcR.gamma. (Carlsson et al., 1998, Blood 92:1526-31). Thus,
FcR.gamma. appears to interact with GPVI to effect signaling.
[0009] The results from the GPVI signal transduction pathway
activation studies performed suggest that strong similarities exist
between the GPVI signaling pathway in platelets and the one used by
receptors for immune complexes, such as the high-affinity and low
affinity receptors for IgG (FcR.gamma.I and FcR.gamma.III), the
high-affinity receptor for IgE (FcR.epsilon.I) and the receptor for
IgA (FcR.alpha.I) (Maliszewski et al., 1990, J. Exp. Med.
172:1665-72). These receptors also signal via the FcR.gamma. chain
and Syk. Expression of the FcR.gamma.I, FcR.gamma.III has not been
reported in platelets. The FcR.gamma.IIa seems to be the only IgG
Fc-receptor consistently expressed on platelets, and it contains
one ITAM. This receptor has been suggested to be involved in
thrombocytopenia and thromboembolic complications of
heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), the most common
drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia (Carlsson et al., 1998, Blood
92:1526-31) and may also be involved in other immune
thrombocytopenia such as immune thrombocytopenia purpura (Loscalzo,
J., and Schafer, A. I., 1998, Thrombosis and Hemorrhage, J.
Loscalzo and A. I. Schafer, eds., Baltimore: Williams and
Wilkins).
[0010] Since its detection, the function of GPVI in
platelet-collagen interactions and the signal transduction pathway
induced by GPVI has been studied. However, the molecular cloning of
GPVI has been elusive due, at least in part, to its extensive
O-linked glycosylation. The inability to clone GPVI has limited the
experiments that can be performed to better understand the role of
GPVI in collagen-induced platelet activation and aggregation.
Further, the development of treatments for disorders, such as
bleeding disorders, resulting from mutations in GPVI or its
promoter, have been hindered by the lack of knowledge about the
nucleic acid and amino acid sequences of GPVI.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention is based, at least in part, on the
discovery of cDNA molecules which encode the TANGO 268 proteins,
all of which are transmembrane proteins.
[0012] In particular, TANGO 268 represents the platelet-expressed
collagen receptor GPVI. This conclusion is based, at least in part,
on the following evidence: (1) the glycosylated molecular weights
of TANGO 268 and GPVI are identical or similar; (2) TANGO 268 and
GPVI are both recognized by anti-GPVI antibodies and bind to Cvx;
(3) TANGO 268 and GPVI are both preferentially expressed in the
megakaryocytic cells; (4) TANGO 268 and GPVI are both predicted to
have a single N-glycosylation site; (5) the molecular mass of the
40 kDa unglycosylated TANGO 268 is predicted to be approximately 62
kDa, the apparent molecular mass of GPVI, upon N-- and O-linked
glycosylation; (6) the presence of two immunoglobulin-like domains
in TANGO 268 indicates that, like GPVI TANGO 268 interacts with the
FcR.gamma.; (7) the absence of a large intracytoplasmic tail,
suggesting that this membrane-bound glycoprotein has no signaling
role but associates with another member of the Ig family (e.g.,
FcR.gamma.) protein to transduce a signal; and (8) the presence of
a charged residue (arginine) in the transmembrane domain of TANGO
268 which is predicted to be present in GPVI based on its
association with the FcR.gamma..
[0013] The TANGO 268 proteins are members of the Ig superfamily.
The TANGO 268 proteins, fragments, derivatives, and variants
thereof are collectively referred to herein as "polypeptides of the
invention" or "proteins of the invention." Nucleic acid molecules
encoding the polypeptides or proteins of the invention are
collectively referred to as "nucleic acids of the invention."
[0014] The nucleic acids and polypeptides of the present invention
are useful as modulating agents in regulating a variety of cellular
processes. Accordingly, in one aspect, this invention provides
isolated nucleic acid molecules encoding a polypeptide of the
invention or a biologically active portion thereof. The present
invention also provides nucleic acid molecules which are suitable
for use as primers or hybridization probes for the detection of
nucleic acids encoding a polypeptide of the invention.
[0015] The invention features nucleic acid molecules which are at
least 50%, 55%, 65%, 75%,85%, 95%, or 98% identical to the
nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 the nucleotide sequence of the
cDNA insert of an EpthEa11d1 clone deposited with ATCC as Accession
Number 207180, or a complement thereof.
[0016] The invention features nucleic acid molecules which are at
least 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%,65%, 75%, 85%, 95%, or 98% identical to
the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:2 the nucleotide sequence of
the cDNA insert of an EpthEa11d1 clone deposited with ATCC as
Accession Number 207180, or a complement thereof.
[0017] The invention features nucleic acid molecules which are at
least 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 95%, or 98% identical to
the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:14 the nucleotide sequence of
the cDNA insert of an EpTm268 clone deposited with ATCC as PTA-225,
or a complement thereof.
[0018] The invention features nucleic acid molecules which are at
least 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 95%, or 98% identical
to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:15 the nucleotide sequence
of the cDNA insert of an EpTm268 clone deposited with ATCC as
PTA-225, or a complement thereof.
[0019] The invention features nucleic acid molecules which include
a fragment of at least 550, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200,
1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900 or 2000 nucleotides of the
nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 the nucleotide sequence of an
EpthEa11d1 cDNA of ATCC Accession Number 207180, or a complement
thereof.
[0020] The invention features nucleic acid molecules which include
a fragment of at least 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800,
900, 950 or 1000 nucleotides of the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID
NO:2, or a complement thereof.
[0021] The invention features nucleic acid molecules which include
a fragment of at least 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800,
900, 1000 or 1100 nucleotides of the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID
NO:14 the nucleotide sequence of an EpTm268 cDNA of ATCC PTA-225,
or a complement thereof.
[0022] The invention features nucleic acid molecules which include
a fragment of at least 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800,
900, 950 or 1000 nucleotides of the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID
NO:15, or a complement thereof.
[0023] The invention also features nucleic acid molecules which
include a nucleotide sequence encoding a protein having an amino
acid sequence that is at least 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%,
65%, 75%, 85%, 95%, or 98% identical to the amino acid sequence of
SEQ ID NO:3, the amino acid sequence encoded by an EpthEa11d1 cDNA
of ATCC Accession Number 207180, or a complement thereof.
[0024] The invention also features nucleic acid molecules which
include a nucleotide sequence encoding a protein having an amino
acid sequence that is at least 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%,
65%, 75%, 85%, 95%, or 98% identical to the amino acid sequence of
SEQ ID NO:16, the amino acid sequence encoded by an EpTm268 cDNA of
ATCC PTA-225, or a complement thereof.
[0025] The invention also features nucleic acid molecules which
include a nucleotide sequence encoding a protein having an amino
acid sequence that is at least 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%,
65%, 75%, 85%, 95%, or 98% identical to the amino acid sequence of
SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, the amino acid sequence encoded by EpthEa11d1 or
EpTm268 of ATCC Accession Number 207180 or PTA-225, or a complement
thereof, wherein the protein encoded by the nucleotide sequence
also exhibits at least one structural and/or functional feature of
a polypeptide of the invention.
[0026] In preferred embodiments, the nucleic acid molecules have
the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14, 15 or the nucleotide
sequence of the cDNA clones of ATCC Accession Number 207180 or
PTA-225.
[0027] The invention also includes nucleic acid molecules which
encode a fragment of a polypeptide having the amino acid sequence
of SEQ ID NO:3, or a fragment including at least 15, 25, 30, 50,
75, 100, 125, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250, 275, 300, 315 or 330
contiguous amino acids of SEQ ID NO:3, or the amino acid sequence
encoded by an EpthEa11d1 cDNA of ATCC Accession Number 207180.
[0028] The invention also includes nucleic acid molecules which
encode a fragment of a polypeptide having the amino acid sequence
of SEQ ID NO:16, or a fragment including at least 15, 25, 30, 50,
75, 100, 125, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250, 275 or 300 contiguous amino
acids of SEQ ID NO:16, or the amino acid sequence encoded by an
EpTm268 cDNA of ATCC PTA-225.
[0029] The invention also includes nucleic acid molecules which
encode a naturally occurring allelic variant of a polypeptide
comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the
amino acid sequence encoded by a cDNA of ATCC Accession Number
207180 or PTA-225, wherein the nucleic acid molecule hybridizes to
a nucleic acid molecule consisting of a nucleic acid sequence
encoding SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence encoded by a
cDNA of ATCC Accession Number 207180 or PTA-225, or a complement
thereof under stringent conditions.
[0030] The invention also includes isolated polypeptides or
proteins having an amino acid sequence that is at least about 30%,
preferably 35%, 45%, 55%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 95%, or 98% identical to
the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3, or the amino acid sequence
encoded by an EpthEal ldl cDNA of ATCC Accession Number 207180.
[0031] The invention also includes isolated polypeptides or
proteins having an amino acid sequence that is at least about 30%,
preferably 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 95%, or 98%
identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:16, or the amino
acid sequence encoded by an EpTm268 cDNA of ATCC PTA-225.
[0032] The invention also features nucleic acid molecules which
encode a polypeptide fragment of at least 15, 25, 30, 50, 75, 100,
125, 150, 175, 200 or more contiguous amino acids of SEQ ID NO:3 or
16, or the amino acid sequence encoded by EpthEa11d1 or EpTm268 of
ATCC Accession Number 207180 or PTA-225, respectively, wherein the
fragment also exhibits at least one structural and/or functional
feature of a polypeptide of the invention.
[0033] The invention also features isolated polypeptides or
proteins having an amino acid sequence that is at least about 30%,
preferably 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 95% or 98%
identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the
amino acid sequence encoded by EpthEa11a1 or EpTm268 of Accession
Number 207180 or PTA-225, respectively, wherein the protein or
polypeptides also exhibit at least one structural and/or functional
feature of a polypeptide of the invention.
[0034] The invention also includes isolated polypeptides or
proteins which are encoded by a nucleic acid molecule having a
nucleotide sequence that is at least about 50%, preferably 55%,
60%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 95% or 98% identical to the nucleic acid
sequence encoding SEQ ID NO:3, and isolated polypeptides or
proteins which are encoded by a nucleic acid molecule having a
nucleotide sequence which hybridizes under stringent hybridization
conditions to a nucleic acid molecule having the nucleotide
sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 or 2, a complement thereof, or the
non-coding strand of an EpthEa11d1 cDNA of ATCC Accession Number
207180.
[0035] The invention also includes isolated polypeptides or
proteins which are encoded by a nucleic acid molecule having a
nucleotide sequence that is at least about 35%, preferably 40%,
45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 95% or 98% identical to the
nucleic acid sequence encoding SEQ ID NO:16, and isolated
polypeptides or proteins which are encoded by a nucleic acid
molecule having a nucleotide sequence which hybridizes under
stringent hybridization conditions to a nucleic acid molecule
having the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:14 or 15, a complement
thereof, or the non-coding strand of an EpTm268 cDNA of ATCC
PTA-225.
[0036] The invention also features isolated polypeptides or
proteins which are encoded by a nucleic acid molecule having a
nucleotide sequence that is at least about 30%, preferably 35%,
40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 95% or 98% identical to a
nucleic acid sequence encoding SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, isolated
polypeptides or proteins which are encoded by a nucleic acid
molecule having a nucleotide sequence which hybridizes under
stringent hybridization conditions to a nucleic acid molecule
having the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14 or 15, a
complement thereof, or the non-coding strand of EpthEa11d1 or
EpTm268 of ATCC Accession Number 207180 or PTA-225, respectively,
wherein the polypeptides or proteins also exhibit at least one
structural and/or functional feature of a polypeptide of the
invention.
[0037] The invention also includes polypeptides which are naturally
occurring allelic variants of a polypeptide that includes the amino
acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence
encoded by a cDNA of ATCC Accession Number 207180, wherein the
polypeptide is encoded by a nucleic acid molecule which hybridizes
to a nucleic acid molecule having the sequence of SEQ ID NO:1, 2,
14, 15, or a complement thereof under stringent conditions.
[0038] The invention also features nucleic acid molecules that
hybridize under stringent conditions to a nucleic acid molecule
having the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 or 2, an EpthEa11d1
cDNA of ATCC Accession Number 207180, or a complement thereof. In
other embodiments, the nucleic acid molecules are at least 480,
500, 530, 550, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400,
1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900 or 2000 nucleotides in length and
hybridize under stringent conditions to a nucleic acid molecule
comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1, an EpthEa11d1
cDNA of ATCC Accession Number 207180, or a complement thereof.
[0039] The invention also features nucleic acid molecules that
hybridize under stringent conditions to a nucleic acid molecule
having the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:14 or 15, an EpTm268
cDNA of ATCC PTA-225, or a complement thereof. In other
embodiments, the nucleic acid molecules are at least 400, 450, 500,
530, 550, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100 or 1150 nucleotides in
length and hybridize under stringent conditions to a nucleic acid
molecule comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:14, an
EpTm268 cDNA of ATCC PTA-225, or a complement thereof.
[0040] The invention also features nucleic acid molecules that
hybridize under stringent conditions to a nucleic acid molecule
having the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14 or 15, or a
nucleotide sequence of EpthEa11d1 or EpTm268 of ATCC Accession
Number 207180 or PTA-225, or complement thereof, wherein such
nucleic acid molecules encode polypeptides or proteins that exhibit
at least one structural and/or functional feature of a polypeptide
of the invention.
[0041] In one embodiment, the invention provides an isolated
nucleic acid molecule which is antisense to the coding strand of a
nucleic acid of the invention.
[0042] Another aspect of the invention provides vectors, e.g.,
recombinant expression vectors, comprising a nucleic acid molecule
of the invention. In another embodiment, the invention provides
host cells containing such a vector or engineered to contain and/or
express a nucleic acid molecule of the invention. The invention
also provides methods for producing a polypeptide of the invention
by culturing, in a suitable medium, a host cell of the invention
such that a polypeptide of the invention is produced.
[0043] Another aspect of this invention features isolated or
recombinant proteins and polypeptides of the invention. Preferred
proteins and polypeptides possess at least one biological activity
possessed by the corresponding naturally-occurring human
polypeptide. An activity, a biological activity, or a functional
activity of a polypeptide or nucleic acid of the invention refers
to an activity exerted by a protein, polypeptide or nucleic acid
molecule of the invention on a responsive cell as determined in
vivo or in vitro, according to standard techniques. Such activities
can be a direct activity, such as an association with or an
enzymatic activity on a second protein, or an indirect activity,
such as a cellular signaling activity mediated by interaction of
the protein with a second protein.
[0044] For TANGO 268, biological activities include, e.g., (1) the
ability to modulate, e.g., stabilize, promote, inhibit or disrupt
protein-protein interactions (e.g., homophilic and/or
heterophilic), and protein-ligand interactions, e.g., in
receptor-ligand recognition; (2) the ability to modulate cell-cell
interactions and/or cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions,
e.g., by modulating platelet interactions with subendothelial
components, e.g., collagen, integrins and other ECM proteins; (3)
the ability to modulate the host immune response, e.g., by
modulating one or more elements in the inflammatory response; (4)
the ability to modulate the proliferation, differentiation and/or
activity of megakaryocytes and/or platelets; (5) the ability to
modulate intracellular signaling cascades (e.g., signal
transduction cascades); (6) the ability to modulate
immunoregulatory functions; (7) the ability to modulate platelet
morphology, migration, aggregation, degranulation and/or function;
(8) the ability to interact with (e.g., bind to directly or
indirectly, for example, as part of a complex comprising TANGO 268)
one or more collagen molecules; (9) the ability to modulate
collagen binding to platelets; (9) the ability to mediate and/or
modulate intracellular Ca.sup.2+ levels, metabolism and/or turnover
of phosphatidylinositides, and phosphorylation of proteins (e.g.,
c-Src, Syk, PLC.gamma.2 and/or FcR.gamma.) via, for example, their
tyrosine residues; (10) the ability mediate and/or modulate
collagen-induced platelet adhesion and aggregation (e.g., thrombus
formation), for example, in mediating and/or modulating secretion
of the contents of platelet granules; (11) the ability mediate
and/or modulate platelet adhesion and aggregation; (12) the ability
to interact with (e.g., bind to directly or indirectly, for
example, as part of a complex comprising TANGO 268) convulxin; (13)
the ability to bind to an antibody from a patient with idiopathic
thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP); (14) the ability to associate
and/or co-express with FcR.gamma., e.g., FcR.gamma. in platelets;
(15) the ability to induce and/or modulate tumor formation, tumor
cell migration, and/or tumor cell metastasis; and (16) the ability
to induce and/or modulate coronary diseases (e.g.,
atherosclerosis).
[0045] In one embodiment, a polypeptide of the invention has an
amino acid sequence sufficiently identical to an identified domain
of a polypeptide of the invention. As used herein, the term
"sufficiently identical" refers to a first amino acid or nucleotide
sequence which contains a sufficient or minimum number of identical
or equivalent (e.g., with a similar side chain) amino acid residues
or nucleotides to a second amino acid or nucleotide sequence such
that the first and second amino acid or nucleotide sequences have
or encode a common structural domain and/or common functional
activity. For example, amino acid or nucleotide sequences which
contain or encode a common structural domain having about 60%
identity, preferably 65% identity, more preferably 75%, 85%, 95%,
98% or more identity are defined herein as sufficiently
identical.
[0046] In one embodiment a 268 protein includes at least one or
more of the following domains: a signal sequence, an extracellular
domain, an immunoglobulin-like domain, a transmembrane domain, and
an intracellular domain.
[0047] The polypeptides of the present invention, or biologically
active portions thereof, can be operably linked to a heterologous
amino acid sequence to form fusion proteins. The invention further
features antibodies, such as monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies,
that specifically bind a polypeptide of the invention. In addition,
the polypeptides of the invention or biologically active portions
thereof can be incorporated into pharmaceutical compositions, which
optionally include pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.
[0048] In another aspect, the present invention provides methods
for detecting the presence, activity or expression of a polypeptide
of the invention in a biological sample by contacting the
biological sample with an agent capable of detecting an indicator
of the presence, activity or expression such that the presence
activity or expression of a polypeptide of the invention in the
biological sample.
[0049] In another aspect, the invention provides methods for
modulating activity of a polypeptide of the invention comprising
contacting a cell with an agent that modulates (inhibits or
stimulates) the activity or expression of a polypeptide of the
invention such that activity or expression in the cell is
modulated. In one embodiment, the agent is an antibody that
specifically binds to a polypeptide of the invention.
[0050] In another embodiment, the agent modulates expression of a
polypeptide of the invention by modulating transcription, splicing,
or translation of an mRNA encoding a polypeptide of the invention.
In yet another embodiment, the agent is a nucleic acid molecule
having a nucleotide sequence that is antisense to the coding strand
of an mRNA encoding a polypeptide of the invention.
[0051] In yet a further aspect, the invention provides
substantially purified antibodies or fragment thereof, and
non-human antibodies or fragments thereof, which antibodies or
fragments specifically bind to a polypeptide comprising an amino
acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence encoded
by the cDNA insert of the plasmid deposited with ATCC as Accession
Number 207180, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA
insert of the plasmid deposited with ATCC as PTA-225; a fragment of
at least 15 amino acid residues of the amino acid sequence of SEQ
ID NO:3 or 16; an amino acid sequence which is at least 95%
identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, wherein
the percent identity is determined using the ALIGN program of the
GCG software package with a PAM120 weight residue table, a gap
length penalty of 12, and a gap penalty of 4; and an amino acid
sequence which is encoded by a nucleic acid molecule which
hybridizes to the nucleic acid molecule consisting of SEQ ID NO:1,
2, 14, or 15 under conditions of hybridization of 6.times.SSC at
45.degree. C. and washing in 0.2.times.SSC, 0.1% SDS at 65.degree.
C. In various embodiments, the substantially purified antibodies of
the invention, or fragments thereof, can be human, non-human,
chimeric and/or humanized antibodies.
[0052] In another aspect, the invention provides non-human
antibodies or fragments thereof, which antibodies or fragments
specifically bind to a polypeptide comprising an amino acid
sequence selected from the group consisting of: the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence encoded
by the cDNA insert of the plasmid deposited with ATCC as Accession
Number 207180, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA
insert of the plasmid deposited with ATCC as PTA-225; a fragment of
at least 15 amino acid residues of the amino acid sequence of SEQ
ID NO:3 or 16; an amino acid sequence which is at least 95%
identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, wherein
the percent identity is determined using the ALIGN program of the
GCG software package with a PAM120 weight residue table, a gap
length penalty of 12, and a gap penalty of 4; and an amino acid
sequence which is encoded by a nucleic acid molecule which
hybridizes to the nucleic acid molecule consisting of SEQ ID NO:1,
2, 14, or 15 under conditions of hybridization of 6.times.SSC at
45.degree. C. and washing in 0.2.times.SSC, 0.1% SDS at 65.degree.
C. Such non-human antibodies can be goat, mouse, sheep, horse,
chicken, rabbit, or rat antibodies. Alternatively, the non-human
antibodies of the invention can be chimeric and/or humanized
antibodies. In addition, the non-human antibodies of the invention
can be polyclonal antibodies or monoclonal antibodies.
[0053] In still a further aspect, the invention provides monoclonal
antibodies or fragments thereof, which antibodies or fragments
specifically bind to a polypeptide comprising an amino acid
sequence selected from the group consisting of: the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence encoded
by the cDNA insert of the plasmid deposited with ATCC as Accession
Number 207180, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA
insert of the plasmid deposited with ATCC as PTA-225; a fragment of
at least 15 amino acid residues of the amino acid sequence of SEQ
ID NO:3 or 16; an amino acid sequence which is at least 95%
identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, wherein
the percent identity is determined using the ALIGN program of the
GCG software package with a PAM120 weight residue table, a gap
length penalty of 12, and a gap penalty of 4; and an amino acid
sequence which is encoded by a nucleic acid molecule which
hybridizes to the nucleic acid molecule consisting of SEQ ID NO:1,
2, 14, or 15 under conditions of hybridization of 6.times.SSC at
45.degree. C. and washing in 0.2.times.SSC, 0.1% SDS at 65.degree.
C. The monoclonal antibodies can be human, humanized, chimeric
and/or non-human antibodies.
[0054] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the substantially
purified antibodies or fragments thereof, the non-human antibodies
or fragments thereof, and/or the monoclonal antibodies or fragments
thereof, of the invention specifically bind to an extracellular
domain of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16. Preferably,
the extracellular domain to which the antibody, or fragment
thereof, binds comprises amino acid residues 21 to 269 of SEQ ID
NO:3 or amino acid residues 22 to 267 of SEQ ID NO:16. In an
alternative embodiment, the extracellular domain to which the
substantially purified antibody binds comprises an
immunoglobulin-like domain. In one aspect, such an
immunoglobulin-like domain comprises amino acid residues 48 to 88
or 134 to 180 of SEQ ID NO:3 or amino acid residues 49 to 89 or 135
to 181 of SEQ ID NO:16.
[0055] Any of the antibodies of the invention can be conjugated to
a therapeutic moiety or to a detectable substance. Non-limiting
examples of detectable substances that can be conjugated to the
antibodies of the invention are an enzyme, a prosthetic group, a
fluorescent material, a luminescent material, a bioluminescent
material, and a radioactive material.
[0056] The invention also provides a kit containing an antibody of
the invention conjugated to a detectable substance, and
instructions for use. Still another aspect of the invention is a
pharmaceutical composition comprising an antibody of the invention
and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In preferred
embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition contains an antibody of
the invention, a therapeutic moiety, and a pharmaceutically
acceptable carrier.
[0057] Still another aspect of the invention is a method of making
an antibody that specifically recognizes GPVI, the method
comprising immunizing a mammal with a polypeptide. The polypeptide
used as an immungen comprises an amino acid sequence selected from
the group consisting of: the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or
16, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA insert of the
plasmid deposited with ATCC as Accession Number 207180, or the
amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA insert of the plasmid
deposited with ATCC as PTA-225; a fragment of at least 15 amino
acid residues of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16; an
amino acid sequence which is at least 95% identical to the amino
acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, wherein the percent identity is
determined using the ALIGN program of the GCG software package with
a PAM120 weight residue table, a gap length penalty of 12, and a
gap penalty of 4; and an amino acid sequence which is encoded by a
nucleic acid molecule which hybridizes to the nucleic acid molecule
consisting of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14, or 15 under conditions of
hybridization of 6.times.SSC at 45.degree. C. and washing in
0.2.times.SSC, 0.1% SDS at 65.degree. C. After immunization, a
sample is collected from the mammal that contains an antibody that
specifically recognizes GPVI. Preferably, the polypeptide is
recombinantly produced using a non-human host cell. Optionally, the
antibodies can be further purified from the sample using techniques
well known to those of skill in the art. The method can further
comprise producing a monoclonal antibody-producing cell from the
cells of the mammal. Optionally, antibodies are collected from the
antibody-producing cell.
[0058] The present invention also provides methods to treat a
subject having a disorder characterized by aberrant activity of a
polypeptide of the invention or aberrant expression of a nucleic
acid of the invention by administering an agent which is a
modulator of the activity of a polypeptide of the invention or a
modulator of the expression of a nucleic acid of the invention to
the subject. In one embodiment, the modulator is a protein of the
invention. In another embodiment, the modulator is a nucleic acid
of the invention. In other embodiments, the modulator is a peptide,
peptidomimetic, or other small molecule.
[0059] The present invention also provides diagnostic assays for
identifying the presence or absence of a genetic lesion or mutation
characterized by at least one of: (i) aberrant modification or
mutation of a gene encoding a polypeptide of the invention, (ii)
mis-regulation of a gene encoding a polypeptide of the invention,
and (iii) aberrant post-translational modification of the invention
wherein a wild-type form of the gene encodes a protein having the
activity of the polypeptide of the invention.
[0060] In another aspect, the invention provides a method for
identifying a compound that binds to or modulates the activity of a
polypeptide of the invention. In general, such methods entail
measuring a biological activity of the polypeptide in the presence
and absence of a test compound and identifying those compounds
which alter the activity of the polypeptide.
[0061] The invention also features methods for identifying a
compound which modulates the expression of a polypeptide or nucleic
acid of the invention by measuring the expression of the
polypeptide or nucleic acid in the presence and absence of the
compound.
[0062] Other features and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the following detailed description and claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0063] FIGS. 1A-B depict the cDNA sequence of human TANGO 268 (SEQ
ID NO:1) and the predicted amino acid sequence of human TANGO 268
(SEQ ID NO:3). The open reading frame of SEQ ID NO:1 extends from
nucleotide 36 to nucleotide 1052 of SEQ ID NO:1 (SEQ ID NO:2).
[0064] FIG. 2 depicts a hydropathy plot of human TANGO 268.
Relatively hydrophobic regions of the protein are above the dashed
horizontal line, and relatively hydrophilic regions of the protein
are below the dashed horizontal line. The cysteine residues (cys)
are indicated by short vertical lines just below the hydropathy
trace. The dashed vertical line separates the signal sequence
(amino acids 1 to 20 of SEQ ID NO:3; SEQ ID NO:4) on the left from
the mature protein (amino acids 21 to 339 of SEQ ID NO:3; SEQ ID
NO:5) on the right. Below the hydropathy plot, the amino acid
sequence of human TANGO 268 is depicted.
[0065] FIGS. 3A-C depict an alignment of the nucleotide sequence of
the open reading frame for human monocyte inhibitory receptor
precursor (SEQ ID NO:24; GenBank Accession Number U91928) and the
nucleotide sequence of the open reading frame for human TANGO 268
(SEQ ID NO:2). The nucleotide sequences of coding regions of human
monocyte inhibitory receptor precursor and human TANGO 268 are
37.7% identical. The nucleotide sequences of full-length, including
the 5' and 3' untranslated regions (UTRs), human monocyte
inhibitory receptor precursor SEQ ID NO:11; GenBank Accession
Number U91928) and human TANGO 268 are 49.9% identical. These
alignments were performed using the ALIGN alignment program with a
PAM120 scoring matrix, a gap length penalty of 12, and a gap
penalty of 4.
[0066] FIG. 4 depicts an alignment of the amino acid sequence of
human monocyte inhibitory receptor precursor (SEQ ID NO:12) and the
amino acid sequence of human TANGO 268 (SEQ ID NO:3). The amino
acid sequences of human monocyte inhibitory receptor precursor and
human TANGO 268 are 23.0% identical. This alignment was performed
using the ALIGN alignment program with a PAM120 scoring matrix, a
gap length penalty of 12, and a gap penalty of 4.
[0067] FIG. 5A depicts an alignment of the amino acid sequence of a
typical immunoglobulin domain (SEQ ID NO:13; GenBank Accession
Number PF00047) and amino acid residues 41 to 90 of human TANGO 268
(SEQ ID NO:3). This alignments was performed using the ALIGN
alignment program with a PAM120 scoring matrix, a gap length
penalty of 12, and a gap penalty of 4.
[0068] FIG. 5B depicts an alignment of the amino acid sequence of a
typical immunoglobulin domain (SEQ ID NO:13; GenBank Accession
Number PF00047) and amino acid residues 127 to 182 of human TANGO
268 (SEQ ID NO:3). This alignment was performed using the ALIGN
alignment program with a PAM120 scoring matrix, a gap length
penalty of 12, and a gap penalty of 4.
[0069] FIG. 6 depicts a cDNA sequence of mouse TANGO 268 (SEQ ID
NO:14) and the predicted amino acid sequence of mouse TANGO 268
(SEQ ID NO:15). The open reading frame of SEQ ID NO:14 extends from
nucleotide 63 to 1001 of SEQ ID NO:14 (SEQ ID NO:15).
[0070] FIG. 7 depicts a hydropathy plot of mouse TANGO 268.
Relatively hydrophobic regions of the protein are above the dashed
horizontal line, and relatively hydrophilic regions of the protein
are below the dashed horizontal line. The cysteine residues (cys)
are indicated by short vertical lines just below the hydropathy
trace. The dashed vertical line separates the signal sequence
(amino acids 1 to 21 of SEQ ID NO:16; SEQ ID NO:17) on the left
from the mature protein (amino acids 22 to 313 of SEQ ID NO:16; SEQ
ID NO:18) on the right. Below the hydropathy plot, the amino acid
sequence of mouse TANGO 268 is depicted.
[0071] FIGS. 8A-D depict an alignment of the nucleotide sequence of
the open reading frame for human monocyte inhibitory receptor
precursor (SEQ ID NO:24; GenBank Accession Number U91928) and the
nucleotide sequence of the open reading frame for mouse TANGO 268
(SEQ ID NO:15). The nucleotide sequences of coding regions of human
monocyte inhibitory receptor precursor and mouse TANGO 268 are
34.4% identical. The nucleotide sequences of full-length, including
the 5' and 3' untranslated regions (UTRs), human monocyte
inhibitory receptor precursor SEQ ID NO:11; GenBank Accession
Number U91928) and mouse TANGO 268 are 35.6% identical. These
alignments were performed using the ALIGN alignment program with a
PAM 120 scoring matrix, a gap length penalty of 12, and a gap
penalty of 4.
[0072] FIG. 9 depicts an alignment of the amino acid sequence of
human monocyte inhibitory receptor precursor (SEQ ID NO:12) and the
amino acid sequence of mouse TANGO 268 (SEQ ID NO:16). The amino
acid sequences of human monocyte inhibitory receptor precursor and
mouse TANGO 268 are 20.3% identical. This alignment was performed
using the ALIGN alignment program with a PAM120 scoring matrix, a
gap length penalty of 12, and a gap penalty of 4.
[0073] FIG. 10A depicts an alignment of the amino acid sequence of
immunoglobulin domain (SEQ ID NO:12; GenBank Accession Number
PF00047) and amino acid residues 42 to 91 of mouse TANGO 268 (SEQ
ID NO:16). This alignment was performed using the ALIGN alignment
program with a PAM120 scoring matrix, a gap length penalty of 12,
and a gap penalty of 4.
[0074] FIG. 10B depicts an alignment of the amino acid sequence of
a typical immunoglobulin domain (SEQ ID NO:12; GenBank Accession
Number PF00047) and amino acid residues 128 to 183 of mouse TANGO
268 (SEQ ID NO:16). This alignment was performed using the ALIGN
alignment program with a PAM120 scoring matrix, a gap length
penalty of 12, and a gap penalty of 4.
[0075] FIG. 11 depicts an alignment of the amino acid sequence of
human TANGO 268 (SEQ ID NO:3) and the amino acid sequence of mouse
TANGO 268 (SEQ ID NO:16). The alignment demonstrates that the amino
acid sequences of human and mouse TANGO 268 are 64.4% identical.
The alignment was performed using the ALIGN program with a PAM120
scoring matrix, a gap length penalty of 12 and a gap penalty of 4.
The sequences within the boxes are the signal sequences for human
and mouse TANGO 268; the line above the two sequences indicates the
Ig-like domains for human and mouse TANGO 268; and the arrow above
the sequences points to the charged residue (arginine) in human and
mouse TANGO 268.
[0076] FIG. 12 depicts the results from the ligand blotting assay
with .sup.125I-convulxin (Cvx), demonstrating that TANGO 268
specifically binds Cvx. Lane 1 contains platelet lysate, lane 2
contains lysate from expression vector-only transfected CHO cells,
and lane 3 contains TANGO 268-transfected CHO cell lysate. The cell
lysates were separated on polyacrylamide gels, transferred to PVDF
membranes, and the membranes were incubated with .sup.125I-Cvx. The
interaction between .sup.125I-Cvx and TANGO 268 was detected by
autoradiography.
[0077] FIG. 13A depicts the results from the immunoblotting assay
with anti-GPVI Ig antibody, demonstrating that TANGO 268
specifically binds to anti-GPVI Ig antibody. The cell lysates were
separated on polyacrylamide gels, transferred to PVDF membranes,
the membranes were incubated with anti-GPVI IgG antibody followed
by an incubation with peroxidase-coupled protein A, and TANGO 268
expression was detected by enhanced chemiluminescence.
[0078] FIG. 13B depicts the results of anti-GPVI IgG binding
following competition with Cvx, which demonstrates that Cvx
competes with anti-GPVI Ig antibody for binding to TANGO 268. Lane
1 contains platelet lysate, lane 2 contains lysate from expression
vector-only transfected CHO cells, and lane 3 contains TANGO
268-transfected CHO cell lysate. The cell lysates were separated on
polyacrylamide gels, transferred to PVDF membranes, the membranes
were incubated with anti-GPVI IgG antibody in the presence of Cvx
followed by an incubation with peroxidase-coupled protein A, and
TANGO 268 expression was detected by enhanced
chemiluminescence.
[0079] FIG. 14: Tissue expression of hGPVI and mGPVI using RT-PCR,
northern blot and ISH analysis:
[0080] FIG. 14A: In situ hybridization of a day 12.5 mouse embryo.
Hybridization is exclusively observed in the liver during
embryogenesis. No signal was seen with the sense probe (data not
shown). High magnitude resolution shows that the only positive cell
population corresponded to fetal megakaryocytes (data not shown).
In adult, expression in liver was no longer observed but a strong,
multifocal signal was seen in spleen and in the bone marrow.
[0081] FIG. 14B: high magnitude resolution from a photoemulsion
processing carried out on a 6-week-old mouse femur section shows
expression restricted to megakaryocytes. No signal was observed in
any other adult tissues analyzed (see results).
[0082] FIG. 14C: RT-PCR analysis from human samples. .beta..sub.2
microglobulin and GPVI transcripts were co-amplified. The high
molecular weight fragment (830 bp) is generated from the GPVI
primers and the low molecular weight fragment (603 bp) is generated
from the .beta..sub.2 microglobulin primers. The .beta..sub.2
microglobulin PCR product, used as a loading control, is present in
all the samples in similar quantity. In contrast, GPVI is only
amplified in megakaryocyte-enriched samples (adult and newborn), in
cell lines displaying strong MKC features (HEL, MEG01, DAMI, MO7E,
mpl-UT7) and at a lesser extend in fetal liver cells. A very low
signal is also detected in the K562 and KG1 cell lines, two cell
lines which also express GPIIb at low level, but no expression was
detected in the other samples.
[0083] FIG. 14D: Northern blot analysis of human tissues. A 2 kb
transcript is only observed in bone marrow and fetal liver. A
signal is also observed with peripheral blood leucocytes (PBL).
However, when the same blot was hybridized with a GPIlb probe, a
platelet protein absent in PBL, transcripts were also detected
suggesting that the signal was due to platelet RNA contamination.
No signal was observed in a different PBL sample but also in brain,
heart, skeletal muscle, colon, thymus, spleen, kidney, liver, small
intestine, placenta, lung or lymph nodes (data not shown).
[0084] FIG. 15: Binding of Cvx to murine hematopoietic cell
lines
[0085] Hematopoietic cell lines were transduced with a retrovirus
expressing rmGPVI. Control cells were transduced with the empty
vector. Cells were incubated with FITC-coupled Cvx or FITC-coupled
bothrojaracin as a control and analyzed by flow cytometry. FIG.
15A: FDC-P1, FIG. 15B: Ba/F3, FIG. 15C: 32D. Dotted line: control
cells transduced with the empty vector, plain line cells transduced
with the retrovirus carrying rmGPVI.
[0086] FIG. 16: Adhesion of cells expressing rhGPVI or rmGPVI to
immobilized Cvx or collagen. BSA, Cvx or collagen type I were
immobilized on microtitration plates. GPVI transduced or control
U937 (FIG. 16A) or FDC-P1 (FIG. 16B) cells were labeled with
.sup.51Cr and incubated for 60 min in the wells. After aspiration
of the non-bound cells and washing, radioactivity associated to the
wells was counted to determine adherent cell number. Results are
expressed as the percentage of the cells added to the wells and are
the mean.+-.SEM of three determinations. Empty bars: control cells;
filled bars: GPVI expressing cells.
[0087] FIG. 17: Coexpression of recombinant human GPVI with
FcR.gamma. chain.
[0088] Lysates from GPVI transduced or control U937 cells were
incubated with a polyclonal anti-FcR.gamma. antibody and protein
A-sepharose. Immunoprecipitated proteins were separated by SDS-PAGE
and blotted on PVDF. Membranes were incubated with a mixture of
anti-FcR.gamma. and anti-GPVI antibodies revealed with
peroxidase-coupled protein A and chemiluminescence.
[0089] FIG. 18: Inhibition of Cvx- or collagen-induced platelet
activation by recombinant human soluble GPVI:Fc.
[0090] FIG. 18A: tracing a: platelets were activated by 100 pM Cvx;
tracing b: platelet suspension was incubated with 1 .mu.g
recombinant human soluble GPVI:Fc for two minutes before the
addition of Cvx; tracing c and d: collagen was preincubated with
0.25 .mu.g and 0.5 .mu.g recombinant human soluble GPVI:Fc for two
minutes respectively before addition to platelets.
[0091] FIG. 18B: tracing a: platelets were activated by collagen
type I; tracing b: platelets were preincubated with 5 .mu.g of
recombinant soluble GPVI:Fc for two minutes before the addition of
collagen; tracings c to e: collagen was preincubated with
respectively 1 .mu.g, 2.5 .mu.g and 5 .mu.g of recombinant soluble
GPVI:Fc for two minutes before addition to platelets. .sup.14C 5-HT
labeled washed platelets were used. The percentage of .sup.14C 5-HT
release measured in each condition is indicated.
[0092] FIG. 19: Bleeding time of mice transplanted with bone marrow
cells expressing GPVI. Irradiated mice transplanted with bone
marrow cells expressing full length GPVI, the extracellular domain
of GPVI, or a control were analyzed two months post-transplantation
for the recovery time from a small tail vein incision.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0093] The TANGO 268 proteins and nucleic acid molecules comprise a
family of molecules having certain conserved structural and
functional features. As used herein, the term "family" is intended
to mean two or more proteins or nucleic acid molecules having a
common structural domain and having sufficient amino acid or
nucleotide sequence identity as defined herein. Family members can
be from either the same or different species. For example, a family
can comprises two or more proteins of human origin, or can comprise
one or more proteins of human origin and one or more of non-human
origin. Members of the same family may also have common structural
domains.
[0094] For example, TANGO 268 proteins of the invention have signal
sequences. As used herein, a "signal sequence" includes a peptide
of at least about 15 or 20 amino acid residues in length which
occurs at the N-terminus of secretory and membrane-bound proteins
and which contains at least about 70% hydrophobic amino acid
residues such as alanine, leucine, isoleucine, phenylalanine,
proline, tyrosine, tryptophan, or valine. In a preferred
embodiment, a signal sequence contains at least about 10 to 40
amino acid residues, preferably about 19-34 amino acid residues,
and has at least about 60-80%, more preferably 65-75%, and more
preferably at least about 70% hydrophobic residues. A signal
sequence serves to direct a protein containing such a sequence to a
lipid bilayer. Thus, in one embodiment, a TANGO 268 protein
contains a signal sequence at about amino acids 1 to 20 of SEQ ID
NO:3 (SEQ ID NO:4) or at about amino acids 1 to 21 of SEQ ID NO:16
(SEQ ID NO:17). The signal sequence is cleaved during processing of
the mature protein.
[0095] A TANGO 268 family member consists of one or more of the
following domains: (1) an extracellular domain; (2) a transmembrane
domain; and (3) a cytoplasmic domain. In one embodiment, a TANGO
268 protein contains an extracellular domain at about amino acid
residues 21 to 269 of SEQ ID NO:3 (SEQ ID NO:9), a transmembrane
domain at about amino acid residues 270 to 288 of SEQ ID NO:3 (SEQ
ID NO:8), and a cytoplasmic domain at about amino acid residues 289
to 339 of SEQ ID NO:3 (SEQ ID NO:10). In this embodiment, the
mature TANGO 268 protein corresponds to amino acids 21 to 339 of
SEQ ID NO:3 (SEQ ID NO:5). In another embodiment, a TANGO 268
family contains an extracellular domain at about amino acid
residues 22 to 267 of SEQ ID NO:16 (SEQ ID NO:19), a transmembrane
domain at about amino acid residues 268 to 286 of SEQ ID NO:16 (SEQ
ID NO:20), and a cytoplasmic domain at about amino acid residues
287 to 313 of SEQ ID NO:16 (SEQ ID NO:21). In this embodiment, the
mature TANGO 268 protein corresponds to amino acids 22 to 313 of
SEQ ID NO:16 (SEQ ID NO:18).
[0096] A TANGO 268 family member contains a charged residue, such
as arginine, lysine, histidine, glutamic acid, and aspartic acid,
in its transmembrane domain. In one embodiment, a TANGO 268 protein
contains a charged amino acid residue, preferably arginine, at
amino acid 272 of SEQ ID NO:3. In another embodiment, a TANGO 268
protein contains a charged amino acid residue, preferably arginine,
at amino acid 270 of SEQ ID NO:16.
[0097] A TANGO 268 family member includes a signal sequence. In
certain embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member has the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO:3, and the signal sequence is located at
amino acids 1 to 18, 1 to 19, 1 to 20, 1 to 21 or 1 to 22. In an
another embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member has the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO:16, and the signal sequence is located at
amino acids 1 to 19, 1 to 20, 1 to 21, 1 to 22 or 1 to 23. In such
embodiments of the invention, the extracellular domain and the
mature protein resulting from cleavage of such signal peptides are
also included herein. For example, the cleavage of a signal
sequence consisting of amino acids 1 to 19 results in an
extracellular domain consisting of amino acids 20 to 269 of SEQ ID
NO:3 and the mature TANGO 268 protein corresponding to amino 20 to
339.
[0098] An Ig domain typically has the following consensus sequence,
beginning about 1 to 15 amino acid residues, more preferably about
3 to 10 amino acid residues, and most preferably about 5 amino acid
residues from the C-terminal end of a protein:
(FY)-Xaa-C-Xaa-(VA)-COO--, wherein (FY) is either a phenylalanine
or a tyrosine residue (preferably tyrosine), where "Xaa" is any
amino acid, C is a cysteine residue, (VA) is either valine or an
alanine residue (preferably alanine), and COO-- is the protein
C-terminus. An Ig-like domain as described herein has the following
consensus sequence, beginning about 1 to 15 amino acid residues,
more preferably about 3 to 10 amino acid residues, and most
preferably about 5 amino acid residues from the domain C-terminus:
(FY)-Xaa-C, wherein (FY) is either a phenylalanine or a tyrosine
residue (preferably tyrosine), where "Xaa" is any amino acid, and C
is a cysteine residue. In one embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member
includes one or more Ig-like domains having an amino acid sequence
that is at least about 55%, preferably at least about 65%, more
preferably at least 75%, yet more preferably at least about 85%,
and most preferably at least about 95% identical to amino acids 48
to 88 and/or amino acids 134 to 180 of SEQ ID NO:3, which are the
Ig-like domains of human TANGO 268 (these Ig-like domains are also
represented as SEQ ID NO:6 and 7, respectively).
[0099] In another embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member includes
one or more Ig-like domains having an amino acid sequence that is
at least about 55%, preferably at least about 65%, more preferably
at least about 75%, yet more preferably at least about 85%, and
most preferably at least about 95% identical to amino acids 48 to
88 and/or amino acids 134 to 180 of SEQ ID NO:3, which are the
Ig-like domains of human TANGO 268 (these Ig-like domains are also
represented as SEQ ID NO:6 and 7, respectively), includes a
conserved cysteine residue about 8 residues downstream from the
N-terminus of the Ig-like domain, and has one or more Ig-like
domain consensus sequences as described herein.
[0100] In another embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member includes
one or more Ig-like domains having an amino acid sequence that is
at least 55%, preferably at least about 65%, more preferably at
least about 75%, yet more preferably at least about 85%, and most
preferably at least about 95% identical to amino acids 48 to 88
and/or amino acids 134 to 180 of SEQ ID NO:3, which are the Ig-like
domains of human TANGO 268 (SEQ ID NO:6 and 7, respectively),
includes a conserved cysteine residue 8 residues downstream from
the N-terminus of the Ig-like domain, has one or more Ig-like
domain consensus sequences as described herein, and has a conserved
cysteine within the consensus sequence that forms a disulfide with
said first conserved cysteine.
[0101] In another embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member includes
one or more Ig-like domains having an amino acid sequence that is
at least 55%, preferably at least about 65%, more preferably at
least about 75%, yet more preferably at least about 85%, and most
preferably at least about 95% identical to amino acids 48 to 88
and/or amino acids 134 to 180 of SEQ ID NO:3, which are the Ig-like
domains of human TANGO 268 (SEQ iID NO:6 and 7, respectively),
includes a conserved cysteine residue 8 residues downstream from
the N-terminus of the Ig-like domain, has one or more Ig-like
domain consensus sequences as described herein, and has a conserved
cysteine within the consensus sequence that forms a disulfide with
said first conserved cysteine.
[0102] In yet another embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member
includes one or more Ig-like domains having an amino acid sequence
that is at least 55%, preferably at least about 65%, more
preferably at least about 75%, yet more preferably at least about
85%, and most preferably at least about 95% identical to amino
acids 48 to 88 and/or amino acids 134 to 180 of SEQ ID NO:3 (SEQ ID
NO:6 and 7, respectively), includes a conserved cysteine residue 8
residues downstream from the N-terminus of the Ig-like domain, has
one or more Ig-like domain consensus sequences described herein,
has a conserved cysteine within the consensus sequence that forms a
disulfide with said first conserved cysteine, and has at least one
TANGO 268 biological activity as described herein.
[0103] In another embodiment, the Ig-like domain of TANGO 268 is an
Ig domain, which has the following consensus sequence at the
C-terminus of the domain: (FY)-Xaa-C-Xaa-(VA)-COO--, wherein (FY)
is either a phenylalanine or a tyrosine residue (preferably
tyrosine), where "Xaa" is any amino acid, C is a cysteine residue,
(VA) is a valine or alanine residue, and COO-- is the C-terminus of
the domain. In this embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member includes
one or more Ig-like domains having an amino acid sequence that is
at least about 55%, preferably at least about 65%, more preferably
at least 75%, yet more preferably at least about 85%, and most
preferably at least about 95% identical to amino acids 48 to 90
and/or amino acids 134 to 182 of SEQ ID NO:3.
[0104] In another embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member includes
one or more Ig-like domains having an amino acid sequence that is
at least about 55%, preferably at least about 65%, more preferably
at least 75%, yet more preferably at least about 85%, and most
preferably at least about 95% identical to amino acids 49 to 89
and/or amino acids 135 to 181 of SEQ ID NO:16, which are the
Ig-like domains of mouse TANGO 268 (these Ig-like domains are also
represented SEQ ID NO:22 and 23, respectively). In another
embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member includes one or more Ig-like
domains having an amino acid sequence that is at least about 55%,
preferably at least about 65%, more preferably at least about 75%,
yet more preferably at least about 85%, and most preferably at
least about 95% identical to amino acids 49 to 89 and/or amino
acids 135 to 181 of SEQ ID NO:16 (SEQ ID NO:22 and 23,
respectively), includes a conserved cysteine residue about 8
residues downstream from the N-terminus of the Ig-like domain, and
has one or more Ig-like domain consensus sequences as described
herein.
[0105] In another embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member includes
one or more Ig-like domains having an amino acid sequence that is
at least 55%, preferably at least about 65%, more preferably at
least about 75%, yet more preferably at least about 85%, and most
preferably at least about 95% identical to amino acids 49 to 89
and/or amino acids 135 to 181 of SEQ ID NO:16 (SEQ ID NO:22 and 23,
respectively), includes a conserved cysteine residue 8 residues
downstream from the N-terminus of the Ig-like domain, has one or
more Ig-like domain consensus sequences as described herein, and
has a conserved cysteine within the consensus sequence that forms.
a disulfide with said first conserved cysteine.
[0106] In another embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member includes
one or more Ig-like domains having an amino acid sequence that is
at least 55%, preferably at least about 65%, more preferably at
least about 75%, yet more preferably at least about 85%, and most
preferably at least about 95% identical to amino acids 49 to 89
and/or amino acids 135 to 181 of SEQ ID NO:16 (SEQ ID NO:22 and 23,
respectively), includes a conserved cysteine residue 8 residues
downstream from the N-terminus of the Ig-like domain, has one or
more Ig-like domain consensus sequences as described herein, and
has a conserved cysteine within the consensus sequence that forms a
disulfide with said first conserved cysteine.
[0107] In yet another embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member
includes one or more Ig-like domains having an amino acid sequence
that is at least 55%, preferably at least about 65%, more
preferably at least about 75%, yet more preferably at least about
85%, and most preferably at least about 95% identical to amino
acids 49 to 89 and/or amino acids 135 to 181 of SEQ ID NO:16 (SEQ
ID NO:22 and 23, respectively), includes a conserved cysteine
residue 8 residues downstream from the N-terminus of the Ig-like
domain, has one or more Ig-like domain consensus sequences as
described herein, has a conserved cysteine within the consensus
sequence that forms a disulfide with said first conserved cysteine,
and has at least one TANGO 268 biological activity as described
herein.
[0108] In another embodiment, the Ig-like domain of TANGO 268 is an
Ig domain, which has the following consensus sequence at the
C-terminus end of the domain: (FY)-Xaa-C-Xaa-(VA)-COO--, wherein
(FY) is either a phenylalanine or a tyrosine residue (preferably
tyrosine), where "Xaa" is any amino acid, C is a cysteine residue,
(VA) is a valine or alanine residue, and COO-- is the C-terminus of
the domain. In this embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member includes
one or more Ig-like domains having an amino acid sequence that is
at least about 55%, preferably at least about 65%, more preferably
at least 75%, yet more preferably at least about 85%, and most
preferably at least about 95% identical to amino acids 49 to 91
and/or amino acids 135 to 183 of SEQ ID NO:16, which are the
Ig-like domains of mouse TANGO 268.
[0109] In a preferred embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member has the
amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:6, wherein the aforementioned
Ig-like domain conserved residues are located as follows: the
N-terminal conserved cysteine residue is located at amino acid
residue position 48 (within the Ig-like domain SEQ ID NO:3) and the
C-terminal conserved cysteine residue is located at amino acid
position 88 (within the Ig-like domain SEQ ID NO:3). In another
preferred embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member has the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO:6, wherein the aforementioned Ig-like domain
conserved residues are located as follows: the N-terminal conserved
cysteine residue is located at amino acid residue position 135
(within the Ig-like domain SEQ ID NO:3) and the C-terminal
conserved cysteine residue is located at amino acid position 180
(within the Ig-like domain SEQ ID NO:3). In another preferred
embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member has the amino acid sequence
of SEQ ID NO:22, wherein the aforementioned Ig-like domain
conserved residues are located as follows: the N-terminal conserved
cysteine residue is located at amino acid residue position 49
(within the Ig-like domain of SEQ ID NO:16) and the C-terminal
conserved cysteine residue is located at amino acid position 89
(within the Ig-like domain of SEQ ID NO:16). In another preferred
embodiment, a TANGO 268 family member has the amino acid sequence
of SEQ ID NO:23, wherein the aforementioned Ig-like domain
conserved residues are located as follows: the N-terminal conserved
cysteine residue is located at amino acid residue position 135
(within the Ig-like domain of SEQ ID NO:16) and the C-terminal
conserved cysteine residue is located at amino acid position 181
(within the Ig-like domain of SEQ ID NO:16).
[0110] Various features of human and mouse TANGO 268 are summarized
below.
Human TANGO 268
[0111] A cDNA encoding human TANGO 268 was identified by analyzing
the sequences of clones present in a human megakaryocyte cDNA
library. This analysis led to the identification of a clone,
jthealOSeO2, encoding full-length human TANGO 268. The human TANGO
268 cDNA of this clone is 2047 nucleotides long (FIG. 1; SEQ ID
NO:1). The open reading frame of this cDNA, nucleotides 36 to 1052
of SEQ ID NO:1 (SEQ ID NO:2), encodes a 339 amino acid
transmembrane protein (FIG. 1; SEQ ID NO:3) that, as discussed
below, represents a platelet-expressed collagen receptor
glycoprotein.
[0112] The signal peptide prediction program SIGNALP (Nielsen, et
al., 1997, Protein Engineering 10:1-6) predicted that human TANGO
268 includes an 20 amino acid signal peptide (amino acid 1 to about
amino acid 20 of SEQ ID NO:3; SEQ ID NO:4) preceding the mature
human TANGO 268 protein (corresponding to about amino acid 21 to
amino acid 339 of SEQ ID NO:3; SEQ ID NO:5). The molecular weight
of human TANGO 268 without post-translational modifications is 36.9
kDa prior to the cleavage of the signal peptide, 34.9 kDa after
cleavage of the signal peptide.
[0113] Human TANGO 268 is a transmembrane protein that is a
collagen receptor expressed on platelets which consists of one or
more of the following domains: (1) an extracellular domain; (2) a
transmembrane domain; and (3) a cytoplasmic domain. The human TANGO
268 protein contains an extracellular domain at amino acid residues
21 to 269 of SEQ ID NO:3 (SEQ ID NO:9), a transmembrane domain at
amino acid residues 270 to 288 of SEQ ID NO:3 (SEQ ID NO:8), and a
cytoplasmic domain at amino acid residues 289 to 339 of SEQ ID NO:3
(SEQ ID NO:10).
[0114] FIG. 2 depicts a hydropathy plot of human TANGO 268.
Relatively hydrophobic regions of the protein are shown above the
horizontal line, and relatively hydrophilic regions of the protein
are below the horizontal line. The cysteine residues (cys) and
potential N-glycosylation sites (Ngly) are indicated by short
vertical lines just below the hydropathy trace. The dashed vertical
line separates the signal sequence (amino acids 1 to 20 of SEQ ID
NO:3; SEQ ID NO:4) on the left from the mature protein (amino acids
21 to 339 of SEQ ID NO:3; SEQ ID NO:5) on the right.
[0115] Human TANGO 268 comprises two immunoglobulin-like domain
sequences at amino acids 48 to 88 and at amino acids 134 to 180 of
SEQ ID NO:3; SEQ ID NO:6 and SEQ ID NO:7. A single N-glycosylation
site having the sequence NGSL is present at about amino acids 92 to
95 of SEQ ID NO:3. Nine protein kinase C phosphorylation sites are
present in human TANGO 268. The first has the sequence TLR (at
amino acids 45 to 47 of SEQ ID NO:3), the second has the sequence
SSR (at amino acids 64 to 66 of SEQ ID NO:3), the third has the
sequence TYR (at amino acids 177 to 179 of SEQ ID NO:3), the fourth
has the sequence SSR (at amino acids 184 to 186 of SEQ ID NO:3),
the fifth has the sequence TNK (at amino acids 235 to 237 of SEQ ID
NO:3), the sixth has the sequence TSR (at amino acids 243 to 245 of
SEQ ID NO:3), the seventh has the sequence SPK (at amino acids 250
to 252 of SEQ ID NO:3), the eighth has the sequence SRR (at amino
acids 293 to 295 of SEQ ID NO:3), and the ninth has the sequence
TRK (at amino acids 318 to 320 of SEQ ID NO:3). Four casein kinase
II phosphorylation sites are present in human TANGO 268. The first
has the sequence SGGD (at amino acids 126 to 129 of SEQ ID NO:3),
the second has the sequence SSRD (at amino acids 184 to 187 of SEQ
ID NO:3), the third has the sequence SVAE (at amino acids 219 to
222 of SEQ ID NO:3), and the fourth has the sequence SPKE (at amino
acids 250 to 253 of SEQ ID NO:3). Human TANGO 268 has two tyrosine
kinase phosphorylation sites having the sequences KEGDPAPY (at
amino acids 147 to 154 of SEQ ID NO:3) and KNPERWY (at amino acids
155 to 161 of SEQ ID NO:3). Human TANGO 268 has five
N-myristylation sites. The first has the sequence GLCLGR (at amino
acids 12 to 17 of SEQ ID NO:3), the second has the sequence GSLWSL
(at amino acids 93 to 98 of SEQ ID NO:3), the third has the
sequence GGDVTL (at amino acids 127 to 132 of SEQ ID NO:3), the
fourth has the sequence GTYRCY (at amino acids 176 to 181 of SEQ ID
NO:3), and the fifth has the sequence GGQDGG (at amino acids 323 to
328 of SEQ ID NO:3). Human TANGO 268 is likely to be involved in
cell signaling via interaction with a second receptor component. A
charged residue is present in the transmembrane domain of human
TANGO 268 (arginine at amino acid 272 of SEQ ID NO:3), which is a
hallmark of platelet collagen receptors, and which can function as
an interaction site for association with other membrane proteins, a
second receptor component, e.g., FcR.gamma..
[0116] FIG. 5A depicts the alignment between the first
immunoglobulin-like domain of human TANGO 268 (from amino acid
residues 41 to 90 of SEQ ID NO:3) and a typical immunoglobulin
domain (SEQ ID NO:13; Accession Number PF00047). FIG. 5B depicts
the alignment between the second immunoglobulin-like domain of
human TANGO 268 (from amino acid residues 127 to 182 of SEQ ID
NO:3) and a typical immunoglobulin domain (SEQ ID NO:13; Accession
Number PF00047).
[0117] Northern blot analysis of human TANGO 268 expression
demonstrates expression in bone marrow, fetal liver, and peripheral
blood leukocytes. Fetal liver expression reveals one human TANGO
268 mRNA band that is approximately 2 kb. Human TANGO 268
expression was not detected in the following tissues: spleen, lymph
node, thymus, brain, heart, skeletal muscle, colon, kidney, liver,
small intestine, placenta, or lung. Further analysis predicts that
TANGO 268 is specific to the megakaryocyte lineage of hematopoietic
cells.
[0118] Clone EpthEa11d1, which encodes human TANGO 268, was
deposited with the American Type Culture Collection (10801
University Boulevard, Manassas, Va. 20110-2209) on March 30, 1999
and assigned Accession Number 207180. This deposit will be
maintained under the terms of the Budapest Treaty on the
International Recognition of the Deposit of Microorganisms for the
Purposes of Patent Procedure. This deposit was made merely as a
convenience for those of skill in the art and is not an admission
that a deposit is required under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.112.
[0119] FIG. 3 shows an alignment of the human TANGO 268 coding
region (SEQ ID NO:2) with the human monocyte inhibitory receptor
precursor protein coding region (SEQ ID NO:24). The human monocyte
inhibitory receptor has been shown to downregulate activation
responses by phosphatases. The nucleotide sequences of coding
regions of human monocyte inhibitory receptor precursor and human
TANGO 268 are 37.7% identical. The full-length nucleic acid
sequence of human TANGO 268 (SEQ ID NO:1) exhibits 49.9% identity
to the full-length nucleic acid human monocyte inhibitory receptor
precursor (SEQ ID NO:11; Accession Number U91928).
[0120] FIG. 4 shows that there is an overall 23% identity between
the amino acid sequence of the human TANGO 268 protein and the
amino acid sequence of the human monocyte inhibitory receptor
protein (SEQ ID NO:12; Accession Number U91928).
[0121] In general, human TANGO 268 has most homology to various
members of the immunoglobulin superfamily that include NK
inhibitory and activating receptors and Fc receptors. Specifically,
TANGO 268 represents a platelet-specific collagen receptor
previously described as Glycoprotein VI (GPVI), and thus can be
involved in hemostasis and thrombosis. The fact that TANGO 268
represents GPVI was suggested by the following: (1) TANGO 268 and
GPVI are both preferentially expressed in the megakaryocytic cells;
(2) the molecular mass of the 40 kDa unglycosylated TANGO 268 is
predicted to be approximately 62 kDa, the apparent molecular mass
of GPVI, upon N-- and O-linked glycosylation; (3) the presence of
two immunoglobulin-like domains in TANGO 268 indicates that like
GPVI, TANGO 268 interacts with the FcR.gamma.; (4) the absence of a
large intracytoplasmic tail, suggesting that this membrane-bound
glycoprotein has no signaling role but associates with another
member of the Ig family (e.g., FcR.gamma.) protein to transduce a
signal; and (5) the presence of a charged residue (arginine) in the
transmembrane domain of TANGO 268 which is predicted to be present
in GPVI based on its association with the FcR.gamma.. Experimental
data confirming that TANGO 268 does, indeed, represent GPVI are
presented below.
Mouse TANGO 268
[0122] A cDNA encoding mouse TANGO 268 was identified by analyzing
the sequences of clones present in a mouse megakaryocyte cDNA
library. This analysis led to the identification of a clone,
jtmea105e02, encoding full-length mouse TANGO 268. The murine TANGO
268 cDNA of this clone is 1163 nucleotides long (FIG. 6; SEQ ID
NO:14). The open reading frame of this cDNA, nucleotides 63 to 1001
of SEQ ID NO:14 (SEQ ID NO:15), encodes a 313 amino acid
transmembrane protein (FIG. 6; SEQ ID NO:16).
[0123] The signal peptide prediction program SIGNALP (Nielsen, et
al., 1997, Protein Engineering 10:1-6) predicted that mouse TANGO
268 includes a 21amino acid signal peptide (amino acid 1 to amino
acid 21 of SEQ ID NO:16)(SEQ ID NO:17) preceding the mature mouse
TANGO 268 protein (corresponding to amino acid 22 to amino acid 313
of SEQ ID NO:16)(SEQ ID NO:18). The molecular weight of mouse TANGO
268 without post-translational modifications is 34.5 kDa prior to
the cleavage of the signal peptide, 32.3 kDa after cleavage of the
signal peptide.
[0124] Mouse TANGO 268 is a transmembrane protein which consists of
one or more of the following domains: (1) an extracellular domain;
(2) a transmembrane domain; and (3) a cytoplasmic domain. The mouse
TANGO 268 protein contains an extracellular domain at amino acid
residues 1 to 267 of SEQ ID NO:16 (SEQ ID NO:19), a transmembrane
domain at amino acid residues 268 to 286 of SEQ ID NO:16 (SEQ ID
NO:20), and a cytoplasmic domain at amino acid residues 287 to 313
of SEQ ID NO:16 (SEQ ID NO:21).
[0125] FIG. 7 depicts a hydropathy plot of mouse TANGO 268.
Relatively hydrophobic regions of the protein are shown above the
horizontal line, and relatively hydrophilic regions of the protein
are below the horizontal line. The cysteine residues (cys) and
potential N-glycosylation sites (Ngly) are indicated by short
vertical lines just below the hydropathy trace. The dashed vertical
line separates the signal sequence on the left from the mature
protein on the right.
[0126] Mouse TANGO 268 comprises two immunoglobulin-like domain
sequences at amino acids 49 to 89 and at amino acids 135 to 181 of
SEQ ID NO:16; SEQ ID NO:22 and SEQ ID NO:23. Two N-glycosylation
sites having the sequences NGSH and NITA are present in mouse TANGO
268 at amino acids 93 to 96 and at amino acids 244 to 247 of SEQ ID
NO:16, respectively. Six protein kinase C phosphorylation sites are
present in mouse TANGO 268. The first has the sequence TLK (at
amino acids 132 to 134 of SEQ ID NO:16), the second has the
sequence TYR (at amino acids 178 to 180 of SEQ ID NO:16), the third
has the sequence SSR (at amino acids 224 to 226 of SEQ ID NO:16),
the fourth has the sequence TNK (at amino acids 233 to 235 of SEQ
ID NO:16), the fifth has the sequence TEK (at amino acids 239 to
241 of SEQ ID NO:16), and the sixth has the sequence SRK (at amino
acids 291 to 293 of SEQ ID NO:16). Two casein kinase II
phosphorylation sites are present in mouse TANGO 268. The first has
the sequence SFDE (at amino acids 140 to 143 of SEQ ID NO:16), and
the second has the sequence STIE (at amino acids 237 to 240 of SEQ
ID NO:16). Mouse TANGO 268 has two tyrosine kinase phosphorylation
sites having the sequences KEGDTGPY (at amino acids 148 to 155 of
SEQ ID NO:16) and KRPEKWY (at amino acids 156 to 162 of SEQ ID
NO:16). Mouse TANGO 268 has two N-myristylation sites. The first
has the sequence GSHWSL (at amino acids 94 to 99 of SEQ ID NO:16),
and the second has the sequence GTYRCY (at amino acids 177 to 182
of SEQ ID NO:16). A c-AMP- and c-GMP-dependent protein kinase
phosphorylation site is present in the mouse TANGO 268 having the
sequence RRPS (at amino acids 226 to 229 of SEQ ID NO:16). An ABC
transporter family signature is present in mouse TANGO 268 having
the sequence YAKGNLVRICLGATI (at amino acid residues 263 to 277 of
SEQ ID NO:16). Mouse TANGO 268 does not include any conspicuous
inhibitory or activation motifs in the cytoplasmic domain. Mouse
TANGO 268 may be involved in cell signaling via interaction with a
second receptor component. A charged residue is present in the
transmembrane domain of mouse TANGO 268 (arginine at amino acid 270
of SEQ ID NO:16), which may function as an interaction site for
association with other membrane proteins, a second receptor
component, e.g., FcR.gamma..
[0127] FIG. 10A depicts the alignment between the first
immunoglobulin-like domain of mouse TANGO 268 (from amino acid
residues 42 to 91 of SEQ ID NO:16) and a typical immunoglobulin
domain (SEQ ID NO:13; Accession No. PF00047). FIG. 10B depicts the
alignment between the second immunoglobulin-like domain of mouse
TANGO 268 (from amino acid residues 128 to 183 of SEQ ID NO:16) and
a typical immunoglobulin domain (SEQ ID NO:13; Accession No.
PF00047).
[0128] In situ expression experiments with a TANGO 268 anti-sense
probe (nucleotides 69 to 670 of SEQ ID NO:14) reveal that during
embryogenesis mouse TANGO 268 is expressed exclusively in the
liver. The signal pattern is strong and multifocal, suggestive of
expression by a scattered cell population. In adult tissues,
expression of TANGO 268 in liver is no longer observed but a
strong, multifocal signal is seen in spleen. The number of
multifocal signals observed in the spleen is significantly reduced
compared to the number observed in embryonic liver. All other adult
tissues tested negative for TANGO 268 (i.e., no signal was observed
in the brain, eye, harderian gland, submandibular gland, bladder,
white fat, stomach, brown fat, heart, adrenal gland, colon, small
intestine, liver, placenta, thymus, lymph node, spleen, lung,
spinal cord, pancreas, skeletal muscle or testes). A sense probe
analogous to the anti-sense TANGO 268 probe tested on the same
tissues yielded no signal.
[0129] The signal pattern and restricted tissue expression observed
during embryogenesis and in adult tissues was identical to that
seen with a probe for TANGO 69, a gene known to be expressed by
megakaryocytes (PCT Publication Number WO 99/11662, published on
Mar. 11, 1999). Like TANGO 69, TANGO 268 was also cloned from a
megakaryocyte library. These data, therefore, indicate that TANGO
268 is expressed by megakaryocytes during embryogenesis and in
adult mice.
[0130] In general, mouse TANGO 268 has most homology to various
members of the immunoglobulin superfamily that includes NK
inhibitory and activating receptors and Fc receptors. The
full-length nucleic acid sequence of mouse TANGO 268 exhibits 35.6%
identity to the full-length nucleic acid human monocyte inhibitory
receptor precursor (SEQ ID NO:11; Accession Number U91928). FIG. 8
shows an alignment of the mouse TANGO 268 coding region (SEQ ID
NO:15) with the human monocyte inhibitory receptor precursor
protein coding region (SEQ ID NO:24). The nucleotide sequences of
the coding regions of human monocyte inhibitory receptor precursor
and mouse TANGO 268 are 34.4% identical. The nucleotide sequences
of the full-length human monocyte inhibitory receptor precursor
(SEQ ID NO:11; Accession Number U91928) and full-length mouse TANGO
268 (SEQ ID NO:14) are 35.6% identical. FIG. 9 shows that there is
an overall 20.3% identity between the mouse TANGO 268 amino acid
sequence and the human monocyte inhibitory receptor protein amino
acid sequence (SEQ ID NO:12; Accession Number U91928).
[0131] FIG. 11 shows that there is an overall 64.4% identity
between the precursor human TANGO 268 amino acid sequence (SEQ ID
NO:3) and the precursor mouse TANGO 268 amino acid sequence (SEQ ID
NO:16). This homology is spread throughout the molecule, but is
slightly higher (78%) over the immunoglobulin-like domains
Interestingly, both human and mouse GPVI contain conserved variants
of the WSXWS box (residues 96-100 and 192-196). This motif is a
signature of class I hematopoietic receptors but variants are also
found in the sequences of all Killer-cell Inhibitory receptors
(KIR) (Fan et al., 1997, Nature 389: 96-100). These motifs have
been shown to contribute to tertiary folding. GPVI has a relatively
short cytoplasmic tail with no obvious signaling motifs analogous
to the ITAM's and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs
(ITIM's) of other signaling receptors. However, GPVI present a
positively charged residue in the transmembrane domain allowing it
to form complexes with the FcR.gamma. chain which acts as signaling
subunit (Poole et al., 1997, cited below).
[0132] Clone EpTm268, which encodes mouse TANGO 268, was deposited
with the American Type Culture Collection (10801 University
Boulevard, Manassas, Va. 20110-2209) on Jun. 14, 1999 and assigned
Accession No. PTA-225. This deposit will be maintained under the
terms of the Budapest Treaty on the International Recognition of
the Deposit of Microorganisms for the Purposes of Patent Procedure.
This deposit was made merely as a convenience for those of skill in
the art and is not an admission that a deposit is required under 35
U.S.C. .sctn.112.
Functional and Structural Analyses Demonstrating that TANGO 268 is
Glycoprotein VI
[0133] Described below are both functional (ligand binding, cell
adhesion and platelet activation) and structural (immunoblot and
tissue expression) analysis demonstrating that TANGO 268 is
glycoprotein VI.
[0134] A. Ligand Binding Assay
[0135] Convulxin (Cvx) is a protein purified from the venom of
Crotallus durissus terrificus. Cvx is known to act as a potent
platelet agonist, and has been shown to bind specifically to GPVI.
Described below are Cvx ligand binding studies demonstrating that
TANGO 268 specifically binds Cvx.
[0136] The ligand binding assay was performed as follows:
approximately 5.times.10.sup.9 human platelets per milliliter, and
10.sup.6 expression vector only-transfected CHO cells and
full-length TANGO 268 containing expression vector-transfected CHO
cells were lysed for 30 min at 4.degree. C. in lysis buffer
comprising 10 mM Tris, 100 mM NaCl, 5 mM EDTA, pH 8 containing 0.1%
Nonidet P40, 2 mM PMSF, 5KIU aprotinin and 20 .mu.M leupeptin
(Jandrot-Perrus et al., 1997, J. Biol. Chem. 272:27035-27041;
Lagrue et al, 1999, FEBS Lett. 448(1):95-100). Approximately 8
.mu.g of platelet lysate and 40 to 80 .mu.g of CHO cell lysates
(expression vector only-transfected and TANGO 268-transfected) were
separated on 10% acrylamide slab gels (miniprotean II Biorad) in
the presence of SDS and then transferred to a PVDF membrane
(Amersham). The membrane was saturated with 5% (w/v) non-fat dry
milk in PBS. Ligand blotting was performed by the incubating
membrane in the presence of .sup.125I-Cvx (3.times.10.sup.5 cpm/ml)
in PBS pH 7.4 containing 0.5% (w/v) dry milk and 0.2% Tween 20 for
4 hours.
[0137] The Cvx utilized in the ligand binding assay was purified
from the venom of Crotallus durissus terrificus by two successive
chromatography steps (Francischetti et al., 1997, Toxicon
35:121728) and radiolabeled. Briefly, lyophilized venom from
Crotallus durissus terrificus was solubilized in ammonium formate
0.1M, NaCl 0.3 M, pH 3.1 and proteins were separated on a G75
column equilibrated in the same buffer. Cvx contained in the first
eluted peak, as assessed by gel electrophoresis and platelet
activating activity, was lyophilized. Second, Cvx was solubilized
in Tris 0.1M pH8.5 containing 6 M urea (Tris urea buffer) and
further purified by chromatography on a G100 column equilibrated in
the same buffer. Fractions containing purified Cvx were pooled,
dialyzed and lyophilized. After solubilization in the Tris urea
buffer, Cvx was dialyzed against PBS (20 mM phosphate, 150 mM NaCl,
pH 7.4). Cvx (100 .mu.g) was radiolabeled with 0.5 mCi Na.sup.125I
(Amersham) using lodogen (Pierce Chemical Corp.) according to
published procedure (Jandrot-Perrus et al., 1997, J. Biol. Chem.
272:27035-27041). lodinated Cvx was separated from free .sup.125I
by gel filtration on a G25 sephadex column (Pharmacia) in PBS. The
activity of .sup.125I-Cvx was tested on human platelet
aggregation.
[0138] Following the incubation of the membrane with .sup.125I-Cvx,
the membrane was washed and ligand binding was detected by
autoradiography on X-Omat MA films (Kodak). Ligand blotting with
.sup.125I-Cvx (FIG. 12) revealed one specific band in platelet
lysates at 56-58 kDa (lane 1), which represents a band previously
identified as GPVI (Jandrot-Perrus et al., 1997, J. Biol. Chem.
272:27035-27041). No positive band was observed in lysates (60
.mu.g) from control expression vector only-transfected cells (lane
2). In lysates from CHO cells transfected with TANGO 268 expression
vector (60 .mu.g), a positive band migrating at 52-54 kDa was
clearly observed (lane 3).
[0139] The ligand binding studies demonstrate that convulxin binds
to a molecule present on TANGO 268 transfected cells (and not on
vector only transfected cells), which has a molecular weight very
similar to the molecular weight of GPVI (FIG. 12). The small
apparent difference in size between the band in platelet lysates
and in CHO lysates can be accounted for by cell-type specific
discrepancies in protein glycosylation.
[0140] This result demonstrates that convulxin binds to TANGO 268
and that TANGO 268 has a similar or identical molecular weight as
GPVI. Since GPVI is the platelet receptor for Cvx (Jandrot-Perrus
et al., 1997, Journal of Biological Chemistry 272:27035-27041) and
TANGO 268 is preferentially expressed in megakaryocytes, this
functional evidence indicates that TANGO 268 is GPVI.
[0141] B. Immunoblotting Assay
[0142] Structural evidence is presented herein that further
supports TANGO 268 as corresponding to GPVI. In particular, the
immunoblotting results presented herein demonstrate that an IgG
preparation containing antibodies directed against GPVI binds
specifically to TANGO 268 polypeptide. These studies further
demonstrate that binding is successfully competed away when Cvx is
introduced.
[0143] The immunoblotting assay was performed as follows: platelet,
expression vector-only transfected and TANGO 268 containing
expression vector-transfected CHO cell lysates were generated as
described in A. above. Approximately 8 .mu.g of platelet lysate and
40 to 80 .mu.g of CHO cell lysate (either expression vector-only
transfected or TANGO 268-transfected) were separated on 10%
acrylamide slab gels (miniprotean II Biorad) in the presence of SDS
and then transferred to a PVDF membrane (Amersham). The membrane
was saturated with 5% (w/v) non-fat dry milk in PBS, and then
incubated for 2 hours at room temperature with 9 .mu.g/ml anti-GPVI
IgG in PBS, pH 8.6 containing 0.02% (v/v) Tween 20.
[0144] Alternatively, for the competition assay, the membrane was
incubated for 2 hours at room temperature with 9 .mu.g/ml anti-GPVI
IgG in PBS, pH 8.6 containing 0.02% (v/v) Tween 20 in the presence
of a high concentration of cold Cvx (0.5 .mu.M).
[0145] The IgG preparation utilized in this assay was generated by
purifying IgG from serum of a patient exhibiting idiopathic
thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) (Sugiyama et al., 1987, Blood 69:
1712-1720) as described in Jandrot-Perrus et al., 1997, J. Biol.
Chem. 272:27035-27041. Following the incubation with the antibody
composition, the membrane was washed and incubated with
peroxidase-coupled protein A (Amersham) for 2 hours at room
temperature. The immunoblots were developed using enhanced
chemiluminescence detection (Amersham).
[0146] As shown in FIG. 13A, immunoblotting with the IgG revealed a
56-58 kDa in platelet lysates (lane 1), which corresponds to the
molecular mass of GPVI. The high molecular weight band detected in
platelet lysates corresponds to platelet IgGs revealed by protein
A. The presence of a 52-54 kDa band was detected in TANGO
268-transfected CHO cell lysates (FIG. 13A, lane 3) but not in
expression vector only-transfected CHO cell lysates (lane 2)
demonstrating that TANGO 268 shares epitope similarities with GPVI.
The low molecular weight bands of moderate intensity observed in
FIG. 13A, lanes 2 and 3 are non-specific bands since they were
detected in both control, expression vector only-transfected and
TANGO 268 transfected CHO cell lysates.
[0147] The results from the competition assay performed further
demonstrate the similarities between TANGO 268 and GPVI. In
particular, as shown in FIG. 13B, cold 0.5 .mu.M Cvx successfully
competes with and inhibits anti-GPVI binding to GPVI on platelet
lysates (lane 1), and likewise, the 52-54 kDa band revealed by the
anti-GPVI IgG in TANGO 268-tranfected cells lysates (lane 3), was
inhibited in the presence of 0.5 .mu.M Cvx.
[0148] In summary, the results from both the ligand binding assays
and immunblotting assays described above provide both functional
(i.e., binding of Cvx to TANGO 268) and immunological evidence
(i.e., recognition by anti-GPVI IgG) that TANGO 268 does, indeed,
represent GPVI polypeptide.
[0149] C. Tissue Expression of Tango 268/GPVI
[0150] To further study tissue distribution of both mouse and human
Tango 268/GPVI, Northern blot, RT-PCR and in situ hybridizations
were performed. The results presented herein confirm and extend the
experimental results presented above.
[0151] Materials & Methods
[0152] In situ hybridization: In situ hybridization (ISH) was
performed with day 12.5 C57BL/B6 mouse embryos and normal 4- to
6-week-old C57BLJ6 mouse femurs. Tissues were fixed in 10%
formalin, paraffin embedded and subsequently sectioned at 4 .mu.m
onto Superfrost/plus slides. Femurs were decalcified in TBD-2
(Shandon, Pittsburgh, Pa.) prior to paraffin embedding. Sections
were deparaffinized in xylene, hydrated through a series of graded
ethanol washes and placed in DEPC-treated phosphate-buffered saline
(PBS) pH7.4 before being processed for ISH. Sections were incubated
in 20 ug/ml proteinase K (Sigma) in DEPC-PBS for 15 minutes at
37.degree. C. and then immersed in 4% formaldehyde/PBS for 5
minutes. Sections were treated with 0.2N HCl for 10 minutes
followed by DEPC-PBS. Sections were rinsed in 0.1M
triethanolamine-HCl (TEA, pH 8.0), incubated in 0.25% acetic
anhydride-TEA for 10 minutes, rinsed in DEPC-PBS, dehydrated
through a series of graded ethanol washes and air dried. Labeling
and hybridization of .sup.35S-radiolabeled (2.5.times.10.sup.7
cpm/ml) cRNA antisense and sense RNA probes encoding a 599 pb
fragment of the 5' end of the GPVI gene (generated with the PCR
primers forward 5' CAGCCTCACCCACTTTCTTC-3' (SEQ ID NO:25), nt 8-27
and reverse 5'-CCACAAGCACTAGAGGGTCA 3' (SEQ ID NO:26), nt 607-588)
were performed as previously described (Busfield et al., 1997, Mol.
Cell. Biol. 17: 4007-14). Following hybridization, sections were
dehydrated rapidly through serial ethanol-0.3 M sodium acetate
before being air dried, dipped in a nuclear track emulsion (NTB-2:
Eastman Kodak, Rochester, N.Y.) and exposed for 60 days at room
temperature. Slides were developed with D-19 (Kodak, Rochester,
N.Y.), stained with hematoxylin and eosin-Y, and coverslipped.
[0153] Cell lines: The HEL (erythroid/MK), U937 (monoblast), K562
(erythroid), CEM (T cell), HEPG2 and Hela cell lines were obtained
from American Type Culture Collection (ATCC, Manassas, Va.) and the
FDC-P1 and 32D cells from D. Metcalf (The Walter and Eliza hall
Institute, Melbourne, Australia). The UT7 (erythroid/MK) transduced
by c-mpl (Hong et al., 1998, Blood 91:813-822) TF1 (erythroid), KG1
(myeloblast), HL60 (myeloblast/promyelocyte), MO-7E (MK), Meg-01
(MK) and DAMI (MK) were obtained from the different laboratories
which derived them (Avanzi et al., 1988, Br. J. Haematol. 69:
359-366) (Collins et al., 1977, Nature 270: 347-349) (Greenberg et
al., 1988, Blood 72: 1968-1977) (Kitamura et al., 1989, J. Cell
Physiol. 140: 323-334) (Koeffler and Golde, 1977, Science
200:1153-1155.) (Komatsu et al., 1991, Cancer Res. 51: 341-348)
(Ogura et al., 1985, Blood 66:1364-1392).
[0154] HEL, U937 HL60, Meg-01, KGland K562 human cell lines were
cultured in IMDM (Gibco/BRL, Grand Island, N.Y.), 10% FCS (Stem
cell technology, Vancouver, BC, Canada). The c-mpl UT7, TF1 and
MO-7E are factor dependent and were grown either in the presence of
2 ng/ml GM-CSF or 10 ng/ml PEG-rHuMGDF in IMDM 10% FCS. CEM and
Hela were grown in RPMI (Gibco/BRL, Grand Island, N.Y.). FDC-P1,
32D and Ba/F3 murine cell lines were cultured in DMEM (Gibco/BRL,
Grand Island, N.Y.), 10% FCS (Stem cell technology, Vancouver, BC,
Canada). Cultures were performed at 37.degree. C. in a fully
humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2.
[0155] Samples: Human megakaryocytes were obtained as described for
the human libraries from mobilized or cord blood CD34.sup.+ cord
blood. A fetal liver was obtained from abortion at 12-week
gestation after obtaining informed consent.
[0156] Northern Blot/RT PCR analysis: Human multiple tissue
northern blots, purchased from Clontech (Palo Alto, Calif.) were
hybridized to a 1.0 kb human GPVI probe as described by the
manufacturer. Total RNA was isolated using RNA PLUS (Bioprobe
systems, France), a modification of the acid-guanidinium
thiocyanate-phenol-chloroform extraction method of Chomczynski et
Sacchi (Chomczynski and Sacchi 1987). RNA was reverse transcribed
with random hexamers using SUPERSCRIPT reverse transcriptase (Gibco
BRL/Life Technologies, Cergy Pontoise, France).
[0157] For human cell lines and tissues, after reverse
transcription, each sample was subjected to a specific
amplification of GP VI and .beta..sub.2 microglobulin cDNA. The
sequences of the specific primers were: for GP VI sense primer
5'-TTCTGTCTTGGGCTGTGTCTG-3' (SEQ ID NO:27) and anti-sense primer
5'-CCCGCCAGGATTATTAGGATC-3'(SEQ ID NO:28), for .beta..sub.2
microglobulin sense primer 5'-CCTGAAGCTGACAGCATTCGG-3' (SEQ ID
NO:29) and anti-sense primer CTCCTAGAGCTACCTGTGGAG-3' (SEQ ID
NO:30). PCR was performed in 25 .mu.l reaction mixture containing
0.3 U Taq polymerase (ATGC Noisy-le-Grand, France), 200 .mu.M dNTP,
30 pmol of oligonucleotide sense and 30 pmol of antisense for GP VI
amplification and 10 pmol of oligonucleotide sense and 10 pmol of
antisense for .beta..sub.2 microglobulin amplification, in ATGC
buffer. The reaction mixture was subjected to denaturation for 5
min at 95.degree. C. amplified by 35 cycles as follows:
denaturation for 30 seconds at 94.degree. C., annealing for 30
seconds at 60.degree. C. and extension at 72.degree. C. for 1 min,
with a final 7 min extension at 72.degree. C. in a thermocycler
2400 (Perkin Elmer Co, Courtaboeuf, France). PCR products (9 .mu.l)
were electrophoresed on a 2% agarose gel. Fragments were visualized
by illumination after ethidium bromide staining. MassRuler DNA
Ladder, low Range (MBI Fermentas, Amherst, N.Y.) is used as
marker.
[0158] Results
[0159] Human tissues were studied using Northern blot or RT-PCR
analysis. Northern blots (FIG. 4D) revealed no specific message in
brain, heart, skeletal muscle, colon, thymus, spleen, kidney,
liver, small intestine, placenta, lung or lymph nodes. A 2 kb
transcript was only observed in bone marrow and fetal liver. A
signal was inconsistently observed with peripheral blood cells,
probably due to platelet RNA contamination in some samples. Indeed,
transcripts for platelet glycoprotein IIb (GPIIb), a platelet
specific protein, were also detected in these positive samples.
[0160] Using RT-PCR analysis, no GPVI transcript was detected in
blood cells except in platelets. In cell lines, a strong PCR signal
was observed in the HEL, MEG01, DAMI and TPO-stimulated MO7E and
mpl transduced UT7 cell lines (Hong et al., 1998, Blood
91:813-822). A very low signal was also detected in the K562 and
KG1 cell lines, two cell lines also expressing GPIIb at low level,
but no expression was detected in the HEPG2, CEMT, TF1, U937, HL60
and Hela cells. CD41 positive cells (including more than 95%
megakaryocytes) isolated from normal cord blood or
chemotherapy-induced mobilized peripheral blood displayed a strong
RT-PCR signal. Fetal liver cells expressed a moderate level of
expression compared to megakaryocyte-enriched samples (FIG.
14C)
[0161] Mouse tissues were studied using northern blot and ISH
analysis. ISH reveals that GPVI was exclusively found in the liver
during embryogenesis (FIG. 14A). The signal pattern was strong and
multifocal, suggestive of expression by a scattered cell
population. This signal was observed at embryonic day 13.5, 14.5,
16.5 and decreased in intensity at day 18.5 and in 1.5 day old new
born. In adult, expression in liver was no longer observed but a
strong, multifocal signal was seen in spleen and in the bone
marrow. No signal was observed in any other tissues including
brain, eye, harderian gland, submandibular gland, bladder, white
fat, stomach, brown fat, heart, adrenal gland, colon, small
intestine, liver, placenta, thymus, lymph node, lung, spinal cord,
pancreas, skeletal muscle, testes. Photoemulsion processing of the
spleen and bone marrow showed that this expression was restricted
to megakaryocytes (FIG. 14B).
[0162] In conclusion, despite screening a large number of human and
mouse tissues, GPVI expression was only detected in
megakaryocytes/platelets. This result strongly suggests that GPVI
is restricted to this hematopoietic lineage. Presently there are
very few molecules that are specific to the megakaryocyte lineage.
GPIIb (integrin .alpha.II.beta.), which was long considered to be
the prototypic megakaryocyte marker, is also expressed on a subset
of hematopoietic progenitors. Other megakaryocyte proteins such as
GPIb.alpha., .beta. and GPIX (CD42) are also expressed by activated
endothelial cells. Only PF4 appears to be specific to the
megakaryocyte/platelet lineage. For this reason the PF4 promoter
has been used to target the megakaryocytes in various transgenic
models (Ravid et al., 1991, Proc. Nat'l. Acad. Sci. USA
88:1521-5.). Thus, the GPVI promoter can also be used to target
specifically the megakaryocyte lineage. For example, the
polynucleotides of the invention can be used to specifically
target, via homologous recombination, a gene of interest into the
GPVI locus under the control of the GPVI promoter. Alternatively,
the GPVI promoter region can be cloned using standard techniques
known to those in the art (e.g., probing a genomic library by
hybridization to the 5' end of the cDNAs of the invention, and more
specifically, detecting hybridization of the human TANGO 268 clone
to a human genomic library of chromosome 19 in particular).
[0163] D. Flow Cytometry To Study Cell Surface Expression of Tango
268/GPVI
[0164] In order to determine whether the recombinant GPVI was
expressed at the cell surface, different human or murine
hematopoietic cell lines were transduced with recombinant
retroviruses expressing human or murine GPVI and with the control
retrovirus.
[0165] Materials & Methods
[0166] GPVI expressing cell lines: CHO cells were transfected using
lipofectamine (Gibco-BRL, Grand Island, N.Y.), according to
manufacturer's instructions. The expression vector (pMET,
Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, MA) containing the full
length GPVI cDNA, driven by a SRalpha promoter, was isolated from
the cDNA library. Control CHO cells were transfected with the empty
vector. Cells were collected 2 days after transfection and lysed in
12 mM Tris, 300 mM NaCl, 12 mM EDTA, containing 2 PM leupeptin, 2
mM PMSF, 5 KIU aprotinin, and 0.2% (v/v) NP40 (Sigma, St. Louis,
Mo.). After 20 min at 4.degree. C. under agitation, samples were
centrifuged at 13,000 g for 15 min at 4.degree. C. and the
supernatants frozen at -80.degree. C. for analysis.
[0167] The human cell lines HEL, U937 and K562 and the murine cell
lines FDC-P1, 32D and Ba/F3 murine cell lines were engineered
(Burns et al., 1993, Proc. Nat'.l Acad. Sci. USA 90: 8033-7) to
express GPVI using the pMSCVpac retrovirus (Hawley et al., 1994,
Gene Ther. 1: 136-8). Briefly, viruses carrying the full length
cDNA encoding human GPVI or murine GPVI were constructed using base
perfect PCR amplified fragments of the cDNAs (Clontech laboratories
Inc, Palo Alto, Calif.). Viral supernatants were generated into the
293-EBNA cells (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.) by transfecting the
retroviral construct and two pN8epsilon vectors containing the
gag/pol genes from the murine moloney leukemia virus (MMLV) or the
Vesicular Stomatitis Virus envelope glycoprotein G (VSV-G) gene.
Concentrated viral supernatants were prepared by centrifugation at
4.degree. C. using a SW28 rotor at 50,000.times.g (25,000 rpm) for
2 hr. Pellets were resuspended in 1.5 ml of DMEM for 24 hr at 4 C,
shaken at 4.degree. C. for 24 hours and frozen at -80.degree. C.
For transduction, cell lines were incubated with the viral
supernatant over-night in 24 well plates, 10.times.10.sup.5
cell/ml, and selected during one week using puromycin (4 .mu.g/ml,
Sigma, St. Louis, Mo.). Human and murine GPVI were transduced in
human and murine cell lines, respectively. Expression of the genes
was verified using PCR analysis. The control cells were transduced
with the empty virus.
[0168] Convulxin and Bothrojaracin preparation: Convulxin (Cvx) was
purified from the venom of Crotalus durissus terrificus mainly as
described by Francischetti et al, using a two step gel filtration
procedure of sephadex G75 (Pharmacia Biotech, Uppsala, Sweden)
followed by sephacryl S100 (Pharmacia Biotech, Uppsala, Sweden).
Cvx was labeled with .sup.125I using the iodogen procedure (Pierce
Chemical Co, Rockford, Ill.) and Na.sup.125I (Amersham, Les Ulis,
France). Cvx was coupled to FITC by mixing Cvx in 50 mM NaHCO3, 150
mM NaCl, pH 9.5 with a 100 fold molar excess of FITC (Aldrich, St
Quentin Fallavier, France) overnight at 4.degree. C. FITC-coupled
Cvx was separated from free FITC by chromatography on a sephadex
G25 column (PD10 Pharmacia Biotech, Uppsala, Sweden) in 20 mM
phosphate, 150 mM NaCl pH 7.4. (PBS). Bothrojaracin, a specific
thrombin inhibitor purified from the venom of Bothrops jararaca as
previously described (Arocas et al., 1996, Biochemistry 35: 9083-9)
was coupled to FITC using the same procedure.
[0169] Flow cytometry: Cells transduced with the human or murine
GPVI viruses or the control virus were incubated in the presence of
20 nM FITC-Cvx or FITC-bothrojaracin for 60 min. at room
temperature. After dilution in PBS cells were analyzed by FACSort
flow cytometer (Becton Dickinson, Franklin Lakes, N.J.).
[0170] Results
[0171] It was observed that the cell lines used for this study
express FcR.gamma.-chain, as indicated by immunoblotting studies
using a polyclonal anti-FcR.gamma. antibody. Functional
characterization of recombinant GPVI was performed using
transfected cells which have either no (U937, FDC-P1) or low (HEL)
levels of endogenous GPVI. Unlike DAMI cells which do express GPVI
mRNA, this allowed us to measure responses independent of
endogenous GPVI.
[0172] Transduced cells were analyzed by flow cytometry using FITC
conjugated Cvx. As a control, we used FITC conjugated
bothrojaracin, another snake venom protein structurally very close
to Cvx but a pure thrombin inhibitor that does not bind to
platelets. Transduction of murine 32D cells with a retrovirus
expressing murine GPVI resulted in a strong Cvx-associated staining
compared to cells transduced with the control virus, indicating
that these cells express GPVI at their surface (FIG. 15). Similar
results were obtained with FDC-P1, and Ba/F3 (all murine cell
lines) and with K562 and U937, indicating that murine or human GPVI
are expressed at the surface of all these cell lines after
transduction. Cvx was found to bind to the wild type HEL cells but
the binding was clearly increased after retroviral transduction
indicating an increased expression in cells already constitutively
expressing GPVI.
[0173] Discussion
[0174] This ligand binding fluorescence analysis shows that Cvx
binds to the human recombinant protein in U937 and K562 cells and
to the mouse recombinant protein in FDC-P1, 32D and Ba/F3. It is
known that Cvx recognized mouse GPVI from studies showing that Cvx
is a potent platelet activator of both human and mouse platelets.
Expression of recombinant GPVI at the cell surface may have been
facilitated by the coexpression of the FcR.gamma. chain in these
cells. It has been shown previously that expression of the
FcR.gamma. chain is required for surface expression of the
Fc.gamma.RI, Fc.gamma.RIII, Fc.epsilon.RI, and for activation of
platelets by collagen (Poole et al., 1997, EMBO J. 16(9):2333-2341)
in mice lacking the FcR.gamma..
[0175] E. Cell Adhesion
[0176] Since GPVI was expressed at the cell surface of transfected
cells, its capacity to promote cell adhesion in a static system, to
either immobilized Cvx or collagen, was tested, and then this
result was compared this to immobilized BSA.
[0177] Materials & Methods
[0178] Cell adhesion: Collagen type I (2 .mu.g, Chrono-log corp.
Haverton, Pa.), Cvx (1.4 .mu.g) or BSA (2 .mu.g, Sigma, St Louis,
Mo.) in 100 .mu.l PBS were immobilized on Immulon II plates
(Dynatech, St Cloud, France) overnight at 4.degree. C. Plates were
then saturated with 2 mg/ml BSA in PBS for one hour and washed with
PBS. Cells in culture medium were labeled with .sup.51Cr (CIS Bio
International, Gif sur Yvette, France) for one hour at 37.degree.
C. after centrifugation at 150 g for 10 min, cells were washed with
Hanks buffer containing BSA (2 mg/ml) and resuspended in the same
buffer. Cells were added to the wells. After 60 min. at room
temperature, wells were emptied and washed and the samples counted
for .sup.51Cr.
[0179] Results
[0180] Two cell lines were tested: U937 and FDC-P1. Neither the
cells expressing GPVI, nor the control cells bound to immobilized
BSA. However, expression of recombinant human or mouse GPVI in U937
or FDCP-1, respectively, clearly promotes the adhesion of these
cells to immobilized collagen and to a greater extent to
immobilized Cvx (FIG. 16). This result indicates that GPVI protein
functions as a receptor for collagen I. In addition, GPVI is a
receptor for collagen III.
[0181] F. Association of Recombinant GPVI with FcR.gamma. Chain
[0182] To analyze whether recombinant GPVI was expressed associated
with FcR.gamma. chain we performed immunoprecipitation studies with
an anti-FcR.gamma. polyclonal antibody on lysates of U937
transduced cells compared to platelets.
[0183] Materials & Methods
[0184] Protein analysis: The different cells (platelets,
megakaryocytes and cell lines) were lysed in a buffer composed of
12 mM Tris, 300 mM NaCl, 12 mM EDTA, containing 2 .mu.M leupeptin,
2 mM PMSF, 5 KIU aprotinin, and 0.2% (v/v) NP40. After 20 min at
4.degree. C. under agitation, samples were centrifuged at 13,000 g
for 15 min at 4.degree. C. and the supernatants was frozen at
-80.degree. C. Protein concentration was determined using the
Bio-Rad protein assay (Bio-Rad, Ivry-sur-seine, France). For
blotting experiments, proteins were further solubilized with 2% SDS
for 5 min at 100.degree. C. Proteins were separated by
electrophoresis on acrylamide slab gels (Mini protean II, Bio-Rad
Laboratories, Ivry-sur-seine, France) and transferred on PVDF.
Membranes were soaked with 5% non-fat dry milk and incubated with
.sup.125I-Cvx (6.times.10.sup.3 Bq/ml) in PBS pH 7.4 containing
0.1% (v/v) tween 20, or with anti-GPVI IgGs (9 .mu.g/ml in PBS pH
8, containing 0.02% (v/v) tween 20 in the absence or the presence
of 0.5 .mu.M cold Cvx. Anti-GPVI IgGs were obtained as previously
described (Jandrot-Perrus et al., 1997, J. Biol. Chem.
272:27035-27041) from the patient's plasma kindly provided by Pr.
M. Okuma (Kyoto, Japan). Antibodies were revealed using
peroxydase-coupled protein A (Amersham Pharmacia Biotech, Uppsala,
Sweden) and enhanced chemiluminescence (Amersham Pharmacia Biotech,
Uppsala, Sweden). For immunoprecipitations, cell lysates were
precleared by incubation with protein A-sepharose at 4.degree. C.
for 30 min. and centrifugation. Cleared lysates were incubated
overnight at 4.degree. C. with 10 .mu.g/ml polyclonal anti
FcR.gamma. chain antibodies (Upstate Biotechnology, NY) followed by
the addition of protein A/G-sepharose (Pharmacia Biotech, Uppsala,
Sweden) for 2 hours at room temperature. Immunoprecipitated
proteins were eluted with 2% SDS and subjected to SDS-PAGE followed
by blotting onto PVDF membranes and then probed using anti-GPVI and
anti-FcR.gamma. chain antibodies as described above.
[0185] Results
[0186] FIG. 17 shows the analysis of the precipitated proteins by
immunoblotting with a mixture of anti- FcR.gamma. antibodies and an
IgG preparation containing antibodies directed against GPVI. Three
bands were observed in all samples: a high molecular weight band
corresponding to IgGs, a .about.50 kDa non-identified band and a 14
kDa doublet corresponding to FcR.gamma. chain. In addition, one
band corresponding to GPVI is present in platelets and is also
observed in U937 transduced with the GPVI virus but not in cell
transduced with the control virus, indicating that recombinant GPVI
is physically associated with FcR.gamma. chain. As with
Fc.alpha.RI, the linkage probably involves charged residues within
the transmembrane domain: R272 or R270 respectively for hGPVI and
mGPVI and D11 in the FcR.gamma. chain.
[0187] G. Inhibition of Collagen and Cvx-induced Platelet
Activation by rhusGPVI:Fc
[0188] An Fc fusion human soluble GPVI (rhusGPVI:Fc) protein was
produced and purified to investigate its ability to compete with
membrane-bound platelet GPVI.
[0189] Materials & Methods
[0190] Protein preparation: The open-reading frame of the predicted
extracellular domain of T268 was PCR amplified from the Kozak
sequence before the first methionine to asparagine 269 immediately
prior to the predicted transmembrane sequence. The PCR fragment was
ligated into a pCDM8 host vector containing the genomic sequence of
the human IgG1 Fc domain such that the extracellular part of the
hGPVI cDNA was fused at its C-terminus via a 3 alanine linker to
the hFc sequence. The sequenced DNA construct was transiently
transfected into HEK 293T cells in 150 mm plates using
Lipofectarmine (Gibco/BRL, Grand Island, N.Y.) according to the
manufacturer's protocol. After 72 hour post-transfection, the
serum-free conditioned medium (OptiMEM, Gibco/BRL, Grand Island,
N.Y.) was harvested, spun and filtered. The cells were refed with
fresh medium and harvested as above a further 72 hours later.
Analysis of supernatants on Western blot after reducing SDS-PAGE
using an anti-human IgG Fc polyclonal antibody showed significant
amounts of the recombinant human soluble GPVI fusion protein
(rhusGPVI:Fc) in the supernatants with a relative molecular mass of
approximately 75-80 kDa relative to Mark 12 molecular weight
standards cocktail (Novex, San Diego, Calif.).
[0191] The conditioned media was passed over a Prosep-G protein G
column (10 mL, Bioprocessing Inc., Princeton, N.J.); the column was
then washed with PBS, pH 7.4 and eluted with 200 mM glycine, pH 3.0
at 7 mL/min. Fractions from the 280 nm elution peak containing
human rhusGPVI:Fc were pooled and dialyzed in 8000 MWCO dialysis
tubing against 2 changes of 4L PBS, pH 7.4 at 4.degree. C. with
constant stirring. The buffered exchanged material was then sterile
filtered (0.2 _m, Millipore Corporation, Bedford. Mass.) and frozen
at -80.degree. C.
[0192] Platelet preparation: Blood from healthy volunteers was
collected by venepuncture on acid-citrate-dextrose anticoagulant
(ACD-A). When needed, platelets were labeled by incubating the
platelet rich plasma (PRP) with 0.6 .mu.M (.sup.14C)
5-hydroxytryptamine for 30 min. at 37.degree. C. Platelet pellets
were obtained by centrifugation of the platelet rich plasma (PRP)
and were washed two times as previously described (Jandrot-Perrus
et al., 1997, J. Biol. Chem. 272:27035-27041).
[0193] Platelet aggregation and secretion: Aggregation of washed
platelets (3.times.10.sup.8/ml) in reaction buffer was initiated by
collagen type I (Bio/Data corp, Horsham, Pa.) or Cvx. Experiments
were performed with stirring at 37.degree. C. in a Chrono-Log
aggregometer (Chrono-log corp. Haverton, Pa.). Release of
(.sup.14C) 5-hydroxytryptamine was measured as described previously
(Jandrot-Perrus et al., 1997, J. Biol. Chem. 272:27035-27041).
[0194] Results
[0195] rhusGPVI:Fc did not induce platelet aggregation or granule
secretion by itself. When platelets were incubated with Cvx,
addition of rhusGPVI:Fc (0.25 to 5 .mu.g/ml) fully inhibited
platelet aggregation and dense granule secretion (FIG. 18). In
addition, when rhusGPVI:Fc was added to the platelet suspension
prior to Cvx, it also inhibited aggregation and secretion,
indicating that it could compete with platelet GPVI for Cvx (FIG.
18A). Incubation of collagen with rhusGPVI:Fc induces a loss in its
ability to induce platelet aggregation and secretion (FIG. 18B).
However, a tenfold higher concentration of rhusGPVI:Fc than
required for Cvx was needed to produce this inhibitory effect.
Furthermore, when recombinant soluble GPVI was added to platelets
prior to collagen, no inhibition was observed (FIG. 18B). These
results demonstrate that the extracellular domain of GPVI is active
in blocking Cvx- and collagen-induced platelet aggregation.
[0196] Discussion
[0197] GPVI, despite its essential role in collagen-induced
platelet aggregation, is described as having a minor role in
platelet adhesion to collagen. Other receptors such as the
GPIb-IX-V complex or the integrin .alpha.2.beta.1 are major players
responsible for platelet adhesion to collagen. However, immobilized
Cvx is able to induce platelet adhesion indicating that GPVI may be
involved in adhesion in these conditions. The above results
demonstrate that expression of GPVI in U937 and FDCP-1 cells
induces cell adhesion to a collagen- or Cvx-coated surface. The
number of cells that bound to immobilized Cvx was significantly
higher than those bound to collagen. This result indicates
differences in the density of GPVI binding sites on the two
surfaces. Cvx is a pure GPVI ligand and when immobilized it
produces a highly reactive surface while GPVI binding sites should
be disseminated on collagen fibers resulting in a less reactive
surface.
[0198] Nevertheless, these results indicate that recombinant GPVI
mimics the physiological function of platelet GPVI (i.e., binding
to collagen). The difference in reactivity between collagen and Cvx
is further emphasized by the differences in the inhibitory effect
that the recombinant soluble GPVI has on collagen and Cvx-induced
platelet activation. Indeed, soluble recombinant GPVI inhibits
Cvx-induced platelet activation in the absence of preincubation
with Cvx whilst it requires a preincubation with collagen to
inhibit collagen-induced platelet activation. This probably
reflects the rapid kinetics of interaction between GPVI and Cvx
compared to those between GPVI and collagen. The affinity of
recombinant soluble GPVI for Cvx is probably very high for two
reasons: (i) soluble GPVI is expressed in a divalent Fc fusion form
and (ii) Cvx is multivalent due to its hexameric structure. Thus,
GPVI binding sites on collagen fibers are probably dispersed and
poorly accessible. Alternatively, these observations could also
suggest that binding of collagen to its other receptors, including
the integrin .alpha.2.beta.1, promotes its subsequent interaction
with GPVI.
[0199] GPVI plays an important role in the development of thrombi
probably because it is the receptor that appears to govern platelet
activation at the contact of collagen and thus which induces
platelet recruitment. Indeed, patients with GPVI deficiency or
anti-GPVI-containing sera displayed bleeding disorders (see
Background, above). The molecular cloning of GPVI provides the
opportunity to characterize the mechanism of these deficiencies,
the precise interaction between GPVI and the integrin
.alpha.2.beta.1 in collagen-induced platelet activation but also
the role of GPVI in thromboembolic diseases. GPIIb-IIIa (integrin
.alpha.IIb P3) is the only platelet receptor against which
efficient antagonists have been so far developed (Lefkovits et al.,
1995, N. Engl. J. Med. 332:1553-9). Even if GPIIb-IIIa may be
involved in platelet adhesion, its principal role is to bind
fibrinogen allowing platelet aggregation and serving as the final
common pathway of platelet thrombus formation regardless of the
metabolic pathway initiating platelet activation. In contrast, GPVI
is involved in an early step of platelet activation occurring
immediately when platelets enter in contact with the subendothelial
matrix.
[0200] GPVI represents an alternative and more specific target for
new anti-thrombotic compounds. Antagonist can be directed against
either of the two players, i.e., collagen GPVI binding sites or
GPVI itself. Because these observations suggest that the GPVI
binding sites are not easily accessible on collagen fibers, an
antagonist directed against GPVI may be more efficient than an
antagonist directed against collagen.
[0201] H. Bleeding Time of Mice Transplanted with Bone Marrow Cells
Expressing GPVI
[0202] The results presented herein support the role of GPVI in the
formation of platelet aggregates and the development of a
hemostatic plug.
[0203] Materials & Methods
[0204] Isolation of Lin.sup.- bone marrow cells: Bone marrow cells
were collected from mice that had been administered 150 mg/kg of
5-fluorouracil (5-FU) intravenously for four days. The cells were
resuspended in phosphate buffered saline (PBS), 0.5% fetal calf
serum (FCS) and incubated for 20 minutes at 4.degree. C. with a
mixture of four fluorescent fluorescein isothiocyanate
(FITC)-conjugated rat monoclonal antibodies directed against mouse
CD3e, CD11b, CD45R, and Ly-6G (Pharmingen, San Diego, Calif.).
After labeling, cells were washed and incubated at 4.degree. C.
with anti-FITC microbeads (Miltenyi Biotech, Auburn, Calif.). After
a 15 minute incubation, cells were washed, filtered through a large
pore size filter and applied onto a magnetic cell sorting depletion
column (types BS, Miltenyi Biotech) held onto a magnetic separator
(Super MACS, Miltenyi Biotech). Depletion of the magnetically
labeled cells (lineage positive) out of the bone marrow sample was
done according to the manufacturer's instructions. In some
experiments, Sca-1.sup.+/Lin.sup.- cells were isolated using a
Sca-1 multiSort Kit (Miltenyi Biotech). After separation, cells
(Lin.sup.- or Sca-1.sup.+/Lin.sup.-) were washed and resuspended in
DMEM, 10% FCS (Stem Cell Technologies, Vancouver, Canada).
[0205] Infection procedure: Isolated Lin.sup.- or
Sca-1.sup.+/Lin.sup.- bone marrow cells were stimulated at
37.degree. C., 10% CO.sup.2 with 10 ng/ml of recombinant mouse
interleukin-3 (rmIL-3; Endogen, Woburn, Mass.), 10 ng/ml
recombinant mouse interleukin-6 (rmIL-6; Endogen), 100 ng/ml
recombinant mouse stem cell factor (rmSCF; R&D Systems, Inc.,
Mineapolis, Minn.), 100 ng/ml recombinant mouse fms-like tyrosine
kinase-3 ligand (rmFlt-3L; R&D Systems, Inc), and 1% of a
conditioned medium containing mouse thrombopoietin (mTPO). The mTPO
conditioned medium (containing approximately 10.sup.4 U/ml of mTPO)
was collected from confluent MPZenTPO-virus producing cells,
filtered and virus-inactivated at 56.degree. C. for 1 hour. After
two days of stimulation, bone marrow cells were infected with
recombinant retrovirus containing the cDNA encoding murine full
length GPVI, recombinant retrovirus containing the cDNA encoding
the extracellular domain of murine GPVI, or a control
retrovirus.
[0206] Bleeding assay: Infected bone marrow cells were transplanted
into lethally irradiated mice, and two months post-transplantation
mice were analyzed for the recovery time from a small tail vein
incision. The blood flow from the incision was measured at
37.degree. C. in saline.
[0207] Results and Discussion:
[0208] FIG. 19 depicts the bleeding time of lethally irradiated
mice transplanted with bone marrow cells engineered to express full
length GPVI, the extracellular domain of GPVI, or a control. Mice
transplanted with bone marrow cells engineered to express the
extracellular domain of GPVI, a soluble product, had the longest
recovery time from a small tail vein incision. No significant
difference in the recovery time from an incision in the tail vein
was observed in mice transplanted with bone marrow cells engineered
to express the full length GPVI from the control. These results
suggest that the soluble form of GPVI inhibits the
collagen-platelet interaction necessary for platelet aggregation
and development of a hemostatic plug.
Uses of TANGO 268 Nucleic Acids, Polypeptides, and Modulators
Thereof
[0209] As TANGO 268 was originally found in an megakaryocyte
library, and in light of the fact that TANGO 268 has been shown
herein to be GPVI, TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins, and
modulators thereof can be used to modulate the proliferation,
morphology, migration, differentiation, and/or function of
megakaryocytes and platelets, including during development, e.g.,
embryogenesis. TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins, and modulators
thereof can also be used to modulate leukocyte-platelet and
platelet-endothelium interactions in inflammation and/or
thrombosis. Further, TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins, and
modulators thereof can be used to modulate platelet aggregation and
degranulation. For example, antagonists to TANGO 268 action, such
as peptides, antibodies or small molecules that decrease or block
TANGO 268 binding to extracellular matrix components (e.g.,
collagen or integrins) or antibodies preventing TANGO 268
signaling, can be used as collagen or platelet release and
aggregation blockers. In a specific example, a polypeptide
comprising the extracellular domain of TANGO 268 can be used to
decrease or block TANGO 268 binding to extracellular matrix
components (i.e., collagen), or to prevent platelet aggregation. In
another example, agonists that mimic TANGO 268 activity, such as
peptides, antibodies or small molecules, can be used to induce
platelet release and aggregation.
[0210] In further light of the fact that TANGO 268 represents GPVI,
and its expression is restricted to cells of the megakaryocyte
lineage, TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins, and modulators thereof
can be used to modulate disorders associated with abnormal or
aberrant megakaryocyte and/or platelet proliferation,
differentiation, morphology, migration, aggregation, degranulation
and/or function. Examples of these disorders include, but are not
limited to, bleeding disorders (e.g., bleeding tendency and/or
prolonged bleeding time) such as thrombocytopenia (e.g., idiopathic
thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) or immune thrombocytopenia or
thrombocytopenia induced by chemotherapy or radiation therapy).
[0211] As TANGO 268 represents GPVI, and GPVI is a component in
processes involving platelet binding to the vascular
subendothelium, platelet activation and inflammation processes,
TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins, and modulators thereof can be
used to modulate thrombotic disorders (e.g., thrombotic occlusion
of coronary arteries), hemorrhagic disorders, diseases exhibiting
quantitative or qualitative platelet dysfunction and diseases
displaying endothelial dysfunction (endotheliopathies). These
diseases include, but are not limited to, coronary artery and
cerebral artery diseases. Further, TANGO 268 nucleic acids,
proteins, and modulators thereof can be used to modulate cerebral
vascular diseases, including stroke and ischemia, venous
thromboembolism diseases (e.g., diseases involving leg swelling,
pain and ulceration, pulmonary embolism, abdominal venous
thrombosis), thrombotic microangiopathies, vascular purpura, and
GPVI deficiencies as described, e.g., in Moroi and Jung, 1997,
Thrombosis and Haemostasis 78:439-444. TANGO 268 nucleic acids,
proteins, and modulators thereof can be used to modulate symptoms
associated with platelet disorders and/or diseases (e.g., bleeding
disorders). In particular, TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins, and
modulators thereof can be used to modulate symptoms associated with
ITP such as purpura and severe bleeding problems.
[0212] As GPVI has been shown to be important for platelet adhesion
and aggregation, and platelet adhesion and aggregation play an
important role in acute coronary diseases, TANGO 268 nucleic acids,
proteins and modulators thereof can be used to modulate coronary
diseases (e.g., cardiovascular diseases including unstable angina
pectoris, myocardial infarction, acute myocardial infarction,
coronary artery disease, coronary revascularization, coronary
restenosis, ventricular thromboembolism, atherosclerosis, coronary
artery disease (e.g., arterial occlusive disorders), plaque
formation, cardiac ischemia, including complications related to
coronary procedures, such as percutaneous coronary artery
angioplasty (balloon angioplasty) procedures). With respect to
coronary procedures, such modulation can be achieved via
administration of GPVI modulators prior to, during, or subsequent
to the procedure. In a preferred embodiment, such administration
can be utilized to prevent acture cardiac ischemia following
angioplasty.
[0213] TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins and modulators thereof
can, therefore, be used to modulate disorders resulting from any
blood vessel insult that can result in platelet aggregation. Such
blood vessel insults include, but are not limited to, vessel wall
injury, such as vessel injuries that result in a highly
thrombogenic surface exposed within an otherwise intact blood
vessel e.g., vessel wall injuries that result in release of ADP,
thrombin and/or epinephrine, fluid shear stress that occurs at the
site of vessel narrowing, ruptures and/or tears at the sites of
atherosclerotic plaques, and injury resulting from balloon
angioplasty or atherectomy.
[0214] Preferably, the TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins and
modulators (e.g., anti-TANGO 268 antibodies) thereof do not effect
initial platelet adhesion to vessel surfaces, or effect such
adhesion to a relatively lesser extent than the effect on
platelet-platelet aggregation, e.g., unregulated platelet-platelet
aggregation, following the initial platelet adhesion. Further, in
certain embodiments, it is preferred that the TANGO 268 nucleic
acids, proteins and modulators (e.g., anti-TANGO 268 antibodies)
thereof do not effect other platelet attributes or functions, such
as agonist-induced platelet shape change (e.g., GPIb-vWF-mediated
platelet agglutination induced by ristocetin), release of internal
platelet granule components, activation of signal transduction
pathways or induction of calcium mobilization upon platelet
activation.
[0215] Further, polymorphisms associated with particular TANGO 268
alleles, such as those in platelet receptor glycoprotein Ia/IIa
that are associated with risk of coronary disease (see, e.g.,
Moshfegh et al., 1999, Lancet 353:351-354), can be used as a marker
to diagnose abnormal coronary function (e.g., coronary diseases
such as myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, coronary artery
disease, plaque formation).
[0216] In further light of the fact that TANGO 268 is GPVI, TANGO
268 nucleic acids, proteins and modulators thereof can be used to
modulate disorders associated with aberrant signal transduction in
response to collagen or other extracellular matrix proteins.
[0217] In addition to the above, TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins
and modulators thereof can be utilized to modulate disorders
associated with aberrant levels of TANGO 268 expression and/or
activity either in cells that normally express TANGO 268 or in
cells that do not express TANGO 268. For example, TANGO 268 nucleic
acids, proteins and modulators thereof can be used to modulate
disorders associated with aberrant expression of TANGO 268 in
cancerous (e.g., tumor) cells that do not normally express TANGO
268. Such disorders can include, for example, ones associated with
tumor cell migration and progression to metastasis.
[0218] In light of the fact that TANGO 268 (i.e., GPVI) has been
shown to interact with collagen, and the progression, migration and
metastasis of cancer cells has been shown to correlate with the
attachment of cancer cells to interstitial collagen (see, e.g.,
Martin et al., 1996, Int. J. Cancer 65:796-804), abnormal and/or
aberrant TANGO 268 expression (e.g., expression of TANGO 268 in
cells, such as tumor cells, that do not normally express it or
increased expression of TANGO 268 in cells that do normally express
it) can be used as a marker for the progression, migration and
metastasis of cancerous cells. In particular, abnormal and/or
aberrant TANGO 268 expression can be used as a marker for the
progression, migration and metastasis of colon cancer and liver
cancer.
[0219] In light of TANGO 268 exhibiting homology to human monocyte
inhibitory receptor, TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins and
modulators thereof can be used mediate the downregulation of cell
activation via phosphatases. In light of TANGO 268 containing two
Ig-like domains, TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins and modulators
thereof can be used to modulate immunoregulatory functions.
Further, as TANGO 268 is expressed in the liver, embryo, bone
marrow, and peripheral blood, TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins,
and modulators thereof can be used to treat disorders of these
cells, tissues or organs, e.g., liver disorders and immunological
disorders.
[0220] TANGO 268 is expressed on the surface of platelets. As such,
a cellular and therapeutic target of modulators of TANGO 268 (e.g.,
anti-TANGO 268 antibodies) is readily available for testing and
analysis (e.g., for in vitro testing and analysis). This coupled
with the availability of several different relevant platelet assays
(see below) provides an unusual drug development opportunity for
TANGO 268 modulators. For example, the in vivo pharmacodynamic
characterization of TANGO 268 modulators can be facilitated via the
availability of various platelet assays (e.g., prolongation of
bleeding time, quantitative measurement of TANGO 268 receptor
blockade, inhibition of ex vivo platelet aggregation) that can be
correlated with each other to permit more effective assessment of a
modulator's functional consequences. The correlation available for
such assays, therefore, allows for the in vitro characterization of
a TANGO 268 modulator to more directly apply to the measurement of
the modulator's therapeutic effect.
[0221] In addition to utilizing the availability of platelets and
platelet assays for assessing the therapeutic efficacy, including
clinical efficacy, of a TANGO 268 modulator, this availability can
also be utilized for preclinical drug development aspects such as
determining modulator dosage response, toxicology, magnitude of
effect (e.g., magnitude of initial effect and magnitude of effect's
duration), function, specificity (e.g., specificity with respect to
particular platelet functions), receptor specificity, and species
specificity (which, in turn, can identify appropriate animal models
for pharmacology studies).
[0222] Modulators of TANGO 268 platelet aggregation can also be
utilized, e.g., for ex vivo procedures, e.g., ex vivo inhibition of
platelet aggregation.
Assays for the Detection of TANGO 268 Expression or Activity
[0223] The expression of TANGO 268 can be readily detected, e.g.,
by quantifying TANGO 268 protein and/or RNA. Many methods standard
in the art can be thus employed, including, but not limited to,
immunoassays to detect and/or visualize gene expression (e.g.,
Western blot, immunoprecipitation followed by sodium dodecyl
sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE),
immunocytochemistry, etc) and/or hybridization assays to detect
gene expression by detecting and/or visualizing respectively mRNA
encoding a gene (e.g., Northern assays, dot blots, in situ
hybridization, etc), etc. Ligand binding assays, such as described
above, can be performed to assess the function of TANGO 268.
[0224] The activity of a TANGO 268 protein can be measured by
employing methods known to those of skill in the art. For example,
the activity of a TANGO 268 protein can be analyzed by treating of
platelets or TANGO 268-transfected cells with collagen or convulxin
and measuring the effect of such treatment on the level of tyrosine
phosphorylation of signaling molecules, such as FcR.gamma., Syk,
and PLC.gamma.2 (e.g., tyrosine phosphorylation can be detected by
immunoprecipitation followed by SDS-PAGE, kinase assays, etc.). The
activity of a TANGO 268 protein can also be analyzed by measuring
changes in the concentration of free intracellular Ca.sup.2+
induced by the treatment of platelets or TANGO 268 transfected
cells with collagen or convulxin. Briefly, platelets or TANGO 268
transfected cells are incubated with fura-2 fluorescence at
37.degree. C. and, then incubated with 2 mM CaCl.sub.2 prior to
incubation with convulxin, collagen or thrombin (an agent that does
not activate TANGO 268). The cells are lysed in lysis buffer, and
the concentration of free intracellular Ca.sup.2+ is measured by
fluorescence at 37.degree. C. using a spectrophotometer (see, e.g.,
Jandrot-Perrus et al., 1997, J. of Biol. Chem.
272:27035-27041).
[0225] The activity of a TANGO 268 protein can also be analyzed by
a platelet adhesion assay. Briefly, the adhesion assay is performed
as follows: .sup.51Cr-labeled platelets are incubated in microtiter
plates that have collagen, convulxin or BSA immobilized to the
surface of the wells, the cells are washed, 2% SDS is added to each
well, and the number of adherent platelets is determined by counts
for .sup.51Cr using a scintillation counter (see, e.g.,
Jandrot-Perrus et al., 1997, J. of Biol. Chem. 272:27035-27041).
Further, the activity of a TANGO 268 protein can be analyzed by
platelet aggregation assays or secretion assays known to those of
skill in the art (see, e.g., Moroi et al., 1989, J. Clin. Invest.
84:1440-1445 and Poole et al., 1997, EMBO J. 16(9):2333-2341).
Briefly, the platelet aggregation is performed as follows:
platelets are incubated with collagen or convulxin in a cuvette at
37.degree. C. while being stirred, and the cell suspension is
monitored by a lumiaggregometer.
[0226] Such assays may be utilized as part of TANGO 268 diagnostic
assays. In addition, such assays may be utilized as part of
screening methods for identifying compounds that modulate the
activity and/or expression of TANGO 268.
Assays for the Function of TANGO 268
[0227] The function of a TANGO 268 protein can be analyzed by
transplanting hematopoietic cells engineered to express TANGO 268
or a control into lethally irradiated mice. The affect of TANGO 268
expression on the function, development and proliferation of
hematopoietic cells, specifically platelets, can be determined by
comparing mice transplanted with hematopoietic cells expressing
TANGO 268 to mice transplanted with hematopoietic cells expressing
a control. For example, the role of TANGO 268 in platelet
aggregation can be analyzed by transplanting mice with
hematopoietic cells engineered to express TANGO 268 or fragments
thereof. The irradiated mice may be normal, transgenic or knockout
mice, and the hematopoietic cells may be obtained from normal,
transgenic or knockout mice.
[0228] The efficacy of using TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins or
modulators thereof to modulate the expression of a given gene can
be analyzed using irradiated mice transplanted with hematopoietic
cells engineered to express TANGO 268 or modulators thereof. The
affect of TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins or modulators thereof
on the expression of a gene of interest can be measured by
analyzing the RNA or protein levels of the gene of interest.
Techniques known to those of skill can be used to measure RNA and
protein levels in vivo and in vitro. For example, RNA expression
can be detected in vivo by in situ hybridization. Further, the
efficacy of using TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins or modulators
thereof to treat, inhibit or prevent a particular disease or
disorder can be analyzed by using irradiated mouse or rat models of
a disease or disorder transplanted with hematopoietic cells
engineered to express TANGO 268 or modulators thereof.
Assays for Analysis of TANGO 268 Modulators
[0229] A variety of assays can be utilized to analyze a TANGO 268
protein, nucleic acid or modulator thereof. Such assays can include
in vivo, ex vivo and in vitro assays, as described herein. See,
also, e.g., Loscalzo and Schaefer (eds), 1998, Thrombosis and
Hemorrhage 2.sup.nd Edition, Chapter 16, Williams and Wilkins:
Baltimore, Md.; Horton (ed), 1995, Adhesion Receptors as
Therapeutic Targets, Chapter 15, CRC Press, Inc.: London, United
Kingdom, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,976,532.
[0230] For example, in view of the fact that TANGO 268 is a cell
surface receptor, in particular, a platelet receptor, standard
quantitative binding studies can be utilized to measure modulator
binding to platelets. Horton (ed), 1995, Adhesion Receptors as
Therapeutic Targets, Chapter 15, CRC Press, Inc.: London, United
Kingdom. Such binding assays can also be utilized to perform
receptor blockade studies to measure the number of cellular sites
available for binding modulator by comparing the number of
molecules of labeled modulator molecules (e.g., labeled anti-TANGO
268 antibodies) bound per platelet at a series of concentrations
with the number of modulator molecules bound at saturation. See,
e.g., Coller et al., 1985, J. Clin. Invest. 76: 101 or U.S. Pat.
No. 5,854,005.
[0231] The reversibility of modulator molecule (e.g., anti-TANGO
268 antibodies) binding on platelets can also be tested, using,
e.g., techniques such as those described in Coller et al., 1985, J.
Clin. Invest. 76: 101, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,976,532. In addition,
under non-competitive conditions, the rate of modulator
dissociation can be assessed by, e.g., flow cytometry analysis of
platelets when fluorescently labeled modulator (e.g., anti-TANGO
268 antibody)-coated platelets are mixed with an equal number of
untreated platelets and incubated at physiological temperature. In
instances wherein appreciable reversibility indicates that
inhibitory effects of single in vivo injection can be relatively
short-lived, suggesting that an administration regimien involving
an initial bolus followed by continuous infusion may be most
effective.
[0232] In vitro and ex vivo assays for inhibition of platelet
aggregation can also be utilized. Such assays are well known to
those of skill in the art and include, but are not limited to the
turbidometric method, in which aggregation is measured as an
increase in transmission of visible light through a stirred or
agitated platelet suspension. See, e.g., Chanarin, L., 1989,
Laboratory Haematology, Chapter 30, Churchill, Livingstone, London;
and Schmidt, R. M. (ed), 1979, CRC Handbook Series in Clinical
Laboratory Science, CRC Press, Inc.: Boca Raton, Fla.
[0233] Platelet aggregation can also be assayed via methods such as
those described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,976,532. For example, in a
non-limiting example of such a method, the platelet concentration
in platelet-rich plasma obtained (PRP) obtained from normal or
patient blood samples is adjusted to 200,000 to 300,000/mm.sup.3.
In an in vitro assay, the PRP is aliquoted and incubated in the
presence or absence of a TANGO 268 modulator (e.g., an anti-GPVI
antibody) for a period of time (e.g., 15 minutes at 37.degree. C.)
prior to the addition of a platelet inducing agonist (e.g., ADP,
thrombin, collagen, epinephrine, and ristocetin). In an ex vivo
assay, the PRP obtained from individuals treated with TANGO 268 or
a placebo is aliquoted and incubated in the presence of a platelet
inducing agonist (e.g., ADP, thrombin, collagen, epinephrine, and
ristocetin). Platelet aggregation is measured by assessing an
increase in the transmission of visible light through a platelet
suspension using a spectrophotometer.
[0234] In certain embodiments, it is preferred that the TANGO 268
modulator not effect platelet attributes or functions other than
platelet aggregation. Such other platelet attributes or functions,
include, for example, agonist-induced platelet shape change (e.g.,
GPIb-vWF-mediated platelet agglutination induced by ristocetin),
release of internal platelet granule components, activation of
signal transduction pathways or induction of calcium mobilization
upon platelet activation. Assays for these platelet attributes and
functions are well known to those of skill in the art and can be
utilized to routinely test, develop and identify TANGO 268
modulators exhibiting a specificity for modulation of platelet
aggregation.
[0235] The shape of a platelet can be analyzed in any in vitro
assay known to those of skill in the art. Briefly, platelets are
contacted in the presence or absence of a TANGO 268 modulator with
a platelet inducing agonist (e.g., ADP, thrombin, collagen,
epinephrine, and ristocetin) and the shape of the platelets are
assessed by microscopy or by flow cytometry. Platelet degranulation
can be analyzed, for example, by measuring the presence of ATP in
vitro following stimulation with a platelet inducing agonist in the
presence or absence of a TANGO 268 modulator (see, e.g., Loscalzo
and Schaefer (eds), 1998, Thrombosis and Hemorrhage 2.sup.nd
Edition, Chapter 16, Williams and Wilkins: Baltimore, Maryland).
The activation of platelet signal transduction pathways can be
analyzed in in vitro and ex vivo assays using assays known to those
of skill in the art. For example, the activation of signal
transduction pathways in vitro can be analyzed by contacting
platelet-rich plasma samples with platelet agonists (e.g., collagen
and convulxin) in the presence or absence of a TANGO 268 modulator
and measuring the effect of such treatment on the level of tyrosine
phosphorylation of signaling molecules, such as FcR.gamma., Syk,
and PLC.gamma. 2 (e.g., tyrosine phosphorylation can be detected by
immunoprecipitation followed by SDS-PAGE, kinase assays, etc.). In
an ex vivo assay, the activation of signal transduction pathways
can be analyzed by contacting platelet-rich plasma samples obtained
from individuals treated with TANGO 268 or a placebo with a
platelet agonist (e.g., collagen and convulxin) and measuring the
effect of such treatment on the level of tyrosine phosphorylation
of signaling molecules, such as FcR.gamma., Syk, and PLC.gamma. 2
(e.g., tyrosine phosphorylation can be detected by
immunoprecipitation followed by SDS-PAGE, kinase assays, etc.). The
effect of platelet activation on calcium mobilization can also be
analyzed by measuring changes in the concentration of free
intracellular Ca.sup.2+ induced in in vitro and ex vivo assays
using assays known to those of skill in the art. Briefly,
platelet-rich platelets are incubated with fura-2 fluorescence at
37.degree. C. and then incubated with 2 mM CaCl.sub.2 in the
presence or absence of a TANGO 268 modulator prior to incubation
with a platelet agonist (e.g., convulxin, collagen and thrombin).
The cells are lysed in lysis buffer, and the concentration of free
intracellular Ca.sup.2+ is measured by fluorescence at 37.degree.
C. using a spectrophotometer (see, e.g., Jandrot-Perrus et al.,
1997, J. of Biol. Chem. 272:27035-27041).
[0236] Other assays for platelets include, in vivo assays such as
assessment of prolongation of bleeding time. For example, the
bleeding time resulting from an injury (e.g., a small tail vein
incision) in an animal model treated with a TANGO 268 modulator can
be compared to an animal model treated with a placebo. In humans,
the number of bleeding episodes and the length of the bleeding time
during a bleeding episode for a human treated with a TANGO 268
modulator can be compared to a human treated with a placebo.
[0237] The efficacy of TANGO 268 modulators can be assessed in a
variety of animal models of arterial thrombosis, including, but not
limited to, the Folts model, the electrolytic injury model, the
thrombin-induced arterial thrombosis model, and a model of acute
thrombosis resulting from injury induced by coronary balloon
angioplasty (see, e.g., Loscalzo and Schaefer (eds), 1998,
Thrombosis and Hemorrhage 2.sup.nd Edition, Chapter 16, Williams
and Wilkins: Baltimore, Md.). The Folts model, which is the most
widely used animal model of coronary and carotid artery thrombosis,
is produced by mechanical concentric vessel narrowing using a
cylinder placed around the artery. The electrolytic model, which is
used for deep arterial injury, is produced by introducing an
electric current via an electrode to the intimal layer of a
stenosed vessel. By applying species specificity data that can
readily be obtained using, e.g., the platelet aggregation assays
described herein, animal models particularly well suited to study
of any given TANGO 268 modulator can be chosen.
[0238] Tables 1 and 2 below provide a summary of the sequence
information for TANGO 268. TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Summary of TANGO
268 Sequence Information Accession Gene cDNA ORF Figure Number
Human SEQ ID NO: 1 SEQ ID NO: 2 207180 TANGO 268 Mouse SEQ ID NO:
14 SEQ ID NO: 15 PTA-225 TANGO 268
[0239] TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Summary of Domains of TANGO 268
Proteins Signal Mature Protein Sequence Protein Extracellular
Ig-like Transmembrane Cytoplasmic HUMAN aa 1-20 of aa 21-339 of aa
21-269 of aa 48-88; aa 270-288 of aa 289-339 of TANGO SEQ ID NO: 3
SEQ ID NO: 3 SEQ ID NO: 3 134-180 of SEQ ID NO: 3 SEQ ID NO: 3 268
(SEQ ID NO: 4) (SEQ ID NO: 5) (SEQ ID NO: 9) SEQ ID NO: 3 (SEQ ID
NO: 8) (SEQ ID NO: 10) (SEQ ID NO: 6; SEQ ID NO: 7) MOUSE aa 1-21
of aa 22-313 of aa 22-267 of aa 49-89; aa 268-286 of aa 287-313 of
TANGO SEQ ID NO: 16 SEQ ID NO: 16 SEQ ID NO: 16 135-181 of SEQ ID
NO: 16 SEQ ID NO: 16 268 (SEQ ID NO: 17) (SEQ ID NO: 18) (SEQ ID
NO: 19) SEQ ID NO: 16 (SEQ ID NO: 20) (SEQ ID NO: 21) (SEQ ID NO:
22; SEQ ID NO: 23)
Various aspects of the invention are described in further detail in
the following subsections: I. Isolated Nucleic Acid Molecules
[0240] One aspect of the invention pertains to isolated nucleic
acid molecules that encode a polypeptide of the invention or a
biologically active portion thereof, as well as nucleic acid
molecules sufficient for use as hybridization probes to identify
nucleic acid molecules encoding a polypeptide of the invention and
fragments of such nucleic acid molecules suitable for use as PCR
primers for the amplification or mutation of nucleic acid
molecules. As used herein, the term "nucleic acid molecule" is
intended to include DNA molecules (e.g., cDNA or genomic DNA) and
RNA molecules (e.g., mRNA) and analogs of the DNA or RNA generated
using nucleotide analogs. The nucleic acid molecule can be
single-stranded or double-stranded, but preferably is
double-stranded DNA.
[0241] An "isolated" nucleic acid molecule is one which is
separated from other nucleic acid molecules which are present in
the natural source of the nucleic acid molecule. Preferably, an
"isolated" nucleic acid molecule is free of sequences (preferably
protein encoding sequences) which naturally flank the nucleic acid
(i.e., sequences located at the 5' and 3' ends of the nucleic acid)
in the genomic DNA of the organism from which the nucleic acid is
derived. For example, in various embodiments, the isolated nucleic
acid molecule can contain less than about 5 kB, 4 kB, 3 kB, 2 kB, 1
kB, 0.5 kB or 0.1 kB of nucleotide sequences which naturally flank
the nucleic acid molecule in genomic DNA of the cell from which the
nucleic acid is derived. Moreover, an "isolated" nucleic acid
molecule, such as a cDNA molecule, can be substantially free of
other cellular material, or culture medium when produced by
recombinant techniques, or substantially free of chemical
precursors or other chemicals when chemically synthesized. As used
herein, the term "isolated"when referring to a nucleic acid
molecule does not include an isolated chromosome.
[0242] A nucleic acid molecule of the present invention, e.g., a
nucleic acid molecule having the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID
NO:1, 2, 14, or 15 or a complement thereof, can be isolated using
standard molecular biology techniques and the sequence information
provided herein. Using all or a portion of the nucleic acid
sequences of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14 or 15 as a hybridization probe,
nucleic acid molecules of the invention can be isolated using
standard hybridization and cloning techniques (e.g., as described
in Sambrook et al., eds., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual,
2nd ed., Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor
Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., 1989).
[0243] A nucleic acid molecule of the invention can be amplified
using cDNA, mRNA or genomic DNA as a template and appropriate
oligonucleotide primers according to standard PCR amplification
techniques. The nucleic acid so amplified can be cloned into an
appropriate vector and characterized by DNA sequence analysis.
Furthermore, oligonucleotides corresponding to all or a portion of
a nucleic acid molecule of the invention can be prepared by
standard synthetic techniques, e.g., using an automated DNA
synthesizer.
[0244] In another preferred embodiment, an isolated nucleic acid
molecule of the invention comprises a nucleic acid molecule which
is a complement of the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14 or
15 or a portion thereof. A nucleic acid molecule which is
complementary to a given nucleotide sequence is one which is
sufficiently complementary to the given nucleotide sequence that it
can hybridize to the given nucleotide sequence thereby forming a
stable duplex.
[0245] Moreover, a nucleic acid molecule of the invention can
comprise only a portion of a nucleic acid sequence encoding a full
length polypeptide of the invention for example, a fragment which
can be used as a probe or primer or a fragment encoding a
biologically active portion of a polypeptide of the invention. The
nucleotide sequence determined from the cloning one gene allows for
the generation of probes and primers designed for use in
identifying and/or cloning homologues in other cell types, e.g.,
from other tissues, as well as homologues from other mammals. The
probe/primer typically comprises substantially purified
oligonucleotide. In one embodiment, the oligonucleotide comprises a
region of nucleotide sequence that hybridizes under stringent
conditions to at least about 12, preferably about 25, more
preferably about 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, 175, 200, 250, 300, 350 or
400 consecutive nucleotides of the sense or anti-sense sequence of
SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14 or 15 or of a naturally occurring mutant of SEQ
ID NO:1, 2, 14 or 15. In another embodiment, the oligonucleotide
comprises a region of nucleotide sequence that hybridizes under
stringent conditions to at least 400, preferably 450, 500, 530,
550, 600, 700,800, 900, 1000 or 1150 consecutive oligonucleotides
of the sense or antisense sequence of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14 or 15 of a
naturally occurring mutant of SEQ ID:1,2 14 or 15.
[0246] Probes based on the sequence of a nucleic acid molecule of
the invention can be used to detect transcripts or genomic
sequences encoding the same protein molecule encoded by a selected
nucleic acid molecule. The probe comprises a label group attached
thereto, e.g., a radioisotope, a fluorescent compound, an enzyme,
or an enzyme co-factor. Such probes can be used as part of a
diagnostic test kit for identifying cells or tissues which
mis-express the protein, such as by measuring levels of a nucleic
acid molecule encoding the protein in a sample of cells from a
subject, e.g., detecting mRNA levels or determining whether a gene
encoding the protein has been mutated or deleted.
[0247] A nucleic acid fragment encoding a biologically active
portion of a polypeptide of the invention can be prepared by
isolating a portion of any of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16 expressing the
encoded portion of the polypeptide protein (e.g., by recombinant
expression in vitro) and assessing the activity of the encoded
portion of the polypeptide.
[0248] The invention further encompasses nucleic acid molecules
that differ from the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14 or
15 due to degeneracy of the genetic code and thus encode the same
protein as that encoded by the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:3
or 16.
[0249] In addition to the nucleotide sequences of SEQ ID NO:3 or
16, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that DNA
sequence polymorphisms that lead to changes in the amino acid
sequence may exist within a population (e.g., the human
population). Such genetic polymorphisms may exist among individuals
within a population due to natural allelic variation. An allele is
one of a group of genes which occur alternatively at a given
genetic locus. For example, human TANGO 268 has been mapped to
chromosome 19, and therefore TANGO 268 family members can include
nucleotide sequence polymorphisms (e.g., nucleotide sequences that
vary from SEQ ID NO:1 and SEQ ID NO:2) that map to this chromosomal
locus (e.g., region of chromosome 19q13) and such sequences
represent TANGO 268 allelic variants. As used herein, the phrase
"allelic variant" refers to a nucleotide sequence which occurs at a
given locus or to a polypeptide encoded by the nucleotide sequence.
As used herein, the terms "gene" and "recombinant gene" refer to
nucleic acid molecules comprising an open reading frame encoding a
polypeptide of the invention. Such natural allelic variations can
typically result in 1-5% variance in the nucleotide sequence of a
given gene. Alternative alleles can be identified by sequencing the
gene of interest in a number of different individuals. This can be
readily carried out by using hybridization probes to identify the
same genetic locus in a variety of individuals. Any and all such
nucleotide variations and resulting amino acid polymorphisms or
variations that are the result of natural allelic variation and
that do not alter the functional activity are intended to be within
the scope of the invention. In one embodiment, polymorphisms that
are associated with a particular disease and/or disorder are used
as markers to diagnose said disease or disorder. In a preferred
embodiment, polymorphisms are used as a marker to diagnose abnormal
coronary function (e.g., coronary diseases such as myocardial
infarction, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, plaque
formation).
[0250] Moreover, nucleic acid molecules encoding proteins of the
invention from other species (homologues), which have a nucleotide
sequence which differs from that of the human or mouse protein
described herein are intended to be within the scope of the
invention. Nucleic acid molecules corresponding to natural allelic
variants and homologues of a cDNA of the invention can be isolated
based on their identity to the human nucleic acid molecule
disclosed herein using the human cDNAs, or a portion thereof, as a
hybridization probe according to standard hybridization techniques
under stringent hybridization conditions. For example, a cDNA
encoding a soluble form of a membrane-bound protein of the
invention isolated based on its hybridization to a nucleic acid
molecule encoding all or part of the membrane-bound form. Likewise,
a cDNA encoding a membrane-bound form can be isolated based on its
hybridization to a nucleic acid molecule encoding all or part of
the soluble form.
[0251] Accordingly, in another embodiment, an isolated nucleic acid
molecule of the invention is at least 500, 600, 700, 800, 900,
1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900 or 2000
nucleotides in length and hybridizes under stringent conditions to
the nucleic acid molecule comprising the nucleotide sequence,
preferably the coding sequence, of SEQ ID NO:1, or a complement
thereof.
[0252] Accordingly, in another embodiment, an isolated nucleic acid
molecule of the invention is at least 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500,
600, 700, 800 or 900 nucleotides in length and hybridizes under
stringent conditions to the nucleic acid molecule comprising the
nucleotide sequence, preferably the coding sequence, of SEQ ID
NO:2, or a complement thereof.
[0253] Accordingly, in another embodiment, an isolated nucleic acid
molecule of the invention is at least 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500,
600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 or 1500
nucleotides in length and hybridizes under stringent conditions to
the nucleic acid molecule comprising the nucleotide sequence,
preferably the coding sequence, of SEQ ID NO:14, or a complement
thereof.
[0254] Accordingly, in another embodiment, an isolated nucleic acid
molecule of the invention is at least 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500,
600, 700, 800 or 900 nucleotides in length and hybridizes under
stringent conditions to the nucleic acid molecule comprising the
nucleotide sequence, preferably the coding sequence, of SEQ ID
NO:15, or a complement thereof.
[0255] As used herein, the term "hybridizes under stringent
conditions" is intended to describe conditions for hybridization
and washing under which nucleotide sequences at least 60% (65%,
70%, preferably 75%) identical to each other typically remain
hybridized to each other. Such stringent conditions are known to
those skilled in the art and can be found in Current Protocols in
Molecular Biology, John Wiley & Sons, N.Y. (1989), 6.3.1-6.3.6.
A preferred, non-limiting example of stringent hybridization
conditions are hybridization in 6.times. sodium chloride/sodium
citrate (SSC) at about 45.degree. C., followed by one or more
washes in 0.2.times.SSC, 0.1% SDS at 50-65.degree. C. Preferably,
an isolated nucleic acid molecule of the invention that hybridizes
under stringent conditions to the sequence of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14 or
15, or a complement thereof, corresponds to a naturally-occurring
nucleic acid molecule. As used herein, a "naturally-occurring"
nucleic acid molecule refers to an RNA or DNA molecule having a
nucleotide sequence that occurs in nature (e.g., encodes a natural
protein).
[0256] In addition to naturally-occurring allelic variants of a
nucleic acid molecule of the invention sequence that may exist in
the population, the skilled artisan will further appreciate that
changes can be introduced by mutation thereby leading to changes in
the amino acid sequence of the encoded protein, without altering
the biological activity of the protein. For example, one can make
nucleotide substitutions leading to amino acid substitutions at
"non-essential" amino acid residues. A "non-essential" amino acid
residue is a residue that can be altered from the wild-type
sequence without altering the biological activity, whereas an
"essential" amino acid residue is required for biological activity.
For example, amino acid residues that are not conserved or only
semi-conserved among homologues of various species may be
non-essential for activity and thus would be likely targets for
alteration. Alternatively, amino acid residues that are conserved
among the homologues of various species (e.g., mouse and human) may
be essential for activity and thus would not be likely targets for
alteration.
[0257] Accordingly, another aspect of the invention pertains to
nucleic acid molecules encoding a polypeptide of the invention that
contain changes in amino acid residues that are not essential for
activity. Such polypeptides differ in amino acid sequence from SEQ
ID NO:3, yet retain biological activity. In one embodiment, the
isolated nucleic acid molecule includes a nucleotide sequence
encoding a protein that includes an amino acid sequence that is at
least about 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 95%,
or 98% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3.
[0258] Accordingly, another aspect of the invention pertains to
nucleic acid molecules encoding a polypeptide of the invention that
contain changes in amino acid residues that are not essential for
activity. Such polypeptides differ in amino acid sequence from SEQ
ID NO:16, yet retain biological activity. In one embodiment, the
isolated nucleic acid molecule includes a nucleotide sequence
encoding a protein that includes an amino acid sequence that is at
least about 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 95%,
or 98% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:16.
[0259] An isolated nucleic acid molecule encoding a variant protein
can be created by introducing one or more nucleotide substitutions,
additions or deletions into the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1,
2, 14 or 15 such that one or more amino acid substitutions,
additions or deletions are introduced into the encoded protein.
Mutations can be introduced by standard techniques, such as
site-directed mutagenesis and PCR-mediated mutagenesis. Preferably,
conservative amino acid substitutions are made at one or more
predicted non-essential amino acid residues. A "conservative amino
acid substitution" is one in which the amino acid residue is
replaced with an amino acid residue having a similar side chain.
Families of amino acid residues having similar side chains have
been defined in the art. These families include amino acids with
basic side chains (e.g., lysine, arginine, histidine), acidic side
chains (e.g., aspartic acid, glutamic acid), uncharged polar side
chains (e.g., glycine, asparagine, glutamine, serine, threonine,
tyrosine, cysteine), nonpolar side chains (e.g., alanine, valine,
leucine, isoleucine, proline, phenylalanine, methionine,
tryptophan), beta-branched side chains (e.g., threonine, valine,
isoleucine) and aromatic side chains (e.g., tyrosine,
phenylalanine, tryptophan, histidine). Alternatively, mutations can
be introduced randomly along all or part of the coding sequence,
such as by saturation mutagenesis, and the resultant mutants can be
screened for biological activity to identify mutants that retain
activity. Following mutagenesis, the encoded protein can be
expressed recombinantly and the activity of the protein can be
determined.
[0260] In a preferred embodiment, a mutant polypeptide that is a
variant of a polypeptide of the invention can be assayed for: (1)
the ability to form protein: protein interactions with proteins in
a signaling pathway of the polypeptide of the invention; (2) the
ability to bind a ligand of the polypeptide of the invention; or
(3) the ability to bind to an intracellular target protein of the
polypeptide of the invention. In yet another preferred embodiment,
the mutant polypeptide can be assayed for the ability to modulate
cellular proliferation, cellular migration or chemotaxis, or
cellular differentiation.
[0261] The present invention encompasses antisense nucleic acid
molecules, i.e., molecules which are complementary to a sense
nucleic acid encoding a polypeptide of the invention, e.g.,
complementary to the coding strand of a double-stranded cDNA
molecule or complementary to an mRNA sequence. Accordingly, an
antisense nucleic acid can hydrogen bond to a sense nucleic acid.
The antisense nucleic acid can be complementary to an entire coding
strand, or to only a portion thereof, e.g., all or part of the
protein coding region (or open reading frame). An antisense nucleic
acid molecule can be antisense to all or part of a non-coding
region of the coding strand of a nucleotide sequence encoding a
polypeptide of the invention. The non-coding regions ("5' and 3'
untranslated regions") are the 5' and 3' sequences which flank the
coding region and are not translated into amino acids.
[0262] An antisense oligonucleotide can be, for example, about 5,
10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 or 50 nucleotides or more in length.
An antisense nucleic acid of the invention can be constructed using
chemical synthesis and enzymatic ligation reactions using
procedures known in the art. For example, an antisense nucleic acid
(e.g., an antisense oligonucleotide) can be chemically synthesized
using naturally occurring nucleotides or variously modified
nucleotides designed to increase the biological stability of the
molecules or to increase the physical stability of the duplex
formed between the antisense and sense nucleic acids, e.g.,
phosphorothioate derivatives and acridine substituted nucleotides
can be used. Examples of modified nucleotides which can be used to
generate the antisense nucleic acid include 5-fluorouracil,
5-bromouracil, 5-chlorouracil, 5-iodouracil, hypoxanthine,
xanthine, 4-acetylcytosine, 5-(carboxyhydroxylmethyl) uracil,
5-carboxymethylaminomethyl-2-thiouridine,
5-carboxymethylaminomethyluracil, dihydrouracil,
beta-D-galactosylqueosine, inosine, N6-isopentenyladenine,
1-methylguanine, 1-methylinosine, 2,2-dimethylguanine,
2-methyladenine, 2-methylguanine, 3-methylcytosine,
5-methylcytosine, N6-adenine, 7-methylguanine,
5-methylaminomethyluracil, 5-methoxyaminomethyl-2-thiouracil,
beta-D-mannosylqueosine, 5'-methoxycarboxymethyluracil,
5-methoxyuracil, 2-methylthio-N6-isopentenyladenine,
uracil-5-oxyacetic acid (v), wybutoxosine, pseudouracil, queosine,
2-thiocytosine, 5-methyl-2-thiouracil, 2-thiouracil, 4-thiouracil,
5-methyluracil, uracil-5-oxyacetic acid methylester,
uracil-5-oxyacetic acid (v), 5-methyl-2-thiouracil,
3-(3-amino-3-N-2-carboxypropyl) uracil, (acp3)w, and
2,6-diaminopurine. Alternatively, the antisense nucleic acid can be
produced biologically using an expression vector into which a
nucleic acid has been subcloned in an antisense orientation (i.e.,
RNA transcribed from the inserted nucleic acid will be of an
antisense orientation to a target nucleic acid of interest,
described further in the following subsection).
[0263] The antisense nucleic acid molecules of the invention are
typically administered to a subject or generated in situ such that
they hybridize with or bind to cellular mRNA and/or genomic DNA
encoding a selected polypeptide of the invention to thereby inhibit
expression, e.g., by inhibiting transcription and/or translation.
The hybridization can be by conventional nucleotide complementarity
to form a stable duplex, or, for example, in the case of an
antisense nucleic acid molecule which binds to DNA duplexes,
through specific interactions in the major groove of the double
helix. An example of a route of administration of antisense nucleic
acid molecules of the invention includes direct injection at a
tissue site. Alternatively, antisense nucleic acid molecules can be
modified to target selected cells and then administered
systemically. For example, for systemic administration, antisense
molecules can be modified such that they specifically bind to
receptors or antigens expressed on a selected cell surface, e.g.,
by linking the antisense nucleic acid molecules to peptides or
antibodies which bind to cell surface receptors or antigens. The
antisense nucleic acid molecules can also be delivered to cells
using the vectors described herein. To achieve sufficient
intracellular concentrations of the antisense molecules, vector
constructs in which the antisense nucleic acid molecule is placed
under the control of a strong pol II or pol Im promoter are
preferred.
[0264] An antisense nucleic acid molecule of the invention can be
an .alpha.-anomeric nucleic acid molecule. An .alpha.-anomeric
nucleic acid molecule forms specific double-stranded hybrids with
complementary RNA in which, contrary to the usual .beta.-units, the
strands run parallel to each other (Gaultier et al. (1987) Nucleic
Acids Res. 15:6625-6641). The antisense nucleic acid molecule can
also comprise a 2'-o-methylribonucleotide (Inoue et al. (1987)
Nucleic Acids Res. 15:6131-6148) or a chimeric RNA-DNA analogue
(Inoue et al. (1987) FEBS Lett. 215:327-330).
[0265] The invention also encompasses ribozymes. Ribozymes are
catalytic RNA molecules with ribonuclease activity which are
capable of cleaving a single-stranded nucleic acid, such as an
mRNA, to which they have a complementary region. Thus, ribozymes
(e.g., hammerhead ribozymes (described in Haselhoff and Gerlach
(1988) Nature 334:585-591)) can be used to catalytically cleave
mRNA transcripts to thereby inhibit translation of the protein
encoded by the mRNA. A ribozyme having specificity for a nucleic
acid molecule encoding a polypeptide of the invention can be
designed based upon the nucleotide sequence of a cDNA disclosed
herein. For example, a derivative of a Tetrahymena L-19 IVS RNA can
be constructed in which the nucleotide sequence of the active site
is complementary to the nucleotide sequence to be cleaved in a Cech
et al. U.S. Pat. No. 4,987,071; and Cech et al. U.S. Pat. No.
5,116,742. Alternatively, an mRNA encoding a polypeptide of the
invention can be used to select a catalytic RNA having a specific
ribonuclease activity from a pool of RNA molecules. See, e.g.,
Bartel and Szostak (1993) Science 261:1411-1418.
[0266] The invention also encompasses nucleic acid molecules which
form triple helical structures. For example, expression of a
polypeptide of the invention can be inhibited by targeting
nucleotide sequences complementary to the regulatory region of the
gene encoding the polypeptide (e.g., the promoter and/or enhancer)
to form triple helical structures that prevent transcription of the
gene in target cells. See generally Helene (1991) Anticancer Drug
Des. 6(6):569-84; Helene (1992) Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. 660:27-36; and
Maher (1992) Bioassays 14(12):807-15.
[0267] In various embodiments, the nucleic acid molecules of the
invention can be modified at the base moiety, sugar moiety or
phosphate backbone to improve, e.g., the stability, hybridization,
or solubility of the molecule. For example, the deoxyribose
phosphate backbone of the nucleic acids can be modified to generate
peptide nucleic acids (see Hyrup et al. (1996) Bioorganic &
Medicinal Chemistry 4(1): 5-23). As used herein, the terms "peptide
nucleic acids" or "PNAs" refer to nucleic acid mimics, e.g., DNA
mimics, in which the deoxyribose phosphate backbone is replaced by
a pseudopeptide backbone and only the four natural nucleobases are
retained. The neutral backbone of PNAs has been shown to allow for
specific hybridization to DNA and RNA under conditions of low ionic
strength. The synthesis of PNA oligomers can be performed using
standard solid phase peptide synthesis protocols as described in
Hyrup et al. (1996), supra; Perry-O'Keefe et al. (1996) Proc. Natl.
Acad. Sci. USA 93: 14670-675.
[0268] PNAs can be used in therapeutic and diagnostic applications.
For example, PNAs can be used as antisense or antigene agents for
sequence-specific modulation of gene expression by, e.g., inducing
transcription or translation arrest or inhibiting replication. PNAs
can also be used, e.g., in the analysis of single base pair
mutations in a gene by, e.g., PNA directed PCR clamping; as
artificial restriction enzymes when used in combination with other
enzymes, e.g., S1 nucleases (Hyrup (1996), supra; or as probes or
primers for DNA sequence and hybridization (Hyrup (1996), supra;
Perry-O'Keefe et al. (1996) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 93:
14670-675).
[0269] In another embodiment, PNAs can be modified, e.g., to
enhance their stability or cellular uptake, by attaching lipophilic
or other helper groups to PNA, by the formation of PNA-DNA
chimeras, or by the use of liposomes or other techniques of drug
delivery known in the art. For example, PNA-DNA chimeras can be
generated which may combine the advantageous properties of PNA and
DNA. Such chimeras allow DNA recognition enzymes, e.g., RNAse H and
DNA polymerases, to interact with the DNA portion while the PNA
portion would provide high binding affinity and specificity.
PNA-DNA chimeras can be linked using linkers of appropriate lengths
selected in terms of base stacking, number of bonds between the
nucleobases, and orientation (Hyrup (1996), supra). The synthesis
of PNA-DNA chimeras can be performed as described in Hyrup (1996),
supra, and Finn et al. (1996) Nucleic Acids Res. 24(17):3357-63.
For example, a DNA chain can be synthesized on a solid support
using standard phosphoramidite coupling chemistry and modified
nucleoside analogs. Compounds such as
5'-(4-methoxytrityl)amino-5'-deoxy-thymidine phosphoramidite can be
used as a link between the PNA and the 5' end of DNA (Mag et al.
(1989) Nucleic Acids Res. 17:5973-88). PNA monomers are then
coupled in a stepwise manner to produce a chimeric molecule with a
5' PNA segment and a 3' DNA segment (Finn et al. (1996) Nucleic
Acids Res. 24(17):3357-63). Alternatively, chimeric molecules can
be synthesized with a 5'DNA segment and a 3' PNA segment (Peterser
et al. (1975) Bioorganic Med. Chem. Lett. 5:1119-11124).
[0270] In other embodiments, the oligonucleotide may include other
appended groups such as peptides (e.g., for targeting host cell
receptors in vivo ), or agents facilitating transport across the
cell membrane (see, e.g., Letsinger et al. (1989) Proc. Natl. Acad.
Sci. USA 86:6553-6556; Lemaitre et al. (1987) Proc. Natl. Acad.
Sci. USA 84:648-652; PCT Publication No. WO 88/09810) or the
blood-brain barrier (see, e.g., PCT Publication No. WO 89/10134).
In addition, oligonucleotides can be modified with
hybridization-triggered cleavage agents (see, e.g., Krol et al.
(1988) Bio/Techniques 6:958-976) or intercalating agents (see,
e.g., Zon (1988) Pharm. Res. 5:539-549). To this end, the
oligonucleotide may be conjugated to another molecule, e.g., a
peptide, hybridization triggered cross-linking agent, transport
agent, hybridization-triggered cleavage agent, etc.
II. Isolated Proteins and Antibodies
[0271] One aspect of the invention pertains to isolated proteins,
and biologically active portions thereof, as well as polypeptide
fragments suitable for use as immunogens to raise antibodies
directed against a polypeptide of the invention. In one embodiment,
the native polypeptide can be isolated from cells or tissue sources
by an appropriate purification scheme using standard protein
purification techniques. In another embodiment, polypeptides of the
invention are produced by recombinant DNA techniques. Alternative
to recombinant expression, a polypeptide of the invention can be
synthesized chemically using standard peptide synthesis
techniques.
[0272] An "isolated" or "purified" protein or biologically active
portion thereof is substantially free of cellular material or other
contaminating proteins from the cell or tissue source from which
the protein is derived, or substantially free of chemical
precursors or other chemicals when chemically synthesized. The
language "substantially free of cellular material" includes
preparations of protein in which the protein is separated from
cellular components of the cells from which it is isolated or
recombinantly produced. Thus, protein that is substantially free of
cellular material includes preparations of protein having less than
about 30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% (by dry weight) of heterologous protein
(also referred to herein as a "contaminating protein"). When the
protein or biologically active portion thereof is recombinantly
produced, it is also preferably substantially free of culture
medium, i.e., culture medium represents less than about 20%, 10%,
or 5% of the volume of the protein preparation. When the protein is
produced by chemical synthesis, it is preferably substantially free
of chemical precursors or other chemicals, i.e., it is separated
from chemical precursors or other chemicals which are involved in
the synthesis of the protein. Accordingly such preparations of the
protein have less than about 30%, 20%, 10%, 5% (by dry weight) of
chemical precursors or compounds other than the polypeptide of
interest.
[0273] Biologically active portions of a polypeptide of the
invention include polypeptides comprising amino acid sequences
sufficiently identical to or derived from the amino acid sequence
of the protein (e.g., the amino acid sequence shown in any of SEQ
ID NO:6, 7, 9, 10, 19, 20, 21, 22 or 23, which include fewer amino
acids than the full length protein, and exhibit at least one
activity of the corresponding full-length protein. Typically,
biologically active portions comprise a domain or motif with at
least one activity of the corresponding protein. A biologically
active portion of a protein of the invention can be a polypeptide
which is, for example, 10, 25, 50, 100 or more amino acids in
length. Moreover, other biologically active portions, in which
other regions of the protein are deleted, can be prepared by
recombinant techniques and evaluated for one or more of the
functional activities of the native form of a polypeptide of the
invention.
[0274] Preferred polypeptides have the amino acid sequence of SEQ
ID NO:6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 19, 20, 21, 22 or 23. Other useful proteins
are substantially identical (e.g., at least about 45%, preferably
55%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 95%, or 99%) to any of SEQ ID NO:6, 7, 8, 9,
10, 19, 20, 21, 22 or 23, and retain the functional activity of the
protein of the corresponding naturally-occurring protein yet differ
in amino acid sequence due to natural allelic variation or
mutagenesis.
[0275] To determine the percent identity of two amino acid
sequences or of two nucleic acids, the sequences are aligned for
optimal comparison purposes (e.g., gaps can be introduced in the
sequence of a first amino acid or nucleic acid sequence for optimal
alignment with a second amino or nucleic acid sequence). The amino
acid residues or nucleotides at corresponding amino acid positions
or nucleotide positions are then compared. When a position in the
first sequence is occupied by the same amino acid residue or
nucleotide as the corresponding position in the second sequence,
then the molecules are identical at that position. The percent
identity between the two sequences is a function of the number of
identical positions shared by the sequences (, % identity=# of
identical positions/total # of positions (e.g., overlapping
positions).times.100). In one embodiment, the two sequences are the
same length.
[0276] The determination of percent identity between two sequences
can be accomplished using a mathematical algorithm. A preferred,
non-limiting example of a mathematical algorithm utilized for the
comparison of two sequences is the algorithm of Karlin and Altschul
(1990) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 87:2264-2268, modified as in
Karlin and Altschul (1993) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 90:5873-5877.
Such an algorithm is incorporated into the NBLAST and XBLAST
programs of Altschul, et al. (1990) J. Mol. Biol. 215:403-410.
BLAST nucleotide searches can be performed with the NBLAST program,
score=100, wordlength=12 to obtain nucleotide sequences homologous
to a nucleic acid molecules of the invention. BLAST protein
searches can be performed with the XBLAST program, score=50,
wordlength=3 to obtain amino acid sequences homologous to a protein
molecules of the invention. To obtain gapped alignments for
comparison purposes, Gapped BLAST can be utilized as described in
Altschul et al. (1997) Nucleic Acids Res. 25:3389-3402.
Alternatively, PSI-Blast can be used to perform an iterated search
which detects distant relationships between molecules (Id.). When
utilizing BLAST, Gapped BLAST, and PSI-Blast programs, the default
parameters of the respective programs (e.g., XBLAST and NBLAST) can
be used. See http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
[0277] Another preferred, non-limiting example of a mathematical
algorithm utilized for the comparison of sequences is the algorithm
of Myers and Miller, CABIOS (1989). Such an algorithm is
incorporated into the ALIGN program (version 2.0) which is part of
the CGC sequence alignment software package. When utilizing the
ALIGN program for comparing amino acid sequences, a PAM120 weight
residue table, a gap length penalty of 12, and a gap penalty of 4
can be used. Additional algorithms for sequence analysis are known
in the art and include ADVANCE and ADAM as described in Torellis
and Robotti (1994) Comput. Appl. Biosci., 10:3-5; and FASTA
described in Pearson and Lipman (1988) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.
85:2444-8. Within FASTA, ktup is a control option that sets the
sensitivity and speed of the search. If ktup=2, similar regions in
the two sequences being compared are found by looking at pairs of
aligned residues; if ktup=1, single aligned amino acids are
examined. ktup can be set to 2 or 1 for protein sequences, or from
1 to 6 for DNA sequences. The default if ktup is not specified is 2
for proteins and 6 for DNA. For a further description of FASTA
parameters, see
http://bioweb.pasteur.fr/docs/man/man/fasta.1.html#sect2, the
contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0278] The percent identity between two sequences can be determined
using techniques similar to those described above, with or without
allowing gaps. In calculating percent identity, typically exact
matches are counted.
[0279] The invention also provides chimeric or fusion proteins. As
used herein, a "chimeric protein" or "fusion protein" comprises all
or part (preferably biologically active) of a polypeptide of the
invention operably linked to a heterologous polypeptide (i.e., a
polypeptide other than the same polypeptide of the invention).
Within the fusion protein, the term "operably linked" is intended
to indicate that the polypeptide of the invention and the
heterologous polypeptide are fused in-frame to each other. The
heterologous polypeptide can be fused to the N-terminus or
C-terminus of the polypeptide of the invention.
[0280] One useful fusion protein is a GST fusion protein in which
the polypeptide of the invention is fused to the C-terminus of GST
sequences. Such fusion proteins can facilitate the purification of
a recombinant polypeptide of the invention.
[0281] In another embodiment, the fusion protein contains a
heterologous signal sequence at its N-terminus. For example, the
native signal sequence of a polypeptide of the invention can be
removed and replaced with a signal sequence from another protein.
For example, the gp67 secretory sequence of the baculovirus
envelope protein can be used as a heterologous signal sequence
(Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, Ausubel et al., eds., John
Wiley & Sons, 1992). Other examples of eukaryotic heterologous
signal sequences include the secretory sequences of melittin and
human placental alkaline phosphatase (Stratagene; La Jolla,
Calif.). In yet another example, useful prokaryotic heterologous
signal sequences include the phoA secretory signal (Sambrook et
al., supra) and the protein A secretory signal (Pharmacia Biotech;
Piscataway, N.J.).
[0282] In yet another embodiment, the fusion protein is an
immunoglobulin fusion protein in which all or part of a polypeptide
of the invention is fused to sequences derived from a member of the
immunoglobulin protein family. The immunoglobulin fusion proteins
of the invention can be incorporated into pharmaceutical
compositions and administered to a subject to inhibit an
interaction between a ligand (soluble or membrane-bound) and a
protein on the surface of a cell (receptor), to thereby suppress
signal transduction in vivo. The immunoglobulin fusion protein can
be used to affect the bioavailability of a cognate ligand of a
polypeptide of the invention. Inhibition of ligand/receptor
interaction may be useful therapeutically, both for treating
proliferative and differentiative disorders and for modulating
(e.g., promoting or inhibiting) cell survival. Moreover, the
immunoglobulin fusion proteins of the invention can be used as
immunogens to produce antibodies directed against a polypeptide of
the invention in a subject, to purify ligands and in screening
assays to identify molecules which inhibit the interaction of
receptors with ligands.
[0283] Chimeric and fusion proteins of the invention can be
produced by standard recombinant DNA techniques. In another
embodiment, the fusion gene can be synthesized by conventional
techniques including automated DNA synthesizers. Alternatively, PCR
amplification of gene fragments can be carried out using anchor
primers which give rise to complementary overhangs between two
consecutive gene fragments which can subsequently be annealed and
reamplified to generate a chimeric gene sequence (see, e.g.,
Ausubel et al., supra). Moreover, many expression vectors are
commercially available that already encode a fusion moiety (e.g., a
GST polypeptide). A nucleic acid encoding a polypeptide of the
invention can be cloned into such an expression vector such that
the fusion moiety is linked in-frame to the polypeptide of the
invention.
[0284] A signal sequence of a polypeptide of the invention (SEQ ID
NO:4 or 17) can be used to facilitate secretion and isolation of
the secreted protein or other proteins of interest. Signal
sequences are typically characterized by a core of hydrophobic
amino acids which are generally cleaved from the mature protein
during secretion in one or more cleavage events. Such signal
peptides contain processing sites that allow cleavage of the signal
sequence from the mature proteins as they pass through the
secretory pathway. Thus, the invention pertains to the described
polypeptides having a signal sequence, as well as to the signal
sequence itself and to the polypeptide in the absence of the signal
sequence (i.e., the cleavage products). In one embodiment, a
nucleic acid sequence encoding a signal sequence of the invention
can be operably linked in an expression vector to a protein of
interest, such as a protein which is ordinarily not secreted or is
otherwise difficult to isolate. The signal sequence directs
secretion of the protein, such as from a eukaryotic host into which
the expression vector is transformed, and the signal sequence is
subsequently or concurrently cleaved. The protein can then be
readily purified from the extracellular medium by art recognized
methods. Alternatively, the signal sequence can be linked to the
protein of interest using a sequence which facilitates
purification, such as with a GST domain.
[0285] In another embodiment, the signal sequences of the present
invention can be used to identify regulatory sequences, e.g.,
promoters, enhancers, repressors. Since signal sequences are the
most amino-terminal sequences of a peptide, it is expected that the
nucleic acids which flank the signal sequence on its amino-terminal
side will be regulatory sequences which affect transcription. Thus,
a nucleotide sequence which encodes all or a portion of a signal
sequence can be used as a probe to identify and isolate signal
sequences and their flanking regions, and these flanking regions
can be studied to identify regulatory elements therein.
[0286] The present invention also pertains to variants of the
polypeptides of the invention. Such variants have an altered amino
acid sequence which can function as either agonists (mimetics) or
as antagonists. Variants can be generated by mutagenesis, e.g.,
discrete point mutation or truncation. An agonist can retain
substantially the same, or a subset, of the biological activities
of the naturally occurring form of the protein. An antagonist of a
protein can inhibit one or more of the activities of the naturally
occurring form of the protein by, for example, competitively
binding to a downstream or upstream member of a cellular signaling
cascade which includes the protein of interest. Thus, specific
biological effects can be elicited by treatment with a variant of
limited function. Treatment of a subject with a variant having a
subset of the biological activities of the naturally occurring form
of the protein can have fewer side effects in a subject relative to
treatment with the naturally occurring form of the protein.
[0287] Variants of a protein of the invention which function as
either agonists (mimetics) or as antagonists can be identified by
screening combinatorial libraries of mutants, e.g.,. truncation
mutants, of the protein of the invention for agonist or antagonist
activity. In one embodiment, a variegated library of variants is
generated by combinatorial mutagenesis at the nucleic acid level
and is encoded by a variegated gene library. A variegated library
of variants can be produced by, for example, enzymatically ligating
a mixture of synthetic oligonucleotides into gene sequences such
that a degenerate set of potential protein sequences is expressible
as individual polypeptides, or alternatively, as a set of larger
fusion proteins (e.g., for phage display). There are a variety of
methods which can be used to produce libraries of potential
variants of the polypeptides of the invention from a degenerate
oligonucleotide sequence. Methods for synthesizing degenerate
oligonucleotides are known in the art (see, e.g., Narang (1983)
Tetrahedron 39:3; Itakura et al. (1984) Annu. Rev. Biochem. 53:323;
Itakura et al. (1984) Science 198:1056; Ike et al. (1983) Nucleic
Acid Res. 11:477).
[0288] In addition, libraries of fragments of the coding sequence
of a polypeptide of the invention can be used to generate a
variegated population of polypeptides for screening and subsequent
selection of variants. For example, a library of coding sequence
fragments can be generated by treating a double stranded PCR
fragment of the coding sequence of interest with a nuclease under
conditions wherein nicking occurs only about once per molecule,
denaturing the double stranded DNA, renaturing the DNA to form
double stranded DNA which can include sense/antisense pairs from
different nicked products, removing single stranded portions from
reformed duplexes by treatment with SI nuclease, and ligating the
resulting fragment library into an expression vector. By this
method, an expression library can be derived which encodes
N-terminal and internal fragments of various sizes of the protein
of interest.
[0289] Several techniques are known in the art for screening gene
products of combinatorial libraries made by point mutations or
truncation, and for screening cDNA libraries for gene products
having a selected property. The most widely used techniques, which
are amenable to high through-put analysis, for screening large gene
libraries typically include cloning the gene library into
replicable expression vectors, transforming appropriate cells with
the resulting library of vectors, and expressing the combinatorial
genes under conditions in which detection of a desired activity
facilitates isolation of the vector encoding the gene whose product
was detected. Recursive ensemble mutagenesis (REM), a technique
which enhances the frequency of functional mutants in the
libraries, can be used in combination with the screening assays to
identify variants of a protein of the invention (Arkin and Yourvan
(1992) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 89:7811-7815; Delgrave et al.
(1993) Protein Engineering 6(3):327-331).
[0290] The polypeptides of the invention can exhibit
post-translational modifications, including, but not limited to
glycosylations, (e.g., N-linked or O-linked glycosylations),
myristylations, palmitylations, acetylations and phosphorylations
(e.g., serine/threonine or tyrosine). In one embodiment, the TANGO
268 polypeptide of the invention exhibit reduced levels of 0-linked
glycosylation and/or N-linked glycosylation relative to
endogenously expressed TANGO 268 polypeptides. In another
embodiment, the TANGO 268 polypeptides of the invention do not
exhibit O-linked glycosylation or N-linked glycosylation.
[0291] An isolated polypeptide of the invention, or a fragment
thereof, can be used as an immunogen to generate antibodies using
standard techniques for polyclonal and monoclonal antibody
preparation. The full-length polypeptide or protein can be used or,
alternatively, the invention provides antigenic peptide fragments
for use as immunogens. The antigenic peptide of a protein of the
invention comprises at least 8 (preferably 10, 15, 20, or 30) amino
acid residues of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, and
encompasses an epitope of the protein such that an antibody raised
against the peptide forms a specific immune complex with the
protein.
[0292] Epitopes encompassed by the antigenic peptide are regions
that are located on the surface of the protein, e.g., hydrophilic
regions. Alternatively, epitopes encompassed by the antigenic
peptides are regions that are located within the proteins, and/or
epitopes exposed in denatured or partially denatured forms of the
polypeptides of the invention. FIGS. 2 and 7 are hydropathy plots
of the proteins of the invention. These plots or similar analyses
can be used to identify hydrophilic regions. In addition, an
epitope can encompass, in addition to a polypeptide or polypeptides
of the invention, a post-translational modification (e.g.,
glycosylation, such as, for example, N-- and/or O-linked
glycosylation of the polypeptide or polypeptides).
[0293] An immunogen typically is used to prepare antibodies by
immunizing a suitable subject, (e.g., rabbit, goat, mouse or other
mammal). An appropriate immunogenic preparation can contain, for
example, recombinantly expressed or chemically synthesized
polypeptide. The preparation can further include an adjuvant, such
as Freund's complete or incomplete adjuvant, or similar
immunostimulatory agent.
[0294] Accordingly, another aspect of the invention pertains to
antibodies directed against a polypeptide of the invention. The
term "antibody" as used herein refers to immunoglobulin molecules
and immunologically active portions of immunoglobulin molecules,
i.e., molecules that contain an antigen binding site which
specifically binds an antigen, such as a polypeptide of the
invention, e.g., an epitope of a polypeptide of the invention. A
molecule which specifically binds to a given polypeptide of the
invention is a molecule which binds the polypeptide, but does not
substantially bind other molecules in a sample, e.g., a biological
sample, which naturally contains the polypeptide. Examples of
immunologically active portions of immunoglobulin molecules include
F(ab) and F(ab').sub.2 fragments which can be generated by treating
the antibody with an enzyme such as pepsin or papain. The invention
provides polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies. The term "monoclonal
antibody" or "monoclonal antibody composition", as used herein,
refers to a population of antibody molecules that contain only one
species of an antigen binding site capable of immunoreacting with a
particular epitope.
[0295] Polyclonal antibodies can be prepared as described above by
immunizing a suitable subject with a polypeptide of the invention
as an immunogen. Preferred polyclonal antibody compositions are
ones that have been selected for antibodies directed against a
polypeptide or polypeptides of the invention. Particularly
preferred polyclonal antibody preparations are ones that contain
only antibodies directed against a polypeptide or polypeptides of
the invention. Particularly preferred immunogen compositions are
those that contain no other human proteins such as, for example,
immunogen compositions made using a non-human host cell for
recombinant expression of a polypeptide of the invention. In such a
manner, the only human epitope or epitopes recognized by the
resulting antibody compositions raised against this immunogen will
be present as part of a polypeptide or polypeptides of the
invention.
[0296] The antibody titer in the immunized subject can be monitored
over time by standard techniques, such as with an enzyme linked
immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using immobilized polypeptide. If
desired, the antibody molecules can be isolated from the mammal
(e.g., from the blood) and further purified by well-known
techniques, such as protein A chromatography to obtain the IgG
fraction. Alternatively, antibodies specific for a protein or
polypeptide of the invention can be selected for (e.g., partially
purified) or purified by, e.g., affinity chromatography. For
example, a recombinantly expressed and purified (or partially
purified) protein of the invention is produced as described herein,
and covalently or non-covalently coupled to a solid support such
as, for example, a chromatography column. The column can then be
used to affinity purify antibodies specific for the proteins of the
invention from a sample containing antibodies directed against a
large number of different epitopes, thereby generating a
substantially purified antibody composition, i.e., one that is
substantially free of contaminating antibodies. By a substantially
purified antibody composition is meant, in this context, that the
antibody sample contains at most only 30% (by dry weight) of
contaminating antibodies directed against epitopes other than those
on the desired protein or polypeptide of the invention, and
preferably at most 20%, yet more preferably at most 10%, and most
preferably at most 5% (by dry weight) of the sample is
contaminating antibodies. A purified antibody composition means
that at least 99% of the antibodies in the composition are directed
against the desired protein or polypeptide of the invention.
[0297] At an appropriate time after immunization, e.g., when the
specific antibody titers are highest, antibody-producing cells can
be obtained from the subject and used to prepare monoclonal
antibodies by standard techniques, such as the hybridoma technique
originally described by Kohler and Milstein (1975) Nature
256:495-497, the human B cell hybridoma technique (Kozbor et al.
(1983) Immunol. Today 4:72), the EBV-hybridoma technique (Cole et
al. (1985), Monoclonal Antibodies and Cancer Therapy, Alan R. Liss,
Inc., pp. 77-96) or trioma techniques. The technology for producing
hybridomas is well known (see generally Current Protocols in
Immunology (1994) Coligan et al. (eds.) John Wiley & Sons,
Inc., New York, N.Y.). Hybridoma cells producing a monoclonal
antibody of the invention are detected by screening the hybridoma
culture supernatants for antibodies that bind the polypeptide of
interest, e.g., using a standard ELISA assay.
[0298] Alternative to preparing monoclonal antibody-secreting
bybridomas, a monoclonal antibody directed against a polypeptide of
the invention can be identified and isolated by screening a
recombinant combinatorial immunoglobulin library (e.g., an antibody
phage display library) with the polypeptide of interest. Kits for
generating and screening phage display libraries are commercially
available (e.g., the Pharmacia Recombinant Phage Antibody System,
Catalog No. 27-9400-01; and the Stratagene SurfZAP.TM. Phage
Display Kit, Catalog No. 240612). Additionally, examples of methods
and reagents particularly amenable for use in generating and
screening antibody display library can be found in, for example,
U.S. Pat. No. 5,223,409; PCT Publication No. WO 92/18619; PCT
Publication No. WO 91/17271; PCT Publication No. WO 92/20791; PCT
Publication No. WO 92/15679; PCT Publication No. WO 93/01288; PCT
Publication No. WO 92/01047; PCT Publication No. WO 92/09690; PCT
Publication No. WO 90/02809; Fuchs et al. (1991) Bio/Technology
9:1370-1372; Hay et al. (1992) Hum. Antibod. Hybridomas 3:81-85;
Huse et al. (1989) Science 246:1275-1281; Griffiths et al. (1993)
EMBO J. 12:725-734.
[0299] Additionally, recombinant antibodies, such as chimeric and
humanized monoclonal antibodies, comprising both human and
non-human portions, which can be made using standard recombinant
DNA techniques, are within the scope of the invention. A chimeric
antibody is a molecule in which different portions are derived from
different animal species, such as those having a variable region
derived from a murine mAb and a human immunoglobulin constant
region. (See, e.g., Cabilly et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,816,567; and
Boss et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,816397, which are incorporated herein
by reference in their entirety.) Humanized antibodies are antibody
molecules from non-human species having one or more complementarily
determining regions (CDRs) from the non-human species and a
framework region from a human immunoglobulin molecule. (See, e.g.,
Queen, U.S. Pat. No. 5,585,089, which is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.) Such chimeric and humanized monoclonal
antibodies can be produced by recombinant DNA techniques known in
the art, for example using methods described in PCT Publication No.
WO 87/02671; European Patent Application 184,187; European Patent
Application 171,496; European Patent Application 173,494; PCT
Publication No. WO 86/01533; U.S. Pat. No. 4,816,567; European
Patent Application 125,023; Better et al. (1988) Science
240:1041-1043; Liu et al. (1987) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA
84:3439-3443; Liu et al. (1987) J. Immunol. 139:3521-3526; Sun et
al. (1987) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 84:214-218; Nishimura et al.
(1987) Canc. Res. 47:999-1005; Wood et al. (1985) Nature
314:446-449; and Shaw et al. (1988) J. Natl. Cancer Inst.
80:1553-1559); Morrison (1985) Science 229:1202-1207; Oi et al.
(1986) Bio/Techniques 4:214; U.S. Pat. No. 5,225,539; Jones et al.
(1986) Nature 321:552-525; Verhoeyan et al. (1988) Science
239:1534; and Beidler et al. (1988) J. Immunol. 141:4053-4060.
[0300] Completely human antibodies are particularly desirable for
therapeutic treatment of human patients. Such antibodies can be
produced, for example, using transgenic mice which are incapable of
expressing endogenous immunoglobulin heavy and light chains genes,
but which can express human heavy and light chain genes. The
transgenic mice are immunized in the normal fashion with a selected
antigen, e.g., all or a portion of a polypeptide of the invention.
Monoclonal antibodies directed against the antigen can be obtained
using conventional hybridoma technology. The human immunoglobulin
transgenes harbored by the transgenic mice rearrange during B cell
differentiation, and subsequently undergo class switching and
somatic mutation. Thus, using such a technique, it is possible to
produce therapeutically useful IgG, IgA and IgE antibodies. For an
overview of this technology for producing human antibodies, see
Lonberg and Huszar (1995, Int. Rev. Immunol. 13:65-93). For a
detailed discussion of this technology for producing human
antibodies and human monoclonal antibodies and protocols for
producing such antibodies, see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,625,126; U.S.
Pat. Nos. 5,633,425; 5,569,825; 5,661,016; and 5,545,806. In
addition, companies such as Abgenix, Inc. (Fremont, Calif.), can be
engaged to provide human antibodies directed against a selected
antigen using technology similar to that described above.
[0301] Completely human antibodies which recognize a selected
epitope can be generated using a technique referred to as "guided
selection." In this approach a selected non-human monoclonal
antibody, e.g., a mouse antibody, is used to guide the selection of
a completely human antibody recognizing the same epitope. (Jespers
et al. (1994) Bio/technology 12:899-903).
[0302] An antibody directed against a polypeptide of the invention
(e.g., monoclonal antibody) can be used to isolate the polypeptide
by standard techniques, such as affinity chromatography or
immunoprecipitation. Moreover, such an antibody can be used to
detect the protein (e.g., in a cellular lysate or cell supernatant)
in order to evaluate the abundance and pattern of expression of the
polypeptide. The antibodies can also be used diagnostically to
monitor protein levels in tissue as part of a clinical testing
procedure, e.g., to, for example, determine the efficacy of a given
treatment regimen. Detection can be facilitated by coupling the
antibody to a detectable substance. Examples of detectable
substances include various enzymes, prosthetic groups, fluorescent
materials, luminescent materials, bioluminescent materials, and
radioactive materials. Examples of suitable enzymes include
horseradish peroxidase, alkaline phosphatase, beta-galactosidase,
or acetylcholinesterase; examples of suitable prosthetic group
complexes include streptavidin/biotin and avidin/biotin; examples
of suitable fluorescent materials include umbelliferone,
fluorescein, fluorescein isothiocyanate, rhodamine,
dichlorotriazinylamine fluorescein, dansyl chloride or
phycoerythrin; an example of a luminescent material includes
luminol; examples of bioluminescent materials include luciferase,
luciferin, and aequorin, and examples of suitable radioactive
material include .sup.125I, .sup.131I, .sup.35S or .sup.3H.
[0303] Further, an antibody (or fragment thereof) can be conjugated
to a therapeutic moiety such as a cytotoxin, a therapeutic agent or
a radioactive metal ion. A cytotoxin or cytotoxic agent includes
any agent that is detrimental to cells. Examples include taxol,
cytochalasin B, gramicidin D, ethidium bromide, emetine, mitomycin,
etoposide, tenoposide, vincristine, vinblastine, colchicin,
doxorubicin, daunorubicin, dihydroxy anthracin dione, mitoxantrone,
mithramycin, actinomycin D, 1-dehydrotestosterone, glucocorticoids,
procaine, tetracaine, lidocaine, propranolol, and puromycin and
analogs or homologs thereof. Therapeutic agents include, but are
not limited to, antimetabolites (e.g., methotrexate,
6-mercaptopurine, 6-thioguanine, cytarabine, 5-fluorouracil
decarbazine), alkylating agents (e.g., mechlorethamine, thioepa
chlorambucil, melphalan, carmustine (BSNU) and lomustine (CCNU),
cyclothosphamide, busulfan, dibromomannitol, streptozotocin,
mitomycin C, and cis-dichlorodiamine platinum (II) (DDP)
cisplatin), anthracyclines (e.g., daunorubicin (formerly
daunomycin) and doxorubicin), antibiotics (e.g., dactinomycin
(formerly actinomycin), bleomycin, mithramycin, and anthramycin
(AMC)), and anti-mitotic agents (e.g., vincristine and
vinblastine).
[0304] The conjugates of the invention can be used for modifying a
given biological response, the drug moiety is not to be construed
as limited to classical chemical therapeutic agents. For example,
the drug moiety may be a protein or polypeptide possessing a
desired biological activity. Such proteins may include, for
example, a toxin such as abrin, ricin A, pseudomonas exotoxin, or
diphtheria toxin; a protein such as tumor necrosis factor,
alpha.-interferon, .beta.-interferon, nerve growth factor, platelet
derived growth factor, tissue plasminogen activator; or, biological
response modifiers such as, for example, lymphokines, interleukin-1
("IL-1"), interleukin-2 ("IL-2"), interleukin-6 ("IL-6"),
granulocyte macrophase colony stimulating factor ("GM-CSF"),
granulocyte colony stimulating factor ("G-CSF"), or other growth
factors.
[0305] Techniques for conjugating a therapeutic moiety to
antibodies are well known, see, e.g., Arnon et al., "Monoclonal
Antibodies For Immunotargeting Of Drugs In Cancer Therapy", in
Monoclonal Antibodies And Cancer Therapy, Reisfeld et al. (eds.),
pp. 243-56 (Alan R. Liss, Inc. 1985); Hellstrom et al., "Antibodies
For Drug Delivery", in Controlled Drug Delivery (2nd Ed.), Robinson
et al. (eds.), pp. 623-53 (Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1987); Thorpe,
"Antibody Carriers Of Cytotoxic Agents In Cancer Therapy: A
Review", in Monoclonal Antibodies '84: Biological And Clinical
Applications, Pinchera et al. (eds.), pp. 475-506 (1985);
"Analysis, Results, And Future Prospective Of The Therapeutic Use
Of Radiolabeled Antibody In Cancer Therapy", in Monoclonal
Antibodies For Cancer Detection And Therapy, Baldwin et al. (eds.),
pp. 303-16 (Academic Press 1985), and Thorpe et al., "The
Preparation And Cytotoxic Properties Of Antibody-Toxin Conjugates",
Immunol. Rev., 62:119-58 (1982).
[0306] Alternatively, an antibody can be conjugated to a second
antibody to form an antibody heteroconjugate as described by Segal
in U.S. Pat. No. 4,676,980.
[0307] Accordingly, in one aspect, the invention provides
substantially purified antibodies or fragment thereof, and
non-human antibodies or fragments thereof, which antibodies or
fragments specifically bind to a polypeptide comprising an amino
acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence encoded
by the cDNA insert of the plasmid deposited with ATCC as Accession
Number 207180, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA
insert of the plasmid deposited with ATCC as PTA-225; a fragment of
at least 15 amino acid residues of the amino acid sequence of SEQ
ID NO:3 or 16; an amino acid sequence which is at least 95%
identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, wherein
the percent identity is determined using the ALIGN program of the
GCG software package with a PAM120 weight residue table, a gap
length penalty of 12, and a gap penalty of 4; and an amino acid
sequence which is encoded by a nucleic acid molecule which
hybridizes to the nucleic acid molecule consisting of SEQ ID NO:1,
2, 14, or 15 under conditions of hybridization of 6.times.SSC at
45.degree. C. and washing in 0.2.times.SSC, 0.1% SDS at 65.degree.
C. In various embodiments, the substantially purified antibodies of
the invention, or fragments thereof, can be human, non-human,
chimeric and/or humanized antibodies.
[0308] In another aspect, the invention provides non-human
antibodies or fragments thereof, which antibodies or fragments
specifically bind to a polypeptide comprising an amino acid
sequence selected from the group consisting of: the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence encoded
by the cDNA insert of the plasmid deposited with ATCC as Accession
Number 207180, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA
insert of the plasmid deposited with ATCC as PTA-225; a fragment of
at least 15 amino acid residues of the amino acid sequence of SEQ
ID NO:3 or 16; an amino acid sequence which is at least 95%
identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, wherein
the percent identity is determined using the ALIGN program of the
GCG software package with a PAM120 weight residue table, a gap
length penalty of 12, and a gap penalty of 4; and an amino acid
sequence which is encoded by a nucleic acid molecule which
hybridizes to the nucleic acid molecule consisting of SEQ ID NO:1,
2, 14, or 15 under conditions of hybridization of 6.times.SSC at
45.degree. C. and washing in 0.2.times.SSC, 0.1% SDS at 65.degree.
C. Such non-human antibodies can be goat, mouse, sheep, horse,
chicken, rabbit, or rat antibodies. Alternatively, the non-human
antibodies of the invention can be chimeric and/or humanized
antibodies. In addition, the non-human antibodies of the invention
can be polyclonal antibodies or monoclonal antibodies.
[0309] In still a further aspect, the invention provides monoclonal
antibodies or fragments thereof, which antibodies or fragments
specifically bind to a polypeptide comprising an amino acid
sequence selected from the group consisting of: the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, or the amino acid sequence encoded
by the cDNA insert of the plasmid deposited with ATCC as Accession
Number 207180, or the/amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA
insert of the plasmid deposited with ATCC as PTA-225; a fragment of
at least 15 amino acid residues of the amino acid sequence of SEQ
ID NO:3 or 16; an amino acid sequence which is at least 95%
identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, wherein
the percent identity is determined using the ALIGN program of the
GCG software package with a PAM120 weight residue table, a gap
length penalty of 12, and a gap penalty of 4; and an amino acid
sequence which is encoded by a nucleic acid molecule which
hybridizes to the nucleic acid molecule consisting of SEQ ID NO:1,
2, 14, or 15 under conditions of hybridization of 6.times.SSC at
45.degree. C. and washing in 0.2.times.SSC, 0.1% SDS at 65.degree.
C. The monoclonal antibodies can be human, humanized, chimeric
and/or non-human antibodies.
[0310] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the substantially
purified antibodies or fragments thereof, the non-human antibodies
or fragments thereof, and/or the monoclonal antibodies or fragments
thereof, of the invention specifically bind to an extracellular
domain of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16. Preferably,
the extracellular domain to which the antibody, or fragment
thereof, binds comprises amino acid residues 21 to 269 of SEQ ID
NO:3 or amino acid residues 22 to 267 of SEQ ID NO:16. In an
alternative embodiment, the extracellular domain to which the
substantially purified antibody binds comprises an
immunoglobulin-like domain. In one aspect, such an
immunoglobulin-like domain comprises amino acid residues 48 to 88
or 134 to 180 of SEQ ID NO:3 or amino acid residues 49 to 89 or 135
to 181 of SEQ ID NO:16.
[0311] Any of the antibodies of the invention can be conjugated to
a therapeutic moiety or to a detectable substance. Non-limiting
examples of detectable substances that can be conjugated to the
antibodies of the invention are an enzyme, a prosthetic group, a
fluorescent material, a luminescent material, a bioluminescent
material, and a radioactive material.
[0312] The invention also provides a kit containing an antibody of
the invention conjugated to a detectable substance, and
instructions for use. Still another aspect of the invention is a
pharmaceutical composition comprising an antibody of the invention
and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In preferred
embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition contains an antibody of
the invention, a therapeutic moiety, and a pharmaceutically
acceptable carrier.
[0313] Still another aspect of the invention is a method of making
an antibody that specifically recognizes GPVI, the method
comprising immunizing a mammal with a polypeptide. The polypeptide
used as an immungen comprises an amino acid sequence selected from
the group consisting of: the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or
16, or the amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA insert of the
plasmid deposited with ATCC as Accession Number 207180, or the
amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA insert of the plasmid
deposited with ATCC as PTA-225; a fragment of at least 15 amino
acid residues of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16; an
amino acid sequence which is at least 95% identical to the amino
acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or 16, wherein the percent identity is
determined using the ALIGN program of the GCG software package with
a PAM120 weight residue table, a gap length penalty of 12, and a
gap penalty of 4; and an amino acid sequence which is encoded by a
nucleic acid molecule which hybridizes to the nucleic acid molecule
consisting of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 14, or 15 under conditions of
hybridization of 6.times.SSC at 45.degree. C. and washing in
0.2.times.SSC, 0.1% SDS at 65.degree. C. After immunization, a
sample is collected from the mammal that contains an antibody that
specifically recognizes GPVI. Preferably, the polypeptide is
recombinantly produced using a non-human host cell. Optionally, the
antibodies can be further purified from the sample using techniques
well known to those of skill in the art. The method can further
comprise producing a monoclonal antibody-producing cell from the
cells of the mammal. Optionally, antibodies are collected from the
antibody-producing cell.
[0314] In instances wherein the antibody is to be utilized as a
therapeutic, characterization of the antibody can routinely be
assayed and ascertained via the methods presented herein. For
example, the fact that platelets are readily available, coupled
with the availability of multiple assays for platelet function
provide for routine testing and analysis (e.g., for in vitro
testing and analysis) of such antibodies.
[0315] For example, the in vivo pharmacodynamic characterization of
anti-TANGO 268 antibodies can be facilitated via the availability
of various platelet assays (e.g., prolongation of bleeding time,
quantitative measurement of TANGO 268 receptor blockade, inhibition
of ex vivo platelet aggregation) such as those described herein
that can be correlated with each other to permit more effective
assessment of a modulator's functional consequences. The
correlation available for such assays, therefore, allows for the in
vitro characterization of an anti-TANGO 268 antibody to more
directly apply to the measurement of the antibody's therapeutic
effect.
[0316] In addition to utilizing the availability of platelets and
platelet assays for assessing the therapeutic efficacy, including
clinical efficacy, of an anti-TANGO 268 antibody, this availability
can also be utilized for preclinical drug development aspects such
as determining antibody dosage response, toxicology, magnitude of
effect (e.g., magnitude of initial effect and magnitude of effect's
duration), function, specificity (e.g., specificity with respect to
particular platelet functions), receptor specificity, and species
specificity (which, in turn, can identify appropriate animal models
for pharmacology studies).
III. Recombinant Expression Vectors and Host Cells
[0317] Another aspect of the invention pertains to vectors,
preferably expression vectors, containing a nucleic acid encoding a
polypeptide of the invention (or a portion thereof). As used
herein, the term "vector" refers to a nucleic acid molecule capable
of transporting another nucleic acid to which it has been linked.
One type of vector is a "plasmid", which refers to a circular
double stranded DNA loop into which additional DNA segments can be
ligated. Another type of vector is a viral vector, wherein
additional DNA segments can be ligated into the viral genome.
Certain vectors are capable of autonomous replication in a host
cell into which they are introduced (e.g., bacterial vectors having
a bacterial origin of replication and episomal mammalian vectors).
Other vectors (e.g., non-episomal mammalian vectors) are integrated
into the genome of a host cell upon introduction into the host
cell, and thereby are replicated along with the host genome.
Moreover, certain vectors, expression vectors, are capable of
directing the expression of genes to which they are operably
linked. In general, expression vectors of utility in recombinant
DNA techniques are often in the form of plasmids (vectors).
However, the invention is intended to include such other forms of
expression vectors, such as viral vectors (e.g., replication
defective retroviruses, adenoviruses and adeno-associated viruses),
which serve equivalent functions.
[0318] The recombinant expression vectors of the invention comprise
a nucleic acid of the invention in a form suitable for expression
of the nucleic acid in a host cell. This means that the recombinant
expression vectors include one or more regulatory sequences,
selected on the basis of the host cells to be used for expression,
which is operably linked to the nucleic acid sequence to be
expressed. Within a recombinant expression vector, "operably
linked" is intended to mean that the nucleotide sequence of
interest is linked to the regulatory sequence(s) in a manner which
allows for expression of the nucleotide sequence (e.g., in an in
vitro transcription/translation system or in a host cell when the
vector is introduced into the host cell). The term "regulatory
sequence" is intended to include promoters, enhancers and other
expression control elements (e.g., polyadenylation signals). Such
regulatory sequences are described, for example, in Goeddel, Gene
Expression Technology: Methods in Enzymology 185, Academic Press,
San Diego, Calif. (1990). Regulatory sequences include those which
direct constitutive expression of a nucleotide sequence in many
types of host cell and those which direct expression of the
nucleotide sequence only in certain host cells (e.g.,
tissue-specific regulatory sequences). It will be appreciated by
those skilled in the art that the design of the expression vector
can depend on such factors as the choice of the host cell to be
transformed, the level of expression of protein desired, etc. The
expression vectors of the invention can be introduced into host
cells to thereby produce proteins or peptides, including fusion
proteins or peptides, encoded by nucleic acids as described
herein.
[0319] The recombinant expression vectors of the invention can be
designed for expression of a polypeptide of the invention in
prokaryotic (e.g., E. coli) or eukaryotic cells (e.g., insect cells
(using baculovirus expression vectors), yeast cells or mammalian
cells). Suitable host cells are discussed further in Goeddel,
supra. Alternatively, the recombinant expression vector can be
transcribed and translated in vitro, for example using T7 promoter
regulatory sequences and T7 polymerase.
[0320] Expression of proteins in prokaryotes is most often carried
out in E. coli with vectors containing constitutive or inducible
promoters directing the expression of either fusion or non-fusion
proteins. Fusion vectors add a number of amino acids to a protein
encoded therein, usually to the amino terminus of the recombinant
protein. Such fusion vectors typically serve three purposes: 1) to
increase expression of recombinant protein; 2) to increase the
solubility of the recombinant protein; and 3) to aid in the
purification of the recombinant protein by acting as a ligand in
affinity purification. Often, in fusion expression vectors, a
proteolytic cleavage site is introduced at the junction of the
fusion moiety and the recombinant protein to enable separation of
the recombinant protein from the fusion moiety subsequent to
purification of the fusion protein. Such enzymes, and their cognate
recognition sequences, include Factor Xa, thrombin and
enterokinase. Typical fusion expression vectors include pGEX
(Pharmacia Biotech Inc; Smith and Johnson (1988) Gene 67:31-40),
pMAL (New England Biolabs, Beverly, Mass.) and pRIT5 (Pharmacia,
Piscataway, N.J.) which fuse glutathione S-transferase (GST),
maltose E binding protein, or protein A, respectively, to the
target recombinant protein.
[0321] Examples of suitable inducible non-fusion E. coli expression
vectors include pTrc (Amann et al., (1988) Gene 69:301-315) and pET
11d (Studier et al., Gene Expression Technology: Methods in
Enzymology 185, Academic Press, San Diego, Calif. (1990) 60-89).
Target gene expression from the pTrc vector relies on host RNA
polymerase transcription from a hybrid trp-lac fusion promoter.
Target gene expression from the pET ld vector relies on
transcription from a T7 gn10-lac fusion promoter mediated by a
coexpressed viral RNA polymerase (T7 gn1). This viral polymerase is
supplied by host strains BL21(DE3) or HMS174(DE3) from a resident )
prophage harboring a T7 gn1 gene under the transcriptional control
of the lacUV 5 promoter.
[0322] One strategy to maximize recombinant protein expression in
E. coli is to express the protein in a host bacteria with an
impaired capacity to proteolytically cleave the recombinant protein
(Gottesman, Gene Expression Technology: Methods in Enzymology 185,
Academic Press, San Diego, Calif. (1990) 119-128). Another strategy
is to alter the nucleic acid sequence of the nucleic acid to be
inserted into an expression vector so that the individual codons
for each amino acid are those preferentially utilized in E. coli
(Wada et al. (1992) Nucleic Acids Res. 20:2111-2118). Such
alteration of nucleic acid sequences of the invention can be
carried out by standard DNA synthesis techniques.
[0323] In another embodiment, the expression vector is a yeast
expression vector. Examples of vectors for expression in yeast S.
cerivisae include pYepSec1 (Baldari et al. (1987) EMBO J.
6:229-234), pMFa (Kurjan and Herskowitz, (1982) Cell 30:933-943),
pJRY88 (Schultz et al. (1987) Gene 54:113-123), pYES2 (Invitrogen
Corporation, San Diego, Calif.), and pPicZ (Invitrogen Corp, San
Diego, Calif.).
[0324] Alternatively, the expression vector is a baculovirus
expression vector. Baculovirus vectors available for expression of
proteins in cultured insect cells (e.g., Sf 9 cells) include the
pAc series (Smith et al. (1983) Mol. Cell Biol. 3:2156-2165) and
the pVL series (Lucklow and Summers (1989) Virology 170:31-39).
[0325] In yet another embodiment, a nucleic acid of the invention
is expressed in mammalian cells using a mammalian expression
vector. Examples of mammalian expression vectors include pCDM8
(Seed (1987) Nature 329:840) and pMT2PC (Kaufman et al. (1987) EMBO
J. 6:187-195). When used in mammalian cells, the expression
vector's control functions are often provided by viral regulatory
elements. For example, commonly used promoters are derived from
polyoma, Adenovirus 2, cytomegalovirus and Simian Virus 40. For
other suitable expression systems for both prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells see chapters 16 and 17 of Sambrook et al.,
supra.
[0326] In another embodiment, the recombinant mammalian expression
vector is capable of directing expression of the nucleic acid
preferentially in a particular cell type (e.g., tissue-specific
regulatory elements are used to express the nucleic acid).
Tissue-specific regulatory elements are known in the art.
Non-limiting examples of suitable tissue-specific promoters include
the albumin promoter (liver-specific; Pinkert et al. (1987) Genes
Dev. 1:268-277), lymphoid-specific promoters (Calame and Eaton
(1988) Adv. Immunol. 43:235-275), in particular promoters of T cell
receptors (Winoto and Baltimore (1989) EMBO J. 8:729-733) and
immunoglobulins (Banerji et al. (1983) Cell 33:729-740; Queen and
Baltimore (1983) Cell 33:741-748), neuron-specific promoters (e.g.,
the neurofilament promoter; Byrne and Ruddle (1989) Proc. Natl.
Acad. Sci. USA 86:5473-5477), pancreas-specific promoters (Edlund
et al. (1985) Science 230:912-916), and mammary gland-specific
promoters (e.g., milk whey promoter; U.S. Pat. No. 4,873,316 and
European Application Publication No. 264,166).
Developmentally-regulated promoters are also encompassed, for
example the mouse hox promoters (Kessel and Gruss (1990) Science
249:374-379) and the beta-fetoprotein promoter (Campes and Tilghman
(1989) Genes Dev. 3:537-546).
[0327] The invention further provides a recombinant expression
vector comprising a DNA molecule of the invention cloned into the
expression vector in an antisense orientation. That is, the DNA
molecule is operably linked to a regulatory sequence in a manner
which allows for expression (by transcription of the DNA molecule)
of an RNA molecule which is antisense to the mRNA encoding a
polypeptide of the invention. Regulatory sequences operably linked
to a nucleic acid cloned in the antisense orientation can be chosen
which direct the continuous expression of the antisense RNA
molecule in a variety of cell types, for instance viral promoters
and/or enhancers, or regulatory sequences can be chosen which
direct constitutive, tissue specific or cell type specific
expression of antisense RNA. The antisense expression vector can be
in the form of a recombinant plasmid, phagemid or attenuated virus
in which antisense nucleic acids are produced under the control of
a high efficiency regulatory region, the activity of which can be
determined by the cell type into which the vector is introduced.
For a discussion of the regulation of gene expression using
antisense genes see Weintraub et al. (Reviews--Trends in Genetics,
Vol. 1(1) 1986).
[0328] Another aspect of the invention pertains to host cells into
which a recombinant expression vector of the invention has been
introduced. The terms "host cell" and "recombinant host cell" are
used interchangeably herein. It is understood that such terms refer
not only to the particular subject cell but to the progeny or
potential progeny of such a cell. Because certain modifications may
occur in succeeding generations due to either mutation or
environmental influences, such progeny may not, in fact, be
identical to the parent cell, but are still included within the
scope of the term as used herein.
[0329] A host cell can be any prokaryotic (e.g., E. coli) or
eukaryotic cell (e.g., insect cells, yeast or mammalian cells).
[0330] Vector DNA can be introduced into prokaryotic or eukaryotic
cells via conventional transformation or transfection techniques.
As used herein, the terms "transformation" and "transfection" are
intended to refer to a variety of art-recognized techniques for
introducing foreign nucleic acid into a host cell, including
calcium phosphate or calcium chloride co-precipitation,
DEAE-dextran-mediated transfection, lipofection, or
electroporation. Suitable methods for transforming or transfecting
host cells can be found in Sambrook, et al. (supra), and other
laboratory manuals.
[0331] For stable transfection of mammalian cells, it is known
that, depending upon the expression vector and transfection
technique used, only a small fraction of cells may integrate the
foreign DNA into their genome. In order to identify and select
these integrants, a gene that encodes a selectable marker (e.g.,
for resistance to antibiotics) is generally introduced into the
host cells along with the gene of interest. Preferred selectable
markers include those which confer resistance to drugs, such as
G418, hygromycin and methotrexate. Cells stably transfected with
the introduced nucleic acid can be identified by drug selection
(e.g., cells that have incorporated the selectable marker gene will
survive, while the other cells die).
[0332] In another embodiment, the expression characteristics of an
endogenous (e.g., TANGO 268 genes) within a cell, cell line or
microorganism may be modified by inserting a DNA regulatory element
heterologous to the endogenous gene of interest into the genome of
a cell, stable cell line or cloned microorganism such that the
inserted regulatory element is operatively linked with the
endogenous gene (e.g., TANGO 268 genes) and controls, modulates or
activates. For example, endogenous TANGO 268genes which are
normally "transcriptionally silent", i.e., a TANGO 268 genes which
is normally not expressed, or are expressed only at very low levels
in a cell line or microorganism, may be activated by inserting a
regulatory element which is capable of promoting the expression of
a normally expressed gene product in that cell line or
microorganism. Alternatively, transcriptionally silent, endogenous
TANGO 268 genes may be activated by insertion of a promiscuous
regulatory element that works across cell types.
[0333] A heterologous regulatory element may be inserted into a
stable cell line or cloned microorganism, such that it is
operatively linked with and activates expression of endogenous
TANGO 268 genes, using techniques, such as targeted homologous
recombination, which are well known to those of skill in the art,
and described e.g., in Chappel, U.S. Pat. No. 5,272,071; PCT
publication No. WO 91/06667, published May 16, 1991.
[0334] A host cell of the invention, such as a prokaryotic or
eukaryotic host cell in culture, can be used to produce a
polypeptide of the invention. Accordingly, the invention further
provides methods for producing a polypeptide of the invention using
the host cells of the invention. In one embodiment, the method
comprises culturing the host cell of invention (into which a
recombinant expression vector encoding a polypeptide of the
invention has been introduced) in a suitable medium such that the
polypeptide is produced. In another embodiment, the method further
comprises isolating the polypeptide from the medium or the host
cell.
[0335] The host cells of the invention can also be used to produce
nonhuman transgenic animals. For example, in one embodiment, a host
cell of the invention is a fertilized oocyte or an embryonic stem
cell into which a sequence encoding a polypeptide of the invention
has been introduced. Such host cells can then be used to create
non-human transgenic animals in which exogenous sequences encoding
a polypeptide of the invention have been introduced into their
genome or homologous recombinant animals in which endogenous
encoding a polypeptide of the invention sequences have been
altered. Such animals are useful for studying the function and/or
activity of the polypeptide and for identifying and/or evaluating
modulators of polypeptide activity. As used herein, a "transgenic
animal" is a non-human animal, preferably a mammal, more preferably
a rodent such as a rat or mouse, in which one or more of the cells
of the animal includes a transgene. Other examples of transgenic
animals include non-human primates, sheep, dogs, cows, goats,
chickens, amphibians, etc. A transgene is exogenous DNA which is
integrated into the genome of a cell from which a transgenic animal
develops and which remains in the genome of the mature animal,
thereby directing the expression of an encoded gene product in one
or more cell types or tissues of the transgenic animal. As used
herein, an "homologous recombinant animal" is a non-human animal,
preferably a mammal, more preferably a mouse, in which an
endogenous gene has been altered by homologous recombination
between the endogenous gene and an exogenous DNA molecule
introduced into a cell of the animal, e.g., an embryonic cell of
the animal, prior to development of the animal.
[0336] A transgenic animal of the invention can be created by
introducing nucleic acid encoding a polypeptide of the invention
(or a homologue thereof) into the male pronuclei of a fertilized
oocyte, e.g., by microinjection, retroviral infection, and allowing
the oocyte to develop in a pseudopregnant female foster animal.
Intronic sequences and polyadenylation signals can also be included
in the transgene to increase the efficiency of expression of the
transgene. A tissue-specific regulatory sequence(s) can be operably
linked to the transgene to direct expression of the polypeptide of
the invention to particular cells. Methods for generating
transgenic animals via embryo manipulation and microinjection,
particularly animals such as mice, have become conventional in the
art and are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,736,866 and
4,870,009, 4,873,191 and in Hogan, Manipulating the Mouse Embryo,
(Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y.,
1986). Similar methods are used for production of other transgenic
animals. A transgenic founder animal can be identified based upon
the presence of the transgene in its genome and/or expression of
mRNA encoding the transgene in tissues or cells of the animals. A
transgenic founder animal can then be used to breed additional
animals carrying the transgene. Moreover, transgenic animals
carrying the transgene can further be bred to other transgenic
animals carrying other transgenes.
[0337] To create an homologous recombinant animal, a vector is
prepared which contains at least a portion of a gene encoding a
polypeptide of the invention into which a deletion, addition or
substitution has been introduced to thereby alter, e.g.,
functionally disrupt, the gene. In a preferred embodiment, the
vector is designed such that, upon homologous recombination, the
endogenous gene is functionally disrupted (i.e., no longer encodes
a functional protein; also referred to as a "knock out" vector).
Alternatively, the vector can be designed such that, upon
homologous recombination, the endogenous gene is mutated or
otherwise altered but still encodes functional protein (e.g., the
upstream regulatory region can be altered to thereby alter the
expression of the endogenous protein). In the homologous
recombination vector, the altered portion of the gene is flanked at
its 5' and 3' ends by additional nucleic acid of the gene to allow
for homologous recombination to occur between the exogenous gene
carried by the vector and an endogenous gene in an embryonic stem
cell. The additional flanking nucleic acid sequences are of
sufficient length for successful homologous recombination with the
endogenous gene. Typically, several kilobases of flanking DNA (both
at the 5' and 3' ends) are included in the vector (see, e.g.,
Thomas and Capecchi (1987) Cell 51:503 for a description of
homologous recombination vectors). The vector is introduced into an
embryonic stem cell line (e.g., by electroporation) and cells in
which the introduced gene has homologously recombined with the
endogenous gene are selected (see, e.g., Li et al. (1992) Cell
69:915). The selected cells are then injected into a blastocyst of
an animal (e.g., a mouse) to form aggregation chimeras (see, e.g.,
Bradley in Teratocarcinomas and Embryonic Stem Cells: A Practical
Approach, Robertson, ed. (IRL, Oxford, 1987) pp. 113-152). A
chimeric embryo can then be implanted into a suitable
pseudopregnant female foster animal and the embryo brought to term.
Progeny harboring the homologously recombined DNA in their germ
cells can be used to breed animals in which all cells of the animal
contain the homologously recombined DNA by germline transmission of
the transgene. Methods for constructing homologous recombination
vectors and homologous recombinant animals are described further in
Bradley (1991) Current Opinion in Biolfechnology 2:823-829 and in
PCT Publication Nos. WO 90/11354, WO 91/01140, WO 92/0968, and WO
93/04169.
[0338] In another embodiment, transgenic non-human animals can be
produced which contain selected systems which allow for regulated
expression of the transgene. One example of such a system is the
cre/toxP recombinase system of bacteriophage P1. For a description
of the cre/loxP recombinase system, see, e.g., Lakso et al. (1992)
Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 89:6232-6236. Another example of a
recombinase system is the FLP recombinase system of Saccharomyces
cerevisiae (O'Gorman et al. (1991) Science 251:1351-1355. If a
cre/loxP recombinase system is used to regulate expression of the
transgene, animals containing transgenes encoding both the Cre
recombinase and a selected protein are required. Such animals can
be provided through the construction of "double" transgenic
animals, e.g., by mating two transgenic animals, one containing a
transgene encoding a selected protein and the other containing a
transgene encoding a recombinase.
[0339] Clones of the non-human transgenic animals described herein
can also be produced according to the methods described in Wilmut
et al. (1997) Nature 385:810-813 and PCT Publication NOS. WO
97/07668 and WO 97/07669.
IV. Pharmaceutical Compositions
[0340] The nucleic acid molecules, polypeptides, and antibodies
(also referred to herein as "active compounds") of the invention
can be incorporated into pharmaceutical compositions suitable for
administration. Such compositions typically comprise the nucleic
acid molecule, protein, or antibody and a pharmaceutically
acceptable carrier. As used herein the language "pharmaceutically
acceptable carrier" is intended to include any and all solvents,
dispersion media, coatings, antibacterial and antifungal agents,
isotonic and absorption delaying agents, and the like, compatible
with pharmaceutical administration. The use of such media and
agents for pharmaceutically active substances is well known in the
art. Except insofar as any conventional media or agent is
incompatible with the active compound, use thereof in the
compositions is contemplated. Supplementary active compounds can
also be incorporated into the compositions.
[0341] The invention includes methods for preparing pharmaceutical
compositions for modulating the expression or activity of a
polypeptide or nucleic acid of the invention. Such methods comprise
formulating a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier with an agent
which modulates expression or activity of a polypeptide or nucleic
acid of the invention. Such compositions can further include
additional active agents. Thus, the invention further includes
methods for preparing a pharmaceutical composition by formulating a
pharmaceutically acceptable carrier with an agent which modulates
expression or activity of a polypeptide or nucleic acid of the
invention and one or more additional active compounds.
[0342] A pharmaceutical composition of the invention is formulated
to be compatible with its intended route of administration.
Examples of routes of administration include parenteral, e.g.,
intravenous, intradermal, subcutaneous, oral (e.g., inhalation),
transdermal (topical), transmucosal, and rectal administration.
Solutions or suspensions used for parenteral, intradermal, or
subcutaneous application can include the following components: a
sterile diluent such as water for injection, saline solution, fixed
oils, polyethylene glycols, glycerine, propylene glycol or other
synthetic solvents; antibacterial agents such as benzyl alcohol or
methyl parabens; antioxidants such as ascorbic acid or sodium
bisulfite; chelating agents such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic
acid; buffers such as acetates, citrates or phosphates and agents
for the adjustment of tonicity such as sodium chloride or dextrose.
pH can be adjusted with acids or bases, such as hydrochloric acid
or sodium hydroxide. The parenteral preparation can be enclosed in
ampoules, disposable syringes or multiple dose vials made of glass
or plastic.
[0343] Pharmaceutical compositions suitable for injectable use
include sterile aqueous solutions (where water soluble) or
dispersions and sterile powders for the extemporaneous preparation
of sterile injectable solutions or dispersions. For intravenous
administration, suitable carriers include physiological saline,
bacteriostatic water, Cremophor EL.TM. (BASF; Parsippany, N.J.) or
phosphate buffered saline (PBS). In all cases, the composition must
be sterile and should be fluid to the extent that easy
syringability exists. It must be stable under the conditions of
manufacture and storage and must be preserved against the
contaminating action of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi.
The carrier can be a solvent or dispersion medium containing, for
example, water, ethanol, polyol (for example, glycerol, propylene
glycol, and liquid polyetheylene glycol, and the like), and
suitable mixtures thereof. The proper fluidity can be maintained,
for example, by the use of a coating such as lecithin, by the
maintenance of the required particle size in the case of dispersion
and by the use of surfactants. Prevention of the action of
microorganisms can be achieved by various antibacterial and
antifungal agents, for example, parabens, chlorobutanol, phenol,
ascorbic acid, thimerosal, and the like. In many cases, it will be
preferable to include isotonic agents, for example, sugars,
polyalcohols such as mannitol, sorbitol, sodium chloride in the
composition. Prolonged absorption of the injectable compositions
can be brought about by including in the composition an agent which
delays absorption, for example, aluminum monostearate and
gelatin.
[0344] Sterile injectable solutions can be prepared by
incorporating the active compound (e.g., a polypeptide or antibody)
in the required amount in an appropriate solvent with one or a
combination of ingredients enumerated above, as required, followed
by filtered sterilization. Generally, dispersions are prepared by
incorporating the active compound into a sterile vehicle which
contains a basic dispersion medium and the required other
ingredients from those enumerated above. In the case of sterile
powders for the preparation of sterile injectable solutions, the
preferred methods of preparation are vacuum drying and
freeze-drying which yields a powder of the active ingredient plus
any additional desired ingredient from a previously
sterile-filtered solution thereof.
[0345] Oral compositions generally include an inert diluent or an
edible carrier. They can be enclosed in gelatin capsules or
compressed into tablets. For the purpose of oral therapeutic
administration, the active compound can be incorporated with
excipients and used in the form of tablets, troches, or capsules.
Oral compositions can also be prepared using a fluid carrier for
use as a mouthwash, wherein the compound in the fluid carrier is
applied orally and swished and expectorated or swallowed.
[0346] Pharmaceutically compatible binding agents, and/or adjuvant
materials can be included as part of the composition. The tablets,
pills, capsules, troches and the like can contain any of the
following ingredients, or compounds of a similar nature: a binder
such as microcrystalline cellulose, gum tragacanth or gelatin; an
excipient such as starch or lactose, a disintegrating agent such as
alginic acid, Primogel, or corn starch; a lubricant such as
magnesium stearate or Sterotes; a glidant such as colloidal silicon
dioxide; a sweetening agent such as sucrose or saccharin; or a
flavoring agent such as peppermint, methyl salicylate, or orange
flavoring.
[0347] For administration by inhalation, the compounds are
delivered in the form of an aerosol spray from a pressurized
container or dispenser which contains a suitable propellant, e.g.,
a gas such as carbon dioxide, or a nebulizer.
[0348] Systemic administration can also be by transmucosal or
transdermal means. For transmucosal or transdermal administration,
penetrants appropriate to the barrier to be permeated are used in
the formulation. Such penetrants are generally known in the art,
and include, for example, for transmucosal administration,
detergents, bile salts, and fusidic acid derivatives. Transmucosal
administration can be accomplished through the use of nasal sprays
or suppositories. For transdermal administration, the active
compounds are formulated into ointments, salves, gels, or creams as
generally known in the art.
[0349] The compounds can also be prepared in the form of
suppositories (e.g., with conventional suppository bases such as
cocoa butter and other glycerides) or retention enemas for rectal
delivery.
[0350] In one embodiment, the active compounds are prepared with
carriers that will protect the compound against rapid elimination
from the body, such as a controlled release formulation, including
implants and microencapsulated delivery systems. Biodegradable,
biocompatible polymers can be used, such as ethylene vinyl acetate,
polyanhydrides, polyglycolic acid, collagen, polyorthoesters, and
polylactic acid. Methods for preparation of such formulations will
be apparent to those skilled in the art. The materials can also be
obtained commercially from Alza Corporation and Nova
Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Liposomal suspensions (including liposomes
targeted to infected cells with monoclonal antibodies to viral
antigens) can also be used as pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.
These can be prepared according to methods known to those skilled
in the art, for example, as described in U.S. Pat. No.
4,522,811.
[0351] It is especially advantageous to formulate oral or
parenteral compositions in dosage unit form for ease of
administration and uniformity of dosage. Dosage unit form as used
herein refers to physically discrete units suited as unitary
dosages for the subject to be treated; each unit containing a
predetermined quantity of active compound calculated to produce the
desired therapeutic effect in association with the required
pharmaceutical carrier. The specification for the dosage unit forms
of the invention are dictated by and directly dependent on the
unique characteristics of the active compound and the particular
therapeutic effect to be achieved, and the limitations inherent in
the art of compounding such an active compound for the treatment of
individuals.
[0352] For antibodies, the preferred dosage is 0.1 mg/kg to 100
mg/kg of body weight (generally 10 mg/kg to 20 mgfkg). If the
antibody is to act in the brain, a dosage of 50 mg/kg to 100 mg/kg
is usually appropriate. Generally, partially human antibodies and
fully human antibodies have a longer half-life within the human
body than other antibodies. Accordingly, lower dosages and less
frequent administration is often possible. Modifications such as
lipidation can be used to stabilize antibodies and to enhance
uptake and tissue penetration (e.g., into the brain). A method for
lipidation of antibodies is described by Cruikshank et al. ((1997)
J. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes and Human Retrovirology
14:193).
[0353] As defined herein, a therapeutically effective amount of
protein or polypeptide (i.e., an effective dosage) ranges from
about 0.001 to 30 mg/kg body weight, preferably about 0.01 to 25
mg/kg body weight, more preferably about 0.1 to 20 mg/kg body
weight, and even more preferably about 1 to 10 mg/kg, 2 to 9 mg/kg,
3 to 8 mg/kg, 4 to 7 mg/kg, or 5 to 6 mg/kg body weight.
[0354] The skilled artisan will appreciate that certain factors may
influence the dosage required to effectively treat a subject,
including but not limited to the severity of the disease or
disorder, previous treatments, the general health and/or age of the
subject, and other diseases present. Moreover, treatment of a
subject with a therapeutically effective amount of a protein,
polypeptide, or antibody can include a single treatment or,
preferably, can include a series of treatments. In a preferred
example, a subject is treated with antibody, protein, or
polypeptide in the range of between about 0.1 to 20 mg/kg body
weight, one time per week for between about 1 to 10 weeks,
preferably between 2 to 8 weeks, more preferably between about 3 to
7 weeks, and even more preferably for about 4, 5, or 6 weeks. It
will also be appreciated that the effective dosage of antibody,
protein, or polypeptide used for treatment may increase or decrease
over the course of a particular treatment. Changes in dosage may
result and become apparent from the results of diagnostic assays as
described herein.
[0355] Preferably, administration of the TANGO 268 modulator is at
or near the site of the cells or tissue to be treated, e.g.,
administration is at or near the site of a platelet
aggregation-induced disorder such as one of those described
herein.
[0356] In certain embodiments, the TANGO 268 modulator is
administered or co-administered with at least one other desirable
agent, e.g., heparin or aspirin.
[0357] In certain instances, it is preferred that administration of
a TANGO 268 modulator comprises an initial bolus followed by
continuous infusion. For example, such instances will generally
include those wherein the modulator exhibits appreciable
reversibility in platelet binding, as, e.g., assayed via the
techniques described herein.
[0358] In one example, presented by way of illustration and not by
way of limitation, a dosage and administration regimen for
treatment of ischemic heart disease or thromboses comprises: in
patients undergoing percutaneous coronary angioplasty (PCA), the
TANGO 268 modulator (e.g., anti-TANGO 268 antibody) is administered
as a 0.25 mg/kg IV bolus plus infusion of 10 .mu.g/min or 0.125
.mu.g/kg/min (this can, alternatively, be performed in conjunction
with heparin and aspirin) for 12 hours. In patients with refractory
unstable angina in whom PCA is planned within 24 hours, the bolus
and infusion are given 18-24 hours before the procedure and the
infusion is continued for 1 hour or 12 hours after the
procedure.
[0359] The present invention encompasses agents which modulate
expression or activity. An agent may, for example, be a small
molecule. For example, such small molecules include, but are not
limited to, peptides, peptidomimetics, amino acids, amino acid
analogs, polynucleotides, polynucleotide analogs, nucleotides,
nucleotide analogs, organic or inorganic compounds (i.e,. including
heteroorganic and organometallic compounds) having a molecular
weight less than about 10,000 grams per mole, organic or inorganic
compounds having a molecular weight less than about 5,000 grams per
mole, organic or inorganic compounds having a molecular weight less
than about 1,000 grams per mole, organic or inorganic compounds
having a molecular weight less than about 500 grams per mole, and
salts, esters, and other pharmaceutically acceptable forms of such
compounds.
[0360] It is understood that appropriate doses of small molecule
agents depends upon a number of factors within the ken of the
ordinarily skilled physician, veterinarian, or researcher. The
dose(s) of the small molecule will vary, for example, depending
upon the identity, size, and condition of the subject or sample
being treated, further depending upon the route by which the
composition is to be administered, if applicable, and the effect
which the practitioner desires the small molecule to have upon the
nucleic acid or polypeptide of the invention. Exemplary doses
include milligram or microgram amounts of the small molecule per
kilogram of subject or sample weight (e.g., about 1 microgram per
kilogram to about 500 milligrams per kilogram, about 100 micrograms
per kilogram to about 5 milligrams per kilogram, or about 1
microgram per kilogram to about 50 micrograms per kilogram. It is
furthermore understood that appropriate doses of a small molecule
depend upon the potency of the small molecule with respect to the
expression or activity to be modulated. Such appropriate doses may
be determined using the assays described herein. When one or more
of these small molecules is to be administered to an animal (e.g.,
a human) in order to modulate expression or activity of a
polypeptide or nucleic acid of the invention, a physician,
veterinarian, or researcher may, for example, prescribe a
relatively low dose at first, subsequently increasing the dose
until an appropriate response is obtained. In addition, it is
understood that the specific dose level for any particular animal
subject will depend upon a variety of factors including the
activity of the specific compound employed, the age, body weight,
general health, gender, and diet of the subject, the time of
administration, the route of administration, the rate of excretion,
any drug combination, and the degree of expression or activity to
be modulated.
[0361] The nucleic acid molecules of the invention can be inserted
into vectors and used as gene therapy vectors. Gene therapy vectors
can be delivered to a subject by, for example, intravenous
injection, local administration (U.S. Pat. No. 5,328,470) or by
stereotactic injection (see, e.g., Chen et al. (1994) Proc. Natl.
Acad. Sci. USA 91:3054-3057). The pharmaceutical preparation of the
gene therapy vector can include the gene therapy vector in an
acceptable diluent, or can comprise a slow release matrix in which
the gene delivery vehicle is imbedded. Alternatively, where the
complete gene delivery vector can be produced intact from
recombinant cells, e.g., retroviral vectors, the pharmaceutical
preparation can include one or more cells which produce the gene
delivery system.
[0362] The pharmaceutical compositions can be included in a
container, pack, or dispenser together with instructions for
administration.
V. Uses and Methods of the Invention
[0363] The nucleic acid molecules, proteins, protein homologues,
and antibodies described herein can be used in one or more of the
following methods: a) screening assays; b) detection assays (e.g.,
chromosomal mapping, tissue typing, forensic biology); c)
predictive medicine (e.g., diagnostic assays, prognostic assays,
monitoring clinical trials, and pharmacogenomics); and d) methods
of treatment (e.g., therapeutic and prophylactic). The isolated
nucleic acid molecules of the invention can be used to express
proteins (e.g., via a recombinant expression vector in a host cell
in gene therapy applications), to detect mRNA (e.g., in a
biological sample) or a genetic lesion, and to modulate activity of
a polypeptide of the invention. In addition, the polypeptides of
the invention can be used to screen drugs or compounds which
modulate activity or expression of a polypeptide of the invention
as well as to treat disorders characterized by insufficient or
excessive production of a protein of the invention or production of
a form of a protein of the invention which has decreased or
aberrant activity compared to the wild type protein. In addition,
the antibodies of the invention can be used to detect and isolate a
protein of the invention or to modulate activity of a protein of
the invention.
[0364] This invention further pertains to novel agents identified
by the above-described screening assays and uses thereof for
treatments as described herein.
A. Screening Assays
[0365] The invention provides a method (also referred to herein as
a "screening assay") for identifying modulators, i.e., candidate or
test compounds or agents (e.g., peptides, peptidomimetics, small
molecules or other drugs) which bind to polypeptide of the
invention or have a stimulatory or inhibitory effect on, for
example, expression or activity of a polypeptide of the
invention.
[0366] In one embodiment, the invention provides assays for
screening candidate or test compounds which bind to or modulate the
activity of the membrane-bound form of a polypeptide of the
invention or biologically active portion thereof. The test
compounds of the present invention can be obtained using any of the
numerous approaches in combinatorial library methods known in the
art, including: biological libraries; spatially addressable
parallel solid phase or solution phase libraries; synthetic library
methods requiring deconvolution; the "one-bead one-compound"
library method; and synthetic library methods using affinity
chromatography selection. The biological library approach is
limited to peptide libraries, while the other four approaches are
applicable to peptide, non-peptide oligomer or small molecule
libraries of compounds (Lam (1997) Anticancer Drug Des.
12:145).
[0367] Examples of methods for the synthesis of molecular libraries
can be found in the art, for example in: DeWitt et al. (1993) Proc.
Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 90:6909; Erb et al. (1994) Proc. Natl. Acad.
Sci. USA 91:11422; Zuckermann et al. (1994). J. Med. Chem. 37:2678;
Cho et al. (1993) Science 261:1303; Carrell et al. (1994) Angew.
Chem. Int. Ed. Engl. 33:2059; Carell et al. (1994) Angew. Chem.
Int. Ed. Engl. 33:2061; and Gallop et al. (1994) J. Med. Chem.
37:1233.
[0368] Libraries of compounds may be presented in solution (e.g.,
Houghten (1992) Bio/Techniques 13:412421), or on beads (Lam (1991)
Nature 354:82-84), chips (Fodor (1993) Nature 364:555-556),
bacteria (U.S. Pat. No. 5,223,409), spores (U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,571,698; 5,403,484; and 5,223,409), plasmids (Cull et al. (1992)
Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 89:1865-1869) or phage (Scott and Smith
(1990) Science 249:386-390; Devlin (1990) Science 249:404-406;
Cwirla et al. (1990) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 87:6378-6382; and
Felici (1991) J. Mol. Biol. 222:301-310).
[0369] In one embodiment, an assay is a cell-based assay in which a
cell which expresses a membrane-bound form of a polypeptide of the
invention, or a biologically active portion thereof, on the cell
surface is contacted with a test compound and the ability of the
test compound to bind to the polypeptide determined. The cell, for
example, can be a yeast cell or a cell of mammalian origin.
Determining the ability of the test compound to bind to the
polypeptide can be accomplished, for example, by coupling the test
compound with a radioisotope or enzymatic label such that binding
of the test compound to the polypeptide or biologically active
portion thereof can be determined by detecting the labeled compound
in a complex. For example, test compounds can be labeled with
.sup.125I, .sup.35S, .sup.14C, or .sup.3H, either directly or
indirectly, and the radioisotope detected by direct counting of
radioemmission or by scintillation counting. Alternatively, test
compounds can be enzymatically labeled with, for example,
horseradish perbxidase, alkaline phosphatase, or luciferase, and
the enzymatic label detected by determination of conversion of an
appropriate substrate to product. In a preferred embodiment, the
assay comprises contacting a cell which expresses a membrane-bound
form of a polypeptide of the invention, or a biologically active
portion thereof, on the cell surface with a known compound which
binds the polypeptide to form an assay mixture, contacting the
assay mixture with a test compound, and determining the ability of
the test compound to interact with the polypeptide, wherein
determining the ability of the test compound to interact with the
polypeptide comprises determining the ability of the test compound
to preferentially bind to the polypeptide or a biologically active
portion thereof as compared to the known compound.
[0370] In another embodiment, an assay is a cell-based assay
comprising contacting a cell expressing a membrane-bound form of a
polypeptide of the invention, or a biologically active portion
thereof, on the cell surface with a test compound and determining
the ability of the test compound to modulate (e.g., stimulate or
inhibit) the activity of the polypeptide or biologically active
portion thereof. Determining the ability of the test compound to
modulate the activity of the polypeptide or a biologically active
portion thereof can be accomplished, for example, by determining
the ability of the polypeptide protein to bind to or interact with
a target molecule.
[0371] Determining the ability of a polypeptide of the invention to
bind to or interact with a target molecule can be accomplished by
one of the methods described above for determining direct binding.
As used herein, a "target molecule" is a molecule with which a
selected polypeptide (e.g., a polypeptide of the invention) binds
or interacts with in nature, for example, a molecule on the surface
of a cell which expresses the selected protein, a molecule on the
surface of a second cell, a molecule in the extracellular milieu, a
molecule associated with the internal surface of a cell membrane or
a cytoplasmic molecule. A target molecule can be a polypeptide of
the invention or some other polypeptide or protein. For example, a
target molecule can be a component of a signal transduction pathway
which facilitates transduction of an extracellular signal (e.g., a
signal generated by binding of a compound to a polypeptide of the
invention) through the cell membrane and into the cell or a second
intercellular protein which has catalytic activity or a protein
which facilitates the association of downstream signaling molecules
with a polypeptide of the invention. Determining the ability of a
polypeptide of the invention to bind to or interact with a target
molecule can be accomplished by determining the activity of the
target molecule. For example, the activity of the target molecule
can be determined by detecting induction of a cellular second
messenger of the target (e.g., intracellular Ca.sup.2+,
diacylglycerol, IP3, etc.), detecting catalytic/enzymatic activity
of the target on an appropriate substrate, detecting the induction
of a reporter gene (e.g., a regulatory element that is responsive
to a polypeptide of the invention operably linked to a nucleic acid
encoding a detectable marker, e.g., luciferase), or detecting a
cellular response, for example, cellular differentiation, or cell
proliferation.
[0372] In yet another embodiment, an assay of the present invention
is a cell-free assay comprising contacting a polypeptide of the
invention or biologically active portion thereof with a test
compound and determining the ability of the test compound to bind
to the polypeptide or biologically active portion thereof. Binding
of the test compound to the polypeptide can be determined either
directly or indirectly as described above. In a preferred
embodiment, the assay includes contacting the polypeptide of the
invention or biologically active portion thereof with a known
compound which binds the polypeptide to form an assay mixture,
contacting the assay mixture with a test compound, and determining
the ability of the test compound to interact with the polypeptide,
wherein determining the ability of the test compound to interact
with the polypeptide comprises determining the ability of the test
compound to preferentially bind to the polypeptide or biologically
active portion thereof as compared to the known compound.
[0373] In another embodiment, an assay is a cell-free assay
comprising contacting a polypeptide of the invention or
biologically active portion thereof with a test compound and
determining the ability of the test compound to modulate (e.g.,
stimulate or inhibit) the activity of the polypeptide or
biologically active portion thereof. Determining the ability of the
test compound to modulate the activity of the polypeptide can be
accomplished, for example, by determining the ability of the
polypeptide to bind to a target molecule by one of the methods
described above for determining direct binding. In an alternative
embodiment, determining the ability of the test compound to
modulate the activity of the polypeptide can be accomplished by
determining the ability of the polypeptide of the invention to
further modulate the target molecule. For example, the
catalytic/enzymatic activity of the target molecule on an
appropriate substrate can be determined as previously
described.
[0374] In yet another embodiment, the cell-free assay comprises
contacting a polypeptide of the invention or biologically active
portion thereof with a known compound which binds the polypeptide
to form an assay mixture, contacting the assay mixture with a test
compound, and determining the ability of the test compound to
interact with the polypeptide, wherein determining the ability of
the test compound to interact with the polypeptide comprises
determining the ability of the polypeptide to preferentially bind
to or modulate the activity of a target molecule.
[0375] The cell-free assays of the present invention are amenable
to use of both a soluble form or the membrane-bound form of a
polypeptide of the invention. In the case of cell-free assays
comprising the membrane-bound form of the polypeptide, it may be
desirable to utilize a solubilizing agent such that the
membrane-bound form of the polypeptide is maintained in solution.
Examples of such solubilizing agents include non-ionic detergents
such as n-octylglucoside, n-dodecylglucoside, n-octylmaltoside,
octanoyl-N-methylglucamide, decanoyl-N-methylglucamide, Triton
X-100, Triton X-114, Thesit, Isotridecypoly(ethylene glycol
ether)n, 3-[(3-cholamidopropyl)dimethylamminio]-1-propane sulfonate
(CHAPS), 3-[(3-cholamidopropyl)dimethylamminio]-2-hydroxy-1-propane
sulfonate (CHAPSO), or N-dodecyl=N,N-dimethyl-3-ammonio-1-propane
sulfonate.
[0376] In more than one embodiment of the above assay methods of
the present invention, it may be desirable to immobilize either the
polypeptide of the invention or its target molecule to facilitate
separation of complexed from uncomplexed forms of one or both of
the proteins, as well as to accommodate automation of the assay.
Binding of a test compound to the polypeptide, or interaction of
the polypeptide with a target molecule in the presence and absence
of a candidate compound, can be accomplished in any vessel suitable
for containing the reactants. Examples of such vessels include
microtitre plates, test tubes, and micro-centrifuge tubes. In one
embodiment, a fusion protein can be provided which adds a domain
that allows one or both of the proteins to be bound to a matrix.
For example, glutathione-S-transferase fusion proteins or
glutathione-S-transferase fusion proteins can be adsorbed onto
glutathione sepharose beads (Sigma Chemical; St. Louis, Mo.) or
glutathione derivatized microtitre plates, which are then combined
with the test compound or the test compound and either the
non-adsorbed target protein or A polypeptide of the invention, and
the mixture incubated under conditions conducive to complex
formation (e.g., at physiological conditions for salt and pH).
Following incubation, the beads or microtitre plate wells are
washed to remove any unbound components and complex formation is
measured either directly or indirectly, for example, as described
above. Alternatively, the complexes can be dissociated from the
matrix, and the level of binding or activity of the polypeptide of
the invention can be determined using standard techniques.
[0377] Other techniques for immobilizing proteins on matrices can
also be used in the screening assays of the invention. For example,
either the polypeptide of the invention or its target molecule can
be immobilized utilizing conjugation of biotin and streptavidin.
Biotinylated polypeptide of the invention or target molecules can
be prepared from biotin-NHS (N-hydroxy-succinimide) using
techniques well known in the art (e.g., biotinylation kit, Pierce
Chemicals; Rockford, Ill.), and immobilized in the wells of
streptavidin-coated 96 well plates (Pierce Chemical).
Alternatively, antibodies reactive with the polypeptide of the
invention or target molecules but which do not interfere with
binding of the polypeptide of the invention to its target molecule
can be derivatized to the wells of the plate, and unbound target or
polypeptide of the invention trapped in the wells by antibody
conjugation. Methods for detecting such complexes, in addition to
those described above for the GST-immobilized complexes, include
immunodetection of complexes using antibodies reactive with the
polypeptide of the invention or target molecule, as well as
enzyme-linked assays which rely on detecting an enzymatic activity
associated with the polypeptide of the invention or target
molecule.
[0378] In another embodiment, modulators of expression of a
polypeptide of the invention are identified in a method in which a
cell is contacted with a candidate compound and the expression of
the selected mRNA or protein (i.e., the mRNA or protein
corresponding to a polypeptide or nucleic acid of the invention) in
the cell is determined. The level of expression of the selected
mRNA or protein in the presence of the candidate compound is
compared to the level of expression of the selected mRNA or protein
in the absence of the candidate compound. The candidate compound
can then be identified as a modulator of expression of the
polypeptide of the invention based on this comparison. For example,
when expression of the selected mRNA or protein is greater
(statistically significantly greater) in the presence of the
candidate compound than in its absence, the candidate compound is
identified as a stimulator of the selected mRNA or protein
expression. Alternatively, when expression of the selected mRNA or
protein is less (statistically significantly less) in the presence
of the candidate compound than in its absence, the candidate
compound is identified as an inhibitor of the selected mRNA or
protein expression. The level of the selected mRNA or protein
expression in the cells can be determined by methods described
herein.
[0379] In yet another aspect of the invention, a polypeptide of the
inventions can be used as "bait proteins" in a two-hybrid assay or
three hybrid assay (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,283,317; Zervos et
al. (1993) Cell 72:223-232; Madura et al. (1993) J. Biol. Chem.
268:12046-12054; Bartel et al. (1993) Bio/Techniques 14:920-924;
Iwabuchi et al. (1993) Oncogene 8:1693-1696; and PCT Publication
No. WO 94/10300), to identify other proteins, which bind to or
interact with the polypeptide of the invention and modulate
activity of the polypeptide of the invention. Such binding proteins
are also likely to be involved in the propagation of signals by the
polypeptide of the inventions as, for example, upstream or
downstream elements of a signaling pathway involving the
polypeptide of the invention.
[0380] This invention further pertains to novel agents identified
by the above-described screening assays and uses thereof for
treatments as described herein.
B. Detection Assays
[0381] Portions or fragments of the cDNA sequences identified
herein (and the corresponding complete gene sequences) can be used
in numerous ways as polynucleotide reagents. For example, these
sequences can be used to: (i) map their respective genes on a
chromosome and, thus, locate gene regions associated with genetic
disease; (ii) identify an individual from a minute biological
sample (tissue typing); and (iii) aid in forensic identification of
a biological sample. These applications are described in the
subsections below.
1. Chromosome Mapping
[0382] Once the sequence (or a portion of the sequence) of a gene
has been isolated, this sequence can be used to map the location of
the gene on a chromosome. Accordingly, nucleic acid molecules
described herein or fragments thereof, can be used to map the
location of the corresponding genes on a chromosome. The mapping of
the sequences to chromosomes is an important first step in
correlating these sequences with genes associated with disease.
[0383] Briefly, genes can be mapped to chromosomes by preparing PCR
primers (preferably 15-25 bp in length) from the sequence of a gene
of the invention. Computer analysis of the sequence of a gene of
the invention can be used to rapidly select primers that do not
span more than one exon in the genomic DNA, thus complicating the
amplification process. These primers can then be used for PCR
screening of somatic cell hybrids containing individual human
chromosomes. Only those hybrids containing the human gene
corresponding to the gene sequences will yield an amplified
fragment. For a review of this technique, see D'Eustachio et al.
((1983) Science 220:919-924).
[0384] PCR mapping of somatic cell hybrids is a rapid procedure for
assigning a particular sequence to a particular chromosome. Three
or more sequences can be assigned per day using a single thermal
cycler. Using the nucleic acid sequences of the invention to design
oligonucleotide primers, sublocalization can be achieved with
panels of fragments from specific chromosomes. Other mapping
strategies which can similarly be used to map a gene to its
chromosome include in situ hybridization (described in Fan et al.
(1990) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 87:6223-27), pre-screening with
labeled flow-sorted chromosomes (CITE), and pre-selection by
hybridization to chromosome specific cDNA libraries. Fluorescence
in situ hybridization (FISH) of a DNA sequence to a metaphase
chromosomal spread can further be used to provide a precise
chromosomal location in one step. For a review of this technique,
see Verma et al., (Human Chromosomes: A Manual of Basic Techniques
(Pergamon Press, New York, 1988)).
[0385] Reagents for chromosome mapping can be used individually to
mark a single chromosome or a single site on that chromosome, or
panels of reagents can be used for marking multiple sites and/or
multiple chromosomes. Reagents corresponding to noncoding regions
of the genes actually are preferred for mapping purposes. Coding
sequences are more likely to be conserved within gene families,
thus increasing the chance of cross hybridizations during
chromosomal mapping.
[0386] Once a sequence has been mapped to a precise chromosomal
location, the physical position of the sequence on the chromosome
can be correlated with genetic map data. (Such data are found, for
example, in V. McKusick, Mendelian Inheritance in Man, available
on-line through Johns Hopkins University Welch Medical Library).
The relationship between genes and disease, mapped to the same
chromosomal region, can then be identified through linkage analysis
(co-inheritance of physically adjacent genes), described in, e.g.,
Egeland et al. (1987) Nature 325:783-787.
[0387] Moreover, differences in the DNA sequences between
individuals affected and unaffected with a disease associated with
a gene of the invention can be determined. If a mutation is
observed in some or all of the affected individuals but not in any
unaffected individuals, then the mutation is likely to be the
causative agent of the particular disease. Comparison of affected
and unaffected individuals generally involves first looking for
structural alterations in the chromosomes such as deletions or
translocations that are visible from chromosome spreads or
detectable using PCR based on that DNA sequence. Ultimately,
complete sequencing of genes from several individuals can be
performed to confirm the presence of a mutation and to distinguish
mutations from polymorphisms.
[0388] In the instant case, the human gene for GPVI was mapped on
radiation hybrid panels to the long arm of chromosome 19, in the
region 19q13. This region is syntenic to mouse chromosome 7.
Multiple members of the immunoglobulin superfamily, including
killer cell inhibitory receptors, immunoglobulin-like transcripts
(ILTI, 2, 3), the gp49b family and the Fc_receptor (CD89) also map
to this region of the human chromosome. These various receptors
differ considerably with respect to function and expression and it
may be hypothesized that functional differentiation occurred after
duplication of a common ancestral gene.
[0389] The mouse gene for GPVI was mapped using the T31
Mouse/Hamster Radiation Hybrid (McCarthy, Terrett et al. 1997). PCR
Amplification used the following mouse primers: forward primer
5'-CTGTAGCTGTTTTCAGACACACC-3' (SEQ ID NO:31) and reverse primer
5'-CCATCACCTCTTTCTGGTTAC-3' (SEQ ID NO:32). All PCRs were performed
with an annealing temperature of 52_C and extension times of 50 s
(72_C) and for 35 cycles, with a final extension of 5 minutes on an
MJ Research Peltier PCT-225 Thermal Cycler.
2. Tissue Typing
[0390] The nucleic acid sequences of the present invention can also
be used to identify individuals from minute biological samples. The
United States military, for example, is considering the use of
restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) for identification
of its personnel. In this technique, an individual's genomic DNA is
digested with one or more restriction enzymes, and probed on a
Southern blot to yield unique bands for identification. This method
does not suffer from the current limitations of "Dog Tags" which
can be lost, switched, or stolen, making positive identification
difficult. The sequences of the present invention are useful as
additional DNA markers for RFLP (described in U.S. Pat. No.
5,272,057).
[0391] Furthermore, the sequences of the present invention can be
used to provide an alternative technique which determines the
actual base-by-base DNA sequence of selected portions of an
individual's genome. Thus, the nucleic acid sequences described
herein can be used to prepare two PCR primers from the 5' and 3'
ends of the sequences. These primers can then be used to amplify an
individual's DNA and subsequently sequence it.
[0392] Panels of corresponding DNA sequences from individuals,
prepared in this manner, can provide unique individual
identifications, as each individual will have a unique set of such
DNA sequences due to allelic differences. The sequences of the
present invention can be used to obtain such identification
sequences from individuals and from tissue. The nucleic acid
sequences of the invention uniquely represent portions of the human
genome. Allelic variation occurs to some degree in the coding
regions of these sequences, and to a greater degree in the
noncoding regions. It is estimated that allelic variation between
individual humans occurs with a frequency at about once per each
500 bases. Each of the sequences described herein can, to some
degree, be used as a standard against which DNA from an individual
can be compared for identification purposes. Because greater
numbers of polymorphisms occur in the noncoding regions, fewer
sequences are necessary to differentiate individuals. The noncoding
sequences of SEQ ID NO:1 or 14 can comfortably provide positive
individual identification with a panel of perhaps 10 to 1,000
primers which each yield a noncoding amplified sequence of 100
bases. If predicted coding sequences, such as those in SEQ ID NO:1
or 14 are used, a more appropriate number of primers for positive
individual identification would be 500-2,000.
[0393] If a panel of reagents from the nucleic acid sequences
described herein is used to generate a unique identification
database for an individual, those same reagents can later be used
to identify tissue from that individual. Using the unique
identification database, positive identification of the individual,
living or dead, can be made from extremely small tissue
samples.
3. Use of Partial Gene Sequences in Forensic Biology
[0394] DNA-based identification techniques can also be used in
forensic biology. Forensic biology is a scientific field employing
genetic typing of biological evidence found at a crime scene as a
means for positively identifying, for example, a perpetrator of a
crime. To make such an identification, PCR technology can be used
to amplify DNA sequences taken from very small biological samples
such as tissues, e.g., hair or skin, or body fluids, e.g., blood,
saliva, or semen found at a crime scene. The amplified sequence can
then be compared to a standard, thereby allowing identification of
the origin of the biological sample.
[0395] The sequences of the present invention can be used to
provide polynucleotide reagents, e.g., PCR primers, targeted to
specific loci in the human genome, which can enhance the
reliability of DNA-based forensic identifications by, for example,
providing another "identification marker" (i.e. another DNA
sequence that is unique to a particular individual). As mentioned
above, actual base sequence information can be used for
identification as an accurate alternative to patterns formed by
restriction enzyme generated fragments. Sequences targeted to
noncoding regions are particularly appropriate for this use as
greater numbers of polymorphisms occur in the noncoding regions,
making it easier to differentiate individuals using this technique.
Examples of polynucleotide reagents include the nucleic acid
sequences of the invention or portions thereof, e.g., fragments
derived from noncoding regions having a length of at least 20 or 30
bases.
[0396] The nucleic acid sequences described herein can further be
used to provide polynucleotide reagents, e.g., labeled or labelable
probes which can be used in, for example, an in situ hybridization
technique, to identify a specific tissue, e.g., brain tissue. This
can be very useful in cases where a forensic pathologist is
presented with a tissue of unknown origin. Panels of such probes
can be used to identify tissue by species and/or by organ type.
C. Predictive Medicine
[0397] The present invention also pertains to the field of
predictive medicine in which diagnostic assays, prognostic assays,
pharmacogenomics, and monitoring clinical trails are used for
prognostic (predictive) purposes to thereby treat an individual
prophylactically. Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention
relates to diagnostic assays for determining expression of a
polypeptide or nucleic acid of the invention and/or activity of a
polypeptide of the invention, in the context of a biological sample
(e.g., blood, serum, cells, tissue) to thereby determine whether an
individual is afflicted with a disease or disorder, or is at risk
of developing a disorder, associated with aberrant expression or
activity of a polypeptide of the invention. The invention also
provides for prognostic (or predictive) assays for determining
whether an individual is at risk of developing a disorder
associated with aberrant expression or activity of a polypeptide of
the invention. For example, mutations in a gene of the invention
can be assayed in a biological sample. Such assays can be used for
prognostic or predictive purpose to thereby prophylactically treat
an individual prior to the onset of a disorder characterized by or
associated with aberrant expression or activity of a polypeptide of
the invention.
[0398] Another aspect of the invention provides methods for
expression of a nucleic acid or polypeptide of the invention or
activity of a polypeptide of the invention in an individual to
thereby select appropriate therapeutic or prophylactic agents for
that individual (referred to herein as "pharmacogenomics").
Pharmacogenomics allows for the selection of agents (e.g., drugs)
for therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of an individual based on
the genotype of the individual (e.g., the genotype of the
individual examined to determine the ability of the individual to
respond to a particular agent).
[0399] Yet another aspect of the invention pertains to monitoring
the influence of agents (e.g., drugs or other compounds) on the
expression or activity of a polypeptide of the invention in
clinical trials. These and other agents are described in further
detail in the following sections.
1. Diagnostic Assays
[0400] An exemplary method for detecting the presence or absence of
a polypeptide or nucleic acid of the invention in a biological
sample involves obtaining a biological sample from a test subject
and contacting the biological sample with a compound or an agent
capable of detecting a polypeptide or nucleic acid (e.g., mRNA,
genomic DNA) of the invention such that the presence of a
polypeptide or nucleic acid of the invention is detected in the
biological sample. A preferred agent for detecting mRNA or genomic
DNA encoding a polypeptide of the invention is a labeled nucleic
acid probe capable of hybridizing to mRNA or genomic DNA encoding a
polypeptide of the invention. The nucleic acid probe can be, for
example, a full-length cDNA, such as the nucleic acid of SEQ ID
NO:1, 2, 14 or 15, or a portion thereof, such as an oligonucleotide
of at least 15, 30, 50, 100, 250 or 500 nucleotides in length and
sufficient to specifically hybridize under stringent conditions to
a mRNA or genomic DNA encoding a polypeptide of the invention.
Other suitable probes for use in the diagnostic assays of the
invention are described herein.
[0401] A preferred agent for detecting a polypeptide of the
invention is an antibody capable of binding to a polypeptide of the
invention, preferably an antibody with a detectable label.
Antibodies can be polyclonal, or more preferably, monoclonal. An
intact antibody, or a fragment thereof (e.g., Fab or F(ab').sub.2)
can be used. The term "labeled", with regard to the probe or
antibody, is intended to encompass direct labeling of the probe or
antibody by coupling (i.e., physically linking) a detectable
substance to the probe or antibody, as well as indirect labeling of
the probe or antibody by reactivity with another reagent that is
directly labeled. Examples of indirect labeling include detection
of a primary antibody using a fluorescently labeled secondary
antibody and end-labeling of a DNA probe with biotin such that it
can be detected with fluorescently labeled streptavidin. The term
"biological sample" is intended to include tissues, cells and
biological fluids isolated from a subject, as well as tissues,
cells and fluids present within a subject. That is, the detection
method of the invention can be used to detect mRNA, protein, or
genomic DNA in a biological sample in vitro as well as in vivo. For
example, in vitro techniques for detection of mRNA include Northern
hybridizations and in situ hybridizations. In vitro techniques for
detection of a polypeptide of the invention include enzyme linked
immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), Western blots, immunoprecipitations
and immunofluorescence. In vitro techniques for detection of
genomic DNA include Southern hybridizations. Furthermore, in vivo
techniques for detection of a polypeptide of the invention include
introducing into a subject a labeled antibody directed against the
polypeptide. For example, the antibody can be labeled with a
radioactive marker whose presence and location in a subject can be
detected by standard imaging techniques.
[0402] In one embodiment, the biological sample contains protein
molecules from the test subject. Alternatively, the biological
sample can contain mRNA molecules from the test subject or genomic
DNA molecules from the test subject. A preferred biological sample
is a peripheral blood leukocyte sample isolated by conventional
means from a subject.
[0403] In another embodiment, the methods further involve obtaining
a control biological sample from a control subject, contacting the
control sample with a compound or agent capable of detecting a
polypeptide of the invention or mRNA or genomic DNA encoding a
polypeptide of the invention, such that the presence of the
polypeptide or mRNA or genomic DNA encoding the polypeptide is
detected in the biological sample, and comparing the presence of
the polypeptide or mRNA or genomic DNA encoding the polypeptide in
the control sample with the presence of the polypeptide or mRNA or
genomic DNA encoding the polypeptide in the test sample.
[0404] The invention also encompasses kits for detecting the
presence of a polypeptide or nucleic acid of the invention in a
biological sample (a test sample). Such kits can be used to
determine if a subject is suffering from or is at increased risk of
developing a disorder associated with aberrant expression of a
polypeptide of the invention as discussed, for example, n sections
above relating to uses of the sequences of the invention.
[0405] For example, kits can be used to determine if a subject is
suffering from or is at increased risk of disorders such as
immunological disorders, (e.g. thrombocytopenia and platelet
disorders), liver disorders, cerebral vascular diseases (e.g.,
stroke and ischemia), venous thromboembolisme diseases (e.g.,
diseases involving leg swelling, pain and ulceration, pulmonary
embolism, abdominal venous thrombosis), coronary diseases (e.g.,
cardiovascular diseases including unstable angina, acute myocardial
infarction, coronary artery disease, coronary revascularization,
ventricular thromboembolism, atherosclerosis, coronary artery
disease, and plaque formation), metastatic cancers (e.g., the
metastasis of cancerous colon and liver cells) and embryonic
disorders, which are associated with aberrant TANGO 268 expression.
The kit, for example, can comprise a labeled compound or agent
capable of detecting the polypeptide or mRNA encoding the
polypeptide in a biological sample and means for determining the
amount of the polypeptide or mRNA in the sample (e.g., an antibody
which binds the polypeptide or an oligonucleotide probe which binds
to DNA or mRNA encoding the polypeptide). Kits can also include
instructions for observing that the tested subject is suffering
from or is at risk of developing a disorder associated with
aberrant expression of the polypeptide if the amount of the
polypeptide or mRNA encoding the polypeptide is above or below a
normal level.
[0406] For antibody-based kits, the kit can comprise, for example:
(1) a first antibody (e.g., attached to a solid support) which
binds to a polypeptide of the invention; and, optionally, (2) a
second, different antibody which binds to either the polypeptide or
the first antibody and is conjugated to a detectable agent.
[0407] For oligonucleotide-based kits, the kit can comprise, for
example: (1) an oligonucleotide, e.g., a detectably labeled
oligonucleotide, which hybridizes to a nucleic acid sequence
encoding a polypeptide of the invention or (2) a pair of primers
useful for amplifying a nucleic acid molecule encoding a
polypeptide of the invention. The kit can also comprise, e.g., a
buffering agent, a preservative, or a protein stabilizing agent.
The kit can also comprise components necessary for detecting the
detectable agent (e.g., an enzyme or a substrate). The kit can also
contain a control sample or a series of control samples which can
be assayed and compared to the test sample contained. Each
component of the kit is usually enclosed within an individual
container and all of the various containers are within a single
package along with instructions for observing whether the tested
subject is suffering from or is at risk of developing a disorder
associated with aberrant expression of the polypeptide.
2. Prognostic Assays
[0408] The methods described herein can furthermore be utilized as
diagnostic or prognostic assays to identify subjects having or at
risk of developing a disease or disorder associated with aberrant
expression or activity of a polypeptide of the invention. For
example, the assays described herein, such as the preceding
diagnostic assays or the following assays, can be utilized to
identify a subject having or at risk of developing a disorder
associated with aberrant expression or activity of a polypeptide of
the invention, e.g., an immunologic disorder, or embryonic
disorders. Alternatively, the prognostic assays can be utilized to
identify a subject having or at risk for developing such a disease
or disorder. Thus, the present invention provides a method in which
a test sample is obtained from a subject and a polypeptide or
nucleic acid (e.g., mRNA, genomic DNA) of the invention is
detected, wherein the presence of the polypeptide or nucleic acid
is diagnostic for a subject having or at risk of developing a
disease or disorder associated with aberrant expression or activity
of the polypeptide. As used herein, a "test sample" refers to a
biological sample obtained from a subject of interest. For example,
a test sample can be a biological fluid (e.g., serum), cell sample,
or tissue.
[0409] The prognostic assays described herein, for example, can be
used to identify a subject having or at risk of developing
disorders such as disorders discussed, for example, in sections
above relating to uses of the sequences of the invention. For
example, such disorders can include immunological disorders, (e.g.
thrombocytopenia and platelet disorders), liver disorders, cerebral
vascular diseases (e.g., stroke and ischemia), venous
thromboembolisme diseases (e.g., diseases involving leg swelling,
pain and ulceration, pulmonary embolism, abdominal venous
thrombosis), coronary diseases (e.g., cardiovascular diseases
including unstable angina, acute myocardial infarction, coronary
artery disease, coronary revascularization, ventricular
thromboembolism, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, and
plaque formation), metastatic cancers (e.g., the metastasis of
cancerous colon and liver cells) and progression to such metastatic
tumors, developmental disorders and embryonic disorders, which are
associated with aberrant TANGO 268 expression.
[0410] Furthermore, the prognostic assays described herein can be
used to determine whether a subject can be administered an agent
(e.g., an agonist, antagonist, peptidomimetic, protein, peptide,
nucleic acid, small molecule, or other drug candidate) to treat a
disease or disorder associated with aberrant expression or activity
of a polypeptide of the invention. For example, such methods can be
used to determine whether a subject can be effectively treated with
a specific agent or class of agents (e.g., agents of a type which
decrease activity of the polypeptide). Thus, the present invention
provides methods for determining whether a subject can be
effectively treated with an agent for a disorder associated with
aberrant expression or activity of a polypeptide of the invention
in which a test sample is obtained and the polypeptide or nucleic
acid encoding the polypeptide is detected (e.g., wherein the
presence of the polypeptide or nucleic acid is diagnostic for a
subject that can be administered the agent to treat a disorder
associated with aberrant expression or activity of the
polypeptide).
[0411] The methods of the invention can also be used to detect
genetic lesions or mutations in a gene of the invention, thereby
determining if a subject with the lesioned gene is at risk for a
disorder characterized aberrant expression or activity of a
polypeptide of the invention. In preferred embodiments, the methods
include detecting, in a sample of cells from the subject, the
presence or absence of a genetic lesion or mutation characterized
by at least one of an alteration affecting the integrity of a gene
encoding the polypeptide of the invention, or the mis-expression of
the gene encoding the polypeptide of the invention. For example,
such genetic lesions or mutations can be detected by ascertaining
the existence of at least one of: 1) a deletion of one or more
nucleotides from the gene; 2) an addition of one or more
nucleotides to the gene; 3) a substitution of one or more
nucleotides of the gene; 4) a chromosomal rearrangement of the
gene; 5) an alteration in the level of a messenger RNA transcript
of the gene; 6) an aberrant modification of the gene, such as of
the methylation pattern of the genomic DNA; 7) the presence of a
non-wild type splicing pattern of a messenger RNA transcript of the
gene; 8) a non-wild type level of a the protein encoded by the
gene; 9) an allelic loss of the gene; and 10) an inappropriate
post-translational modification of the protein encoded by the gene.
As described herein, there are a large number of assay techniques
known in the art which can be used for detecting lesions in a
gene.
[0412] In certain embodiments, detection of the lesion involves the
use of a probe/primer in a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (see,
e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,683,195 and 4,683,202), such as anchor PCR
or RACE PCR, or, alternatively, in a ligation chain reaction (LCR)
(see, e.g., Landegran et al. (1988) Science 241:1077-1080; and
Nakazawa et al. (1994) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 91:360-364), the
latter of which can be particularly useful for detecting point
mutations in a gene (see, e.g., Abravaya et al. (1995) Nucleic
Acids Res. 23:675-682). This method can include the steps of
collecting a sample of cells from a patient, isolating nucleic acid
(e.g., genomic, mRNA or both) from the cells of the sample,
contacting the nucleic acid sample with one or more primers which
specifically hybridize to the selected gene under conditions such
that hybridization and amplification of the gene (if present)
occurs, and detecting the presence or absence of an amplification
product, or detecting the size of the amplification product and
comparing the length to a control sample. It is anticipated that
PCR and/or LCR may be desirable to use as a preliminary
amplification step in conjunction with any of the techniques used
for detecting mutations described herein.
[0413] Alternative amplification methods include: self sustained
sequence replication (Guatelli et al. (1990) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.
USA 87:1874-1878), transcriptional amplification system (Kwoh, et
al. (1989) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 86:1173-1177), Q-Beta
Replicase (Lizardi et al. (1988) Bio/Technology 6:1197), or any
other nucleic acid amplification method, followed by the detection
of the amplified molecules using techniques well known to those of
skill in the art. These detection schemes are especially useful for
the detection of nucleic acid molecules if such molecules are
present in very low numbers.
[0414] In an alternative embodiment, mutations in a selected gene
from a sample cell can be identified by alterations in restriction
enzyme cleavage patterns. For example, sample and control DNA is
isolated, amplified (optionally), digested with one or more
restriction endonucleases, and fragment length sizes are determined
by gel electrophoresis and compared. Differences in fragment length
sizes between sample and control DNA indicates mutations in the
sample DNA. Moreover, the use of sequence specific ribozymes (see,
e.g., U.S. Pat. No.5,498,531) can be used to score for the presence
of specific mutations by development or loss of a ribozyme cleavage
site.
[0415] In other embodiments, genetic mutations can be identified by
hybridizing a sample and control nucleic acids, e.g., DNA or RNA,
to high density arrays containing hundreds or thousands of
oligonucleotides probes (Cronin et al. (1996) Human Mutation
7:244-255; Kozal et al. (1996) Nature Medicine 2:753-759). For
example, genetic mutations can be identified in two-dimensional
arrays containing light-generated DNA probes as described in Cronin
et al., supra. Briefly, a first hybridization array of probes can
be used to scan through long stretches of DNA in a sample and
control to identify base changes between the sequences by making
linear arrays of sequential overlapping probes. This step allows
the identification of point mutations. This step is followed by a
second hybridization array that allows the characterization of
specific mutations by using smaller, specialized probe arrays
complementary to all variants or mutations detected. Each mutation
array is composed of parallel probe sets, one complementary to the
wild-type gene and the other complementary to the mutant gene.
[0416] In yet another embodiment, any of a variety of sequencing
reactions known in the art can be used to directly sequence the
selected gene and detect mutations by comparing the sequence of the
sample nucleic acids with the corresponding wild-type (control)
sequence. Examples of sequencing reactions include those based on
techniques developed by Maxim and Gilbert ((1977) Proc. Natl. Acad.
Sci. USA 74:560) or Sanger ((1977) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA
74:5463). It is also contemplated that any of a variety of
automated sequencing procedures can be utilized when performing the
diagnostic assays ((1995) Bio/Techniques 19:448), including
sequencing by mass spectrometry (see, e.g., PCT Publication No. WO
94/16101; Cohen et al. (1996) Adv. Chromatogr. 36:127-162; and
Griffin etal. (1993) Appl. Biochem. Biotechnol. 38:147-159).
[0417] Other methods for detecting mutations in a selected gene
include methods in which protection from cleavage agents is used to
detect mismatched bases in RNA/RNA or RNA/DNA heteroduplexes (Myers
et al. (1985) Science 230:1242). In general, the technique of
"mismatch cleavage" entails providing heteroduplexes formed by
hybridizing (labeled) RNA or DNA containing the wild-type sequence
with potentially mutant RNA or DNA obtained from a tissue sample.
The double-stranded duplexes are treated with an agent which
cleaves single-stranded regions of the duplex such as which will
exist due to basepair mismatches between the control and sample
strands. RNA/DNA duplexes can be treated with RNase to digest
mismatched regions, and DNA/DNA hybrids can be treated with S 1
nuclease to digest mismatched regions.
[0418] In other embodiments, either DNA/DNA or RNA/DNA duplexes can
be treated with hydroxylamine or osmium tetroxide and with
piperidine in order to digest mismatched regions. After digestion
of the mismatched regions, the resulting material is then separated
by size on denaturing polyacrylamide gels to determine the site of
mutation. See, e.g., Cotton et al. (1988) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.
USA 85:4397; Saleeba et al. (1992) Methods Enzymol. 217:286-295. In
a preferred embodiment, the control DNA or RNA can be labeled for
detection.
[0419] In still another embodiment, the mismatch cleavage reaction
employs one or more proteins that recognize mismatched base pairs
in double-stranded DNA (so called "DNA mismatch repair" enzymes) in
defined systems for detecting and mapping point mutations in cDNAs
obtained from samples of cells. For example, the mutY enzyme of E.
coli cleaves A at G/A mismatches and the thymidine DNA glycosylase
from HeLa cells cleaves T at G/T mismatches (Hsu et al. (1994)
Carcinogenesis 15:1657-1662). According to an exemplary embodiment,
a probe based on a selected sequence, e.g., a wild-type sequence,
is hybridized to a cDNA or other DNA product from a test cell(s).
The duplex is treated with a DNA mismatch repair enzyme, and the
cleavage products, if any, can be detected from electrophoresis
protocols or the like. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,459,039.
[0420] In other embodiments, alterations in electrophoretic
mobility will be used to identify mutations in genes. For example,
single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) may be used to
detect differences in electrophoretic mobility between mutant and
wild type nucleic acids (Orita et al. (1989) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.
USA 86:2766; see also Cotton (1993) Mutat. Res. 285:125-144;
Hayashi (1992) Genet. Anal. Tech. Appl. 9:73-79). Single-stranded
DNA fragments of sample and control nucleic acids will be denatured
and allowed to renature. The secondary structure of single-stranded
nucleic acids varies according to sequence, and the resulting
alteration in electrophoretic mobility enables the detection of
even a single base change. The DNA fragments may be labeled or
detected with labeled probes. The sensitivity of the assay may be
enhanced by using RNA (rather than DNA), in which the secondary
structure is more sensitive to a change in sequence. In a preferred
embodiment, the subject method utilizes heteroduplex analysis to
separate double stranded heteroduplex molecules on the basis of
changes in electrophoretic mobility (Keen et al. (1991) Trends
Genet. 7:5).
[0421] In yet another embodiment, the movement of mutant or
wild-type fragments in polyacrylamide gels containing a gradient of
denaturant is assayed using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis
(DGGE) (Myers et al. (1985) Nature 313:495). When DGGE is used as
the method of analysis, DNA will be modified to insure that it does
not completely denature, for example by adding a 'GC clamp of
approximately 40 bp of high-melting GC-rich DNA by PCR. In a
further embodiment, a temperature gradient is used in place of a
denaturing gradient to identify differences in the mobility of
control and sample DNA (Rosenbaum and Reissner (1987) Biophys.
Chem. 265:12753).
[0422] Examples of other techniques for detecting point mutations
include, but are not limited to, selective oligonucleotide
hybridization, selective amplification, or selective primer
extension. For example, oligonucleotide primers may be prepared in
which the known mutation is placed centrally and then hybridized to
target DNA under conditions which permit hybridization only if a
perfect match is found (Saiki et al. (1986) Nature 324:163); Saiki
et al. (1989) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 86:6230). Such allele
specific oligonucleotides are hybridized to PCR amplified target
DNA or a number of different mutations when the oligonucleotides
are attached to the hybridizing membrane and hybridized with
labeled target DNA.
[0423] Alternatively, allele specific amplification technology
which depends on selective PCR amplification may be used in
conjunction with the instant invention. Oligonucleotides used as
primers for specific amplification may carry the mutation of
interest in the center of the molecule (so that amplification
depends on differential hybridization) (Gibbs et al. (1989) Nucleic
Acids Res. 17:2437-2448) or at the extreme 3' end of one primer
where, under appropriate conditions, mismatch can prevent or reduce
polymerase extension (Prossner (1993) Tibtech 11:238). In addition,
it may be desirable to introduce a novel restriction site in the
region of the mutation to create cleavage-based detection
(Gasparini et al. (1992) Mol. Cell Probes 6: 1). It is anticipated
that in certain embodiments amplification may also be performed
using Taq ligase for amplification (Barany (1991) Proc. Natl. Acad.
Sci. USA 88:189). In such cases, ligation will occur only if there
is a perfect match at the 3' end of the 5' sequence making it
possible to detect the presence of a known mutation at a specific
site by looking for the presence or absence of amplification.
[0424] The methods described herein may be performed, for example,
by utilizing pre-packaged diagnostic kits comprising at least one
probe nucleic acid or antibody reagent described herein, which may
be conveniently used, e.g., in clinical settings to diagnose
patients exhibiting symptoms or family history of a disease or
illness involving a gene encoding a polypeptide of the invention.
Furthermore, any cell type or tissue, e.g., chondrocytes, in which
the polypeptide of the invention is expressed may be utilized in
the prognostic assays described herein.
3. Pharmacogenomics
[0425] Agents, or modulators which have a stimulatory or inhibitory
effect on activity or expression of a polypeptide of the invention
as identified by a screening assay described herein can be
administered to individuals to treat (prophylactically or
therapeutically) disorders associated with aberrant activity of the
polypeptide. In conjunction with such treatment, the
pharmacogenomics (i.e., the study of the relationship between an
individual's genotype and that individual's response to a foreign
compound or drug) of the individual may be considered. Differences
in metabolism of therapeutics can lead to severe toxicity or
therapeutic failure by altering the relation between dose and blood
concentration of the pharmacologically active drug. Thus, the
pharmacogenomics of the individual permits the selection of
effective agents (e.g., drugs) for prophylactic or therapeutic
treatments based on a consideration of the individual's genotype.
Such pharmacogenomics can further be used to determine appropriate
dosages and therapeutic regimens. Accordingly, the activity of a
polypeptide of the invention, expression of a nucleic acid of the
invention, or mutation content of a gene of the invention in an
individual can be determined to thereby select appropriate agent(s)
for therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of the individual.
[0426] Pharmacogenomics deals with clinically significant
hereditary variations in the response to drugs due to altered drug
disposition and abnormal action in affected persons. See, e.g.,
Linder (1997) Clin. Chem. 43(2):254-266. In general, two types of
pharmacogenetic conditions can be differentiated. Genetic
conditions transmitted as a single factor altering the way drugs
act on the body are referred to as "altered drug action." Genetic
conditions transmitted as single factors altering the way the body
acts on drugs are referred to as "altered drug metabolism". These
pharmacogenetic conditions can occur either as rare defects or as
polymorphisms. For example, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase
deficiency (G6PD) is a common inherited enzymopathy in which the
main clinical complication is haemolysis after ingestion of oxidant
drugs (anti-malarials, sulfonamides, analgesics, nitrofurans) and
consumption of fava beans.
[0427] As an illustrative embodiment, the activity of drug
metabolizing enzymes is a major determinant of both the intensity
and duration of drug action. The discovery of genetic polymorphisms
of drug metabolizing enzymes (e.g., N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT 2)
and cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP2C19) has provided an
explanation as to why some patients do not obtain the expected drug
effects or show exaggerated drug response and serious toxicity
after taking the standard and safe dose of a drug. These
polymorphisms are expressed in two phenotypes in the population,
the extensive metabolizer (EM) and poor metabolizer (PM). The
prevalence of PM is different among different populations. For
example, the gene coding for CYP2D6 is highly polymorphic and
several mutations have been identified in PM, which all lead to the
absence of functional CYP2D6. Poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 and CYP2C
19 quite frequently experience exaggerated drug response and side
effects when they receive standard doses. If a metabolite is the
active therapeutic moiety, a PM will show no therapeutic response,
as demonstrated for the analgesic effect of codeine mediated by its
CYP2D6-formed metabolite morphine. The other extreme are the so
called ultra-rapid metabolizers who do not respond to standard
doses. Recently, the molecular basis of ultra-rapid metabolism has
been identified to be due to CYP2D6 gene amplification.
[0428] Thus, the activity of a polypeptide of the invention,
expression of a nucleic acid encoding the polypeptide, or mutation
content of a gene encoding the polypeptide in an individual can be
determined to thereby select appropriate agent(s) for therapeutic
or prophylactic treatment of the individual. In addition,
pharmacogenetic studies can be used to apply genotyping of
polymorphic alleles encoding drug-metabolizing enzymes to the
identification of an individual's drug responsiveness phenotype.
This knowledge, when applied to dosing or drug selection, can avoid
adverse reactions or therapeutic failure and thus enhance
therapeutic or prophylactic efficiency when treating a subject with
a modulator of activity or expression of the polypeptide, such as a
modulator identified by one of the exemplary screening assays
described herein.
4. Monitoring of TANGO 268 Modulator Effects
[0429] Monitoring the influence of agents (e.g., drugs, compounds)
on the expression or activity of a polypeptide of the invention
(e.g., the ability to modulate aberrant cell proliferation
chemotaxis, and/or differentiation) can be applied in basic drug
screening, preclinical studies, clinical trials and during
therapeutic treatment regimens.
[0430] For example, the effectiveness of an agent, as determined by
a screening assay as described herein, to increase gene expression,
protein levels or protein activity, can be monitored in clinical
trials of subjects exhibiting decreased gene expression, protein
levels, or protein activity. Alternatively, the effectiveness of an
agent, as determined by a screening assay, to decrease gene
expression, protein levels or protein activity, can be monitored in
clinical trials of subjects exhibiting increased gene expression,
protein levels, or protein activity. In such clinical trials,
expression or activity of a polypeptide of the invention and
preferably, that of other polypeptide that have been implicated in
for example, a cellular proliferation disorder, can be used as a
marker of the immune responsiveness of a particular cell.
[0431] For example, and not by way of limitation, genes, including
those of the invention, that are modulated in cells by treatment
with an agent (e.g., compound, drug or small molecule) which
modulates activity or expression of a polypeptide of the invention
(e.g., as identified in a screening assay described herein) can be
identified. Thus, to study the effect of agents on cellular
proliferation disorders, for example, in a clinical trial, cells
can be isolated and RNA prepared and analyzed for the levels of
expression of a gene of the invention and other genes implicated in
the disorder. The levels of gene expression (i.e., a gene
expression pattern) can be quantified by Northern blot analysis or
RT-PCR, as described herein, or alternatively by measuring the
amount of protein produced, by one of the methods as described
herein, or by measuring the levels of activity of a gene of the
invention or other genes. In this way, the gene expression pattern
can serve as a marker, indicative of the physiological response of
the cells to the agent. Accordingly, this response state may be
determined before, and at various points during, treatment of the
individual with the agent.
[0432] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a
method for monitoring the effectiveness of treatment of a subject
with an agent (e.g., an agonist, antagonist, peptidomimetic,
protein, peptide, nucleic acid, small molecule, or other drug
candidate identified by the screening assays described herein)
comprising the steps of (i) obtaining a pre-administration sample
from a subject prior to administration of the agent; (ii) detecting
the level of the polypeptide or nucleic acid of the invention in
the preadministration sample; (iii) obtaining one or more
post-administration samples from the subject; (iv) detecting the
level the of the polypeptide or nucleic acid of the invention in
the post-administration samples; (v) comparing the level of the
polypeptide or nucleic acid of the invention in the
pre-administration sample with the level of the polypeptide or
nucleic acid of the invention in the post-administration sample or
samples; and (vi) altering the administration of the agent to the
subject accordingly. For example, increased administration of the
agent may be desirable to increase the expression or activity of
the polypeptide to higher levels than detected, i.e., to increase
the effectiveness of the agent. Alternatively, decreased
administration of the agent may be desirable to decrease expression
or activity of the polypeptide to lower levels than detected, i.e.,
to decrease the effectiveness of the agent.
[0433] TANGO 268 is expressed on the surface of platelets. As such,
a cellular and therapeutic target of modulators of TANGO 268 (e.g.,
an anti-TANGO 268 antibody) is readily available for testing and
analysis (e.g., for in vitro testing and analysis). This coupled
with the availability of several different relevant platelet assays
(see above) provides an unusual drug development opportunity for
TANGO 268 modulators. For example, the in vivo pharmacodynamic
characterization of TANGO 268 modulators can be facilitated via the
availability of various platelet assays (e.g., prolongation of
bleeding time, quantitative measurement of TANGO 268 receptor
blockade, inhibition of ex vivo platelet aggregation) that can be
correlated with each other to permit more effective assessment of a
modulator's functional consequences. The correlation available for
such assays, therefore, allows for the in vitro characterization of
a TANGO 268 modulator to more directly apply to the measurement of
the modulator's therapeutic effect.
[0434] In addition to utilizing the availability of platelets and
platelet assays for assessing the therapeutic efficacy, including
clinical efficacy, of a TANGO 268 modulator, this availability can
also be utilized for preclinical drug development aspects such as
determining modulator dosage response, toxicology, magnitude of
effect (e.g., magnitude of initial effect and magnitude of effect's
duration), function, specificity (e.g., specificity with respect to
particular platelet functions), receptor specificity, and species
specificity (which, in turn, can identify appropriate animal models
for pharmacology studies).
[0435] In one embodiment, therefore, a method of the invention
includes a method for identifying a TANGO 268 modulator, (e.g., an
anti-TANGO 268 antibody), comprising: incubating a platelet
(preferably human platelet)-rich sample with a compound and a
platelet agonist (e.g., ADP, epinephrine, thrombin, collagen), and
assaying platelet aggregation, such that if platelet aggregation in
the sample differs from that of a corresponding platelet-rich
sample incubated with the platelet agonist in the absence of the
compound, then a modulator of TANGO 268 platelet aggregation is
identified. In a variation of this embodiment, the sample is
incubated with the compound prior to addition and concurrent
incubation with the platelet agonist.
[0436] In another embodiment, a method of the invention includes a
method for monitoring the clinical efficacy of a TANGO 268
modulator (or the effectiveness of treatment with a TANGO 268
modulator), comprising: incubating a patient sample comprising
platelets (a platelet-rich sample, e.g., one containing
approximately 200,000-/300,000 platelets per ml.sup.3) with a
platelet agonist, measuring the level of platelet aggregation in
the sample, and comparing the level obtained with that of a
corresponding control platelet sample, wherein the patient sample
is obtained from a patient to whom a TANGO 268 modulator has been
administered, and the control platelet sample is one that has been
incubated with the platelet agonist but has not been treated with
the TANGO 268 modulator. In instances wherein the aggregation level
obtained in the patient sample is lower than that of the control
sample, the monitoring of the clinical efficacy of the TANGO 268
modulator (or the effectiveness of treatment with the TANGO 268
modulator) is confirmed.
[0437] In yet another embodiment, a method of the invention
includes a method for determining the therapeutic dosage of a TANGO
268 modulator to be administered to an individual in need of
treatment for a TANGO 268-related disorder, comprising:
administering a dose of a TANGO 268 modulator to a non-human animal
model of a TANGO 268-related disorder, and assaying TANGO 268
function and/or assaying a symptom of the TANGO 268-related
disorder in the animal, so that if TANGO 268 function and/or
symptom in the animal is modulated in a manner that more closely
resembles a corresponding animal not exhibiting the TANGO 268
disorder, a therapeutic dosage of the TANGO 268 modulator is
determined, e.g., by extrapolating to the corresponding dosage in a
human.
[0438] In a particular embodiment of such a method, platelet
function and/or aggregation is assayed via, e.g., techniques such
as those presented herein. Further, the animal model can be, e.g.,
one of the animal models described herein.
C. Methods of Treatment
[0439] The present invention provides for both prophylactic and
therapeutic methods of treating a subject at risk of (or
susceptible to) a disorder or having a disorder associated with
aberrant expression or activity of a polypeptide of the invention,
as discussed, for example, in sections above relating to uses of
the sequences of the invention. For example, disorders
characterized by aberrant expression or activity of the
polypeptides of the invention include immunologic disorders,
developmental disorders, embryonic disorders, liver disorders,
cerebral vascular diseases (e.g., stroke and ischemia), venous
thromboembolisme diseases (e.g., diseases involving leg swelling,
pain and ulceration, pulmonary embolism, abdominal venous
thrombosis), coronary diseases (e.g., cardiovascular diseases
including unstable angina, acute myocardial infarction, coronary
artery disease, coronary revascularization, ventricular
thromboembolism, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, and
plaque formation), and metastatic cancers (e.g., the metastasis of
cancerous colon and liver cells). The nucleic acids, polypeptides,
and modulators thereof of the invention can be used to treat
immunologic diseases and disorders (e.g., platelet disorders),
embryonic disorders liver disorders, cerebral vascular diseases
(e.g., stroke and ischemia), venous thromboembolisme diseases
(e.g., diseases involving leg swelling, pain and ulceration,
pulmonary embolism, abdominal venous thrombosis), thrombotic
disorders (e.g., thrombotic occlusion of coronary arteries),
coronary diseases (e.g., cardiovascular diseases, including
unstable angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, acute myocardial
infarction, coronary artery disease, coronary revascularization,
coronary restenosis, ventricular thromboembolism, atherosclerosis,
coronary artery disease (e.g., arterial occulsive disorders), and
plaque formation, cardiac ischemia, including complications related
to coronary procedures, such as percutaneous coronary artery
angioplasty (balloon angioplasty) procedures). With respect to
coronary procedures, such modulation can be achieved via
administration of GPVI modulators prior to, during, or subsequent
to the procedure. In a preferred embodiment, such administration
can be utilized to prevent acture cardiac ischemia following
angioplasty. and metastatic cancers (e.g., the metastasis of
cancerous colon and liver cells), as well as other disorders
described herein.
[0440] TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins and modulators thereof
can, therefore, be used to modulate disorders resulting from any
blood vessel insult that can result in platelet aggregation. Such
blood vessel insults include, but are not limited to, vessel wall
injury, such as vessel injuries that result in a highly
thrombogenic surface exposed within an otherwise intact blood
vessel e.g., vessel wall injuries that result in release of ADP,
thrombin and/or epinephrine, fluid shear stress that occurs at the
site of vessel narrowing, ruptures and/or tears at the sites of
atherosclerotic plaques, and injury resulting from balloon
angioplasty or atherectomy.
[0441] Preferably, the TANGO 268 nucleic acids, proteins and
modulators (e.g., anti-TANGO 268 antibodies) thereof do not effect
initial platelet adhesion to vessel surfaces, or effect such
adhesion to a relatively lesser extent than the effect on
platelet-platelet aggregation, e.g., unregulated platelet-platelet
aggregation, following the initial platelet adhesion. Further, in
certain embodiments, it is preferred that the TANGO 268 nucleic
acids, proteins and modulators (e.g., anti-TANGO 268 antibodies)
thereof do not effect other platelet attributes or functions, such
as agonist-induced platelet shape change (e.g., GPlb-vWF-mediated
platelet agglutination induced by ristocetin), release of internal
platelet granule components, activation of signal transduction
pathways or induction of calcium mobilization upon platelet
activation.
1. Prophylactic Methods
[0442] In one aspect, the invention provides a method for
preventing in a subject, a disease or condition associated with an
aberrant expression or activity of a polypeptide of the invention,
by administering to the subject an agent which modulates expression
or at least one activity of the polypeptide. Subjects at risk for a
disease which is caused or contributed to by aberrant expression or
activity of a polypeptide of the invention can be identified by,
for example, any or a combination of diagnostic or prognostic
assays as described herein. Administration of a prophylactic agent
can occur prior to the manifestation of symptoms characteristic of
the aberrancy, such that a disease or disorder is prevented or,
alternatively, delayed in its progression. Depending on the type of
aberrancy, for example, an agonist or antagonist agent can be used
for treating the subject. For example, an antagonist of a TANGO 240
protein may be used to treat an arthropathic disorder, e.g.,
rheumatoid arthritis. The appropriate agent can be determined based
on screening assays described herein.
2. Therapeutic Methods
[0443] Another aspect of the invention pertains to methods of
modulating expression or activity of a polypeptide of the invention
for therapeutic purposes. The modulatory method of the invention
involves contacting a cell with an agent that modulates one or more
of the activities of the polypeptide. An agent that modulates
activity can be an agent as described herein, such as a nucleic
acid or a protein, a naturally-occurring cognate ligand of the
polypeptide, a peptide, a peptidomimetic, or other small molecule.
In one embodiment, the agent stimulates one or more of the
biological activities of the polypeptide. Examples of such
stimulatory agents include the active polypeptide of the invention
and a nucleic acid molecule encoding the polypeptide of the
invention that has been introduced into the cell. In another
embodiment, the agent inhibits one or more of the biological
activities of the polypeptide of the invention. Examples of such
inhibitory agents include antisense nucleic acid molecules and
antibodies. These modulatory methods can be performed in vitro
(e.g., by culturing the cell with the agent) or, alternatively, in
vivo (e.g., by administering the agent to a subject). As such, the
present invention provides methods of treating an individual
afflicted with a disease or disorder characterized by aberrant
expression or activity of a polypeptide of the invention. In one
embodiment, the method involves administering an agent (e.g., an
agent identified by a screening assay described herein), or
combination of agents that modulates (e.g., upregulates or
downregulates) expression or activity. In another embodiment, the
method involves administering a polypeptide of the invention or a
nucleic acid molecule of the invention as therapy to compensate for
reduced or aberrant expression or activity of the polypeptide.
[0444] Stimulation of activity is desirable in situations in which
activity or expression is abnormally low or downregulated and/or in
which increased activity is likely to have a beneficial effect.
Conversely, inhibition of activity is desirable in situations in
which activity or expression is abnormally high or upregulated
and/or in which decreased activity is likely to have a beneficial
effect.
[0445] The contents of all references, patents and published patent
applications cited throughout this application are hereby
incorporated by reference.
Deposit of Clones
[0446] A clone containing a cDNA molecule encoding human TANGO 268
(clone EpthEal Idl) was deposited with the American Type Culture
Collection, 10801 University Boulevard, Manassas, Va., 20110-2209,
on Mar. 30, 1999 as Accession Number 207180.
[0447] A clone containing a cDNA molecule encoding mouse TANGO 268
(clone EpTm268) was deposited with the American Type Culture
Collection, 10801 University Boulevard, Manassas, Va., 20110-2209,
on Jun. 14, 1999 as PTA-225.
Equivalents
[0448] Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to
ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many
equivalents to the specific embodiments of the invention described
herein. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the
following claims.
Sequence CWU 1
1
24 1 2047 DNA Homo sapiens 1 ggagtcgacc cacgcgtccg cagggctgag
gaaccatgtc tccatccccg accgccctct 60 tctgtcttgg gctgtgtctg
gggcgtgtgc cagcgcagag tggaccgctc cccaagccct 120 ccctccaggc
tctgcccagc tccctggtgc ccctggagaa gccagtgacc ctccggtgcc 180
agggacctcc gggcgtggac ctgtaccgcc tggagaagct gagttccagc aggtaccagg
240 atcaggcagt cctcttcatc ccggccatga agagaagtct ggctggacgc
taccgctgct 300 cctaccagaa cggaagcctc tggtccctgc ccagcgacca
gctggagctc gttgccacgg 360 gagtttttgc caaaccctcg ctctcagccc
agcccggccc ggcggtgtcg tcaggagggg 420 acgtaaccct acagtgtcag
actcggtatg gctttgacca atttgctctg tacaaggaag 480 gggaccctgc
gccctacaag aatcccgaga gatggtaccg ggctagtttc cccatcatca 540
cggtgaccgc cgcccacagc ggaacctacc gatgctacag cttctccagc agggacccat
600 acctgtggtc ggcccccagc gaccccctgg agcttgtggt cacaggaacc
tctgtgaccc 660 ccagccggtt accaacagaa ccaccttcct cggtagcaga
attctcagaa gccaccgctg 720 aactgaccgt ctcattcaca aacaaagtct
tcacaactga gacttctagg agtatcacca 780 ccagtccaaa ggagtcagac
tctccagctg gtcctgcccg ccagtactac accaagggca 840 acctggtccg
gatatgcctc ggggctgtga tcctaataat cctggcgggg tttctggcag 900
aggactggca cagccggagg aagcgcctgc ggcacagggg cagggctgtg cagaggccgc
960 ttccgcccct gccgcccctc ccgcagaccc ggaaatcaca cgggggtcag
gatggaggcc 1020 gacaggatgt tcacagccgc gggttatgtt catgaccgct
gaaccccagg cacggtcgta 1080 tccaagggag ggatcatggc atgggaggcg
actcaaagac tggcgtgtgt ggagcgtgga 1140 agcaggaggg cagaggctac
agctgtggaa acgaggccat gctgcctcct cctggtgttc 1200 catcagggag
ccgttcggcc agtgtctgtc tgtctgtctg cctctctgtc tgagggcacc 1260
ctccatttgg gatggaagga atctgtggag accccatcct cctccctgca cactgtggat
1320 gacatggtac cctggctgga ccacatactg gcctctttct tcaacctctc
taatatgggc 1380 tccagacgga tctctaaggt tcccagctct cagggttgac
tctgttccat cctctgtgca 1440 aaatcctcct gtgcttccct ttggccctct
gtgctcttgt ctggttttcc ccagaaactc 1500 tcaccctcac tccatctccc
actgcggtct aacaaatctc ctttcgtctc tcagaacggg 1560 tcttgcaggc
agtttgggta tgtcattcat tttccttagt gtaaaactag cacgttgccc 1620
gcttcccttc acattagaaa acaagatcag cctgtgcaac atggtgaaac ctcatctcta
1680 ccaacaaaac aaaaaaacac aaaaattagc caggtgtggt ggtgcatccc
tatactccca 1740 gcaactcggg gggctgaggt gggagaatgg cttgagcctg
ggaggcagag gttgcagtga 1800 gctgagatca caccactgca ctctagctcg
ggtgacgaag cctgaccttg tctcaaaaaa 1860 tacagggatg aatatgtcaa
ttaccctgat ttgatcatag cacgttgtat acatgtactg 1920 caatattgct
gtccacccca taaatatgta caattatgta tacattttta aaatcataaa 1980
aataagataa tgaaaaaaaa aaaaaaaaaa aaaaaaaggg cgggccgcta gactagtcta
2040 gagaaca 2047 2 1017 DNA Homo sapiens 2 atgtctccat ccccgaccgc
cctcttctgt cttgggctgt gtctggggcg tgtgccagcg 60 cagagtggac
cgctccccaa gccctccctc caggctctgc ccagctccct ggtgcccctg 120
gagaagccag tgaccctccg gtgccaggga cctccgggcg tggacctgta ccgcctggag
180 aagctgagtt ccagcaggta ccaggatcag gcagtcctct tcatcccggc
catgaagaga 240 agtctggctg gacgctaccg ctgctcctac cagaacggaa
gcctctggtc cctgcccagc 300 gaccagctgg agctcgttgc cacgggagtt
tttgccaaac cctcgctctc agcccagccc 360 ggcccggcgg tgtcgtcagg
aggggacgta accctacagt gtcagactcg gtatggcttt 420 gaccaatttg
ctctgtacaa ggaaggggac cctgcgccct acaagaatcc cgagagatgg 480
taccgggcta gtttccccat catcacggtg accgccgccc acagcggaac ctaccgatgc
540 tacagcttct ccagcaggga cccatacctg tggtcggccc ccagcgaccc
cctggagctt 600 gtggtcacag gaacctctgt gacccccagc cggttaccaa
cagaaccacc ttcctcggta 660 gcagaattct cagaagccac cgctgaactg
accgtctcat tcacaaacaa agtcttcaca 720 actgagactt ctaggagtat
caccaccagt ccaaaggagt cagactctcc agctggtcct 780 gcccgccagt
actacaccaa gggcaacctg gtccggatat gcctcggggc tgtgatccta 840
ataatcctgg cggggtttct ggcagaggac tggcacagcc ggaggaagcg cctgcggcac
900 aggggcaggg ctgtgcagag gccgcttccg cccctgccgc ccctcccgca
gacccggaaa 960 tcacacgggg gtcaggatgg aggccgacag gatgttcaca
gccgcgggtt atgttca 1017 3 339 PRT Homo sapiens 3 Met Ser Pro Ser
Pro Thr Ala Leu Phe Cys Leu Gly Leu Cys Leu Gly 1 5 10 15 Arg Val
Pro Ala Gln Ser Gly Pro Leu Pro Lys Pro Ser Leu Gln Ala 20 25 30
Leu Pro Ser Ser Leu Val Pro Leu Glu Lys Pro Val Thr Leu Arg Cys 35
40 45 Gln Gly Pro Pro Gly Val Asp Leu Tyr Arg Leu Glu Lys Leu Ser
Ser 50 55 60 Ser Arg Tyr Gln Asp Gln Ala Val Leu Phe Ile Pro Ala
Met Lys Arg 65 70 75 80 Ser Leu Ala Gly Arg Tyr Arg Cys Ser Tyr Gln
Asn Gly Ser Leu Trp 85 90 95 Ser Leu Pro Ser Asp Gln Leu Glu Leu
Val Ala Thr Gly Val Phe Ala 100 105 110 Lys Pro Ser Leu Ser Ala Gln
Pro Gly Pro Ala Val Ser Ser Gly Gly 115 120 125 Asp Val Thr Leu Gln
Cys Gln Thr Arg Tyr Gly Phe Asp Gln Phe Ala 130 135 140 Leu Tyr Lys
Glu Gly Asp Pro Ala Pro Tyr Lys Asn Pro Glu Arg Trp 145 150 155 160
Tyr Arg Ala Ser Phe Pro Ile Ile Thr Val Thr Ala Ala His Ser Gly 165
170 175 Thr Tyr Arg Cys Tyr Ser Phe Ser Ser Arg Asp Pro Tyr Leu Trp
Ser 180 185 190 Ala Pro Ser Asp Pro Leu Glu Leu Val Val Thr Gly Thr
Ser Val Thr 195 200 205 Pro Ser Arg Leu Pro Thr Glu Pro Pro Ser Ser
Val Ala Glu Phe Ser 210 215 220 Glu Ala Thr Ala Glu Leu Thr Val Ser
Phe Thr Asn Lys Val Phe Thr 225 230 235 240 Thr Glu Thr Ser Arg Ser
Ile Thr Thr Ser Pro Lys Glu Ser Asp Ser 245 250 255 Pro Ala Gly Pro
Ala Arg Gln Tyr Tyr Thr Lys Gly Asn Leu Val Arg 260 265 270 Ile Cys
Leu Gly Ala Val Ile Leu Ile Ile Leu Ala Gly Phe Leu Ala 275 280 285
Glu Asp Trp His Ser Arg Arg Lys Arg Leu Arg His Arg Gly Arg Ala 290
295 300 Val Gln Arg Pro Leu Pro Pro Leu Pro Pro Leu Pro Gln Thr Arg
Lys 305 310 315 320 Ser His Gly Gly Gln Asp Gly Gly Arg Gln Asp Val
His Ser Arg Gly 325 330 335 Leu Cys Ser 4 20 PRT Homo sapiens 4 Met
Ser Pro Ser Pro Thr Ala Leu Phe Cys Leu Gly Leu Cys Leu Gly 1 5 10
15 Arg Val Pro Ala 20 5 319 PRT Homo sapiens 5 Gln Ser Gly Pro Leu
Pro Lys Pro Ser Leu Gln Ala Leu Pro Ser Ser 1 5 10 15 Leu Val Pro
Leu Glu Lys Pro Val Thr Leu Arg Cys Gln Gly Pro Pro 20 25 30 Gly
Val Asp Leu Tyr Arg Leu Glu Lys Leu Ser Ser Ser Arg Tyr Gln 35 40
45 Asp Gln Ala Val Leu Phe Ile Pro Ala Met Lys Arg Ser Leu Ala Gly
50 55 60 Arg Tyr Arg Cys Ser Tyr Gln Asn Gly Ser Leu Trp Ser Leu
Pro Ser 65 70 75 80 Asp Gln Leu Glu Leu Val Ala Thr Gly Val Phe Ala
Lys Pro Ser Leu 85 90 95 Ser Ala Gln Pro Gly Pro Ala Val Ser Ser
Gly Gly Asp Val Thr Leu 100 105 110 Gln Cys Gln Thr Arg Tyr Gly Phe
Asp Gln Phe Ala Leu Tyr Lys Glu 115 120 125 Gly Asp Pro Ala Pro Tyr
Lys Asn Pro Glu Arg Trp Tyr Arg Ala Ser 130 135 140 Phe Pro Ile Ile
Thr Val Thr Ala Ala His Ser Gly Thr Tyr Arg Cys 145 150 155 160 Tyr
Ser Phe Ser Ser Arg Asp Pro Tyr Leu Trp Ser Ala Pro Ser Asp 165 170
175 Pro Leu Glu Leu Val Val Thr Gly Thr Ser Val Thr Pro Ser Arg Leu
180 185 190 Pro Thr Glu Pro Pro Ser Ser Val Ala Glu Phe Ser Glu Ala
Thr Ala 195 200 205 Glu Leu Thr Val Ser Phe Thr Asn Lys Val Phe Thr
Thr Glu Thr Ser 210 215 220 Arg Ser Ile Thr Thr Ser Pro Lys Glu Ser
Asp Ser Pro Ala Gly Pro 225 230 235 240 Ala Arg Gln Tyr Tyr Thr Lys
Gly Asn Leu Val Arg Ile Cys Leu Gly 245 250 255 Ala Val Ile Leu Ile
Ile Leu Ala Gly Phe Leu Ala Glu Asp Trp His 260 265 270 Ser Arg Arg
Lys Arg Leu Arg His Arg Gly Arg Ala Val Gln Arg Pro 275 280 285 Leu
Pro Pro Leu Pro Pro Leu Pro Gln Thr Arg Lys Ser His Gly Gly 290 295
300 Gln Asp Gly Gly Arg Gln Asp Val His Ser Arg Gly Leu Cys Ser 305
310 315 6 41 PRT Homo sapiens 6 Cys Gln Gly Pro Pro Gly Val Asp Leu
Tyr Arg Leu Glu Lys Leu Ser 1 5 10 15 Ser Ser Arg Tyr Gln Asp Gln
Ala Val Leu Phe Ile Pro Ala Met Lys 20 25 30 Arg Ser Leu Ala Gly
Arg Tyr Arg Cys 35 40 7 47 PRT Homo sapiens 7 Cys Gln Thr Arg Tyr
Gly Phe Asp Gln Phe Ala Leu Tyr Lys Glu Gly 1 5 10 15 Asp Pro Ala
Pro Tyr Lys Asn Pro Glu Arg Trp Tyr Arg Ala Ser Phe 20 25 30 Pro
Ile Ile Thr Val Thr Ala Ala His Ser Gly Thr Tyr Arg Cys 35 40 45 8
19 PRT Homo sapiens 8 Leu Val Arg Ile Cys Leu Gly Ala Val Ile Leu
Ile Ile Leu Ala Gly 1 5 10 15 Phe Leu Ala 9 249 PRT Homo sapiens 9
Gln Ser Gly Pro Leu Pro Lys Pro Ser Leu Gln Ala Leu Pro Ser Ser 1 5
10 15 Leu Val Pro Leu Glu Lys Pro Val Thr Leu Arg Cys Gln Gly Pro
Pro 20 25 30 Gly Val Asp Leu Tyr Arg Leu Glu Lys Leu Ser Ser Ser
Arg Tyr Gln 35 40 45 Asp Gln Ala Val Leu Phe Ile Pro Ala Met Lys
Arg Ser Leu Ala Gly 50 55 60 Arg Tyr Arg Cys Ser Tyr Gln Asn Gly
Ser Leu Trp Ser Leu Pro Ser 65 70 75 80 Asp Gln Leu Glu Leu Val Ala
Thr Gly Val Phe Ala Lys Pro Ser Leu 85 90 95 Ser Ala Gln Pro Gly
Pro Ala Val Ser Ser Gly Gly Asp Val Thr Leu 100 105 110 Gln Cys Gln
Thr Arg Tyr Gly Phe Asp Gln Phe Ala Leu Tyr Lys Glu 115 120 125 Gly
Asp Pro Ala Pro Tyr Lys Asn Pro Glu Arg Trp Tyr Arg Ala Ser 130 135
140 Phe Pro Ile Ile Thr Val Thr Ala Ala His Ser Gly Thr Tyr Arg Cys
145 150 155 160 Tyr Ser Phe Ser Ser Arg Asp Pro Tyr Leu Trp Ser Ala
Pro Ser Asp 165 170 175 Pro Leu Glu Leu Val Val Thr Gly Thr Ser Val
Thr Pro Ser Arg Leu 180 185 190 Pro Thr Glu Pro Pro Ser Ser Val Ala
Glu Phe Ser Glu Ala Thr Ala 195 200 205 Glu Leu Thr Val Ser Phe Thr
Asn Lys Val Phe Thr Thr Glu Thr Ser 210 215 220 Arg Ser Ile Thr Thr
Ser Pro Lys Glu Ser Asp Ser Pro Ala Gly Pro 225 230 235 240 Ala Arg
Gln Tyr Tyr Thr Lys Gly Asn 245 10 51 PRT Homo sapiens 10 Glu Asp
Trp His Ser Arg Arg Lys Arg Leu Arg His Arg Gly Arg Ala 1 5 10 15
Val Gln Arg Pro Leu Pro Pro Leu Pro Pro Leu Pro Gln Thr Arg Lys 20
25 30 Ser His Gly Gly Gln Asp Gly Gly Arg Gln Asp Val His Ser Arg
Gly 35 40 45 Leu Cys Ser 50 11 2170 DNA Homo sapiens 11 ctgagggctc
atccctctgc agagcgcggg gtcaccggga ggagacgcca tgacgcccgc 60
cctcacagcc ctgctctgcc ttgggctgag tctgggcccc aggacccgcg tgcaggcagg
120 gcccttcccc aaacccaccc tctgggctga gccaggctct gtgatcagct
gggggagccc 180 cgtgaccatc tggtgtcagg ggagcctgga ggcccaggag
taccgactgg ataaagaggg 240 aagcccagag cccttggaca gaaataaccc
actggaaccc aagaacaagg ccagattctc 300 catcccatcc atgacagagc
accatgcggg gagataccgc tgccactatt acagctctgc 360 aggctggtca
gagcccagcg accccctgga gctggtgatg acaggattct acaacaaacc 420
caccctctca gccctgccca gccctgtggt ggcctcaggg gggaatatga ccctccgatg
480 tggctcacag aagggatatc accattttgt tctgatgaag gaaggagaac
accagctccc 540 ccggaccctg gactcacagc agctccacag tggggggttc
caggccctgt tccctgtggg 600 ccccgtgaac cccagccaca ggtggaggtt
cacatgctat tactattata tgaacacccc 660 ccaggtgtgg tcccacccca
gtgaccccct ggagattctg ccctcaggcg tgtctaggaa 720 gccctccctc
ctgaccctgc agggccctgt cctggcccct gggcagagcc tgaccctcca 780
gtgtggctct gatgtcggct acgacagatt tgttctgtat aaggaggggg aacgtgactt
840 cctccagcgc cctggccagc agccccaggc tgggctctcc caggccaact
tcaccctggg 900 ccctgtgagc ccctcccacg ggggccagta caggtgctat
ggtgcacaca acctctcctc 960 cgagtggtcg gcccccagcg accccctgaa
catcctgatg gcaggacaga tctatgacac 1020 cgtctccctg tcagcacagc
cgggccccac agtggcctca ggagagaacg tgaccctgct 1080 gtgtcagtca
tggtggcagt ttgacacttt ccttctgacc aaagaagggg cagcccatcc 1140
cccactgcgt ctgagatcaa tgtacggagc tcataagtac caggctgaat tccccatgag
1200 tcctgtgacc tcagcccacg cggggaccta caggtgctac ggctcataca
gctccaaccc 1260 ccacctgctg tctttcccca gtgagcccct ggaactcatg
gtctcaggac actctggagg 1320 ctccagcctc ccacccacag ggccgccctc
cacacctggt ctgggaagat acctggaggt 1380 tttgattggg gtctcggtgg
ccttcgtcct gctgctcttc ctcctcctct tcctcctcct 1440 ccgacgtcag
cgtcacagca aacacaggac atctgaccag agaaagactg atttccagcg 1500
tcctgcaggg gctgcggaga cagagcccaa ggacaggggc ctgctgagga ggtccagccc
1560 agctgctgac gtccaggaag aaaacctcta tgctgccgtg aaggacacac
agtctgagga 1620 cagggtggag ctggacagtc agagcccaca cgatgaagac
ccccaggcag tgacgtatgc 1680 cccggtgaaa cactccagtc ctaggagaga
aatggcctct cctccctcct cactgtctgg 1740 ggaattcctg gacacaaagg
acagacaggt ggaagaggac aggcagatgg acactgaggc 1800 tgctgcatct
gaagcctccc aggatgtgac ctacgcccag ctgcacagct tgacccttag 1860
acggaaggca actgagcctc ctccatccca ggaaggggaa cctccagctg agcccagcat
1920 ctacgccact ctggccatcc actagcccgg ggggtacgca gaccccacac
tcagcagaag 1980 gagactcagg actgctgaag gcacgggagc tgcccccagt
ggacaccagt gaaccccagt 2040 cagcctggac ccctaacaca gaccatgagg
agacgctggg aacttgtggg actcacctga 2100 ctcaaagatg actaatatcg
tcccattttg gaaataaagc aacagacttc tcaacaatca 2160 atgagttaat 2170 12
631 PRT Homo sapiens 12 Met Thr Pro Ala Leu Thr Ala Leu Leu Cys Leu
Gly Leu Ser Leu Gly 1 5 10 15 Pro Arg Thr Arg Val Gln Ala Gly Pro
Phe Pro Lys Pro Thr Leu Trp 20 25 30 Ala Glu Pro Gly Ser Val Ile
Ser Trp Gly Ser Pro Val Thr Ile Trp 35 40 45 Cys Gln Gly Ser Leu
Glu Ala Gln Glu Tyr Arg Leu Asp Lys Glu Gly 50 55 60 Ser Pro Glu
Pro Leu Asp Arg Asn Asn Pro Leu Glu Pro Lys Asn Lys 65 70 75 80 Ala
Arg Phe Ser Ile Pro Ser Met Thr Glu His His Ala Gly Arg Tyr 85 90
95 Arg Cys His Tyr Tyr Ser Ser Ala Gly Trp Ser Glu Pro Ser Asp Pro
100 105 110 Leu Glu Leu Val Met Thr Gly Phe Tyr Asn Lys Pro Thr Leu
Ser Ala 115 120 125 Leu Pro Ser Pro Val Val Ala Ser Gly Gly Asn Met
Thr Leu Arg Cys 130 135 140 Gly Ser Gln Lys Gly Tyr His His Phe Val
Leu Met Lys Glu Gly Glu 145 150 155 160 His Gln Leu Pro Arg Thr Leu
Asp Ser Gln Gln Leu His Ser Gly Gly 165 170 175 Phe Gln Ala Leu Phe
Pro Val Gly Pro Val Asn Pro Ser His Arg Trp 180 185 190 Arg Phe Thr
Cys Tyr Tyr Tyr Tyr Met Asn Thr Pro Gln Val Trp Ser 195 200 205 His
Pro Ser Asp Pro Leu Glu Ile Leu Pro Ser Gly Val Ser Arg Lys 210 215
220 Pro Ser Leu Leu Thr Leu Gln Gly Pro Val Leu Ala Pro Gly Gln Ser
225 230 235 240 Leu Thr Leu Gln Cys Gly Ser Asp Val Gly Tyr Asp Arg
Phe Val Leu 245 250 255 Tyr Lys Glu Gly Glu Arg Asp Phe Leu Gln Arg
Pro Gly Gln Gln Pro 260 265 270 Gln Ala Gly Leu Ser Gln Ala Asn Phe
Thr Leu Gly Pro Val Ser Pro 275 280 285 Ser His Gly Gly Gln Tyr Arg
Cys Tyr Gly Ala His Asn Leu Ser Ser 290 295 300 Glu Trp Ser Ala Pro
Ser Asp Pro Leu Asn Ile Leu Met Ala Gly Gln 305 310 315 320 Ile Tyr
Asp Thr Val Ser Leu Ser Ala Gln Pro Gly Pro Thr Val Ala 325 330 335
Ser Gly Glu Asn Val Thr Leu Leu Cys Gln Ser Trp Trp Gln Phe Asp 340
345 350 Thr Phe Leu Leu Thr Lys Glu Gly Ala Ala His Pro Pro Leu Arg
Leu 355 360 365 Arg Ser Met Tyr Gly Ala His Lys Tyr Gln Ala Glu Phe
Pro Met Ser 370 375 380 Pro Val Thr Ser Ala His Ala Gly Thr Tyr Arg
Cys Tyr Gly Ser Tyr 385 390 395 400 Ser Ser Asn Pro His Leu Leu Ser
Phe Pro Ser Glu Pro Leu Glu Leu 405 410 415 Met Val Ser Gly His Ser
Gly Gly Ser Ser Leu Pro Pro Thr Gly Pro 420 425 430 Pro Ser Thr Pro
Gly Leu Gly Arg Tyr Leu Glu Val Leu Ile Gly Val 435 440 445 Ser Val
Ala Phe Val Leu Leu Leu Phe Leu Leu Leu Phe Leu Leu
Leu 450 455 460 Arg Arg Gln Arg His Ser Lys His Arg Thr Ser Asp Gln
Arg Lys Thr 465 470 475 480 Asp Phe Gln Arg Pro Ala Gly Ala Ala Glu
Thr Glu Pro Lys Asp Arg 485 490 495 Gly Leu Leu Arg Arg Ser Ser Pro
Ala Ala Asp Val Gln Glu Glu Asn 500 505 510 Leu Tyr Ala Ala Val Lys
Asp Thr Gln Ser Glu Asp Arg Val Glu Leu 515 520 525 Asp Ser Gln Ser
Pro His Asp Glu Asp Pro Gln Ala Val Thr Tyr Ala 530 535 540 Pro Val
Lys His Ser Ser Pro Arg Arg Glu Met Ala Ser Pro Pro Ser 545 550 555
560 Ser Leu Ser Gly Glu Phe Leu Asp Thr Lys Asp Arg Gln Val Glu Glu
565 570 575 Asp Arg Gln Met Asp Thr Glu Ala Ala Ala Ser Glu Ala Ser
Gln Asp 580 585 590 Val Thr Tyr Ala Gln Leu His Ser Leu Thr Leu Arg
Arg Lys Ala Thr 595 600 605 Glu Pro Pro Pro Ser Gln Glu Gly Glu Pro
Pro Ala Glu Pro Ser Ile 610 615 620 Tyr Ala Thr Leu Ala Ile His 625
630 13 50 PRT Homo sapiens 13 Gly Gln Ser Val Ile Leu Arg Cys Gln
Gly Pro Pro Asp Val Asp Leu 1 5 10 15 Tyr Arg Leu Glu Lys Leu Lys
Pro Glu Lys Tyr Glu Asp Gln Asp Phe 20 25 30 Leu Phe Ile Pro Thr
Met Glu Arg Ser Asn Ala Gly Arg Tyr Arg Cys 35 40 45 Ser Tyr 50 14
1163 DNA Mus musculus 14 gagtcgaccc acgcgtccgc ttccctgctt
ggccacatag ctcaggactg ggttgcagaa 60 ccatgtctcc agcctcaccc
actttcttct gtattgggct gtgtgtactg caagtgatcc 120 aaacacagag
tggcccactc cccaagcctt ccctccaggc tcagcccagt tccctggtac 180
ccctgggtca gtcagttatt ctgaggtgcc agggacctcc agatgtggat ttatatcgcc
240 tggagaaact gaaaccggag aagtatgaag atcaagactt tctcttcatt
ccaaccatgg 300 aaagaagtaa tgctggacgg tatcgatgct cttatcagaa
tgggagtcac tggtctctcc 360 caagtgacca gcttgagcta attgctacag
gtgtgtatgc taaaccctca ctctcagctc 420 atcccagctc agcagtccct
caaggcaggg atgtgactct gaagtgccag agcccataca 480 gttttgatga
attcgttcta tacaaagaag gggatactgg gccttataag agacctgaga 540
aatggtaccg ggccaatttc cccatcatca cagtgactgc tgctcacagt gggacgtacc
600 ggtgttacag cttctccagc tcatctccat acctgtggtc agccccgagt
gaccctctag 660 tgcttgtggt tactggactc tctgccactc ccagccaggt
acccacggaa gaatcatttc 720 ctgtgacaga atcctccagg agaccttcca
tcttacccac aaacaaaata tctacaactg 780 aaaagcctat gaatatcact
gcctctccag aggggctgag ccctccaatt ggttttgctc 840 atcagcacta
tgccaagggg aatctggtcc ggatatgcct tggtgccacg attataataa 900
ttttgttggg gcttctagca gaggattggc acagtcggaa gaaatgcctg caacacagga
960 tgagagcttt gcaaaggcca ctaccacccc tcccactggc ctagaaataa
cttggctttc 1020 agcagaggga ttgaccagac atccatgcac aaccatggac
atcaccacta gagccacaga 1080 catggacata ctcaagagtg gggaggttat
ataaaaaaat gagtgtggag aataaatgca 1140 gagccaacaa ggtgaaaaaa aaa
1163 15 939 DNA Mus musculus 15 atgtctccag cctcacccac tttcttctgt
attgggctgt gtgtactgca agtgatccaa 60 acacagagtg gcccactccc
caagccttcc ctccaggctc agcccagttc cctggtaccc 120 ctgggtcagt
cagttattct gaggtgccag ggacctccag atgtggattt atatcgcctg 180
gagaaactga aaccggagaa gtatgaagat caagactttc tcttcattcc aaccatggaa
240 agaagtaatg ctggacggta tcgatgctct tatcagaatg ggagtcactg
gtctctccca 300 agtgaccagc ttgagctaat tgctacaggt gtgtatgcta
aaccctcact ctcagctcat 360 cccagctcag cagtccctca aggcagggat
gtgactctga agtgccagag cccatacagt 420 tttgatgaat tcgttctata
caaagaaggg gatactgggc cttataagag acctgagaaa 480 tggtaccggg
ccaatttccc catcatcaca gtgactgctg ctcacagtgg gacgtaccgg 540
tgttacagct tctccagctc atctccatac ctgtggtcag ccccgagtga ccctctagtg
600 cttgtggtta ctggactctc tgccactccc agccaggtac ccacggaaga
atcatttcct 660 gtgacagaat cctccaggag accttccatc ttacccacaa
acaaaatatc tacaactgaa 720 aagcctatga atatcactgc ctctccagag
gggctgagcc ctccaattgg ttttgctcat 780 cagcactatg ccaaggggaa
tctggtccgg atatgccttg gtgccacgat tataataatt 840 ttgttggggc
ttctagcaga ggattggcac agtcggaaga aatgcctgca acacaggatg 900
agagctttgc aaaggccact accacccctc ccactggcc 939 16 313 PRT Mus
musculus 16 Met Ser Pro Ala Ser Pro Thr Phe Phe Cys Ile Gly Leu Cys
Val Leu 1 5 10 15 Gln Val Ile Gln Thr Gln Ser Gly Pro Leu Pro Lys
Pro Ser Leu Gln 20 25 30 Ala Gln Pro Ser Ser Leu Val Pro Leu Gly
Gln Ser Val Ile Leu Arg 35 40 45 Cys Gln Gly Pro Pro Asp Val Asp
Leu Tyr Arg Leu Glu Lys Leu Lys 50 55 60 Pro Glu Lys Tyr Glu Asp
Gln Asp Phe Leu Phe Ile Pro Thr Met Glu 65 70 75 80 Arg Ser Asn Ala
Gly Arg Tyr Arg Cys Ser Tyr Gln Asn Gly Ser His 85 90 95 Trp Ser
Leu Pro Ser Asp Gln Leu Glu Leu Ile Ala Thr Gly Val Tyr 100 105 110
Ala Lys Pro Ser Leu Ser Ala His Pro Ser Ser Ala Val Pro Gln Gly 115
120 125 Arg Asp Val Thr Leu Lys Cys Gln Ser Pro Tyr Ser Phe Asp Glu
Phe 130 135 140 Val Leu Tyr Lys Glu Gly Asp Thr Gly Pro Tyr Lys Arg
Pro Glu Lys 145 150 155 160 Trp Tyr Arg Ala Asn Phe Pro Ile Ile Thr
Val Thr Ala Ala His Ser 165 170 175 Gly Thr Tyr Arg Cys Tyr Ser Phe
Ser Ser Ser Ser Pro Tyr Leu Trp 180 185 190 Ser Ala Pro Ser Asp Pro
Leu Val Leu Val Val Thr Gly Leu Ser Ala 195 200 205 Thr Pro Ser Gln
Val Pro Thr Glu Glu Ser Phe Pro Val Thr Glu Ser 210 215 220 Ser Arg
Arg Pro Ser Ile Leu Pro Thr Asn Lys Ile Ser Thr Thr Glu 225 230 235
240 Lys Pro Met Asn Ile Thr Ala Ser Pro Glu Gly Leu Ser Pro Pro Ile
245 250 255 Gly Phe Ala His Gln His Tyr Ala Lys Gly Asn Leu Val Arg
Ile Cys 260 265 270 Leu Gly Ala Thr Ile Ile Ile Ile Leu Leu Gly Leu
Leu Ala Glu Asp 275 280 285 Trp His Ser Arg Lys Lys Cys Leu Gln His
Arg Met Arg Ala Leu Gln 290 295 300 Arg Pro Leu Pro Pro Leu Pro Leu
Ala 305 310 17 21 PRT Mus musculus 17 Met Ser Pro Ala Ser Pro Thr
Phe Phe Cys Ile Gly Leu Cys Val Leu 1 5 10 15 Gln Val Ile Gln Thr
20 18 292 PRT Mus musculus 18 Gln Ser Gly Pro Leu Pro Lys Pro Ser
Leu Gln Ala Gln Pro Ser Ser 1 5 10 15 Leu Val Pro Leu Gly Gln Ser
Val Ile Leu Arg Cys Gln Gly Pro Pro 20 25 30 Asp Val Asp Leu Tyr
Arg Leu Glu Lys Leu Lys Pro Glu Lys Tyr Glu 35 40 45 Asp Gln Asp
Phe Leu Phe Ile Pro Thr Met Glu Arg Ser Asn Ala Gly 50 55 60 Arg
Tyr Arg Cys Ser Tyr Gln Asn Gly Ser His Trp Ser Leu Pro Ser 65 70
75 80 Asp Gln Leu Glu Leu Ile Ala Thr Gly Val Tyr Ala Lys Pro Ser
Leu 85 90 95 Ser Ala His Pro Ser Ser Ala Val Pro Gln Gly Arg Asp
Val Thr Leu 100 105 110 Lys Cys Gln Ser Pro Tyr Ser Phe Asp Glu Phe
Val Leu Tyr Lys Glu 115 120 125 Gly Asp Thr Gly Pro Tyr Lys Arg Pro
Glu Lys Trp Tyr Arg Ala Asn 130 135 140 Phe Pro Ile Ile Thr Val Thr
Ala Ala His Ser Gly Thr Tyr Arg Cys 145 150 155 160 Tyr Ser Phe Ser
Ser Ser Ser Pro Tyr Leu Trp Ser Ala Pro Ser Asp 165 170 175 Pro Leu
Val Leu Val Val Thr Gly Leu Ser Ala Thr Pro Ser Gln Val 180 185 190
Pro Thr Glu Glu Ser Phe Pro Val Thr Glu Ser Ser Arg Arg Pro Ser 195
200 205 Ile Leu Pro Thr Asn Lys Ile Ser Thr Thr Glu Lys Pro Met Asn
Ile 210 215 220 Thr Ala Ser Pro Glu Gly Leu Ser Pro Pro Ile Gly Phe
Ala His Gln 225 230 235 240 His Tyr Ala Lys Gly Asn Leu Val Arg Ile
Cys Leu Gly Ala Thr Ile 245 250 255 Ile Ile Ile Leu Leu Gly Leu Leu
Ala Glu Asp Trp His Ser Arg Lys 260 265 270 Lys Cys Leu Gln His Arg
Met Arg Ala Leu Gln Arg Pro Leu Pro Pro 275 280 285 Leu Pro Leu Ala
290 19 267 PRT Mus musculus 19 Met Ser Pro Ala Ser Pro Thr Phe Phe
Cys Ile Gly Leu Cys Val Leu 1 5 10 15 Gln Val Ile Gln Thr Gln Ser
Gly Pro Leu Pro Lys Pro Ser Leu Gln 20 25 30 Ala Gln Pro Ser Ser
Leu Val Pro Leu Gly Gln Ser Val Ile Leu Arg 35 40 45 Cys Gln Gly
Pro Pro Asp Val Asp Leu Tyr Arg Leu Glu Lys Leu Lys 50 55 60 Pro
Glu Lys Tyr Glu Asp Gln Asp Phe Leu Phe Ile Pro Thr Met Glu 65 70
75 80 Arg Ser Asn Ala Gly Arg Tyr Arg Cys Ser Tyr Gln Asn Gly Ser
His 85 90 95 Trp Ser Leu Pro Ser Asp Gln Leu Glu Leu Ile Ala Thr
Gly Val Tyr 100 105 110 Ala Lys Pro Ser Leu Ser Ala His Pro Ser Ser
Ala Val Pro Gln Gly 115 120 125 Arg Asp Val Thr Leu Lys Cys Gln Ser
Pro Tyr Ser Phe Asp Glu Phe 130 135 140 Val Leu Tyr Lys Glu Gly Asp
Thr Gly Pro Tyr Lys Arg Pro Glu Lys 145 150 155 160 Trp Tyr Arg Ala
Asn Phe Pro Ile Ile Thr Val Thr Ala Ala His Ser 165 170 175 Gly Thr
Tyr Arg Cys Tyr Ser Phe Ser Ser Ser Ser Pro Tyr Leu Trp 180 185 190
Ser Ala Pro Ser Asp Pro Leu Val Leu Val Val Thr Gly Leu Ser Ala 195
200 205 Thr Pro Ser Gln Val Pro Thr Glu Glu Ser Phe Pro Val Thr Glu
Ser 210 215 220 Ser Arg Arg Pro Ser Ile Leu Pro Thr Asn Lys Ile Ser
Thr Thr Glu 225 230 235 240 Lys Pro Met Asn Ile Thr Ala Ser Pro Glu
Gly Leu Ser Pro Pro Ile 245 250 255 Gly Phe Ala His Gln His Tyr Ala
Lys Gly Asn 260 265 20 19 PRT Mus musculus 20 Leu Val Arg Ile Cys
Leu Gly Ala Thr Ile Ile Ile Ile Leu Leu Gly 1 5 10 15 Leu Leu Ala
21 27 PRT Mus musculus 21 Glu Asp Trp His Ser Arg Lys Lys Cys Leu
Gln His Arg Met Arg Ala 1 5 10 15 Leu Gln Arg Pro Leu Pro Pro Leu
Pro Leu Ala 20 25 22 41 PRT Mus musculus 22 Cys Gln Gly Pro Pro Asp
Val Asp Leu Tyr Arg Leu Glu Lys Leu Lys 1 5 10 15 Pro Glu Lys Tyr
Glu Asp Gln Asp Phe Leu Phe Ile Pro Thr Met Glu 20 25 30 Arg Ser
Asn Ala Gly Arg Tyr Arg Cys 35 40 23 47 PRT Mus musculus 23 Cys Gln
Ser Pro Tyr Ser Phe Asp Glu Phe Val Leu Tyr Lys Glu Gly 1 5 10 15
Asp Thr Gly Pro Tyr Lys Arg Pro Glu Lys Trp Tyr Arg Ala Asn Phe 20
25 30 Pro Ile Ile Thr Val Thr Ala Ala His Ser Gly Thr Tyr Arg Cys
35 40 45 24 1896 DNA Homo sapiens 24 atgacgcccg ccctcacagc
cctgctctgc cttgggctga gtctgggccc caggacccgc 60 gtgcaggcag
ggcccttccc caaacccacc ctctgggctg agccaggctc tgtgatcagc 120
tgggggagcc ccgtgaccat ctggtgtcag gggagcctgg aggcccagga gtaccgactg
180 gataaagagg gaagcccaga gcccttggac agaaataacc cactggaacc
caagaacaag 240 gccagattct ccatcccatc catgacagag caccatgcgg
ggagataccg ctgccactat 300 tacagctctg caggctggtc agagcccagc
gaccccctgg agctggtgat gacaggattc 360 tacaacaaac ccaccctctc
agccctgccc agccctgtgg tggcctcagg ggggaatatg 420 accctccgat
gtggctcaca gaagggatat caccattttg ttctgatgaa ggaaggagaa 480
caccagctcc cccggaccct ggactcacag cagctccaca gtggggggtt ccaggccctg
540 ttccctgtgg gccccgtgaa ccccagccac aggtggaggt tcacatgcta
ttactattat 600 atgaacaccc cccaggtgtg gtcccacccc agtgaccccc
tggagattct gccctcaggc 660 gtgtctagga agccctccct cctgaccctg
cagggccctg tcctggcccc tgggcagagc 720 ctgaccctcc agtgtggctc
tgatgtcggc tacgacagat ttgttctgta taaggagggg 780 gaacgtgact
tcctccagcg ccctggccag cagccccagg ctgggctctc ccaggccaac 840
ttcaccctgg gccctgtgag cccctcccac gggggccagt acaggtgcta tggtgcacac
900 aacctctcct ccgagtggtc ggcccccagc gaccccctga acatcctgat
ggcaggacag 960 atctatgaca ccgtctccct gtcagcacag ccgggcccca
cagtggcctc aggagagaac 1020 gtgaccctgc tgtgtcagtc atggtggcag
tttgacactt tccttctgac caaagaaggg 1080 gcagcccatc ccccactgcg
tctgagatca atgtacggag ctcataagta ccaggctgaa 1140 ttccccatga
gtcctgtgac ctcagcccac gcggggacct acaggtgcta cggctcatac 1200
agctccaacc cccacctgct gtctttcccc agtgagcccc tggaactcat ggtctcagga
1260 cactctggag gctccagcct cccacccaca gggccgccct ccacacctgg
tctgggaaga 1320 tacctggagg ttttgattgg ggtctcggtg gccttcgtcc
tgctgctctt cctcctcctc 1380 ttcctcctcc tccgacgtca gcgtcacagc
aaacacagga catctgacca gagaaagact 1440 gatttccagc gtcctgcagg
ggctgcggag acagagccca aggacagggg cctgctgagg 1500 aggtccagcc
cagctgctga cgtccaggaa gaaaacctct atgctgccgt gaaggacaca 1560
cagtctgagg acagggtgga gctggacagt cagagcccac acgatgaaga cccccaggca
1620 gtgacgtatg ccccggtgaa acactccagt cctaggagag aaatggcctc
tcctccctcc 1680 tcactgtctg gggaattcct ggacacaaag gacagacagg
tggaagagga caggcagatg 1740 gacactgagg ctgctgcatc tgaagcctcc
caggatgtga cctacgccca gctgcacagc 1800 ttgaccctta gacggaaggc
aactgagcct cctccatccc aggaagggga acctccagct 1860 gagcccagca
tctacgccac tctggccatc cactag 1896
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References