U.S. patent application number 12/542561 was filed with the patent office on 2011-01-13 for hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants and methods of use.
This patent application is currently assigned to Alios BioPharma, Inc.. Invention is credited to LAWRENCE M. BLATT, JIN HONG, SCOTT D. SEIWERT.
Application Number | 20110008289 12/542561 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38180696 |
Filed Date | 2011-01-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110008289 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BLATT; LAWRENCE M. ; et
al. |
January 13, 2011 |
HYPERGLYCOSYLATED POLYPEPTIDE VARIANTS AND METHODS OF USE
Abstract
The present invention provides synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonists comprising consensus or hybrid Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonists, containing one or more
native or non-native glycosylation sites. The present invention
provides synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonists
comprising consensus or hybrid Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonists, containing one or more native or non-native
glycosylation sites, as well as erythropoietin and darbepoetin
alfa, each of which are linked to a penetrating peptide that
facilitates translocation of a substance across a biological
barrier as well as pharmaceutical compositions, including oral
formulations, of the same. The present invention further provides
oral formulations of hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants, which polypeptide variants
lack at least one protease cleavage site found in a parent
polypeptide, and thus exhibit increased protease resistance
compared to the parent polypeptide, which polypeptide variants
further include (1) a carbohydrate moiety covalently linked to at
least one non-native glycosylation site not found in the parent
protein therapeutic or (2) a carbohydrate moiety covalently linked
to at least one native glycosylation site found but not
glycosylated in the parent protein therapeutic. The present
invention further provides compositions, including oral
pharmaceutical compositions, comprising the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, the hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, or the hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant. The present invention further provides
containers, devices, and kits comprising the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, the hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, or the hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant. The present invention further provides
therapeutic methods involving administering an effective amount of
an oral pharmaceutical composition comprising a synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant to an individual in need thereof.
Inventors: |
BLATT; LAWRENCE M.; (San
Francisco, CA) ; SEIWERT; SCOTT D.; (Pacifica,
CA) ; HONG; JIN; (Brisbane, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KNOBBE MARTENS OLSON & BEAR LLP
2040 MAIN STREET, FOURTEENTH FLOOR
IRVINE
CA
92614
US
|
Assignee: |
Alios BioPharma, Inc.
South San Francisco
CA
|
Family ID: |
38180696 |
Appl. No.: |
12/542561 |
Filed: |
August 17, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11351163 |
Feb 8, 2006 |
7597884 |
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12542561 |
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11330917 |
Jan 11, 2006 |
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11351163 |
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11200531 |
Aug 8, 2005 |
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11330917 |
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60600202 |
Aug 9, 2004 |
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60600134 |
Aug 9, 2004 |
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60604280 |
Aug 24, 2004 |
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60604415 |
Aug 24, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
424/85.6 ;
424/85.4; 424/85.7; 530/351 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C07K 14/57 20130101;
Y02A 50/387 20180101; A61P 35/00 20180101; A61P 21/00 20180101;
Y02A 50/385 20180101; A61P 25/00 20180101; A61P 31/12 20180101;
A61K 38/00 20130101; A61P 37/00 20180101; C07K 14/555 20130101;
C07K 14/56 20130101; Y02A 50/393 20180101; C07K 14/565
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
424/85.6 ;
530/351; 424/85.4; 424/85.7 |
International
Class: |
A61K 38/21 20060101
A61K038/21; C07K 14/52 20060101 C07K014/52; A61P 37/00 20060101
A61P037/00 |
Claims
1. A hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of a parent Type 1
interferon, wherein the parent Type 1 interferon is selected from
the group consisting of interferon .alpha. (IFN .alpha.),
interferon .beta. (IFN .beta.), interferon .kappa.(IFN .kappa.),
interferon .omega. (IFN .omega.), and interferon .tau. (IFN .tau.),
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant is the
parent Type 1 interferon that has been modified to include at least
three additional glycosylation sites, wherein at least one of the
additional glycosylation sites is introduced by an amino acid
substitution selected from the group consisting of D31N, K31N,
D102N, S102N, T102N, R102N, I102N, D108N, E108N, K108N, E138T,
G138T, and I138T.
2. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 1,
further comprising the amino acid substitution P33T.
3. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 1,
further comprising the amino acid substitution S104T.
4. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 1,
further comprising the amino acid substitution S110T.
5. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 1,
wherein the parent Type 1 interferon is an interferon .alpha. (IFN
.alpha.); wherein the interferon .alpha. (IFN .alpha.) is selected
from the group consisting of interferon .alpha.2a, interferon
.alpha.2b, interferon .alpha.1, interferon .alpha.4a, interferon
.alpha.4b, interferon .alpha.5, interferon .alpha.6, interferon
.alpha.7, interferon .alpha.8, interferon .alpha.10, interferon
.alpha.13, interferon .alpha.14, interferon .alpha.16, interferon
.alpha.17, interferon .alpha.21, interferon .alpha.H, interferon
.alpha.I, interferon .alpha.J1, recombinant interferon alpha-2b,
recombinant interferon alpha-2a, recombinant interferon alpha-2C,
interferon alpha-n1, interferon alpha-n3, interferon alfacon-1,
IFN-con2, and IFN-con3.
6. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 5,
wherein the parent Type 1 interferon is interferon .alpha.2a.
7. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 6,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant is
interferon .alpha.2a comprising at least the amino acid
substitution D31N.
8. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 7,
further comprising the amino acid substitution P33T.
9. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 6,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant is
interferon .alpha.2a comprising at least the amino acid
substitution D102N.
10. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 9,
further comprising the amino acid substitution S104T.
11. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 6,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant is
interferon .alpha.2a comprising at least the amino acid
substitution D108N.
12. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 6,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant is
interferon .alpha.2a comprising at least the amino acid
substitutions D31N and D102N.
13. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 6,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant is
interferon .alpha.2a comprising at least the amino acid
substitutions D31N and D108N.
14. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 6,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant is
interferon .alpha.2a comprising at least the amino acid
substitutions D102N and D108N.
15. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 6,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant is
interferon .alpha.2a comprising at least the amino acid
substitutions D31N, D102N, and D108N.
16. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 15,
further comprising the amino acid substitution P33T.
17. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 6,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant is SEQ ID
NO:1433.
18. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 5,
wherein the parent Type 1 interferon is interferon .alpha.2b.
19. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 18,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 intefron variant is interferon
.alpha.2b comprising at least the amino acid substitution D31N.
20. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 19,
further comprising the amino acid substitution P33T.
21. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 18,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 intefron variant is interferon
.alpha.2b comprising at least the amino acid substitution
D102N.
22. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 21,
further comprising the amino acid substitution S104T.
23. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 18,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 intefron variant is interferon
.alpha.2b comprising at least the amino acid substitution
D108N.
24. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 18,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 intefron variant is interferon
.alpha.2b comprising at least the amino acid substitutions D31N and
D102N.
25. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 18,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 intefron variant is interferon
.alpha.2b comprising at least the amino acid substitutions D31N and
D108N.
26. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 18,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 intefron variant is interferon
.alpha.2b comprising at least the amino acid substitution D102N and
D108N.
27. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 18,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 intefron variant is interferon
.alpha.2a comprising at least the amino acid substitutions D31N,
D102N, and D108N.
28. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 27,
further comprising the amino acid substitution P33T.
29. The hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant of claim 18,
wherein the hyperglycosylated Type 1 interferon variant is SEQ ID
NO:1449.
30. A pharmaceutical composition comprising the hyperglycosylated
Type 1 interferon variant of claim 1; and a pharmaceutically
acceptable excipient.
31. The composition of claim 30, wherein the
pharmaceutically-acceptable excipient is suitable for oral
delivery.
32. The composition of claim 30, wherein the
pharmaceutically-acceptable excipient is suitable for parenteral
delivery.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/351,163, filed Feb. 8, 2006, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/330,917, filed Jan. 11, 2006, which is a continuation of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/200,531, filed Aug. 8, 2005; and
also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos.
60/600,202, filed Aug. 9, 2004, 60/600,134, filed Aug. 9, 2004,
60/604,280, filed Aug. 24, 2004, and 60/604,415, filed Aug. 24,
2004, each of which applications are incorporated herein by
reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is in the field of glycosylated, and
glycosylated protease-resistant protein therapeutics.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The use of proteins as therapeutic agents has gained in
clinical importance. Nevertheless, there remain various obstacles
and drawbacks to their use, including immunogenicity; destruction
of the therapeutic protein by enzymes produced by the host;
suboptimal pharmacokinetic properties; and the like. For example,
immunogenicity of a therapeutic protein can lead to neutralization
of the protein's activity by neutralizing antibodies generated over
time in the subject being treated. In addition, immunogenicity of a
therapeutic protein can lead to an inflammatory response.
Destruction of a therapeutic protein by host enzymes may preclude
the use of certain routes of administration. For example, oral
administration of therapeutic proteins may be desirable in treating
certain conditions; however, the therapeutic protein may be
destroyed by enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract of the
individual being treated. Furthermore, a therapeutic protein may
have a short serum half life, due, e.g., to rapid elimination of
the protein by the host reticuloendothelial system; as a
consequence, the pharmacokinetic profile of the therapeutic protein
may be such that repeated, frequent administration is
necessary.
[0004] Many proteins with therapeutic potential include one or more
glycosylation sites, e.g., amino acid sequences that are
glycosylated by a eukaryotic cell. There have been various reports
of attempts to increase the degree of glycosylation of therapeutic
proteins in order to achieve 1) reduced immunogenicity; 2) less
frequent administration of the protein; 3) increased serum
half-life; and 4) reduction in adverse side effects such as
inflammation.
[0005] Destruction of a therapeutic protein by host enzymes may
preclude the use of certain routes of administration. For example,
oral administration of therapeutic proteins may be desirable in
treating certain conditions; however, the therapeutic protein may
be destroyed by proteolytic enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract
and/or in the serum of the individual being treated. Such
proteolytic enzymes include, e.g., .alpha.-chymotrypsin,
carboxypeptidase, endoproteinase Arg-C, endoproteinase Asp-N,
endoproteinase Glu-C, endoproteinase Lys-C, and trypsin.
[0006] There is a need in the art for therapeutic proteins in oral
dosage forms having suitable pharmacokinetic properties. The
present invention addresses this need.
Literature
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 6,685,933; U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,695,623 and
4,897,471; U.S. Pat. No. 6,703,225; U.S. Pat. No. 6,569,420; U.S.
Pat. No. 6,299,877; U.S. Pat. No. 6,586,398; U.S. Pat. No.
6,531,122; U.S. Pat. No. 6,646,110; Egrie and Brown, Br J Cancer.
2001 April; 84 Suppl 1:3-10; U.S. Pat. No. 6,127,332; WO 00/26354;
WO 02/081507; WO 01/36001; U.S. Pat. No. 5,041,376; U.S. Pat. No.
5,520,911; U.S. Pat. No. 6,673,580; U.S. Pat. No. 5,853,724; U.S.
Pat. No. 6,132,970; European Patent Application No. 640,619; WO
04/022747; and WO 004/0222593. Nyman et al. (11028) Eur. J.
Biochem. 253:485-493; Runkel et al. (11028) Pharmaceutical Research
15:641; Adolf et al. (11020) J. Biol. Chem. 265:9290-9295.
SEQUENCE LISTING
[0008] The present specification incorporates herein by reference,
each in its entirety, the sequence information on the Compact Disks
(CDs) labeled Copy 1 and Copy 2. The CDs are formatted on IBM-PC,
with operating system compatibility with MS-Windows. The files on
each of the CDs are as follows:
[0009] Copy 1--Seqlist.txt 1,931 KB created May 3, 2006; and
[0010] Copy 2--Seqlist.txt 1,931 KB created May 3, 2006.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention provides non-native glycosylation
sites, oral formulations of polypeptide variants and
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variants, which polypeptide variants comprise at least
one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native protease
cleavage site found in a parent polypeptide, and thus exhibit
increased protease resistance compared to the parent polypeptide,
which polypeptide variants further include (1) a carbohydrate
moiety covalently linked to at least one non-native glycosylation
site not found in the parent protein therapeutic or (2) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently linked to at least one native
glycosylation site found but not glycosylated in the parent protein
therapeutic. The present invention further provides compositions,
including oral pharmaceutical compositions, comprising the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variants. The present invention further provides
nucleic acids comprising nucleotide sequences encoding subject
polypeptide agonists; and host cells comprising subject nucleic
acids. The present invention further provides methods of treating
viral infections, methods of treating fibrotic disorders, and
methods of treating proliferative disorders, the methods generally
involving administering to an individual in need thereof an
effective amount of a subject polypeptide agonist. The present
invention further provides containers, devices, and kits comprising
the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variants. The present invention further provides
therapeutic methods involving administering an effective amount of
an oral pharmaceutical composition comprising a hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant to an
individual in need thereof.
Features of the Invention
[0012] In one aspect, the invention provides oral pharmaceutical
compositions comprising a known hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated variant of a parent protein
therapeutic.
[0013] In another aspect, the invention provides an oral
pharmaceutical composition that contains a first number of moles of
the known hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant in a first unit form, where a
parenteral pharmaceutical composition containing a second number of
moles of the parent protein therapeutic is proven to be effective
in the treatment of a disease in a patient when administered to the
patient by subcutaneous bolus injection in an amount where the
patient receives the second number of moles of the parent protein
therapeutic at a selected dosing interval, where the first number
of moles is greater than the second number of moles, and where upon
oral administration of the first unit form to the patient, the time
required for release of the first number of moles of the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated variant
is no greater than the time period of the selected dosing
interval.
[0014] In another aspect, the invention provides an oral
pharmaceutical composition that contains a first dose of the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant in a first unit form, where a parenteral
pharmaceutical composition containing a second dose of the parent
protein therapeutic is proven to be effective in the treatment of a
disease in a patient when administered to the patient by
subcutaneous bolus injection of the second dose at a selected
dosing interval, where the amount of the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant in moles
of drug per kilogram of patient body weight in the first dose is
greater than the amount of the parent protein therapeutic in moles
of drug per kilogram of patient body weight in the second dose when
the first and second doses are calculated for the average patient
body weight in the total population of patients suffering from the
disease, and where upon oral administration of the first dose to
the patient, the time required for release of all of the
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated variant
in the first dose is no greater than the period of time between
doses in the selected dosing interval. In some embodiments, the
parenteral pharmaceutical composition is proven to be effective in
the treatment of the disease in the patient when administered to
the patient in a weight-based dose at the selected dosing interval,
i.e., the second dose is a weight-based dose and the parenteral
pharmaceutical composition is in a form that allows weight-based
dosing.
[0015] The present invention further provides therapeutic methods
involving administering an effective amount of an oral
pharmaceutical composition comprising a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant to an
individual in need thereof.
[0016] In another aspect, the invention provides a method of
treating a disease in a patient comprising administering to the
patient an oral pharmaceutical composition comprising a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of a parent protein therapeutic, where the oral
pharmaceutical composition is administered orally to the patient in
an amount whereby the patient receives a first dose of the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant at a first dosing interval, where a parenteral
pharmaceutical composition comprising the parent protein
therapeutic is proven to be effective in the treatment of the
disease in a patient when administered to the patient by
subcutaneous bolus injection in an amount whereby the patient
receives a second dose of the parent protein therapeutic at a
second dosing interval, where the first dose in moles of the
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant per kilogram of patient body weight is greater
than the second dose in moles of the parent protein therapeutic per
kilogram of patient body weight when the first and second doses are
calculated for the same patient body weight, and where upon oral
administration of the first dose to the patient, the time required
for release of all of the protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated variant in the first dose is no greater than the
period of time between doses in the second dosing interval. In some
embodiments, the parenteral pharmaceutical composition is proven to
be effective in the treatment of the disease in the patient when
administered to the patient in a weight-based dose at the second
dosing interval, i.e., the second dose is a weight-based dose and
the parenteral pharmaceutical composition is in a form that allows
weight-based dosing. In some of the foregoing embodiments, the
first dose is a weight-based dose and the oral pharmaceutical
composition is in a form that allows weight-based dosing.
[0017] In another aspect, the invention provides a method of
treating a disease in a patient comprising administering to the
patient an oral pharmaceutical composition comprising a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of a parent protein therapeutic, where the oral
pharmaceutical composition is administered orally in an amount
whereby the patient receives a first dose of the hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant at a
first dosing interval, where a parenteral pharmaceutical
composition comprising the parent protein therapeutic is proven to
be effective in the treatment of the disease in a patient when
administered to the patient by subcutaneous bolus injection in an
amount whereby the patient receives a second dose of the parent
protein therapeutic at a second dosing interval, where the first
dose in moles of the protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant per kilogram of patient body
weight is greater than the second dose in moles of the parent
protein therapeutic per kilogram of patient body weight when the
first and second doses are calculated for the same patient body
weight, and where the time period between doses in the first dosing
interval is the same as or shorter than the time period between
doses in the second dosing interval. In some embodiments, the
parenteral pharmaceutical composition is proven to be effective in
the treatment of the disease in the patient when administered to
the patient in a weight-based dose at the second dosing interval,
i.e., the second dose is a weight-based dose and the parenteral
pharmaceutical composition is in a form that allows weight-based
dosing. In some of the foregoing embodiments, the first dose is a
weight-based dose and the oral pharmaceutical composition is in a
form that allows weight-based dosing.
[0018] In another aspect, the invention provides a method of
treating a disease in a patient comprising administering to the
patient an oral pharmaceutical composition in a first unit form
comprising a first number of moles of a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a
parent protein therapeutic, where the first number of moles of the
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is greater than a second number of moles of the
parent protein therapeutic in a parenteral pharmaceutical
composition, where the parenteral pharmaceutical composition is an
immediate release formulation suitable for subcutaneous bolus
injection, where the first unit form is administered orally to the
patient at a first dosing interval that is the same as or shorter
than a second dosing interval, and where the parent protein
therapeutic is proven to be effective in the treatment of the
disease in a patient when administered to the patient by
subcutaneous bolus injection of the parenteral pharmaceutical
composition in an amount whereby the patient receives the second
number of moles of the parent protein therapeutic at the second
dosing interval.
Further Features of the Invention
[0019] In one aspect, the invention provides for a variant of a
parent Type 1 interferon, wherein the variant comprises at least
one amino acid substitution compared to the parent Type 1
interferon, wherein the at least one amino acid substitution is
selected from the group consisting of D31N, L31S, D31N, K31N,
D102N, S102N, T102N, R102N, I102N, D108N, E108N, K108N, E138T,
G138T, I138T, L138T, and P138T wherein the at least one amino acid
substitution generates a glycosylation site.
[0020] In one aspect of the invention, the parent Type I interferon
is selected from the group consisting of interferon .alpha. (IFN
.alpha.), interferon .beta. (IFN .beta.), interferon .kappa.
(IFN-.kappa.), interferon .omega. (IFN .omega.), interferon .tau.
(IFN .tau.) and a hybrid Type 1 interferon.
[0021] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon alfacon-1 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D102N]interferon alfacon-1, [D108N]interferon
alfacon-1, [E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [D102N, D108N]interferon
alfacon-1, [D102N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [D108N,
E138N]interferon alfacon-1, and [D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon
alfacon-1. In some embodiment, the variant comprises a consensus
amino acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID Nos:2137-2151.
[0022] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.1 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.1, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.1, [D108N]interferon .alpha.1, [G138T]interferon .alpha.1,
[D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.1, [D31N, D108N]interferon .alpha.1,
[D31N, G138T]interferon .alpha.1, [D102N, D108N]interferon
.alpha.1, [D102N, G138T]interferon .alpha.1, [D108N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.1, [D31N, D102N, D108N]interferon .alpha.1,
[D31N, D102N, G138T]interferon .alpha.1, [D31N, D108N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.1, [D102N, D108N, G138T]interferon
.alpha.1, and [D31N, D102N, D108N, G138T]interferon .alpha.1. In
some embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid sequence as
set forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1407-1421.
[0023] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.2a and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.2a, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.2a, [D108N]interferon .alpha.2a, [D31N, D102N]interferon
.alpha.2a, [D31N, D108N]interferon .alpha.2a, [D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.2a, [D31N, D102N, D108N]interferon
.alpha.2a. In some embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid
sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1423-1433.
[0024] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.2b and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.2b, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.2b, [D108N]interferon .alpha.2b, [D31N, D102N]interferon
.alpha.2b, [D31N, D108N]interferon .alpha.2b, [D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.2b, [D31N, D102N, D108N]interferon
.alpha.2b. In some embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid
sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1439-1449.
[0025] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.4a and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.4a, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.4a, [E108N]interferon .alpha.4a, [E138T]interferon
.alpha.4a, [D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.4a, [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.4a, [D31N, E138T]interferon .alpha.4a,
[D102N, E108N]interferon .alpha.4a, [D102N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.4a, [E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.4a, [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.4a, [D31N, D102N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.4a, [D31N, E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.4a, [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4a, and [D31N, D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4a. In some embodiments, the variant
comprises an amino acid sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID
Nos:1455-1469.
[0026] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.4b and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.4b, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.4b, [E108N]interferon .alpha.4b, [E138T]interferon
.alpha.4b, [D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.4b, [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.4b, [D31N, E138T]interferon .alpha.4b,
[D102N, E108N]interferon .alpha.4b, [D102N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.4b, [E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.4b, [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.4b, [D31N, D102N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.4b, [D31N, E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.4b, [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4b, and [D31N, D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4b. In some embodiments, the variant
comprises an amino acid sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID
Nos:1471-1485.
[0027] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.5 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.5, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.5, [D108N]interferon .alpha.5, [E138T]interferon .alpha.5,
[D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.5, [D31N, D108N]interferon .alpha.5,
[D31N, E138T]interferon .alpha.5, [D102N, D108N]interferon
.alpha.5, [D102N, E138T]interferon .alpha.5, [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.5, [D31N, D102N, D108N]interferon .alpha.5,
[D31N, D102N, E138T]interferon .alpha.5, [D31N, D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.5, [D102N, D108N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.5, and [D31N, D102N, D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.5. In
some embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid sequence as
set forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1487-1501.
[0028] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.6 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.6, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.6, [D108N]interferon .alpha.6, [G138T]interferon .alpha.6,
[D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.6, [D31N, D108N]interferon .alpha.6,
[D31N, G138T]interferon .alpha.6, [D102N, D108N]interferon
.alpha.6, [D102N, G138T]interferon .alpha.6, [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.6, [D31N, D102N, D108N]interferon .alpha.6,
[D31N, D102N, G138T]interferon .alpha.6, [D31N, D108N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.6, [D102N, D108N, G138T]interferon
.alpha.6, and [D31N, D102N, D108N, G138T]interferon .alpha.6. In
some embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid sequence as
set forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1503-1517.
[0029] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.7 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.7, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.7, [E108N]interferon .alpha.7, [E138T]interferon .alpha.7,
[D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.7, [D31N, E108N]interferon .alpha.7,
[D31N, E138T]interferon .alpha.7, [D102N, E108N]interferon
.alpha.7, [D102N, E138T]interferon .alpha.7, [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.7, [D31N, D102N, E108N]interferon .alpha.7,
[D31N, D102N, E138T]interferon .alpha.7, [D31N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.7, [D102N, E108N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.7, and [D31N, D102N, E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.7. In
some embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid sequence as
set forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1519-1533.
[0030] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.8 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.8, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.8, [D108N]interferon .alpha.8, [I138T]interferon .alpha.8,
[D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.8, [D31N, D108N]interferon .alpha.8,
[D31N, I138T]interferon .alpha.8, [D102N, D108N]interferon
.alpha.8, [D102N, I138T]interferon .alpha.8, [D108N,
I138T]interferon .alpha.8, [D31N, D102N, D108N]interferon .alpha.8,
[D31N, D102N, I138T]interferon .alpha.8, [D31N, D108N,
I138T]interferon .alpha.8, [D102N, D108N, I138T]interferon
.alpha.8, and [D31N, D102N, D108N, I138T]interferon .alpha.8. In
some embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid sequence as
set forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1535-1549.
[0031] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.10 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.10, [D102N]interferon 10,
[E108N]interferon .alpha.10, [E138T]interferon .alpha.10, [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.10, [D31N, E108N]interferon .alpha.10,
[D31N, E138T]interferon .alpha.10, [D102N, E108N]interferon
.alpha.10, [D102N, E138T]interferon .alpha.10, [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.10, [D31N, D102N, E108N]interferon
.alpha.10, [D31N, D102N, E138T]interferon .alpha.10, [D31N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.10, [D102N, E108N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.10, and [D31N, D102N, E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.10. In
some embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid sequence as
set forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1551-1565.
[0032] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.13 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.13, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.13, [D108N]interferon .alpha.13, [G138T]interferon
.alpha.13, [D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.13, [D31N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.13, [D31N, G138T]interferon .alpha.13,
[D102N, D108N]interferon .alpha.13, [D102N, G138T]interferon
.alpha.13, [D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.13, [D31N, D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.13, [D31N, D102N, G138T]interferon
.alpha.13, [D31N, D108N, G138T]interferon .alpha.13, [D102N, D108N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.13, and [D31N, D102N, D108N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.13. In some embodiments, the variant
comprises an amino acid sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID
Nos:1567-1581.
[0033] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.14 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D108N]interferon .alpha.14, [E138T]interferon
.alpha.14, and [D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.14. In some
embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid sequence as set
forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1585-1592.
[0034] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.16 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.16, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.16, [D108N]interferon .alpha.16, [E138T]interferon
.alpha.16, [D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.16, [D31N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.16, [D31N, E138T]interferon .alpha.16,
[D102N, D108N]interferon .alpha.16, [D102N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.16, [D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.16, [D31N, D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.16, [D31N, D102N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.16, [D31N, D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.16, [D102N, D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.16, and [D31N, D102N, D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.16. In some embodiments, the variant
comprises an amino acid sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID
Nos:1599-1613.
[0035] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.17 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.17, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.17, [E108N]interferon .alpha.17, [E138T]interferon
.alpha.17, [D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.17, [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.17, [D31N, E138T]interferon .alpha.17,
[D102N, E108N]interferon .alpha.17, [D102N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.17, [D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.17, [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.17, [D31N, D102N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.17, [D31N, E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.17, [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.17, and [D31N, D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.17. In some embodiments, the variant
comprises an amino acid sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID
Nos:1615-1629.
[0036] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.21 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.21, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.21, [E108N]interferon .alpha.21, [E138T]interferon
.alpha.21, [D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.21, [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.21, [D31N, E138T]interferon .alpha.21,
[D102N, E108N]interferon .alpha.21, [D102N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.21, [D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.21, [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.21, [D31N, D102N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.21, [D31N, E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.21, [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.21, and [D31N, D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.21. In some embodiments, the variant
comprises an amino acid sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID
Nos:1631-1645.
[0037] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.H and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D108N]interferon .alpha.H, [E138T]interferon
.alpha.H, and [D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.H. In some
embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid sequence as set
forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1649-1656.
[0038] In one aspect of the invention, the interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.I and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.I, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.I, [E108N]interferon .alpha.I, [E138T]interferon .alpha.I,
[D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.I, [D31N, E108N]interferon .alpha.I,
[D31N, E138T]interferon .alpha.I, [D102N, E108N]interferon
.alpha.I, [D102N, E138T]interferon .alpha.I, [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.I, [D31N, D102N, E108N]interferon .alpha.I,
[D31N, D102N, E138T]interferon .alpha.I, [D31N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.I, [D102N, E108N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.I, and [D31N, D102N, E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.I. In
some embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid sequence as
set forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1663-1677.
[0039] In one aspect of the invention, interferon .alpha. is
interferon .alpha.J1 and the variant is selected from the group
consisting of [D31N]interferon .alpha.J1, [D102N]interferon
.alpha.J1, [E108N]interferon .alpha.J1, [E138T]interferon
.alpha.J1, [D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.J1, [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.J1, [D31N, E138T]interferon .alpha.J1,
[D102N, E108N]interferon .alpha.J1, [D102N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.J1, [D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.J1, [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.J1, [D31N, D102N, E138T]interferon
.alpha.J1, [D31N, E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.J1, [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.J1, and [D31N, D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.J1. In some embodiments, the variant
comprises an amino acid sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID
Nos:1678-1693.
[0040] In one aspect of the invention, the variant is selected from
the group consisting of [L31S]interferon-.beta.,
[S102N]interferon-.beta., [E138T]interferon-.beta., [L31S,
S102N]interferon-.beta., [L31S, E138T]interferon-.beta., [S102N,
E138T]interferon-.beta., and [L31S, S102N, E138T]interferon-.beta..
In some embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid sequence
as set forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1695-1706.
[0041] In one aspect of the invention, the variant is selected from
the group consisting of [L31S]interferon .kappa., [T102N]interferon
.kappa., [K108N]interferon .kappa., [P138T]interferon [L315,
T102N]interferon .kappa., [L315, K108N]interferon .kappa., [L315,
P138T]interferon [T102N, K108N]interferon .kappa., [T102N,
P138T]interferon .kappa., [K108N, P138T]interferon K, [L315, T102N,
K108N] interferon .kappa., [L315, T102N, P138T]interferon .kappa.,
[L315, K108N, P138T]interferon .kappa., [T102N, K108N,
P138T]interferon .kappa., and [L315, T102N, K108N, P138T]interferon
.kappa.. In some embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid
sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1711-1725.
[0042] In one aspect of the invention, the variant is selected from
the group consisting of [D31N]interferon .omega., [R102N]interferon
.omega., [G138T]interferon .omega., [D31N, R102N]interferon
.omega., [D31N, G138T]interferon .omega., [R102N, G138T]interferon
.omega., [D31N, R102N, G138T]interferon .omega.. In some
embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid sequence as set
forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1727-1738.
[0043] In one aspect of the invention, the variant is selected from
the group consisting of [K31N]interferon .tau., [I102N]interferon
.tau., [E108N]interferon .tau., [L138T]interferon .tau., [K31N,
I102N]interferon .tau., [K31N, E108N]interferon .tau., [K31N,
L138T]interferon .tau., [I102N, E108N]interferon .tau., [I102N,
L138T]interferon .tau., [E108N, L138T]interferon .tau., [K31N,
I102N, E108N]interferon .tau., [K31N, I102N, L138T]interferon
.tau., [K31N, E108N, L138T]interferon .tau., [I102N, E108N,
L138T]interferon .tau., and [K31N, I102N, E108N, L138T]interferon
.tau.. In some embodiments, the variant comprises an amino acid
sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1743-1757.
[0044] In one aspect of the invention, the variant comprises a
carbohydrate moiety covalently linked to a non-native glycosylation
site.
[0045] In one aspect of the invention, a polypeptide comprising a
carrier peptide set forth in Table 9 wherein the polypeptide is a
native Type 1 interferon comprising an amino acid sequence as set
forth in any one of SEQ ID Nos:1406, 1422, 1438, 1454, 1470, 1486,
1502, 1518, 1534, 1550, 1566, 1582, 1598, 1614, 1630, 1646, 1662,
1678, 1694, 1710, 1726, 1742, and 1758. In some embodiments, the
polypeptide binds erythropoietin receptor. In some embodiments, the
polypeptide comprises an amino acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID
Nos:1774-1775.
[0046] In one aspect, the invention provides for the above
described variants wherein the variant comprises a carrier peptide
set forth in Table 9.
[0047] In one aspect, the invention provides for a pharmaceutical
composition comprising the above described variants, and a
pharmaceutically acceptable excipient. In some embodiments, the
pharmaceutically-acceptable excipient is suitable for oral
delivery. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutically-acceptable
excipient is suitable for parenteral delivery.
[0048] In one aspect, the invention provides for a polynucleotide
comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding any of the above
described variants. In some embodiments, the polynucleotide
comprises codons corresponding to mammalian codon usage bias.
[0049] In one aspect, the invention provides for an expression
vector comprising the above described polynucleotides operably
linked to a promoter functional in a eukaryotic cell.
[0050] In one aspect, the invention provides for a host cell
comprising the above described polynucleotides.
[0051] In one aspect, the invention provides for a host cell
comprising the above described expression vector.
[0052] In one aspect, the invention provides for the above
described host cells, wherein the host cell is a eukaryotic
cell.
[0053] In one aspect, the invention provides for a method for
producing the above described variants, the method comprising:
culturing the above described host cell under conditions that favor
production of the variant; and isolating the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist from the culture.
[0054] In one aspect, the invention provides for a method of
treating a disorder amenable to treatment with a Type 1 interferon,
the method comprising administering to an individual in need
thereof a therapeutically effective amount of one of the above
described variants.
[0055] In one aspect, the invention provides for a method of
prophylactically treating a disorder amenable to treatment with a
Type 1 interferon, the method comprising administering to an
individual in need thereof a prophylactically effective amount of
one of the above described variants. In some embodiments, the
disorder is a fibrotic disorder. In some embodiments, the disorder
is cancer. In some embodiments, the disorder is multiple sclerosis.
In some embodiments, the variant is a variant of a parent
interferon-.beta.. In some embodiments, the cancer is selected from
the group consisting of malignant melanoma, renal cell carcinoma,
multiple myeloma and leukemia. In some embodiments, the disorder is
a viral infection. In some embodiments, the viral infection is
caused by a virus of family Flaviviridae. In some embodiments, the
virus of family Flaviviridae is selected from the group consisting
of yellow fever virus, West Nile virus, dengue fever virus, and
hepatitis C virus. In some embodiments, the virus of family
Flaviviridae is hepatitis C virus.
[0056] In one aspect, the invention provides for a therapeutically
effective amount of one of the above described variants
administered to the individual at a dosing interval selected from
the group consisting of once a week, twice a week, and three times
a week. In some embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount
is administered to the individual at a dosing interval of once a
week. In some embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount is
administered to the individual on one occasion. In some
embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount is administered
to the individual by subcutaneous injection. In some embodiments,
the therapeutically effective amount is administered to the
individual intravenously. In some embodiments, the therapeutically
effective amount is administered to the individual orally. In some
embodiments, the therapeutically effective amount is administered
to the individual intramuscularly.
[0057] In one aspect, the invention provides for the above
described embodiments, wherein the individual is a human.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0058] FIG. 1 depicts an amino acid sequence of human mature
IFN-.alpha.2a.
[0059] FIG. 2 depicts an amino acid sequence of human mature
IFN-.alpha.2b.
[0060] FIG. 3 depicts an amino acid sequence of human IFN-13.
[0061] FIG. 4 depicts an amino acid sequence of native human
IFN-.gamma..
[0062] FIG. 5 depicts an amino acid sequence of G-CSF.
[0063] FIG. 6 depicts an amino acid sequence of human growth
hormone.
[0064] FIG. 7 depicts an amino acid sequence of erythropoietin.
[0065] FIG. 8 depicts an amino acid sequence of GM-CSF.
[0066] FIG. 9 depicts an amino acid sequence of a consensus
IFN-.alpha..
[0067] FIG. 10 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha..
[0068] FIG. 11 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2c.
[0069] FIG. 12 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-ad.
[0070] FIG. 13 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.5.
[0071] FIG. 14 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.6.
[0072] FIG. 15 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.4.
[0073] FIG. 16 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.4b.
[0074] FIG. 17 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.I.
[0075] FIG. 18 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.J.
[0076] FIG. 19 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.H.
[0077] FIG. 20 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.F.
[0078] FIG. 21 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.8.
[0079] FIG. 22 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.beta.1.
[0080] FIG. 23 depicts an amino acid sequence of IFN-.beta.2a.
[0081] FIG. 24 depicts an amino acid sequence comparison of
Infergen (SEQ ID NO:1356) and Type I Interferon species (human
IFN-.alpha.2b, SEQ ID NO:1357; human IFN-.alpha.14, SEQ ID NO:1358;
human IFN-.beta.1, SEQ ID NO:1359; human IFN-.omega.1, SEQ ID
NO:1360) that have been reported to be glycosylated naturally. The
amino acid residues where the glycosylations occur are labeled with
bold outlined boxes. The asparagines residues are the anchoring
site for N-linked glycosylation and the threonine residue is the
anchoring site for O-linked glycosylation. FIG. 24 also depicts a
majority sequence (SEQ ID NO:1355) based on the comparison.
[0082] FIG. 25 depicts an amino acid sequence comparison of amino
acids 61-120 of Infergen (SEQ ID NO:1362) and exemplary synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonists. Sites 1, 2 and 3
are examples of positions where glycosylation sites are created.
N-linked glycosylation sites are generated at Sites 1 and 2. Both
N-linked and O-linked glycosylation sites are generated at Site
3.
[0083] FIG. 26 depicts a synthetic mammalian Infergen nucleic acid
sequence with preferred mammalian codon usage; and the translated
open reading frame. The open reading frame is indicated with
translated Infergen amino acid sequence (SEQ ID NO:1356). Six pairs
of complementary primers from A to F are shown in alternating
italics and bold text. The upper sense strands of the primer pairs
are identified with odd number and lower non-sense strands are
identified with even number. In the region upstream of the start
codon ATG, a short sequence of GCCACC, the Kozak consensus
sequence, is designed to increase eukaryotic translation
efficiency. Two tandem stop codons--TAA and TGA--are used to ensure
complete termination of translation.
[0084] FIG. 27 depicts a comparison of the nucleic acid sequences
of mammalian Infergen and glycosylated mutants thereof. The
nucleotides that differ are shown in boxes. Codons used based on
the preferred codon usage set forth in Table 8.
[0085] FIG. 28 depicts an amino acid sequence comparison of amino
acids 81-140 of human IFN-.beta.1 (SEQ ID NO:1391) and exemplary
glycosylated variants of human IFN-.beta.1. Sites 1 and 2 are the
positions where glycosylation mutants are generated. In general,
only N-linked glycosylation sites are created at Site 1. Both
N-linked and O-linked glycosylation sites are generated at Site 2.
The naturally occurring N-linked glycosylation sites in human
IFN-.beta.1 and mutants are shown in boxes.
[0086] FIG. 29 depicts an amino acid sequence comparison of amino
acids 81-140 of human IFN-.omega.1 (SEQ ID NO:1398) and exemplary
glycosylated variants of human IFN-.omega.1. Sites 1 and 2 are the
positions where glycosylation mutants are generated. In general,
only N-linked glycosylation sites are created at Site 1. Both
N-linked and O-linked glycosylation sites are generated at Site 2.
The naturally occurring N-linked glycosylation sites in human
IFN-.omega.1 and mutants are shown in boxes.
[0087] FIG. 30 depicts an amino acid sequence alignment of Infergen
(SEQ ID NO:1356), human IFN-.alpha.14 (SEQ ID NO:1358), human
IFN-.beta.1 (SEQ ID NO:1359), and exemplary fusion proteins with
human IFN-.alpha.14 and human IFN-.beta. signal peptides (SEQ ID
NOs:1388 and 1389, respectively). The majority sequence is shown
above (SEQ ID NO:1387).
[0088] FIG. 31 depicts the amino acid sequence of mature, native
human IFN-.gamma. (SEQ ID NO:1404).
[0089] FIG. 32 depicts Western blot analysis of exemplary proteins
synthesized by Cos-7 cells.
[0090] FIG. 33 depicts the amino acid and nucleic sequences of Type
1 interferons, Type 1 interferon glycosylation variants,
erythropoietin, and darbepoetin alfa (SEQ ID NOs:1406-2153).
[0091] FIG. 34a-f depicts an amino acid sequence alignment of the
human type I interferon (IFN) precursors and the fusion protein of
consensus IFN-.alpha.Con1 with human IFN .alpha.14 signal peptide
(Infergen w A14 Sig). The interferon sequences that are aligned in
FIG. 34a-f are: IFN-.alpha.1 (SEQ ID NO:1406), IFN-.alpha.2a (SEQ
ID NO:1422), IFN-.alpha.2b (SEQ ID NO:1438), IFN-.alpha.4a (SEQ ID
NO:1454), IFN-.alpha.4b (SEQ ID NO:1470), IFN-.alpha.5 (SEQ ID
NO:1486), IFN-.alpha.6 (SEQ ID NO:1502), IFN-.alpha.7 (SEQ ID
NO:1518), IFN-.alpha.8 (SEQ ID NO:1534), IFN-.alpha.10 (SEQ ID
NO:1550), IFN-.alpha.13 (SEQ ID NO:1566), IFN-.alpha.14 (SEQ ID
NO:1582), IFN-.alpha.16 (SEQ ID NO:1598), IFN-.alpha.17 (SEQ ID
NO:1614), IFN-.alpha.21 (SEQ ID NO:1630), IFN-.alpha.H (SEQ ID
NO:1646), IFN-.alpha.I (SEQ ID NO:1662), IFN-.alpha.J1 (SEQ ID
NO:1678), IFN beta 1 (SEQ ID NO:1694), IFN kappa (SEQ ID NO:1710),
IFN omega 1 (SEQ ID NO:1726), IFN tau (SEQ ID NO:1742), and
Infergen (SEQ ID NO:1758). The majority sequence is shown
above.
DEFINITIONS
[0092] The term "polypeptide" refers to a polymer of amino acids
and does not refer to a specific length of the product; thus,
peptides, oligopeptides, and proteins are included within the
definition of polypeptide. This term also does not refer to or
exclude post-translational modifications of the polypeptide, for
example, glycosylations, acetylations, phosphorylations and the
like. Included within the term "polypeptide" are, for example,
polypeptides containing one or more analogs of an amino acid
(including, for example, unnatural amino acids, non-coded amino
acids, etc.), polypeptides with substituted linkages, as well as
other modifications known in the art, both naturally occurring and
non-naturally occurring. The term "polypeptide" includes fusion
proteins, including, but not limited to, fusion proteins with a
heterologous amino acid sequence, fusions with heterologous and
homologous leader sequences, with or without N-terminal methionine
residues; immunologically tagged proteins; and the like.
[0093] The terms "polynucleotide" and "nucleic acid molecule" are
used interchangeably herein to refer to polymeric forms of
nucleotides of any length. The polynucleotides may contain
deoxyribonucleotides, ribonucleotides, and/or their analogs.
Nucleotides may have any three-dimensional structure, and may
perform any function, known or unknown. The term "polynucleotide"
includes single-, double-stranded and triple helical molecules.
"Oligonucleotide" generally refers to polynucleotides of between
about 5 and about 100 nucleotides of single- or double-stranded
DNA. However, for the purposes of this disclosure, there is no
upper limit to the length of an oligonucleotide. Oligonucleotides
are also known as oligomers or oligos and may be isolated from
genes, or chemically synthesized by methods known in the art. The
term "polynucleotide" includes double-stranded DNA found, inter
alia, in linear DNA molecules (e.g., restriction fragments),
viruses, plasmids, and chromosomes.
[0094] The following are non-limiting embodiments of
polynucleotides: a gene or gene fragment, exons, introns, mRNA,
tRNA, rRNA, ribozymes, cDNA, recombinant polynucleotides, branched
polynucleotides, plasmids, vectors, isolated DNA of any sequence,
isolated RNA of any sequence, nucleic acid probes, and primers. A
nucleic acid molecule may also comprise modified nucleic acid
molecules, such as methylated nucleic acid molecules and nucleic
acid molecule analogs. Analogs of purines and pyrimidines are known
in the art. Nucleic acids may be naturally occurring, e.g. DNA or
RNA, or may be synthetic analogs, as known in the art. Such analogs
may be preferred for use as probes because of superior stability
under assay conditions. Modifications in the native structure,
including alterations in the backbone, sugars or heterocyclic
bases, have been shown to increase intracellular stability and
binding affinity. Among useful changes in the backbone chemistry
are phosphorothioates; phosphorodithioates, where both of the
non-bridging oxygens are substituted with sulfur;
phosphoroamidites; alkyl phosphotriesters and boranophosphates.
Achiral phosphate derivatives include 3'-O'-5'-S-phosphorothioate,
3'-S-5'-O-phosphorothioate, 3'-CH.sub.2-5'-O-phosphonate and
3'-NH-5'-O-phosphoroamidate. Peptide nucleic acids replace the
entire ribose phosphodiester backbone with a peptide linkage.
[0095] A polynucleotide or polypeptide has a certain percent
"sequence identity" to another polynucleotide or polypeptide,
meaning that, when aligned, that percentage of bases or amino acids
are the same when comparing the two sequences. Sequence similarity
can be determined in a number of different manners. To determine
sequence identity, sequences can be aligned using the methods and
computer programs, including BLAST, available over the world wide
web at ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/BLAST. See, e.g., Altschul et al. (11020),
J. Mol. Biol. 215:403-10. Another alignment algorithm is FASTA,
available in the Genetics Computing Group (GCG) package, from
Madison, Wis., USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Oxford Molecular
Group, Inc. Other techniques for alignment are described in Methods
in Enzymology, vol. 266: Computer Methods for Macromolecular
Sequence Analysis (11026), ed. Doolittle, Academic Press, Inc., a
division of Harcourt Brace & Co., San Diego, Calif., USA. Of
particular interest are alignment programs that permit gaps in the
sequence. The Smith-Waterman is one type of algorithm that permits
gaps in sequence alignments. See Meth. Mol. Biol. 70: 173-187
(11027). Also, the GAP program using the Needleman and Wunsch
alignment method can be utilized to align sequences. See J. Mol.
Biol. 48: 443-453 (1970)
[0096] The term "host cell" includes an individual cell or cell
culture, which can be or has been a recipient of any recombinant
vector(s) or synthetic or exogenous polynucleotide. Host cells
include progeny of a single host cell, and the progeny may not
necessarily be completely identical (in morphology or in total DNA
complement) to the original parent cell due to natural, accidental,
or deliberate mutation and/or change. A host cell includes cells
transfected or infected in vivo or in vitro with a recombinant
vector or a synthetic or exogenous polynucleotide. A host cell
which comprises a recombinant vector of the invention is a
"recombinant host cell." In some embodiments, a host cell is a
prokaryotic cell. In other embodiments, a host cell is a eukaryotic
cell.
[0097] The terms "DNA regulatory sequences," and "regulatory
elements," used interchangeably herein, refer to transcriptional
and translational control sequences, such as promoters, enhancers,
polyadenylation signals, terminators, protein degradation signals,
and the like, that provide for and/or regulate expression of a
coding sequence and/or production of an encoded polypeptide in a
host cell.
[0098] The term "transformation" is used interchangeably herein
with "genetic modification" and refers to a permanent or transient
genetic change induced in a cell following introduction of new
nucleic acid (i.e., DNA exogenous to the cell). Genetic change
("modification") can be accomplished either by incorporation of the
new DNA into the genome of the host cell, or by transient or stable
maintenance of the new DNA as an episomal element. Where the cell
is a mammalian cell, a permanent genetic change is generally
achieved by introduction of the DNA into the genome of the
cell.
[0099] The term "operably linked," as used herein, refers to a
juxtaposition wherein the components so described are in a
relationship permitting them to function in their intended manner.
For instance, a promoter is operably linked to a coding sequence if
the promoter effects transcription or expression of the coding
sequence.
[0100] The term "construct," as used herein, refers to a
recombinant nucleic acid, generally recombinant DNA, that has been
generated for the purpose of the expression of a specific
nucleotide sequence(s), or is to be used in the construction of
other recombinant nucleotide sequences.
[0101] As used herein, the terms "treatment," "treating," and the
like, refer to obtaining a desired pharmacologic and/or physiologic
effect. The effect may be prophylactic in terms of completely or
partially preventing a disease or symptom thereof and/or may be
therapeutic in terms of a partial or complete cure for a disease
and/or adverse affect attributable to the disease. "Treatment," as
used herein, covers any treatment of a disease in a mammal,
particularly in a human, and includes: (a) increasing survival
time; (b) decreasing the risk of death due to the disease; (c)
preventing the disease from occurring in a subject which may be
predisposed to the disease but has not yet been diagnosed as having
it; (d) inhibiting the disease, i.e., arresting its development
(e.g., reducing the rate of disease progression); and (e) relieving
the disease, i.e., causing regression of the disease.
[0102] The terms "individual," "host," "subject," and "patient,"
used interchangeably herein, refer to a mammal, including primates,
rodents, livestock, pets, horses, etc. In some embodiments, an
individual is a human.
[0103] The term "therapeutically effective amount" is meant an
amount of a therapeutic agent, or a rate of delivery of a
therapeutic agent, effective to facilitate a desired therapeutic
effect. The precise desired therapeutic effect will vary according
to the condition to be treated, the formulation to be administered,
and a variety of other factors that are appreciated by those of
ordinary skill in the art.
[0104] As used herein, the terms "proven to be effective" in the
context of a drug therapy for treatment of a disease, or any
language of similar meaning, shall be understood to mean that the
drug therapy so described was found to be safe and effective, alone
or in combination with one or more additional pharmaceutical
agent(s), for the treatment of the disease in a controlled clinical
trial or set of clinical trials that achieved one or more of the
primary clinical endpoints of the trial(s) with a statistical
significance of p.ltoreq.0.05. Typically, drug therapies proven to
be effective for a drug include: (1) any treatment indication(s)
for the drug specified in a license to market the drug granted by a
regulatory authority; and (2) any treatment indication(s) for the
drug described in a statement issued by a generally recognized body
of medical experts (e.g. an NIH Consensus Statement).
[0105] The term "binds specifically," in the context of antibody
binding, refers to high avidity and/or high affinity binding of an
antibody to a specific polypeptide i.e., epitope of a polypeptide,
e.g., a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist. For example, antibody binding to an epitope on a specific
a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
or fragment thereof is stronger than binding of the same antibody
to any other epitope, particularly those which may be present in
molecules in association with, or in the same sample, as the
specific polypeptide of interest, e.g., binds more strongly to a
specific subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist epitope than to any other Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist epitope so that by adjusting binding conditions
the antibody binds almost exclusively to the specific subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist epitope
and not to any other Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
epitope, or to any other polypeptide which does not comprise the
epitope. Antibodies that bind specifically to a polypeptide may be
capable of binding other polypeptides at a weak, yet detectable,
level (e.g., 10% or less of the binding shown to the polypeptide of
interest). Such weak binding, or background binding, is readily
discernible from the specific antibody binding to a subject
polypeptide, e.g. by use of appropriate controls. In general,
specific antibodies bind to a given polypeptide with a binding
affinity of 10.sup.-7 M or more, e.g., 10.sup.-8 M or more (e.g.,
10.sup.-9 M, 10.sup.-10 M, 10.sup.-11 M, etc.). In general, an
antibody with a binding affinity of 10.sup.-6 M or less is not
useful in that it will not bind an antigen at a detectable level
using conventional methodology currently used.
[0106] A "fibrotic condition," "fibrotic disease" and "fibrotic
disorder" are used interchangeably to refer to a condition, disease
or disorder that is amenable to treatment by administration of a
compound having anti-fibrotic activity. Fibrotic disorders include,
but are not limited to, pulmonary fibrosis, including idiopathic
pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and pulmonary fibrosis from a known
etiology, liver fibrosis, and renal fibrosis. Other exemplary
fibrotic conditions include musculoskeletal fibrosis, cardiac
fibrosis, post-surgical adhesions, scleroderma, glaucoma, and skin
lesions such as keloids.
[0107] The term "proliferative disorder" and "proliferative
disease" are used interchangeably to refer to any disease or
condition characterized by pathological cell growth or
proliferation, particularly cancer.
[0108] The terms "cancer," "neoplasm," and "tumor" are used
interchangeably herein to refer to cells that exhibit relatively
autonomous growth, so that they exhibit an aberrant growth
phenotype characterized by a significant loss of control of cell
proliferation. Cancerous cells can be benign or malignant.
[0109] The term "hepatitis virus infection" refers to infection
with one or more of hepatitis A, B, C, D, or E virus, with
blood-borne hepatitis viral infection being of particular interest,
particularly hepatitis C virus infection.
[0110] The term "sustained viral response" (SVR; also referred to
as a "sustained response" or a "durable response"), as used herein,
refers to the response of an individual to a treatment regimen for
HCV infection, in terms of serum HCV titer. Generally, a "sustained
viral response" refers to no detectable HCV RNA (e.g., less than
about 500, less than about 200, or less than about 100 genome
copies per milliliter serum) found in the patient's serum for a
period of at least about one month, at least about two months, at
least about three months, at least about four months, at least
about five months, or at least about six months following cessation
of treatment.
[0111] The term "treatment failure patients" (or "treatment
failures") as used herein generally refers to HCV-infected patients
who failed to respond to previous therapy for HCV (referred to as
"non-responders") or who initially responded to previous therapy,
but in whom the therapeutic response was not maintained (referred
to as "relapsers"). The previous therapy generally can include
treatment with IFN-.alpha. monotherapy or IFN-.alpha. combination
therapy, where the combination therapy may include administration
of IFN-.alpha. and an antiviral agent such as ribavirin.
[0112] The term "dosing event" as used herein refers to
administration of an antiviral agent to a patient in need thereof,
which event may encompass one or more releases of an antiviral
agent from a drug dispensing device. Thus, the term "dosing event,"
as used herein, includes, but is not limited to, installation of a
continuous delivery device (e.g., a pump or other controlled
release injectable system); and a single subcutaneous injection
followed by installation of a continuous delivery system.
[0113] "Patterned" or "temporal" as used in the context of drug
delivery is meant delivery of drug in a pattern, generally a
substantially regular pattern, over a pre-selected period of time
(e.g., other than a period associated with, for example a bolus
injection). "Patterned" or "temporal" drug delivery is meant to
encompass delivery of drug at an increasing, decreasing,
substantially constant, or pulsatile, rate or range of rates (e.g.,
amount of drug per unit time, or volume of drug formulation for a
unit time), and further encompasses delivery that is continuous or
substantially continuous, or chronic.
[0114] The term "controlled drug delivery device" is meant to
encompass any device wherein the release (e.g., rate, timing of
release) of a drug or other desired substance contained therein is
controlled by or determined by the device itself and not
substantially influenced by the environment of use, or releasing at
a rate that is reproducible within the environment of use.
[0115] By "substantially continuous" as used in, for example, the
context of "substantially continuous infusion" or "substantially
continuous delivery" is meant to refer to delivery of drug in a
manner that is substantially uninterrupted for a pre-selected
period of drug delivery, where the quantity of drug received by the
patient during any 8 hour interval in the pre-selected period never
falls to zero. Furthermore, "substantially continuous" drug
delivery can also encompass delivery of drug at a substantially
constant, pre-selected rate or range of rates (e.g., amount of drug
per unit time, or volume of drug formulation for a unit time) that
is substantially uninterrupted for a pre-selected period of drug
delivery.
[0116] As used herein, the term "pirfenidone" refers to
5-methyl-1-phenyl-2-(1H)-pyridone. As used herein, the term
"pirfenidone analog" refers to any compound of Formula I, IIA, or
IIB, below. A "specific pirfenidone analog," and all grammatical
variants thereof, refers to, and is limited to, each and every
pirfenidone analog shown in Table 10.
[0117] The term "anti-fibrotic" agent, drug or compound is meant to
encompass agents that prevent or reduce fibrosis, including: Type
II interferon receptor agonists (e.g. interferon-gamma);
pirfenidone and pirfenidone analogs; anti-angiogenic agents, such
as VEGF antagonists, VEGF receptor antagonists, bFGF antagonists,
bFGF receptor antagonists, TGF-beta antagonists, and TGF-beta
receptor antagonists; and anti-inflammatory agents, including tumor
necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists, such as anti-TNF antibodies
(e.g. REMICADE.TM. anti-TNF monoclonal antibody) and soluble TNF
receptor (e.g. ENBREL.TM. TNF receptor-Ig immunoadhesin), and IL-1
antagonists, such as IL-1Ra.
[0118] The terms "angiogenic agent," "angiogenic compound," and
"angiogenic factor" are meant to include agents that promote
neovascularization, such as VEGF, bFGF, and TGF-beta.
[0119] The terms "anti-angiogenic" or "angiostatic" agent, drug or
compound, or "angiogenesis inhibitor," are meant to include agents
that prevent or reduce neovascularization, such as VEGF
antagonists, VEGF receptor antagonists, bFGF antagonists, bFGF
receptor antagonists, TGF-beta antagonists, and TGF-beta receptor
antagonists.
[0120] As used herein, the term "nucleoside" refers to a compound
composed of any pentose or modified pentose moiety attached to a
specific position of a heterocycle or to the natural position of a
purine (9-position) or pyrimidine (1-position) or to the equivalent
position in an analog.
[0121] As used herein, the term "nucleotide" refers to a phosphate
ester substituted on the 5'-position of a nucleoside.
[0122] As used herein, the term "heterocycle" refers to a
monovalent saturated or unsaturated carbocyclic radical having at
least one hetero atom, such as N, O, S, Se or P, within the ring,
each available position of which can be optionally substituted,
independently, with, e.g., hydroxyl, oxo, amino, imino, lower
alkyl, bromo, chloro and/or cyano. Included within the term
"heterocycle" are purines and pyrimidines.
[0123] As used herein, the term "purine" refers to nitrogenous
bicyclic heterocycles.
[0124] As used herein, the term "pyrimidine" refers to nitrogenous
monocyclic heterocycles.
[0125] As used herein, the term "L-nucleoside" refers to a
nucleoside compound that has an L-ribose sugar moiety.
[0126] The term "antineoplastic" agent, drug or compound is meant
to refer to any agent, including any chemotherapeutic agent,
biological response modifier (including without limitation (i)
proteinaceous, i.e. peptidic, molecules capable of elaborating or
altering biological responses and (ii) non-proteinaceous, i.e.
non-peptidic, molecules capable of elaborating or altering
biological responses), cytotoxic agent, or cytostatic agent, that
reduces proliferation of a neoplastic cell.
[0127] The term "anti-fibrotic" agent, drug or compound is meant to
encompass agents that prevent or reduce fibrosis, including: Type
II interferon receptor agonists (e.g. interferon-gamma);
pirfenidone and pirfenidone analogs; anti-angiogenic agents, such
as VEGF antagonists, VEGF receptor antagonists, bFGF antagonists,
bFGF receptor antagonists, TGF-beta antagonists, and TGF-beta
receptor antagonists; and anti-inflammatory agents, including tumor
necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists, such as anti-TNF antibodies
(e.g. REMICADE.TM. anti-TNF monoclonal antibody) and soluble TNF
receptor (e.g. ENBREL.TM. TNF receptor-Ig immunoadhesin), and IL-1
antagonists, such as IL-1Ra.
[0128] The term "chemotherapeutic agent" or "chemotherapeutic" (or
"chemotherapy", in the case of treatment with a chemotherapeutic
agent) is meant to encompass any non-proteinaceous (i.e.,
non-peptidic) chemical compound useful in the treatment of cancer.
Examples of chemotherapeutic agents include alkylating agents such
as thiotepa and cyclophosphamide (CYTOXAN.TM.); alkyl sulfonates
such as busulfan, improsulfan and piposulfan; aziridines such as
benzodopa, carboquone, meturedopa, and uredopa; ethylenimines and
methylamelamines including altretamine, triethylenemelamine,
triethylenephosphoramide, triethylenethiophosphoramide and
trimethylolomelamine; acetogenins (especially bullatacin and
bullatacinone); a camptothecin (including synthetic analogue
topotecan); bryostatin; callystatin; CC-1065 (including its
adozelesin, carzelesin and bizelesin synthetic analogues);
cryptophycins (particularly cryptophycin 1 and cryptophycin 8);
dolastatin; duocarmycin (including the synthetic analogues, KW-2189
and CBI-TMI); eleutherobin; pancratistatin; a sarcodictyin;
spongistatin; nitrogen mustards such as chlorambucil,
chlornaphazine, cholophosphamide, estramustine, ifosfamide,
mechlorethamine, mechlorethamine oxide hydrochloride, melphalan,
novembichin, phenesterine, prednimustine, trofosfamide, uracil
mustard; nitrosoureas such as carmustine, chlorozotocin,
foremustine, lomustine, nimustine, ranimustine; antibiotics such as
the enediyne antibiotics (e.g. calicheamicin, especially
calicheamicin gamma1I and calicheamicin phiI1, see, e.g., Agnew,
Chem. Intl. Ed. Engl., 33: 183-186 (11024); dynemicin, including
dynemicin A; bisphosphonates, such as clodronate; an esperamicin;
as well as neocarzinostatin chromophore and related chromoprotein
enediyne antibiotic chromomophores), aclacinomysins, actinomycin,
authramycin, azaserine, bleomycins, cactinomycin, carabicin,
caminomycin, carzinophilin, chromomycins, dactinomycin,
daunorubicin, detorubicin, 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine, doxorubincin
(Adramycin.TM.) (including morpholino-doxorubicin,
cyanomorpholino-doxorubicin, 2-pyrrolino-doxorubicin and
deoxydoxorubicin), epirubicin, esorubicin, idarubicin,
marcellomycin, mitomycins such as mitomycin C, mycophenolic acid,
nogalamycin, olivomycins, peplomycin, potfiromycin, puromycin,
quelamycin, rodorubicin, streptonigrin, streptozocin, tubercidin,
ubenimex, zinostatin, zorubicin; anti-metabolites such as
methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU); folic acid analogues such
as demopterin, methotrexate, pteropterin, trimetrexate; purine
analogs such as fludarabine, 6-mercaptopurine, thiamiprine,
thioguanine; pyrimidine analogues such as ancitabine, azacitidine,
6-azauridine, carmofur, cytarabine, dideoxyuridine, doxifluridine,
enocitabine, floxuridine; androgens such as calusterone,
dromostanolone propionate, epitiostanol, mepitiostane,
testolactone; anti-adrenals such as aminoglutethimide, mitotane,
trilostane; folic acid replenisher such as frolinic acid;
aceglatone; aldophosphamide glycoside; aminolevulinic acid;
eniluracil; amsacrine; bestrabucil; bisantrene; edatraxate;
defofamine; demecolcine; diaziquone; elformithine; elliptinium
acetate; an epothilone; etoglucid; gallium nitrate; hydroxyurea;
lentinan; lonidamine; maytansinoids such as maytansine and
ansamitocins; mitoguazone; mitoxantrone; mopidamol; nitracrine;
pentostatin; phenamet; pirarubicin; losoxantrone; podophyllinic
acid; 2-ethylhydrazide; procarbazine; PSK.RTM.; razoxane; rhizoxin;
sizofuran; spirogermanium; tenuazonic acid; triaziquone;
2,2',2''-trichlorotriethylamine; trichothecenes (especially T-2
toxin, verracurin A, roridin A and anguidine); urethane; vindesine;
dacarbazine; mannomustine; mitobronitol; mitolactol; pipobroman;
gacytosine; arabino side ("Ara-C"); cyclophosphamide; thiopeta;
taxoids, e.g. paclitaxel (TAXOL.RTM., Bristol Meyers Squibb
Oncology, Princeton, N.J.) and docetaxel (TAXOTERE.RTM.,
Rhone-Poulenc Rorer, Antony, France); chlorambucil; gemcitabine
(Gemzar.TM.); 6-thioguanine; mercaptopurine; methotrexate; platinum
analogs such as cisplatin and carboplatin; vinblastine; platinum;
etoposide (VP-16); ifosfamide; mitroxantrone; vancristine;
vinorelbine (Navelbine.TM.); novantrone; teniposide; edatrexate;
daunomycin; aminopterin; xeoloda; ibandronate; CPT-11;
topoisomerase inhibitor RFS 2000; difluoromethylornithine (DMFO);
retinoids such as retinoic acid; capecitabine; and pharmaceutically
acceptable salts, acids or derivatives of any of the above. Also
included in the definition of "chemotherapeutic agent" are
anti-hormonal agents that act to regulate or inhibit hormone action
on tumors such as anti-estrogens and selective estrogen receptor
modulators (SERMs), including, for example, tamoxifen (including
Nolvadex.TM.), raloxifene, droloxifene, 4-hydroxytamoxifen,
trioxifene, keoxifene, LY117018, onapristone, and toremifene
(Fareston.TM.); inhibitors of the enzyme aromatase, which regulates
estrogen production in the adrenal glands, such as, for example,
4(5)-imidazoles, aminoglutethimide, megestrol acetate (Megace.TM.),
exemestane, formestane, fadrozole, vorozole (Rivisor.TM.),
letrozole (Femara.TM.), and anastrozole (Arimidex.TM.); and
anti-androgens such as flutamide, nilutamide, bicalutamide,
leuprolide, and goserelin; and pharmaceutically acceptable salts,
acids or derivatives of any of the above.
[0129] The term "antineoplastic" agent, drug or compound is meant
to refer to any agent, including any chemotherapeutic agent,
biological response modifier (including without limitation (i)
proteinaceous, i.e. peptidic, molecules capable of elaborating or
altering biological responses and (ii) non-proteinaceous, i.e.
non-peptidic, molecules capable of elaborating or altering
biological responses), cytotoxic agent, or cytostatic agent, that
reduces proliferation of a neoplastic cell.
[0130] The term "biological response modifier" refers to any
proteinaceous (i.e., peptidic) molecule or any non-proteinaceous
(i.e., non-peptidic) molecule capable of elaborating or altering a
biological response relevant to the treatment of cancer. Examples
of biological response modifiers include antagonists of
tumor-associated antigens, such as anti-tumor antigen antibodies,
antagonists of cellular receptors capable of inducing cell
proliferation, agonists of cellular receptors capable of inducing
apoptosis, such as Apo-2 ligands, Type I interferon receptor
agonists, such as interferon-.alpha. molecules and
interferon-.beta. molecules, Type II interferon receptor agonists,
such as interferon-.gamma. molecules, Type III interferon receptor
agonists, such as IL-28A, IL-28B, and IL-29, antagonists of
inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)
antagonists, such as anti-TNF antibodies (e.g. REMICADE.TM.
anti-TNF monoclonal antibody) and soluble TNF receptor (e.g.
ENBREL.TM. TNF receptor-Ig immunoadhesin), growth factor cytokines,
such as hematopoietic cytokines, including erythropoietins, such as
EPOGEN.TM. epoetin-alfa, granulocyte colony stimulating factors
(G-CSFs), such as NEUPOGEN.TM. filgrastim, granulocyte-macrophage
colony stimulating factors (GM-CSFs), and thrombopoietins,
lymphocyte growth factor cytokines, such as interleukin-2, and
antagonists of growth factor cytokines, including antagonists of
angiogenic factors, e.g. vascular endothelial cell growth factor
(VEGF) antagonists, such as AVASTIN.TM. bevacizumab (anti-VEGF
monoclonal antibody).
[0131] As used herein, the term "HCV enzyme inhibitor" refers to
any agent that inhibits an enzymatic activity of an enzyme encoded
by HCV. The term "HCV enzyme inhibitor" includes, but is not
limited to, agents that inhibit HCV NS3 protease activity; agents
that inhibit HCV NS3 helicase activity; and agents that inhibit HCV
NS5B RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity.
[0132] As used herein, the terms "HCV NS3 protease inhibitor" and
"NS3 protease inhibitor" refer to any agent that inhibits the
protease activity of HCV NS3/NS4A complex. Unless otherwise
specifically stated, the term "NS3 inhibitor" is used
interchangeably with the terms "HCV NS3 protease inhibitor" and
"NS3 protease inhibitor."
[0133] As used herein, the terms "HCV NS5B inhibitor," "NS5B
inhibitor," "HCV NS5B RNA-dependent RNA polymerase inhibitor," "HCV
RDRP inhibitor," and "RDRP inhibitor," refer to any agent that
inhibits HCV NS5B RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity.
[0134] Before the present invention is further described, it is to
be understood that this invention is not limited to particular
embodiments described, as such may, of course, vary. It is also to
be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose
of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to
be limiting, since the scope of the present invention will be
limited only by the appended claims.
[0135] Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that
each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit
unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper
and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening
value in that stated range, is encompassed within the invention.
The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may
independently be included in the smaller ranges, and are also
encompassed within the invention, subject to any specifically
excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes
one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those
included limits are also included in the invention.
[0136] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although
any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described
herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present
invention, the preferred methods and materials are now described.
All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by
reference to disclose and describe the methods or materials in
connection with which the publications are cited.
[0137] It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended
claims, the singular forms "a", "and", and "the" include plural
referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for
example, reference to "a protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant" includes a plurality of such
polypeptide variants and reference to "the oral formulation"
includes reference to one or more oral formulations and equivalents
thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth.
[0138] The publications discussed herein are provided solely for
their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present
application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that
the present invention is not entitled to antedate such publication
by virtue of prior invention. Further, the dates of publication
provided may be different from the actual publication dates which
may need to be independently confirmed.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0139] The present invention provides oral pharmaceutical
compositions comprising a hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a parent protein
therapeutic. The hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant contains (1) a carbohydrate
moiety covalently linked to at least one non-native glycosylation
site not found in the parent protein therapeutic or (2) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently linked to at least one native
glycosylation site found but not glycosylated in the parent protein
therapeutic. In addition, the known protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises at least one
mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native protease
cleavage site found in the parent protein therapeutic, and thus
exhibits increased protease resistance compared to the parent
protein therapeutic.
[0140] The present invention further provides therapeutic methods
for treating a disease in a patient involving orally administering
to the patient a known hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant in an oral dosage form and at
a dosing interval that delivers more drug (on a mole basis) per
dose and at least as many doses per unit of time as that received
by the patient in a method proven to be effective for treating the
disease by subcutaneous bolus injection of the parent polypeptide
in a parenteral dosage form.
[0141] The present invention further provides synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonists that contain one or more
glycosylation sites; and compositions, including pharmaceutical
compositions, comprising the agonists. The present invention
further provides nucleic acids comprising nucleotide sequences
encoding subject polypeptide agonists; and host cells comprising
subject nucleic acids. The present invention further provides
containers and kits comprising a subject polypeptide agonist.
[0142] A subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist comprises a hybrid or consensus Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising at least one glycosylation site. The
glycosylation site(s) provides a site for attachment of a
carbohydrate moiety on the subject synthetic polypeptide agonist,
such that when the subject synthetic polypeptide agonist is
produced in a eukaryotic cell capable of glycosylation, the subject
synthetic polypeptide agonist is glycosylated. The glycosylation
confers one or more advantages on the subject synthetic polypeptide
agonist, relative to a parent Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, or compared to a naturally-occurring Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. Such advantages include
increased serum half-life; reduced immunogenicity; increased
functional in vivo half-life; reduced degradation by
gastrointestinal tract conditions; and increased rate of absorption
by gut epithelial cells. An increased rate of absorption by gut
epithelial cells and reduced degradation by gastrointestinal tract
conditions is important for enteral (e.g., oral) formulations of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist.
[0143] Subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonists are useful for treating various disorders, including viral
infections, fibrotic disorders, and proliferative disorders.
Accordingly, the present invention further provides methods of
treating viral infections, methods of treating fibrotic disorders,
and methods of treating proliferative disorders, the methods
generally involving administering to an individual in need thereof
an effective amount of a subject synthetic polypeptide agonist. In
some embodiments, a subject treatment method further involves
administration of at least one additional therapeutic agent to
treat the viral infection, fibrotic disorder, or proliferative
disorder. In some embodiments, a subject treatment method further
involves administering at least one side effect management agent to
reduce side effects induced by one or more of the therapeutic
agents.
[0144] In another aspect, the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonists of the invention find utility as reagents for
detection and isolation of Type I interferon receptor, such as
detection of Type I interferon receptor expression in various cell
types and tissues, including the determination of Type I interferon
receptor density and distribution in cell populations, and cell
sorting based on Type I interferon receptor expression. In yet
another aspect, the subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
agonists are useful for the development of agents with Type I
interferon receptor binding or activation patterns similar to those
of the subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor agonists. The
synthetic Type I interferon receptor agonists of the invention can
be used in Type I interferon receptor signal transduction assays to
screen for small molecule agonists or antagonists of Type I
interferon receptor signaling.
Polypeptide Variants
[0145] The present invention relates to hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants. The
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variants comprise at least one mutated protease
cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in
the parent protein therapeutic, and thus exhibit increased protease
resistance compared to the parent protein therapeutic.
[0146] A protease cleavage site that is found in a parent protein
therapeutic, and that is mutated in a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, such
that the site is no longer cleaved, or exhibits greater resistance
to cleavage (i.e., is a worse substrate than the native site for
proteolytic processing) by the protease that cleaves the protease
cleavage site in the parent protein, is referred to herein as a
"mutated protease cleavage site" or a "mutant cleavage site." A
protease cleavage site that is found in a parent protein
therapeutic is referred to herein as a "native protease cleavage
site."
[0147] In addition, a hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant includes (1) a carbohydrate
moiety covalently attached to at least one non-native glycosylation
site not found in a parent protein therapeutic or (2) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to at least one native
glycosylation site found but not glycosylated in a parent protein
therapeutic. A glycosylation site that is not found in a parent
protein therapeutic is referred to herein as a "non-native
glycosylation site." A glycosylation site that is found in but not
glycosylated in a parent protein therapeutic is referred to herein
as a "native glycosylation site." Thus, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant includes
(1) a carbohydrate moiety covalently linked to the at least one
non-native glycosylation site and/or (2) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently linked to the at least one native glycosylation site. A
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant that includes (1) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently linked to a non-native glycosylation site or (2) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently linked to a native glycosylation
site, and that comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage
site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in a parent
protein therapeutic, is referred to herein as a "hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant."
[0148] A "known" hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant means any hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant
presently in existence or hereafter created that (1) retains a
desired pharmacologic activity of a parent protein therapeutic and
(2) exhibits a longer serum half-life or greater area under the
curve of drug concentration in serum as a function of time (AUC)
compared to that exhibited by the parent protein therapeutic when
administered to a patient in a similar form and at a similar dose,
dosing frequency and route of administration. The present invention
provides compositions, including oral pharmaceutical compositions,
comprising the known hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants.
[0149] A known hyperglycosylated, hyperglycosylated polypeptide
variant is provided in a formulation suitable for oral delivery.
The parent protein therapeutic is ordinarily administered in an
immediate release formulation suitable for subcutaneous bolus
injection. Typically, the oral dosage form of the known
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant contains a first number of moles; and the
parent protein therapeutic is in a parenteral dosage form that
contains a second number of moles. In general, the first number of
moles is greater than the second number of moles. Nevertheless, a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant in the oral dosage form is released over a
period of time that is no longer than the dosing interval used in
the administration of the parent protein therapeutic in a regimen
proven to be effective for the treatment of a disease in a
patient.
[0150] The parent protein therapeutic is typically in a parenteral
dosage form administered by subcutaneous bolus injection, which
provides a "depot" effect, slowly releasing the protein therapeutic
into the bloodstream by diffusion of drug away from the tissues
surrounding the injection site.
[0151] A subject method of the invention replaces the subcutaneous
bolus injection "depot" effect with a comparable pharmacokinetic
profile achieved by oral delivery of a longer-acting agent (a known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant with a
greater serum half-life and/or AUC than its parent protein) free of
an extended release or depot formulation. That is, the time
required for release of the first number of moles of the known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant, when
administered orally, is no greater than the period of time between
doses of the parent protein therapeutic when administered by
subcutaneous bolus injection in a method that is proven to be
effective for treatment of the disease. Thus, in some embodiments,
a known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant
is administered at least as frequently, or in many cases more
frequently, and at higher dosage (on a mole basis) than the parent
protein therapeutic.
Structural Features
[0152] A hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant has an amino acid sequence that comprises one
or more mutated protease cleavage sites in place of a native
protease cleavage site(s) found in a corresponding parent protein
therapeutic; and has an amino acid sequence that comprises (1) one
or more non-native glycosylation sites and/or (2) one or more
native glycosylation sites. Thus, e.g., a desired polypeptide
variant has an amino acid sequence that comprises one or more
mutated protease cleavage sites in place of a native protease
cleavage site(s) found in a parent protein therapeutic; and has an
amino acid sequence that comprises one or more glycosylation sites
not found in the parent protein therapeutic or found but not
glycosylated in the parent protein therapeutic. A parent protein
therapeutic is in some embodiments a corresponding
naturally-occurring polypeptide. In other embodiments, a parent
protein therapeutic is a non-naturally occurring polypeptide (e.g.,
a synthetic polypeptide, a hybrid polypeptide, a consensus
polypeptide, a fusion polypeptide, a recombinant polypeptide, or
other variant of a naturally-occurring polypeptide). As used
herein, the terms "polypeptide variant" and "variant polypeptide"
both refer to any polypeptide that comprises one or more mutated
protease cleavage sites in place of a native protease cleavage
sites(s) found in a parent protein therapeutic; and that comprises
(1) one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent protein
therapeutic or (2) one or more glycosylation sites found but not
glycosylated in the parent protein therapeutic.
[0153] Non-native and native glycosylation sites include N-linked
glycosylation sites, and O-linked glycosylation sites. N-linked
glycosylation sites include, e.g., Asn-X-Ser/Thr, where the
asparagine residue provides a site for N-linked glycosylation, and
where X is any amino acid. O-linked glycosylation sites include at
least one serine or threonine residue. A number of O-linked
glycosylation sites are known in the art and have been reported in
the literature. See, e.g., Ten Hagen et al. (11029) J. Biol. Chem.
274(39):27867-74; Hanisch et al. (2001) Glycobiology 11:731-740;
and Ten Hagen et al. (2003) Glycobiology 13:1R-16R.
[0154] In all embodiments, a polypeptide variant is
hyperglycosylated, e.g., a polypeptide variant comprises (1) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently linked to a non-native glycosylation
site and/or (2) a carbohydrate moiety covalently linked to a native
glycoyslation site. In many embodiments, a known hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant
comprises a carbohydrate moiety covalently linked to a native
glycosylation site; and a carbohydrate moiety covalently linked to
a non-native glycosylation site. In some embodiments, a known
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant comprises O-linked glycosylation. In other
embodiments, a known hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises N-linked
glycosylation. In other embodiments, a known hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
both O-linked and N-linked glycosylation.
[0155] In some embodiments, a known hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
one, two, three, four, or five carbohydrate moieties, each linked
to different glycosylation sites. In some embodiments, a known
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is glycosylated at a non-native glycosylation
site. In some of these embodiments, a known hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is
glycosylated at a single non-native glycosylation site. In other
embodiments, a known hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is glycosylated at more than
one non-native glycosylation site, e.g., the known
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is glycosylated at two, three, or four
non-native glycosylation sites.
[0156] In other embodiments, a known hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is
glycosylated at a native glycosylation site. In some of these
embodiments, a known hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is glycosylated at a single
native glycosylation site. In other embodiments, a known
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is glycosylated at more than one native
glycosylation site, e.g., the known hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is
glycosylated at two, three, or four native glycosylation sites.
[0157] In other embodiments, a known hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is
glycosylated at both a native glycosylation site(s) and a
non-native glycosylation site(s).
[0158] A known hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant can comprise at least one
additional carbohydrate moiety not found in a parent protein
therapeutic when each is synthesized in a eukaryotic cell that is
capable of N- and/or O-linked protein glycosylation. Thus, e.g.,
compared to a parent protein therapeutic, a known hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant can
comprise at least one, at least two, at least three, or at least
four, or more, additional carbohydrate moieties. For example, where
a parent protein therapeutic has one covalently linked carbohydrate
moiety, a known hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant can have two, three, four, or
more, covalently linked carbohydrate moieties. In some embodiments,
the known hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant lacks a carbohydrate moiety
covalently linked to a non-native glycosylation site; and has
instead at least one, at least two, at least three, or at least
four, or more, additional carbohydrate moieties attached to native
glycosylation sites. In other embodiments, the known
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant lacks a carbohydrate moiety covalently linked
to a native glycosylation site; and has instead at least two, at
least three, or at least four, or more, carbohydrate moieties
attached to non-native glycosylation sites.
Glycosylated Type I Interferons
[0159] A subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist can have a consensus or hybrid Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist amino acid sequence that comprises one or more
non-native glycosylation sites. Thus, e.g., a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist can have an amino
acid sequence that comprises one or more glycosylation sites not
found in a naturally-occurring Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, e.g., not found in any known naturally
occurring IFN-.alpha., IFN-.beta., IFN-.kappa., IFN-.tau., or
IFN-.omega.. As used herein, the term "non-native glycosylation
site" is defined as a glycosylation site located at a position in a
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist amino acid
sequence, for which glycosylation site/position there is no
homologous glycosylation site/position that exists in a
naturally-occurring Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
amino acid sequence.
[0160] Alternatively, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist can have a consensus or hybrid Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist amino acid sequence that
comprises one or more naturally-occurring or native glycosylation
sites. As used herein, the term "native glycosylation site" is
defined as a glycosylation site located at a position in a
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist amino acid
sequence, for which glycosylation site/position there is a
homologous glycosylation site/position that exists in at least one
naturally-occurring Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
amino acid sequence.
[0161] As used herein, the term "synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist" is defined as any consensus or hybrid
Type I interferon polypeptide agonist that comprises one or more
glycosylation sites. Thus, a "synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist" encompasses any hybrid or consensus Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist that comprises one or more
glycosylation sites, including any hybrid or consensus Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist that comprises one or more
native glycosylation sites and/or one or more non-native
glycosylation sites.
[0162] A "parent Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist" is
a Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist that serves as a
reference point for comparison. In some embodiments, a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises
at least one additional glycosylation site not found in a parent
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. For example, in
some embodiments, a parent Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist is Infergen.RTM. consensus IFN-.alpha. (InterMune, Inc.,
Brisbane, Calif.). As shown in FIG. 25, a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises one or more
glycosylation sites not found in the parent Infergen.RTM. consensus
IFN-.alpha..
[0163] A subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist has a length of from about 150 amino acids to about 200
amino acids, e.g., from about 150 amino acids to about 155 amino
acids, from about 155 amino acids to about 160 amino acids, from
about 160 amino acids to about 165 amino acids, from about 165
amino acids to about 170 amino acids, from about 170 amino acids to
about 175 amino acids, from about 175 amino acids to about 180
amino acids, from about 180 amino acids to about 185 amino acids,
from about 185 amino acids to about 190 amino acids, from about 190
amino acids to about 195 amino acids, or from about 195 amino acids
to about 200 amino acids.
[0164] In some embodiments, the amino acid sequence of a
naturally-occurring Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
is modified to include at least one non-native glycosylation site.
As one non-limiting example, where a naturally occurring Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises the amino acid
sequence KDSS, the KDSS sequence is modified to KNSS. As another
non-limiting example, where a naturally occurring Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises the amino acid sequence
WDET, the WDET sequence is modified to WNET. As another
non-limiting example, where a naturally occurring Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises the amino acid sequence
VEET, the VEET sequence is modified to VTET. As another
non-limiting example, where a naturally occurring Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises the amino acid sequence
VEET, the VEET sequence is modified to VNET.
[0165] In many embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is glycosylated. In some embodiments,
a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
comprises O-linked glycosylation. In other embodiments, a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises
N-linked glycosylation. In other embodiments, a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises both
O-linked and N-linked glycosylation.
[0166] In some embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is glycosylated at a non-native
glycosylation site. In some of these embodiments, a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is
glycosylated at a single non-native glycosylation site. In other
embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist is glycosylated at more than one non-native
glycosylation site, e.g., the subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is glycosylated at two, three, or four
non-native glycosylation sites.
[0167] In other embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is glycosylated at a native
glycosylation site. In some of these embodiments, a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is
glycosylated at a single native glycosylation site. In other
embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist is glycosylated at more than one native
glycosylation site, e.g., the subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is glycosylated at two, three, or four
native glycosylation sites.
[0168] In other embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is glycosylated at both a native
glycosylation site(s) and a non-native glycosylation site(s).
[0169] Whether a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprises N-linked and/or O-linked
glycosylation is readily determined using standard techniques. See,
e.g., "Techniques in Glycobiology" R. Townsend and A. Hotchkiss,
eds. (11027) Marcel Dekker; and "Glycoanalysis Protocols (Methods
in Molecular Biology, Vol. 76)" E. Hounsell, ed. (11028) Humana
Press. The change in electrophoretic mobility of a protein before
and after treatment with chemical or enzymatic deglycosylation
(e.g., using endoglycosidases and/or exoglycosidases) is routinely
used to determine the glycosylation status of a protein. Enzymatic
deglycosylation can be carried out using any of a variety of
enzymes, including, but not limited to,
peptide-N4-(N-acetyl-.beta.-D-glucosaminyl) asparagine amidase
(PNGase F); endoglycosidase F1, endoglycosidase F2, endoglycosidase
F3, .alpha.(2.fwdarw.3,6,8,9) neuraminidase, and the like. For
example, sodium docecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis
(SDS-PAGE) analysis of the protein, either pre-treated with PNGase
F or untreated with PNGaseF, is conducted. A marked decrease in
band width and change in migration position after treatment with
PNGaseF is considered diagnostic of N-linked glycosylation. The
carbohydrate content of a glycosylated protein can also be detected
using lectin analysis of protein blots (e.g., proteins separated by
SDS-PAGE and transferred to a support, such as a nylon membrane).
Lectins, carbohydrate-binding proteins from various plant tissues,
have both high affinity and narrow specificity for a wide range of
defined sugar epitopes found on glycoprotein glycans. Cummings
(11024) Methods in Enzymol. 230:66-86. Lectins can be detectably
labeled (either directly or indirectly), allowing detection of
binding of lectins to carbohydrates on glycosylated proteins. For
example, when conjugated with biotin or digoxigenin, a lectin bound
to a glycosylated protein can be easily identified on membrane
blots through a reaction utilizing avidin or anti-digoxigenin
antibodies conjugated with an enzyme such as alkaline phosphatase,
.beta.-galactosidase, luciferase, or horse radish peroxidase, to
yield a detectable product. Screening with a panel of lectins with
well-defined specificity provides considerable information about a
glycoprotein's carbohydrate complement.
Consensus Type I Interferon Receptor Polypeptide Agonists with
Non-Native Glycosylation Site(s)
[0170] In some embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises a consensus amino acid
sequence and at least one non-native glycosylation site. In other
embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprises a consensus amino acid sequence and
at least one native glycosylation site.
[0171] A consensus sequence is derived by aligning three or more
amino acid sequences, and identifying amino acids that are shared
by at least two of the sequences. In some embodiments, a synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises a
consensus sequence derived from determining a consensus sequence of
naturally occurring human IFN-.alpha.2b, naturally-occurring human
IFN-.alpha.14, and naturally-occurring human IFN-.beta.1. In other
embodiments, a synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist comprises a consensus sequence derived from determining a
consensus sequence of naturally occurring human IFN-.alpha.2b,
naturally-occurring human IFN-.alpha.14, and naturally-occurring
human IFN-.omega.1. In other embodiments, a synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises a consensus
sequence derived from determining a consensus sequence of naturally
occurring human IFN-.alpha.2b, naturally-occurring human
IFN-.beta.1, and naturally-occurring human IFN-.omega.1. In other
embodiments, a synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist comprises a consensus sequence derived from determining a
consensus sequence of naturally occurring human IFN-.alpha.14,
naturally-occurring human IFN-.beta.1, and naturally-occurring
human IFN-.omega.1. In other embodiments, a synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises a consensus
sequence derived from determining a consensus sequence of naturally
occurring human IFN-.alpha.2b, naturally-occurring human
IFN-.alpha.14, naturally-occurring human IFN-.beta.1, and
naturally-occurring human IFN-.omega.1. In other embodiments, the
comparison further comprises including in the comparison the amino
acid sequence of Infergen.RTM. consensus IFN-.alpha..
[0172] In some of these embodiments, the subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is a consensus sequence
containing one or more glycosylation sites originating from one or
more of the parent Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
amino acid sequences used to derive the consensus sequence. In
additional embodiments, the consensus sequence is further modified
to incorporate at least one non-native glycosylation site.
[0173] In one embodiment, the subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises an amino acid sequence
corresponding to the majority sequence depicted in FIG. 24 (SEQ ID
NO:1355), further modified to incorporate at least one non-native
glycosylation site.
[0174] In another embodiment, the subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises an amino acid
sequence corresponding to the majority sequence depicted in FIG. 24
(SEQ ID NO:1355), further modified to incorporate at least one
glycosylation site from the group of the VTET glycosylation site of
IFN-.alpha.2b, the KNSS glycosylation site of IFN-.alpha.14, the
WNET glycosylation site of IFN-.beta.1, and the WNMT glycosylation
site of IFN-.omega.1. In other embodiments, the majority sequence
is additionally modified to incorporate one or more non-native
glycosylation sites.
[0175] In other embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is obtained from a consensus sequence
that does not have a glycosylation site originating from a parent
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. In these
embodiments, the consensus sequence is then further modified to
include at least one non-native glycosylation site in order to
obtain the subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist. For example, in some embodiments, where the consensus
sequence includes KDSS, the KDSS sequence is modified to KNSS or
KNST. As another non-limiting example, where the consensus sequence
includes WDET, the WDET sequence is modified to WNET or WNES. As
another non-limiting example, where the consensus sequence includes
VEET, the VEET sequence is modified to VTET, VNES or VNET.
[0176] In particular embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises the amino acid
sequence identified as "majority" in FIG. 24, and further comprises
one or more of the following modifications: KDSS modified to KNST;
WDET modified to WNES; VEET modified to VNES or VNET.
[0177] In some particular embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises an amino acid
sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1363-1373, as set
forth in FIG. 25.
[0178] In one embodiment, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises an amino acid sequence
corresponding to the majority sequence depicted in FIG. 28 (SEQ ID
NO:1390), further modified to incorporate at least one non-native
glycosylation site. In some embodiments, a subject Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises an amino acid
sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1392-1396, as set
forth in FIG. 28.
[0179] In one embodiment, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises an amino acid sequence
corresponding to the majority sequence depicted in FIG. 29 (SEQ ID
NO:1397), further modified to incorporate at least one non-native
glycosylation site. In some embodiments, a subject Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist comprises an amino acid
sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1399-1403, as set
forth in FIG. 29.
Hybrid Type I Interferon Receptor Polypeptide Agonists with
Non-Native Glycosylation Sites)
[0180] In some embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises a hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist with one or more glycosylation sites.
In other embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises a hybrid type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist with one or more glycosylation sites
not found in any naturally occurring Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist. As used herein, a "hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist" is a polypeptide having an amino acid
sequence comprising discrete sub-sequences corresponding in amino
acid identity and number to sub-sequences of different, naturally
occurring Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonists, wherein
the amino acid sequence of the subject synthetic polypeptide
agonist differs from that of any naturally-occurring Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. In some embodiments, the
discrete sub-sequences are selected from IFN-.alpha.2b,
IFN-.alpha.14, IFN-.beta.1, and IFN-.omega., and the amino acid
sequence of the polypeptide agonist differs from the amino acid
sequence of naturally occurring Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonists IFN-.alpha.2b, IFN-.alpha.14, IFN-.beta.1, and
IFN-.omega..
[0181] In other embodiments, the discrete sub-sequences can be
selected from IFN-.alpha.2b, IFN-.alpha.14, IFN-.beta.1,
Infergen.RTM. consensus IFN-.alpha., and IFN-.omega., and the amino
acid sequence of the polypeptide agonist differs from each of the
amino acid sequences of the Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonists IFN-.alpha.2b, IFN-.alpha.14, IFN-.beta.1, Infergen.RTM.
consensus IFN-.alpha., and IFN-.omega., respectively.
[0182] In some of these embodiments, the subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is a hybrid Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist amino acid sequence
containing one or more glycosylation sites originating from one or
more of the parental Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
amino acid sequences used to derive the hybrid sequence. In
additional embodiments, the hybrid sequence is further modified to
incorporate at least one additional non-native glycosylation site
(in addition to any non-native glycosylation site(s) originating
from a parental Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
amino acid sequence).
[0183] It will be appreciated that the synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonists of the invention include hybrid Type
I interferon polypeptide agonists formed by substituting one or
more amino acid residues in a parental IFN-.alpha. amino acid
sequence with the amino acid residue or residues that form a native
glycosylation site at a homologous position in another parental
IFN-.alpha. amino acid sequence.
[0184] In one non-limiting example, the subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is a hybrid Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist having a hybrid sequence
formed by substituting KNSS for the native KDSS residues in the
sequence of interferon alfa-2a or in the sequence of interferon
alfa-2b. These synthetic Type I receptor polypeptide agonists are
referred to herein as IFN-.alpha.2a (D102N) and IFN-.alpha.2b
(D102N), respectively, where the amino acid sequence is that shown
in FIG. 24.
[0185] In another non-limiting example, the subject synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is a hybrid Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist having a hybrid sequence
formed by substituting WNET for the native WDET residues in the
sequence of interferon alfa-2a or in the sequence of interferon
alfa-2b. These synthetic Type I receptor polypeptide agonists are
referred to herein as IFN-.alpha.2a (D108N) and IFN-.alpha.2b
(D108N), respectively, where the amino acid sequence is that shown
in FIG. 24.
[0186] In another non-limiting example, the subject synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is a hybrid Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist having a hybrid sequence
formed by substituting KNSS and WNET for the native KDSS and WDET
residues, respectively, in the sequence of interferon alfa-2a or in
the sequence of interferon alfa-2b. These synthetic Type I receptor
polypeptide agonists are referred to herein as IFN-.alpha.2a
(D102N, D108N) and IFN-.alpha.2b (D102N, D108N), respectively,
where the amino acid sequence is that shown in FIG. 24.
[0187] In other embodiments, the subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is obtained from a hybrid
sequence that does not have any glycosylation site(s) originating
from a parental Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
amino acid sequence. In these embodiments, the hybrid sequence is
then further modified to include at least one non-native
glycosylation site in order to obtain the subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. For example, in some
embodiments, where the hybrid sequence includes KDSS, the KDSS
sequence is modified to KNSS. As another non-limiting example,
where the hybrid sequence includes WDET, the WDET sequence is
modified to WNET. As another non-limiting example, where the hybrid
sequence includes VEET, the VEET sequence is modified to VTET or
VNET.
[0188] In some embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises, in order from N-terminus to
C-terminus, from about 2 to about 90, e.g., from about 2 to about
5, from about 5 to about 7, from about 7 to about 10, from about 10
to about 15, from about 15 to about 20, from about 20 to about 25,
from about 25 to about 30, from about 30 to about 35, from about 35
to about 40, from about 40 to about 45, from about 45 to about 50,
from about 50 to about 55, from about 55 to about 60, from about 60
to about 65, from about 65 to about 70, from about 75 to about 80,
from about 80 to about 85, or from about 85 to about 90 contiguous
amino acids of a first Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist selected from naturally-occurring human IFN-.alpha.2b (SEQ
ID NO:1357), naturally-occurring human IFN-.alpha.14 (SEQ ID
NO:1358), naturally occurring human IFN-.beta.1 (SEQ ID NO:1359),
and naturally-occurring human IFN-.omega.1 (SEQ ID NO:1360); and
from about 2 to about 90, e.g., from about 2 to about 5, from about
5 to about 7, from about 7 to about 10, from about 10 to about 15,
from about 15 to about 20, from about 20 to about 25, from about 25
to about 30, from about 30 to about 35, from about 35 to about 40,
from about 40 to about 45, from about 45 to about 50, from about 50
to about 55, from about 55 to about 60, from about 60 to about 65,
from about 65 to about 70, from about 75 to about 80, from about 80
to about 85, or from about 85 to about 90 contiguous amino acids of
a second Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist selected
from naturally-occurring human IFN-.alpha.2b, human IFN-.alpha.14,
human IFN-.beta.1, and human IFN-.omega.1, where the first and
second Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonists are
different.
[0189] In some embodiments, a subject hybrid synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist further comprises from
about 2 to about 90, e.g., from about 2 to about 5, from about 5 to
about 7, from about 7 to about 10, from about 10 to about 15, from
about 15 to about 20, from about 20 to about 25, from about 25 to
about 30, from about 30 to about 35, from about 35 to about 40,
from about 40 to about 45, from about 45 to about 50, from about 50
to about 55, from about 55 to about 60, from about 60 to about 65,
from about 65 to about 70, from about 75 to about 80, from about 80
to about 85, or from about 85 to about 90 contiguous amino acids of
a third Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist selected
from naturally-occurring human IFN-.alpha.2b, human IFN-.alpha.14,
human IFN-.beta.1, and human IFN-.omega.1, where the third Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is different from the first
and second Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonists.
[0190] In still other embodiments, a subject hybrid synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist further comprises from
about 2 to about 90, e.g., from about 2 to about 5, from about 5 to
about 7, from about 7 to about 10, from about 10 to about 15, from
about 15 to about 20, from about 20 to about 25, from about 25 to
about 30, from about 30 to about 35, from about 35 to about 40,
from about 40 to about 45, from about 45 to about 50, from about 50
to about 55, from about 55 to about 60, from about 60 to about 65,
from about 65 to about 70, from about 75 to about 80, from about 80
to about 85, or from about 85 to about 90 contiguous amino acids of
a fourth Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist selected
from naturally-occurring human IFN-.alpha.2b, human IFN-.alpha.14,
human IFN-.beta.1, and human IFN-.omega.1, where the fourth Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is different from the
first, second, and third Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonists.
[0191] In particular embodiments, any of the above-described
embodiments of a subject hybrid synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises from about 4 to about 90,
e.g., from about 4 to about 7, from about 7 to about 10, from about
10 to about 15, from about 15 to about 20, from about 20 to about
25, from about 25 to about 30, from about 30 to about 35, from
about 35 to about 40, from about 40 to about 45, from about 45 to
about 50, from about 50 to about 55, from about 55 to about 60,
from about 60 to about 65, from about 65 to about 70, from about 75
to about 80, from about 80 to about 85, or from about 85 to about
90 contiguous amino acids of a segment of a human IFN-.alpha.14
polypeptide that includes at least the amino acid sequence KNSS of
naturally occurring human IFN-.alpha.14.
[0192] In particular embodiments, any of the above-described
embodiments of a subject hybrid synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises from about 4 to about 90,
e.g., from about 4 to about 7, from about 7 to about 10, from about
10 to about 15, from about 15 to about 20, from about 20 to about
25, from about 25 to about 30, from about 30 to about 35, from
about 35 to about 40, from about 40 to about 45, from about 45 to
about 50, from about 50 to about 55, from about 55 to about 60,
from about 60 to about 65, from about 65 to about 70, from about 75
to about 80, from about 80 to about 85, or from about 85 to about
90 contiguous amino acids of a segment of a human IFN-.beta.1
polypeptide that includes at least the amino acid sequence WNET of
naturally occurring human IFN-.beta.1.
[0193] In particular embodiments, any of the above-described
embodiments of a subject hybrid synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises from about 4 to about 90,
e.g., from about 4 to about 7, from about 7 to about 10, from about
10 to about 15, from about 15 to about 20, from about 20 to about
25, from about 25 to about 30, from about 30 to about 35, from
about 35 to about 40, from about 40 to about 45, from about 45 to
about 50, from about 50 to about 55, from about 55 to about 60,
from about 60 to about 65, from about 65 to about 70, from about 75
to about 80, from about 80 to about 85, or from about 85 to about
90 contiguous amino acids of a segment of a human IFN-.alpha.1
polypeptide that includes at least the amino acid sequence WNMT of
naturally occurring human IFN-.omega.1.
[0194] In particular embodiments, any of the above-described
embodiments of a subject hybrid synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist comprises from about 4 to about 90,
e.g., from about 4 to about 7, from about 7 to about 10, from about
10 to about 15, from about 15 to about 20, from about 20 to about
25, from about 25 to about 30, from about 30 to about 35, from
about 35 to about 40, from about 40 to about 45, from about 45 to
about 50, from about 50 to about 55, from about 55 to about 60,
from about 60 to about 65, from about 65 to about 70, from about 75
to about 80, from about 80 to about 85, or from about 85 to about
90 contiguous amino acids of a segment of a human IFN-.alpha.2b
polypeptide that includes at least the amino acid sequence VTET of
naturally occurring human IFN-.alpha.2b.
Hybrid Type I Interferon Receptor Polypeptide Agonists with
Non-Native Glycosylation Site(s) Generated by DNA Shuffling
Techniques
[0195] In some embodiments, DNA shuffling techniques such as
described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,132,970 may be used to generate hybrid
type 1 interferons with desired glycosylation sites. DNA shuffling
involves collecting a group of related genes in a suitable vessel.
The collected gene group is then treated to fragment the collected
genes resulting in a pool of gene fragments. In one non-limiting
example, fragmentation is accomplished by treating the collected
gene group with one or more selected nucleases. The pool of gene
fragments is then heated to dissociate individual fragments. The
heat-treated pool of gene fragments is then allowed to cool in
order to permit the dissociated gene fragments to recombine at the
sites of homology thus creating novel recombinations. The novel
recombinations are extended, and the recombination process is
repeated to create a library of novel full length genes which have
a combination of characteristics of the starting parental
genes.
[0196] In some embodiments, the genes encoding human Type 1
interferons or variant hyperglycosylated type 1 interferons
(including consensus interferon alphacon-1) or hybrids of either
are a group of homologous genes that encode polypeptides of similar
biological activity. In one non-limiting example, two or more human
type 1 interferon genes can be subjected to DNA shuffling
techniques to generate a library of novel recombinant
polynucleotides expressing polypeptides with similar biological
functions. These novel polynucleotide molecules can contain gene
fragments originating from any of the two or more species of human
Type I interferons (including consensus interferon alphacon-1)
selected for DNA shuffling and thus when these novel
polynucleotides are expressed the resulting polypeptides can
contain amino acid sequences common to any of the two or more
species of human Type I interferons (including consensus interferon
alphacon-1) whose genes were subjected to DNA shuffling.
[0197] In some embodiments, two or more variant hyperglycosylated
type 1 interferon genes can be subjected to DNA shuffling
techniques to generate a library of novel recombinant
polynucleotides expressing polypeptides with similar biological
functions. These novel polynucleotide molecules can contain gene
fragments originating from any of the two or more species of
variant hyperglycosylated Type I interferons (including consensus
interferon alphacon-1) selected for DNA shuffling and thus when
these novel polynucleotides are expressed the resulting
polypeptides can contain amino acid sequences common to any of the
two or more species of variant hyperglycosylated Type I interferons
(including consensus interferon alphacon-1) whose genes were
subjected to DNA shuffling.
[0198] In some embodiments, one or more human type 1 interferon and
one or more variant hyperglycosylated type 1 interferon genes can
be subjected to DNA shuffling techniques to generate a library of
novel recombinant polynucleotides expressing polypeptides with
similar biological functions. These novel polynucleotide molecules
can contain gene fragments originating from any of the one or more
species of variant hyperglycosylated Type I interferons (including
consensus interferon alphacon-1) selected for DNA shuffling and
from any of the one or more species of human Type I interferons
(including consensus interferon alphacon-1) selected for DNA
shuffling and thus when these novel polynucleotides are expressed
the resulting polypeptides can contain amino acid sequences common
to any of the one or more species of variant hyperglycosylated Type
I interferons (including consensus interferon alphacon-1) or from
any of the one of more species of human Type I interferons
(including consensus interferon alphacon-1) whose genes were
subjected to DNA shuffling.
[0199] In some embodiments, these novel molecules can be aligned
with the naturally glycosylated Type I interferons and the
corresponding glycosylation sites can be generated as a consequence
of the DNA shuffling technique or additional glycosylation sites
can be introduced in the same way as such site introduction has
been described in this patent for non-glycosylated Type I
interferons. These novel molecules can contain any one or more
glycosylation sites selected from the group consisting of position
31, position 102, position 108, and position 138.
[0200] In some embodiments, the resulting hybrid gene obtained from
gene shuffling can encode for a polypeptide with one or more
specific mutations selected from the group consisting of D31N,
L31S, D31N, K31N, D102N, S102N, T102N, R102N, I102N, D108N, E108N,
K108N, E138T, G138T, I138T, L138T, and P138T. In another
non-limiting example, the resulting hybrid gene obtained from the
combination of gene shuffling and the introduction of
hyperglycosylation sites as described in this patent for
non-glycosylated Type I interferons can encode for a polypeptide
with one or more specific mutations selected from the group
consisting of D31N, L31S, D31N, K31N, D102N, S102N, T102N, R102N,
I102N, D108N, E108N, K108N, E138T, G138T, I138T, L138T, and
P138T.
[0201] In some embodiments, the resulting polypeptide expressed by
a hybrid gene obtained from gene shuffling can encode for a
polypeptide with one or more specific mutations selected from the
group consisting of D31N, L31S, D31N, K31N, D102N, S102N, T102N,
R102N, I102N, D108N, E108N, K108N, E138T, G138T, I138T, L380T, and
P150T. In another non-limiting example, the resulting polypeptide
expressed by a hybrid gene obtained from the combination of gene
shuffling and the introduction of hyperglycosylation sites as
described in this patent for non-glycosylated Type I interferons
can encode for a polypeptide with one or more specific mutations
selected from the group consisting of D31N, L31S, D31N, K31N,
D102N, S102N, T102N, R102N, I102N, D108N, E108N, K108N, E138T,
G138T, I138T, L138T, and P138T.
Functional Features
[0202] A subject synthetic polypeptide is a Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist, e.g., a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist binds to and causes signal
transduction via the Type I interferon receptor. Whether a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist functions
as a Type I interferon receptor agonist can be readily determined
using any known assay. Such assays include, an in vitro cell-based
assay to detect activation of interferon-responsive genes (e.g.,
using a reporter gene operably linked to a promoter containing one
or more interferon responsive elements); and the like. Such assays
also include KIRA assays for Type I interferon receptor activation
activity as described in the "Diagnostic Uses" section below.
[0203] In some embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist exhibits one or more of the following
activities: antiproliferative activity, anti-viral activity, and
anti-fibrotic activity. Whether a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist exhibits anti-viral
activity can be readily determined using any known assay, including
e.g., an in vitro cell-based inhibition of viral replication assay.
See, e.g., Patick et al. (11029) Antimicrobial Agents and
Chemotherapy 43:2444-2450. Whether a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist exhibits anti-proliferative
activity can be readily determined using any known assay,
including, e.g., an in vitro cell-based inhibition of proliferation
assay.
[0204] A subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist exhibits one or more of the following properties: increased
serum half-life; reduced immunogenicity in vivo; increased
functional in vivo half-life; increased stability; reduced
degradation by gastrointestinal tract conditions; and improved
water solubility.
[0205] In some embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist has an increased serum half-life
compared to a naturally occurring Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist or compared to a parent Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist. The term "serum half-life" is used
interchangeably herein with the terms "plasma half-life," and
"circulating half-life." In some embodiments, a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist has a serum half
life that is at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about
20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at
least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least
about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about
70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at
least about 100% (or two-fold), at least about 2.5-fold, at least
about 3-fold, at least about 3.5-fold, at least about 4-fold, at
least about 4.5-fold, or at least about 5-fold greater than the
serum half life of a naturally-occurring Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist or parent Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist that lacks the non-native glycosylation site.
In some embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist has a serum half life that is at least about
10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at
least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least
about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about
60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at
least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100% (or
two-fold), at least about 2.5-fold, at least about 3-fold, at least
about 3.5-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least about 4.5-fold, or
at least about 5-fold greater than the serum half life of a
naturally-occurring Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist,
or a Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist that has the
same amino acid sequence as a naturally-occurring Type I interferon
receptor agonist.
[0206] The serum half-life of a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is readily determined using well known
methods. For example, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is detectably labeled, and is
administered to an individual (e.g., an experimental non-human
animal, or a human subject), and, at various time points following
administration of the agonist, a blood sample is drawn and the
amount of detectably labeled synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist in the blood sample is determined.
[0207] In some embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist exhibits increased resistance to
degradation by gastrointestinal tract conditions compared to a
naturally occurring Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
or compared to a parent Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist. In some embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist exhibits at least about 10%, at least
about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about
30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at
least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least
about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about
80%, or at least about 90%, or greater, reduction of degradation in
the gastrointestinal tract, compared to the level of degradation of
a naturally-occurring Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist or parent Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
that lacks the non-native glycosylation site(s).
[0208] Whether a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist exhibits increased resistance to degradation by
gastrointestinal tract conditions can be readily determined using
well-known methods. For example, a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is contacted in vitro with
digestive enzymes found in the gastrointestinal tract, and the
effect of the enzymes on the structural and functional integrity of
the subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist determined. An in vivo method for determining resistance to
degradation by gastrointestinal tract conditions can be used.
[0209] A known hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant suitable for use herein is a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated variant
of a parent protein therapeutic, wherein the parent protein
therapeutic is any protein therapeutic that is effective in the
treatment of the disease or condition in a patient when
administered to the patient. A list of exemplary protein
therapeutics is provided below. A known hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is
effective in the treatment of the same disease or condition in a
patient as the corresponding parent protein therapeutic.
Hyperglycosylated or Protease Resistant, Hyperglycosylated
Polypeptide
[0210] A known hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated variant of a protein
therapeutic, and is in many embodiments provided in a first unit
form. The first unit form can comprise a first number of moles of
the known hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant in an oral pharmaceutical
composition. The parent protein therapeutic in many embodiments can
be in an immediate release formulation suitable for subcutaneous
bolus injection, i.e. a second unit form, where the first number of
moles in the first unit form is greater than a second number of
moles of the protein therapeutic in the second unit form. For
example, the first number of moles can be at least about 5%, at
least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least
about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about
40%, at least about 45%, or at least about 50%, or at least about
75%, or at least about 100%, or at least about three-fold, or at
least about four-fold, or at least about five-fold, or at least
about six-fold, or at least about seven-fold, or at least about
eight-fold, or at least about nine-fold, or at least about
ten-fold, or more, greater than the second number of moles.
[0211] In many embodiments, upon oral administration of the first
unit form to a patient, the time required for release of the first
number of moles of the known hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is no
longer than the period of time that elapses between doses of the
parent protein therapeutic when administered in the second unit
form by subcutaneous bolus injection at a selected dosing frequency
in a therapeutic regimen that is proven to be effective for
treating the disease or condition of the patient. Thus, e.g., the
time required for release of the first number of moles of the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant upon oral administration of the first unit form
can be at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%,
at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at
least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, or at
least about 50%, or more, less than the time interval between doses
of the parent therapeutic in the second unit form when administered
by subcutaneous bolus injection at the selected dosing frequency.
In some embodiments, the first unit form is in an immediate release
formulation suitable for oral delivery.
[0212] A hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant can be administered by mouth more frequently
than the corresponding parent polypeptide is administered by
subcutaneous bolus injection. For example, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant can be
administered by mouth at least twice as frequently, at least 21/3
times more frequently, at least 2.5 times more frequently, at least
three times more frequently, at least 3.5 times more frequently, or
at least four times more frequently, or at least five times more
frequently, or at least six times more frequently, or more
frequently, than the corresponding parent polypeptide is
administered by subcutaneous bolus injection. Thus, e.g., where a
parent polypeptide therapeutic is administered once weekly, the
corresponding protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant can be administered twice
weekly, three times weekly, once daily, twice daily, three times
daily, or more than three times daily.
[0213] As one non-limiting example, the parent protein therapeutic
is IFN-.gamma.1b, and the IFN-.gamma.1b is administered in a unit
dosage form suitable for subcutaneous injection at a dosage of
1.times.10.sup.6 International Units (IU)/m.sup.2 (or 50
.mu.g/m.sup.2 or 3.0.times.10.sup.-9 mol./m.sup.2) subcutaneously
three times per week, for a total weekly dose of 150 .mu.g/m.sup.2
(or 3.times.10.sup.6 IU/m.sup.2 or 9.0.times.10.sup.-9
mol./m.sup.2). A desired hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
variant of IFN-.gamma.1b is in a unit dosage form suitable for oral
delivery; the known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
IFN-.gamma.1b variant is administered orally, and more frequently
than 3 times per week (e.g., 4 times per week, 5 times per week, 6
times per week, once daily, twice daily, or three times daily); and
the total weekly dose of hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
IFN-.gamma.1b variant that is administered is greater than or equal
to 9.0.times.10.sup.-9 mol./m.sup.2, e.g., the total weekly dose is
from about 9.0.times.10.sup.-9 mol./m.sup.2 to about
1.0.times.10.sup.-8 mol./m.sup.2, from about 1.0.times.10.sup.-8
mol./m.sup.2 to about 2.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol./m.sup.2, from about
2.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol./m.sup.2 to about 5.0.times.10.sup.-8
mol./m.sup.2, or from about 5.0.times.10.sup.-8 mol./m.sup.2 to
about 7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol./m.sup.2, or from about
7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol./m.sup.2 to about 1.0.times.10.sup.-7
mol./m.sup.2, or from about 1.0.times.10.sup.-7 mol./m.sup.2 to
about 1.0.times.10.sup.-6 mol./m.sup.2.
[0214] In another aspect, the total weekly dose of
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.gamma.1b variant that is
administered is greater than or equal to 500 e.g., from about 500
.mu.g to about 750 from about 750 .mu.g to about 1,000 from about
1,000 .mu.g to about 1,500 or from about 1,500 .mu.g to about 2,000
.mu.g.
[0215] A hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant exhibits increased protease resistance compared
to the corresponding parent polypeptide. In some embodiments, a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant exhibits resistance to serum proteases that is
at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at
least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least
about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about
55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at
least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least
about 100% (or two-fold), at least about 2.5-fold, at least about
3-fold, at least about 3.5-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least
about 4.5-fold, at least about 5-fold (at least about 5 times), at
least about 6-fold, at least about 7-fold, at least about 8-fold,
at least about 9-fold, at least about 10-fold, at least about
20-fold, at least about 30-fold, at least about 40-fold, at least
about 50-fold, at least about 60-fold, at least about 70-fold, at
least about 80-fold, at least about 90-fold, at least about
100-fold, at least about 200-fold, at least about 300-fold, at
least about 400-fold, at least about 500-fold, at least about
600-fold, at least about 700-fold, at least about 800-fold, at
least about 900-fold, or at least about 1000-fold, or more, greater
than the resistance to serum proteases of the corresponding parent
protein therapeutic, in human blood, human serum, or an in vitro
mixture containing one or more proteases.
[0216] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant exhibits
at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at
least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least
about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about
55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at
least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least
about 100% (or two-fold), at least about 2.5-fold, at least about
3-fold, at least about 3.5-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least
about 4.5-fold, at least about 5-fold (at least about 5 times), at
least about 6-fold, at least about 7-fold, at least about 8-fold,
at least about 9-fold, at least about 10-fold, at least about
20-fold, at least about 30-fold, at least about 40-fold, at least
about 50-fold, at least about 60-fold, at least about 70-fold, at
least about 80-fold, at least about 90-fold, at least about
100-fold, at least about 200-fold, at least about 300-fold, at
least about 400-fold, at least about 500-fold, at least about
600-fold, at least about 700-fold, at least about 800-fold, at
least about 900-fold, or at least about 1000-fold, or more, greater
resistance to one or more of .alpha.-chymotrypsin, endoproteinase
Arg-C, endoproteinase Asp-N, endoproteinase Glu-C, endoproteinase
Lys-C, and trypsin, compared to the corresponding parent protein
therapeutic.
[0217] In some embodiments, the extent of the increase in protease
resistance of the polypeptide variant is determined by comparing
the half-life of the polypeptide variant to the half-life of the
corresponding parent protein therapeutic in human blood or human
serum in vitro, or in an in vitro composition comprising one or
more serum proteases. For example, the resistance to protease
cleavage can be determined by detecting the level of a biological
activity of a protease-resistant polypeptide variant following
separately contacting the polypeptide variant and the corresponding
parent protein therapeutic with a mixture of proteases, with human
serum, or with human blood; and comparing the activity of the
polypeptide variant to that of the corresponding parent protein
therapeutic. If the biological activity of the polypeptide variant
is higher than that of the corresponding parent protein therapeutic
following incubation with human blood, human serum, or one or more
proteases, then the polypeptide variant has increased protease
resistance compared to the parent protein therapeutic.
[0218] The following is one non-limiting example of an in vitro
assay for determining protease resistance. In separate containers,
a polypeptide variant and the corresponding parent protein
therapeutic are added to a mixture of proteases containing 1.5 pg
each of .alpha.-chymotrypsin, carboxypeptidase, endoproteinase
Arg-C, endoproteinase Asp-N, endoproteinase Glu-C, endoproteinase
Lys-C, and trypsin, forming a reaction mixture; and the reaction
mixture kept at 25.degree. C. for 30 minutes. At the end of the
30-minute reaction period, an agent that inhibits the activity of
the proteases is added; and a biological activity of the
polypeptide variant and the corresponding parent protein
therapeutic is detected. The following is another non-limiting
example of an in vitro assay for determining protease resistance.
In separate containers, a polypeptide variant and the corresponding
parent protein therapeutic are added to either a lysate of human
blood, or human serum, forming a reaction mixture; and the reaction
mixture is kept at 37.degree. C. for a suitable period of time
(e.g., 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or 60
minutes, etc.). An agent that inhibits the activity of the
proteases is then added; and a biological activity of the
polypeptide variant and the corresponding parent protein
therapeutic is detected.
[0219] The corresponding parent protein therapeutic can be any
parent protein therapeutic that is proven to be effective in the
treatment of the disease or condition in a patient when
administered to the patient in an immediate release formulation by
subcutaneous bolus injection of the second unit form at a suitable
dosing frequency. In these embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is
effective in the treatment of the same disease or condition in the
patient when administered to the patient orally in the first unit
form at a dosing frequency that is no less often than that of the
parent protein therapeutic regimen.
[0220] In many embodiments, a known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant exhibits a desired
pharmacologic activity in a mammalian host, e.g., a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant can
exhibit at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%,
at least about 80%, at least about 90%, or at least about 95%, of a
desired pharmacologic activity of a corresponding parent protein
therapeutic. As non-limiting examples, a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant can exhibit one or more of
the following activities: antiproliferative activity, anti-viral
activity, anti-fibrotic activity; hematopoietic activity;
angiogenic activity; enzymatic activity; growth factor activity;
chemokine activity; receptor agonist activity; receptor antagonist
activity; and anti-angiogenic activity; where the activity is one
that is desired of a corresponding parent protein therapeutic.
[0221] A known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide
variant exhibits increased serum half-life or increased AUC
compared to a parent protein therapeutic administered under similar
conditions.
[0222] In some embodiments, a known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant has an increased serum
half-life compared to the corresponding parent polypeptide. The
term "serum half-life" is used interchangeably herein with the
terms "plasma half-life," and "circulating half-life." In some
embodiments, a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide
variant has a serum half life that is at least about 10%, at least
about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about
30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at
least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least
about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about
80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100% (or two-fold), at
least about 2.5-fold, at least about 3-fold, at least about
3.5-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least about 4.5-fold, at least
about 5-fold (at least about 5 times), at least about 6-fold, at
least about 7-fold, at least about 8-fold, at least about 9-fold,
at least about 10-fold, at least about 20-fold, at least about
30-fold, at least about 40-fold, at least about 50-fold, at least
about 60-fold, at least about 70-fold, at least about 80-fold, at
least about 90-fold, at least about 100-fold, at least about
200-fold, at least about 300-fold, at least about 400-fold, at
least about 500-fold, at least about 600-fold, at least about
700-fold, at least about 800-fold, at least about 900-fold, or at
least about 1000-fold, or more, greater than the serum half life of
the corresponding parent protein therapeutic. In some embodiments,
the extent of the increase in half-life of the known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant is
determined by comparing the half-life of the known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant to the
half-life of the corresponding parent protein therapeutic in human
blood or human serum in vivo.
[0223] In some embodiments, the extent of the increase in half-life
of the known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide
variant is determined by comparing the half-life of the known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant to the
half-life of the corresponding parent protein therapeutic in human
blood or human serum in vitro, or in an in vitro composition
comprising one or more serum proteases. For example, the resistance
to protease cleavage can be determined by detecting the level of a
biological activity of a known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant following separately
contacting the polypeptide variant and the corresponding parent
protein therapeutic with a mixture of proteases, with human serum,
or with human blood; and comparing the activity of the polypeptide
variant to that of the corresponding parent protein therapeutic. If
the biological activity of the polypeptide variant is higher than
that of the corresponding parent protein therapeutic following
incubation with human blood, human serum, or one or more proteases,
then the polypeptide variant has an increased half-life compared to
the parent protein therapeutic.
[0224] In some embodiments, a known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant has an AUC that is at least
about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about
25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at
least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least
about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about
75%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100%
(or two-fold), at least about 2.5-fold, at least about 3-fold, at
least about 3.5-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least about
4.5-fold, or at least about 5-fold greater than the AUC of the
corresponding parent protein therapeutic when administered under
similar conditions.
[0225] The serum half-life or AUC of a known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant can be readily determined
using well known methods. For example, a known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant is detectably labeled, and
is administered to an individual (e.g., an experimental non-human
animal, or a human subject), and, at various time points following
administration of the hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, a blood sample is drawn and the amount of
detectably labeled hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant in the blood sample is determined.
3D-Scanning Methods
[0226] A glycosylated or protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a parent protein
therapeutic can be generated using a 3D-scanning (structural
homology) method. Structural homology refers to homology between
the topology and three-dimensional structure of two proteins.
Numerous methods are well known in the art for identifying
structurally related amino acid positions with 3-dimensionally
structurally homologous proteins. Exemplary methods include, but
are not limited to: CATH (Class, Architecture, Topology and
Homologous superfamily) which is a hierarchical classification of
protein domain structures based on four different levels (Orengo et
al., Structure, 5(8): 1093-1108, 11027); CE (Combinatorial
Extension of the optimal path), which is a method that calculates
pairwise structure alignments (Shindyalov et al., Protein
Engineering, 11 (9):739-747, 11028); FSSP (Fold classification
based on Structure-Structure alignment of Proteins), which is a
database based on the complete comparison of all 3-dimensional
protein structures that currently reside in the Protein Data Bank
(PDB) (Holm et al., Science, 273:595-602, 11026); SCOP (Structural
Classification of Proteins), which provides a descriptive database
based on the structural and evolutionary relationships between all
proteins whose structure is known (Murzin et al., J. Mol. Biol.,
247:536-540, 11025); and VAST (Vector Alignment Search Tool), which
compares newly determined 3-dimensional protein structure
coordinates to those found in the MMDB/PDB database (Gibrat et al.,
Current Opinion in Structural Biology, 6:377-385, 11025).
[0227] As one non-limiting example, IFN-.alpha.2b mutants with
increased resistance to proteolysis are generated by a
2-dimensional rational scanning method; and the corresponding
residues on members of cytokine families that possess structural
homology to IFN-.alpha.2b are identified and the identified
residues on the other cytokines are similarly modified to produce
cytokines with increased resistance to proteolysis. See, e.g., WO
04/022593.
Protein Therapeutics
[0228] A hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is a variant of a polypeptide that has a
therapeutic function in a mammalian host ("a parent protein
therapeutic") in the treatment of a disease or condition in the
mammalian host. A hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant treats the same disease or
condition in the host as a parent protein therapeutic.
[0229] It should be noted that, in the context of amino acid
replacements for generating protease-resistant variants of a parent
protein therapeutic, the numbering of amino acids used to describe
amino acid replacements that alter a protease cleavage site
coincides with the numbering of amino acids as set forth in FIGS.
1-23. In the context of amino acid replacements for generating
hyperglycosylation variants of the parent protein therapeutic, the
numbering of amino acids used to describe amino acid replacements
that generate a glycosylation site coincides with the numbering of
amino acids as set forth in FIGS. 24-30. The corresponding amino
acid positions of an IFN-.alpha. depicted in, e.g., FIG. 1 and FIG.
24 are readily identified. For example, it will be readily apparent
to those skilled in the art that D99 of IFN-.alpha.2b depicted in
FIG. 24 corresponds to D71 of IFN-.alpha.2b depicted in FIG. 2, and
corresponds to D71 of IFN-.alpha.2a depicted in FIG. 1. Thus, e.g.,
D99 and D102 of the IFN-.alpha.2b amino acid sequence depicted in
FIG. 24 correspond to D71 and D77, respectively of the
IFN-.alpha.2a amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 1 and of the
IFN-.alpha.2b amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 2; R50 of the
IFN-.alpha.2b amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 24 corresponds
to R23 of the IFN-.alpha.2b amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 2;
D99, D105, and E134 of the Infergen amino acid sequence depicted in
FIG. 24 correspond to D72, D78, and E107, respectively, of the
consensus IFN-.alpha. amino acid sequence set forth in FIG. 9; the
S74, E134, and F136 amino acid positions of the IFN-.beta.1 amino
acid sequence set forth in FIG. 24 correspond to S74, E109, and
F111, respectively, in the IFN-.beta. amino acid sequence set forth
in FIG. 3; and the E38, S40, and S99 amino acid positions of the
IFN-.gamma. amino acid sequence set forth in FIG. 31 correspond to
E41, S43, and S102, respectively, of the IFN-.gamma. amino acid
sequence set forth in FIG. 4.
[0230] Suitable protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants include protease-resistant
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated forms of any parent
protein therapeutic that a mammalian host is in need of, including,
but not limited to: an interferon (e.g., IFN-.gamma., IFN-.alpha.,
IFN-.beta., IFN-.omega.; IFN-.tau.; IFN-.kappa.; as described in
more detail below); an insulin (e.g., Novolin, Humulin, Humalog,
Lantus, Ultralente, etc.); an erythropoietin (e.g., Procrit.RTM.,
Eprex.RTM., or Epogen.RTM. (epoetin-.alpha.); Aranesp.RTM.
(darbepoetin-.alpha.); NeoRecormon.RTM., Epogin.RTM.
(epoetin-.beta.); and the like); an antibody (e.g., a monoclonal
antibody) (e.g., Rituxan.RTM. (rituximab); Remicade.RTM.
(infliximab); Herceptin.RTM. (trastuzumab); Humira.TM.
(adalimumab); Xolair.RTM. (omalizumab); Bexxar.RTM. (tositumomab);
Raptiva.TM. (efalizumab); Erbitux.TM. (cetuximab); and the like),
including an antigen-binding fragment of a monoclonal antibody; a
blood factor (e.g., Activase.RTM. (alteplase) tissue plasminogen
activator; NovoSeven.RTM. (recombinant human factor VIIa); Factor
VIIa; Factor VIII (e.g., Kogenate.RTM.); Factor IX; .beta.-globin;
hemoglobin; and the like); a colony stimulating factor (e.g.,
Neupogen.RTM. (filgrastim; G-CSF); Neulasta (pegfilgrastim);
granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), granulocyte-monocyte
colony stimulating factor, macrophage colony stimulating factor,
megakaryocyte colony stimulating factor; and the like); a growth
hormone (e.g., a somatotropin, e.g., Genotropin.RTM.,
Nutropin.RTM., Norditropin.RTM., Saizen.RTM., Serostim.RTM.,
Humatrope.RTM., etc.; a human growth hormone; and the like); an
interleukin (e.g., IL-1; IL-2, including, e.g., Proleukin.RTM.;
IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-9; etc.); a growth factor
(e.g., Regranex.RTM. (beclapermin; PDGF); Fiblast.RTM. (trafermin;
bFGF); Stemgen.RTM. (ancestim; stem cell factor); keratinocyte
growth factor; an acidic fibroblast growth factor, a stem cell
factor, a basic fibroblast growth factor, a hepatocyte growth
factor; and the like); a soluble receptor (e.g., a
TNF-.alpha.-binding soluble receptor such as Enbrel.RTM.
(etanercept); a soluble VEGF receptor; a soluble interleukin
receptor; a soluble .gamma./.delta. T cell receptor; and the like);
an enzyme (e.g., .alpha.-glucosidase; Cerazyme.RTM. (imiglucarase;
.beta.-glucocerebrosidase, Ceredase.RTM. (alglucerase); an enzyme
activator (e.g., tissue plasminogen activator); a chemokine (e.g.,
IP-10; Mig; Gro.alpha./IL-8, RANTES; MIP-1.alpha.; MIP-1.beta.;
MCP-1; PF-4; and the like); an angiogenic agent (e.g., vascular
endothelial growth factor (VEGF); an anti-angiogenic agent (e.g., a
soluble VEGF receptor); a protein vaccine; a neuroactive peptide
such as bradykinin, cholecystokinin, gastin, secretin, oxytocin,
gonadotropin-releasing hormone, beta-endorphin, enkephalin,
substance P, somatostatin, prolactin, galanin, growth
hormone-releasing hormone, bombesin, warfarin, dynorphin,
neurotensin, motilin, thyrotropin, neuropeptide Y, luteinizing
hormone, calcitonin, insulin, glucagon, vasopressin, angiotensin
II, thyrotropin-releasing hormone, vasoactive intestinal peptide, a
sleep peptide, etc.; other proteins such as a thrombolytic agent,
an atrial natriuretic peptide, bone morphogenic protein,
thrombopoietin, relaxin, glial fibrillary acidic protein, follicle
stimulating hormone, a human alpha-1 antitrypsin, a leukemia
inhibitory factor, a transforming growth factor, a tissue factor,
an insulin-like growth factor, a luteinizing hormone, a follicle
stimulating hormone, a macrophage activating factor, tumor necrosis
factor, a neutrophil chemotactic factor, a nerve growth factor, a
tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases; a vasoactive intestinal
peptide, angiogenin, angiotropin, fibrin; hirudin; a leukemia
inhibitory factor; an IL-1 receptor antagonist (e.g., Kineret.RTM.
(anakinra)); and the like. Also suitable for use are fusion
proteins comprising all or a portion of any of the foregoing
proteins.
[0231] As mentioned above, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated protein variant exhibits at
least one desired pharmacologic activity of the corresponding
parent protein. Examples of useful assays for particular
therapeutic proteins include, but are not limited to, GMCSF (Eaves,
A. C. and Eaves C. J., Erythropoiesis in culture. In: McCullock E A
(edt) Cell culture techniques--Clinics in hematology. W B Saunders,
Eastbourne, pp 371-91 (1984); Metcalf, D., International Journal of
Cell Cloning 10: 116-25 (11022); Testa, N. G., et al., Assays for
hematopoietic growth factors. In: Balkwill F R (edt) Cytokines A
practical Approach, pp 229-44; IRL Press Oxford 11021) EPO
(bioassay: Kitamura et al., J. Cell. Physiol. 140 p323 (1989));
Hirudin (platelet aggregation assay: Blood Coagul Fibrinolysis
7(2):259-61 (11026)); IFN.alpha. (anti-viral assay: Rubinstein et
al., J. Virol. 37(2):755-8 (1981); anti-proliferative assay: Gao Y,
et al Mol Cell Biol. 19(11):7305-13 (11029); and bioassay:
Czarniecki et al., J. Virol. 49 p490 (1984)); GCSF (bioassay:
Shirafuji et al., Exp. Hematol. 17 p116 (1989); proliferation of
murine NFS-60 cells (Weinstein et al, Proc Natl Acad Sci 83:5010-4
(1986)); insulin (3H-glucose uptake assay: Steppan et al., Nature
409(6818):307-12 (2001)); hGH (Ba/F3-hGHR proliferation assay: J
Clin Endocrinol Metab 85(11):4274-9 (2000); International standard
for growth hormone: Horm Res, 51 Suppl 1:7-12 (11029)); factor X
(factor X activity assay: Van Wijk et al. Thromb Res 22:681-686
(1981)); factor VII (coagulation assay using prothrombin clotting
time: Belaaouaj et al., J. Biol. Chem. 275:27123-8 (2000);
Diaz-Collier et al., Thromb Haemost 71:339-46 (11024)).
Interferons
[0232] In some embodiments, the parent protein therapeutic is an
interferon, and a hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises (1) a carbohydrate
moiety covalently attached to at least one non-native glycosylation
site not found in the parent interferon or (2) a carbohydrate
moiety covalently attached to at least one native glycosylation
site found but not glycosylated in the parent interferon; and
comprises one or more mutated protease cleavage sites in place of a
native protease cleavage site found in the parent protein
therapeutic.
[0233] In some embodiments, the parent polypeptide is a Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonists include IFN-.alpha., IFN-.beta., IFN-.tau.,
IFN-.kappa. and IFN-.omega.. Thus, e.g., a protease-resistant or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant can be a
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist variant, including
hyperglycosylated IFN-.alpha., IFN-.beta., IFN-.tau., IFN-.kappa.
and IFN-.omega. variants that lack at least one protease cleavage
site found in the parent protein.
[0234] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is any
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, glycosylated synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist described in the
U.S. Provisional Patent Application for "Synthetic Type I
Interferon Receptor Polypeptide Agonists" (U.S. Ser. No.
60/600,202) filed on Aug. 9, 2004, the entire disclosure of which
application is incorporated herein by reference.
[0235] In other embodiments, the parent polypeptide is a Type II
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. Type II interferon
receptor polypeptide agonists include interferon-gamma
(IFN-.gamma.). Thus, e.g., a protease-resistant or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant can be a
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated Type II
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist variant, including
hyperglycosylated IFN-.gamma. that lacks at least one protease
cleavage site found in the parent protein.
IFN-.alpha.
[0236] The amino acid sequence of any known IFN-.alpha. can be
modified to generate a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist. The term "interferon-alpha" as used herein
refers to a family of related polypeptides that inhibit viral
replication and cellular proliferation and modulate immune
response.
[0237] Suitable alpha interferons include, but are not limited to,
naturally-occurring IFN-.alpha. (including, but not limited to,
naturally occurring IFN-.alpha.1, IFN-.alpha.2a, IFN-.alpha.2b,
IFN-.alpha.4a, IFN-.alpha.4a, IFN-.alpha.5, IFN-.alpha.6,
IFN-.alpha.7, IFN-.alpha.8, IFN-.alpha.10, IFN-.alpha.13,
IFN-.alpha.14, IFN-.alpha.16, IFN-.alpha.17, IFN-.alpha.21,
IFN-.alpha.H, IFN-I and IFN-.alpha.J1); an IFN-.alpha. as described
in U.S. Pat. No. 6,704,225; recombinant interferon alpha-2b such as
Intron-A interferon available from Schering Corporation,
Kenilworth, N.J.; recombinant interferon alpha-2a such as Roferon
interferon available from Hoffmann-La Roche, Nutley, N.J.;
recombinant interferon alpha-2C such as Berofor alpha 2 interferon
available from Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceutical, Inc.,
Ridgefield, Conn.; interferon alpha-nl, a purified blend of natural
alpha interferons such as Sumiferon available from Sumitomo, Japan
or as Wellferon interferon alpha-n1 (INS) available from the
Glaxo-Wellcome Ltd., London, Great Britain; and interferon alpha-n3
a mixture of natural alpha interferons made by Interferon Sciences
and available from the Purdue Frederick Co., Norwalk, Conn., under
the Alferon Tradename; and IFN-.alpha.14.
[0238] Suitable hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants include protease-resistant
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated forms of any parent alpha
interferon polypeptide. In one aspect, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated variant of a parent alpha
interferon polypeptide has an amino acid sequence that differs from
the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent
that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation sites not
found in the parent polypeptide; and further comprises at least one
mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native protease
cleavage site found in the parent protein.
[0239] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.alpha.2a
and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is an [D102]IFN-.alpha.2a glycopeptide, where
the [D102]IFN-.alpha.2a glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.alpha.2a
having (a) an asparagine residue in place of the native aspartic
acid residue at amino acid position 102 in the amino acid sequence
of IFN-.alpha.2a and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached
to the R-group of said asparagine residue. It will be appreciated
that the amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2a is the same as the
amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2b depicted in FIG. 1, provided
that the IFN-.alpha.2a sequence has a lysine residue in place of
the arginine residue at amino acid position 50 in the IFN-.alpha.2b
sequence shown in FIG. 24.
[0240] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.alpha.2a
and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is an [D102N, D108N]IFN-.alpha.2a glycopeptide,
where the [D102N, D108]IFN-.alpha.2a glycopeptide is a variant of
IFN-.alpha.2a having (a) an asparagine residue in place of the
native aspartic acid residue at each of amino acid positions 102
and 108 in the amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2a and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine residues. It will be appreciated that the amino
acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2a is the same as the amino acid
sequence of IFN-.alpha.2b depicted in FIG. 1, provided that the
IFN-.alpha.2a sequence has a lysine residue in place of the
arginine residue at amino acid position 50 in the IFN-.alpha.2b
sequence shown in FIG. 24.
[0241] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.2a are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.2a (SEQ ID No.:1423), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.2a (SEQ ID No.:1424), [D108N]interferon .alpha.2a (SEQ ID
No.:1425), [D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.2a (SEQ ID No.:1427),
[D31N, D108N]interferon .alpha.2a (SEQ ID No.:1428), [D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.2a (SEQ ID No.:1430), [D31N, D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.2a (SEQ ID No.:1433).
[0242] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.alpha.2b
and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is an [D102]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide, where
the [D102]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.alpha.2b
having (a) an asparagine residue in place of the native aspartic
acid residue at amino acid position 102 in the amino acid sequence
of IFN-.alpha.2b depicted in FIG. 1 and (b) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently attached to the R-group of said asparagine residue.
[0243] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.alpha.2b
and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is an [D102N, D108]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide,
where the [D102N, D108]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide is a variant of
IFN-.alpha.2b having (a) an asparagine residue in place of the
native aspartic acid residue at each of amino acid positions 102
and 108 in the amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2b depicted in
FIG. 1 and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the
R-group of each of said asparagine residues.
[0244] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.2b are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.2b (SEQ ID No.:1439), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.2b (SEQ ID No.:1440), [D108N]interferon .alpha.2b (SEQ ID
No.:1441), [D31N, D102N]interferon .alpha.2b (SEQ ID No.:1443),
[D31N, D108N]interferon .alpha.2b (SEQ ID No.:1444), [D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.2b (SEQ ID No.:1446), [D31N, D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.2b (SEQ ID No.:1449).
[0245] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.1 are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1407), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1408), [D108N]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID
No.:1409), [G138T]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1410), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1411), [D31N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1412), [D31N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1413), [D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1414), [D102N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1415), [D108N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1416), [D31N, D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1417), [D31N, D102N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1418), [D31N, D108N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1419), [D102N, D108N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1420), and [D31N, D102N,
D108N, G138T]interferon .alpha.1 (SEQ ID No.:1421).
[0246] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.4a are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1455), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1456), [E108N]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID
No.:1457), [E138T]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1458), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1459), [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1460), [D31N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1461), [D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1462), [D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1463), [E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1464), [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1465), [D31N, D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1466), [D31N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1467), [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1468), and [D31N, D102N,
E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.4a (SEQ ID No.:1469).
[0247] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.4b are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1471), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1472), [E108N]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID
No.:1473), [E138T]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1474), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1475), [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1476), [D31N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1477), [D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1478), [D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1479), [E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1480), [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1481), [D31N, D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1482), [D31N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4 (SEQ ID No.:1483), [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1484), and [D31N, D102N,
E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.4b (SEQ ID No.:1485).
[0248] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.5 are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1487), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1488), [D108N]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID
No.:1489), [E138T]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1490), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1491), [D31N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1492), [D31N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1493), [D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1494), [D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1495), [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1496), [D31N, D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1497), [D31N, D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1498), [D31N, D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1499), [D102N, D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1500), and [D31N, D102N,
D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.5 (SEQ ID No.:1501).
[0249] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.6 are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1503), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1504), [D108N]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID
No.:1505), [G138T]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1506), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1507), [D31N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1508), [D31N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1509), [D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1510), [D102N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1511), [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1512), [D31N, D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1513), [D31N, D102N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1514), [D31N, D108N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1515), [D102N, D108N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1516), and [D31N, D102N,
D108N, G138T]interferon .alpha.6 (SEQ ID No.:1517).
[0250] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.7 are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1519), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1520), [E108N]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID
No.:1521), [E138T]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1522), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1523), [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1524), [D31N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1525), [D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1526), [D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1527), [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1528), [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1529), [D31N, D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1530), [D31N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1531), [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1532), and [D31N, D102N,
E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.7 (SEQ ID No.:1533).
[0251] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.8 are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1535), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1536), [D108N]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID
No.:1537), [I138T]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1538), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1539), [D31N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1540), [D31N,
I138T]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1541), [D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1542), [D102N,
I138T]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1543), [D108N,
I138T]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1544), [D31N, D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1545), [D31N, D102N,
I138T]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1546), [D31N, D108N,
I138T]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1547), [D102N, D108N,
I138T]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1548), and [D31N, D102N,
D108N, I138T]interferon .alpha.8 (SEQ ID No.:1549).
[0252] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.10 are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1551), [D102N]interferon 10
(SEQ ID No.:1552), [E108N]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1553),
[E138T]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1554), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1555), [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1556), [D31N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1557), [D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1558), [D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1559), [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1560), [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1561), [D31N, D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1562), [D31N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1563), [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1564), and [D31N, D102N,
E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.10 (SEQ ID No.:1565).
[0253] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.13 are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1567), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1568), [D108N]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID
No.:1569), [G138T]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1570), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1571), [D31N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1572), [D31N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1573), [D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1574), [D102N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1575), [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1576), [D31N, D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1577), [D31N, D102N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1578), [D31N, D108N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1579), [D102N, D108N,
G138T]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1580), and [D31N, D102N,
D108N, G138T]interferon .alpha.13 (SEQ ID No.:1581).
[0254] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.14 are described:
[D108N]interferon .alpha.14 (SEQ ID No.:1585), [E138T]interferon
.alpha.14 (SEQ ID No.:1586), and [D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.14
(SEQ ID No.:1592).
[0255] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.16 are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1599), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1600), [D108N]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID
No.:1601), [E138T]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1602), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1603), [D31N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1604), [D31N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1605), [D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1606), [D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1607), [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1608), [D31N, D102N,
D108N]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1609), [D31N, D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1610), [D31N, D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1611), [D102N, D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1612), and [D31N, D102N,
D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.16 (SEQ ID No.:1613).
[0256] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.17 are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1615), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1616), [E108N]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID
No.:1617), [E138T]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1618), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1619), [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1620), [D31N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1621), [D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1622), [D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1623), [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1624), [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1625), [D31N, D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1626), [D31N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1627), [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1628), and [D31N, D102N,
E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.17 (SEQ ID No.:1629).
[0257] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.21 are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1631), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1632), [E108N]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID
No.:1633), [E138T]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1634), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1635), [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1636), [D31N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1637), [D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1638), [D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1639), [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1640), [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1641), [D31N, D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1642), [D31N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1643), [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1644), and [D31N, D102N,
E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.21 (SEQ ID No.:1645).
[0258] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.H are described:
[D108N]interferon .alpha.H (SEQ ID No.:1649), [E138T]interferon
.alpha.H (SEQ ID No.:1650), and [D108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.H
(SEQ ID No.:1656).
[0259] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.I are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1663), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1664), [E108N]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID
No.:1665), [E138T]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1666), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1667), [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1668), [D31N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1669), [D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1670), [D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1671), [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1672), [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1673), [D31N, D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1674), [D31N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1675), [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1676), and [D31N, D102N,
E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.I (SEQ ID No.:1677).
[0260] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.alpha.J1 are described:
[D31N]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1679), [D102N]interferon
.alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1680), [E108N]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID
No.:1681), [E138T]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1682), [D31N,
D102N]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1683), [D31N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1684), [D31N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1685), [D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1686), [D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1687), [D108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1688), [D31N, D102N,
E108N]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1689), [D31N, D102N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1690), [D31N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1691), [D102N, E108N,
E138T]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1692), and [D31N, D102N,
E108N, E138T]interferon .alpha.J1 (SEQ ID No.:1693).
[0261] Suitable alpha interferons further include consensus
IFN-.alpha.. Consensus IFN-.alpha. (also referred to as "CIFN" and
"IFN-con" and "consensus interferon") encompasses but is not
limited to the amino acid sequences designated IFN-con.sub.1,
IFN-con.sub.2 and IFN-con.sub.3 which are disclosed in U.S. Pat.
Nos. 4,695,623 and 4,897,471; and consensus interferon as defined
by determination of a consensus sequence of naturally occurring
interferon alphas (e.g., Infergen.RTM., InterMune, Inc., Brisbane,
Calif.). IFN-con.sub.1 is the consensus interferon agent in the
Infergen.RTM. alfacon-1 product. The Infergen.RTM. consensus
interferon product is referred to herein by its brand name
(Infergen.RTM.) or by its generic name (interferon alfacon-1).
[0262] Suitable hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants include hyperglycosylated
forms of any parent consensus IFN-.alpha. polypeptide; where the
variant lacks at least one protease cleavage site found in the
parent protein. In one aspect, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated variant of a parent consensus
IFN-.alpha. polypeptide has an amino acid sequence that differs
from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to the
extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation sites
not found in a parent polypeptide; and where the variant comprises
at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent protein.
[0263] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is the interferon
alfacon-1 polypeptide and the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is an
[D102N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the
[D102N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the
interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue
substituted for the native aspartic acid residue at amino acid
position 102, which corresponds to amino acid position 99 in the
amino acid sequence of Infergen (interferon alfacon-1) depicted in
FIG. 24 and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the
R-group of said asparagine residue.
[0264] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is the interferon
alfacon-1 polypeptide and the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is an
[D102N, D108N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the [D102N,
D108N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the
interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue
substituted for each of the native aspartic acid residues at amino
acid positions 102 and 108, which correspond to amino acid
positions 99 and 105 in the amino acid sequence of Infergen
depicted in FIG. 24 and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to the R-group of each of said asparagine residues.
[0265] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is the interferon
alfacon-1 polypeptide and the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is an
[D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the
[D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant
of the interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine
residue substituted for each of the native aspartic acid, aspartic
acid, and glutamic acid residues at amino acid positions 102, 108
and 138, which correspond to amino acid positions 99, 105 and 134,
respectively, in the amino acid sequence of Infergen depicted in
FIG. 24 and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the
R-group of each of said asparagine residues.
[0266] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is the interferon
alfacon-1 polypeptide and the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is an
[D102N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the [D102N,
E138N] interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the
interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue
substituted for each of the native aspartic acid and glutamic acid
residues at amino acid positions 102 and 138, which correspond to
amino acid positions 99 and 134, respectively, in the amino acid
sequence of Infergen depicted in FIG. 24 and (b) a carbohydrate
moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of said
asparagine residues.
[0267] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is the interferon
alfacon-1 polypeptide and the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is an
[D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the [D108N,
E138N] interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the
interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue
substituted for each of the native aspartic acid and glutamic acid
residues at amino acid positions 108 and 138, which correspond to
amino acid positions 105 and 134, respectively, in the amino acid
sequence of Infergen depicted in FIG. 24 and (b) a carbohydrate
moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of said
asparagine residues.
[0268] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is the interferon
alfacon-1 polypeptide and the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is an
[D102N, D108N, E138T]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the
[D102N, D108N, E138T]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant
of the interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine
residue substituted for each of the native aspartic acid residues
at amino acid positions 102 and 108 in the amino acid sequence of
Infergen which correspond to amino acid positions 99 and 105,
respectively, in the amino acid sequence of Infergen depicted in
FIG. 24 (b) a threonine residue substituted for the native glutamic
acid residue at amino acid position 138, which corresponds to amino
acid position 134 in the amino acid sequence of Infergen depicted
in FIG. 24 and (c) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the
R-group of each of said asparagine and threonine residues.
[0269] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is the interferon
alfacon-1 polypeptide and the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is an
[D102N, E138T]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the [D102N,
E138T]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the
interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue
substituted for the native aspartic acid residue at amino acid
position 102, which corresponds to amino acid position 99 in the
amino acid sequence of Infergen depicted in FIG. 24 (b) a threonine
residue substituted for the native glutamic acid residue at amino
acid position 138, which corresponds to amino acid position 134 in
the amino acid sequence of Infergen depicted in FIG. 24 and (c) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine and threonine residues.
[0270] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is the interferon
alfacon-1 polypeptide and the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is an
[D108N, E138T]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the [D108N,
E138T]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the
interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue
substituted for the native aspartic acid residue at amino acid
position 108, which corresponds to amino acid position 105 in the
amino acid sequence of Infergen depicted in FIG. 24 (b) a threonine
residue substituted for the native glutamic acid residue at amino
acid position 138, which corresponds to amino acid position 134 in
the amino acid sequence of Infergen depicted in FIG. 24 and (c) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine and threonine residues.
[0271] The numbering of amino acids, discussed in the context of
amino acid replacements for generating hyperglycosylation variants
of the parent protein therapeutic, coincides with the numbering of
amino acids used to depict the Type I interferon amino acid
sequences appearing in FIG. 24. In the context of amino acid
replacements, for generating protease-resistant variants of the
parent protein therapeutic, the numbering of amino acids used to
describe IFN-.alpha. variants coincides with the numbering of amino
acids as depicted in FIG. 24.
[0272] FIG. 34 shows the amino acid sequence alignment of the human
type I interferon (IFN) precursors and the fusion protein of
consensus IFN-.alpha.Con1 with human IFN .alpha.14 signal peptide
(Infergen w A14 Sig.). All the human type I IFN precursors are
naturally occurring and have signal peptides to direct their
translocation through the cell membranes for secretion. Infergen is
a bio-engineered interferon based on the consensus amino acid
sequences of different subtypes of human Interferon .alpha.. It is
produced in E. coli and does not have a signal peptide. For
expression in mammalian cells, the signal peptide of human IFN
.alpha.14 is attached to the N-terminal of Infergen to direct its
secretion. However the signal peptides from other human type I IFNs
or even other human or animal proteins could be used for this
purpose as well.
[0273] This figure shows the consensus sequence from the alignment
as "Majority" sequence and a ruler below the consensus sequence for
aligning all of the sequences. The actual amino acid residue
numbers for the species are shown at the left hand side of each
sequence. Please note that the numbers shown on the ruler are
different from actual residue numbers for the species.
[0274] Because there are high sequence homologies among these
listed species, the alignment was used to "rationally" design the
glycosylation sites in the species based on the position of the
naturally occurring glycosylation sites in certain homologous
species in the alignment. To uniformly identify the positions of
the glycosylation sites in the alignment, the numbering system of
the ruler is used in positioning the mutants. The first potential
glycosylation site is an N-linked glycosylation site in human IFN
.alpha.14 and H at position 31 in ruler. The consensus recognition
site of N-linked glycosylation is Asn_X_Ser/Thr with Asn be the
residue where carbohydrate chain attaches. In order to create a
glycosylation site at position 31 in the ruler for other species,
residues at position 31 in the ruler throughout the species will
needed to be changed to Asn and the residues at position 33 changed
to either Ser or Thr. The site of this glycosylation will all be
numbered 31 throughout the species but the actual amino acid
residue number will vary from one species to another. The
glycosylation site 31 is actually at amino acid number 25 for all
of the species in FIG. 34 except IFN .kappa. in which it is number
31. Human IFN .alpha.14 and H also have a naturally occurring
glycosylation site at position 102 in the ruler and thus this
glycosylation site will be numbered 102 throughout the species.
However position 102 is at the actual amino acid number 94 in IFN
.alpha.2a and IFN .alpha.2b; at the actual amino acid number 95 in
IFN .alpha.1, 4a, 4b, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 21, H, I, J1,
IFN .beta.1, IFN .omega.1 and Infergen with signal peptide; at the
actual amino acid 96 in IFN .tau. and at actual amino acid number
102 in IFN .kappa.. Human IFN .beta.1 and .omega.1 have a naturally
occurring glycosylation site at position 108 in the ruler and thus
this glycosylation site will be numbered 108 throughout the
species. However position 108 is at the actual amino acid number
100 in IFN .alpha.2a and IFN .alpha.2b; at actual amino acid number
101 in IFN .alpha.1, 4a, 4b, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 21, H,
I, J1, IFN .beta.1, IFN .omega.1 and Infergen with signal peptide;
at actual amino acid number 107 in IFN .kappa. and at actual amino
acid number 102 in IFN .tau.. Human IFN .alpha.2b has a naturally
occurring O-linked glycosylation site at position 138 in the ruler
and thus this glycosylation site will be numbered 138 throughout
the species. However position 138 is at the actual amino acid
number 129 in IFN .alpha.2a and IFN .alpha.2b, at actual amino acid
number 130 in IFN .alpha.1, 4a, 4b, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17,
21, H, I, J1, IFN .beta.1, IFN .omega.1 and Infergen with signal
peptide; at actual amino acid number 137 in IFN .kappa. and at
actual amino acid number 129 in IFN .tau..
[0275] In another aspect, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a
parent interferon-alpha therapeutic differs from the parent
interferon-alpha therapeutic to the extent that the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant comprises (1) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to a non-native glycosylation site not found in the parent
interferon-alpha therapeutic and/or (2) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently attached to a native glycosylation site found but not
glycosylated in the parent interferon-alpha therapeutic; and
comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a
native protease cleavage site found in the parent IFN-.alpha.
protein therapeutic.
IFN-.beta.
[0276] The amino acid sequence of any known IFN-.beta. can be
modified to generate a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist. The term interferon-beta ("IFN-.beta.")
includes IFN-.beta. polypeptides that are naturally occurring; and
non-naturally-occurring IFN-.beta. polypeptides. Suitable beta
interferons include, but are not limited to, naturally-occurring
IFN-.beta.; IFN-.beta.1a, e.g., Avonex.RTM. (Biogen, Inc.), and
Rebif.RTM. (Serono, SA); IFN-.beta.1b (Betaseron.RTM.; Berlex); and
the like. Amino acid sequences of IFN-.beta. are publicly
available; for example, human IFN-.beta.1 amino acid sequence is
found under GenBank Accession No. NP.sub.--002167 and is depicted
in FIG. 24 (SEQ ID NO:1359). A human IFN-.beta. amino acid sequence
is also depicted in FIG. 3.
[0277] Suitable hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants include hyperglycosylated
forms of any parent IFN-.beta. polypeptide. In one aspect, a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated variant
of a parent IFN-.beta. polypeptide has an amino acid sequence that
differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to
the extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation
sites not found in the parent polypeptide; and comprises at least
one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native protease
cleavage site found in the parent IFN-.beta. polypeptide.
[0278] The numbering of amino acids, discussed in the context of
amino acid replacements for generating hyperglycosylation variants
of the parent protein therapeutic, coincides with the numbering of
amino acids used to depict the Type I interferon amino acid
sequences appearing in FIG. 24. In the context of amino acid
replacements, for generating protease-resistant variants of the
parent protein therapeutic, the numbering of amino acids used to
describe IFN-.beta. variants coincides with the numbering of amino
acids as depicted in FIG. 24.
[0279] In another aspect, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a
parent interferon-beta therapeutic differs from the parent
interferon-beta therapeutic to the extent that the
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant comprises (1) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to a non-native glycosylation site not found in the parent
interferon-beta therapeutic and/or (2) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently attached to a native glycosylation site found but not
glycosylated in the parent interferon-beta therapeutic; and
comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a
native protease cleavage site found in the parent IFN-.beta.
polypeptide.
[0280] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.beta. are described:
[L31S]interferon-.beta. (SEQ ID No.:1695), [S102N]interferon-.beta.
(SEQ ID No.:1696), [E138T]interferon-.beta. (SEQ ID No.:1698),
[L315, S102N]interferon-.beta. (SEQ ID No.:1699), [L31S,
E138T]interferon-.beta. (SEQ ID No.:1701), [S102N,
E138T]interferon-.beta. (SEQ ID No.:1703), and [L315, S102N,
E138T]interferon-.beta. (SEQ ID No.:1706).
IFN-tau
[0281] The amino acid sequence of any known IFN-tau can be modified
to generate a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist. The term interferon-tau includes IFN-tau
polypeptides that are naturally occurring; and
non-naturally-occurring IFN-tau polypeptides Suitable tau
interferons include, but are not limited to, naturally-occurring
IFN-tau; Tauferon.RTM. (Pepgen Corp.); and the like. IFN-tau may
comprise an amino acid sequence as set forth in any one of GenBank
Accession Nos. P15696; P56828; P56832; P56829; P56831; Q29429;
Q28595; Q28594; S08072; Q08071; Q08070; Q08053; P56830; P28169;
P28172; and P28171. Any hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated IFN-tau polypeptide variant that retains a
desired pharmacologic activity of IFN-tau may be used in the
methods or compositions of the invention.
[0282] Suitable hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants include protease-resistant
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated forms of any parent
IFN-tau polypeptide. In one aspect, a hyperglycosylated variant of
a parent IFN-tau polypeptide has an amino acid sequence that
differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to
the extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation
sites not found in the parent polypeptide. In one aspect, a
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a
parent IFN-tau polypeptide has an amino acid sequence that differs
from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to the
extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation sites
not found in the parent polypeptide and at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in a parent IFN-tau polypeptide.
[0283] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.tau. are described:
[K31N]interferon .tau. (SEQ ID No.:1743), [I102N]interferon .tau.
(SEQ ID No.:1744), [E108N]interferon .tau. (SEQ ID No.:1745),
[L138T]interferon .tau. (SEQ ID No.:1746), [K31N, I102N]interferon
.tau. (SEQ ID No.:1747), [K31N, E108N]interferon .tau. (SEQ ID
No.:1748), [K31N, L138T]interferon .tau. (SEQ ID No.:1749), [I102N,
E108N]interferon .tau. (SEQ ID No.:1750), [I102N, L138T]interferon
.tau. (SEQ ID No.:1751), [E108N, L138T]interferon .tau. (SEQ ID
No.:1752), [K31N, I102N, E108N]interferon .tau. (SEQ ID No.:1753),
[K31N, I102N, L138T]interferon .tau. (SEQ ID No.:1754), [K31N,
E108N, L138T]interferon .tau. (SEQ ID No.:1755), [I102N, E108N,
L138T]interferon .tau. (SEQ ID No.:1756), and [K31N, I102N, E108N,
L138T]interferon .tau. (SEQ ID No.:1757).
IFN-.omega.
[0284] The amino acid sequence of any known IFN-omega can be
modified to generate a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist. The term interferon-omega ("IFN-.omega.")
includes IFN-.omega. polypeptides that are naturally occurring; and
non-naturally-occurring IFN-.omega. polypeptides. Suitable
IFN-.omega. include, but are not limited to, naturally-occurring
IFN-.omega.; recombinant IFN-w, e.g., Biomed 510 (BioMedicines);
and the like. IFN-.omega. may comprise an amino acid sequence as
set forth in GenBank Accession No. NP.sub.--002168; or
AAA70091.
[0285] Suitable hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants include protease-resistant
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated forms of any parent IFN-w
polypeptide. In one aspect, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated variant of a parent IFN-w
polypeptide has an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino
acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the
variant comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the
parent polypeptide; and comprises at least one mutated protease
cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in
the parent polypeptide.
[0286] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.omega.1
and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is an [R102]IFN-.omega.1 glycopeptide, where
the [R102M]IFN-.omega.1 glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.omega.1
having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for the native
arginine residue at amino acid position 102 in the amino acid
sequence of IFN-.omega.1 and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to the R-group of said asparagine residue; where the
variant comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage site in
place of a native protease cleavage iste found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0287] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.omega.1
and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is an [G138N]IFN-.omega.1 glycopeptide, where
the [G138N]IFN-.omega.1 glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.omega.1
having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for the native glycine
residue at amino acid position 138 in the amino acid sequence of
IFN-.omega.1 and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to
the R-group of said asparagine residue; where the variant comprises
at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0288] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.omega.1
and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is an [G138T]IFN-.omega.1 glycopeptide, where
the [G138T]IFN-.omega.1 glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.omega.1
having (a) an threonine residue substituted for the native glycine
residue at amino acid position 138 in the amino acid sequence of
IFN-.omega.1 and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to
the R-group of said threonine residue; where the variant comprises
at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0289] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.omega.1
and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is an [S102N, G138N]IFN-.omega.1 glycopeptide,
where the [S102N, G138N]IFN-.omega.1 glycopeptide is a variant of
IFN-.omega.1 having (a) asparagine residues substituted for the
native serine and glycine residues at amino acid positions 102 and
138, respectively, in the amino acid sequence of IFN-.omega.1 and
(b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of
each of said asparagine residues; where the variant comprises at
least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0290] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.omega.1
and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is an [S102N, G138T]IFN-.omega.1 glycopeptide,
where the [S102N, G138T]IFN-.omega.1 glycopeptide is a variant of
IFN-.omega.1 having (a) asparagine and threonine residues
substituted for the native serine and glycine residues at amino
acid positions 102 and 138, respectively, in the amino acid
sequence of IFN-.omega.1 (as set forth in FIG. 24) and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine and threonine residue; where the variant comprises
at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0291] In another aspect, several variants of interferon-.omega.
are described. By means of non-limiting example, [D31N]interferon w
(SEQ ID No.:1727), [R102N]interferon (SEQ ID No.:1728),
[G138T]interferon .omega. (SEQ ID No.:1730), [D31N,
R102N]interferon .omega. (SEQ ID No.:1731), [D31N, G138T]interferon
.omega. (SEQ ID No.:1733), [R102N, G138T]interferon .omega. (SEQ ID
No.:1735), [D31N, R102N, G138T]interferon .omega. (SEQ ID
No.:1738).
[0292] The numbering of amino acids, discussed in the context of
amino acid replacements for generating hyperglycosylation variants
of the parent protein therapeutic, coincides with the numbering of
amino acids used to depict the Type I interferon amino acid
sequences appearing in FIG. 24. In the context of amino acid
replacements, for generating protease-resistant variants of the
parent protein therapeutic, the numbering of amino acids used to
describe IFN-omega variants coincides with the numbering of amino
acids as depicted in FIG. 24.
[0293] In another aspect, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a
parent interferon-omega therapeutic differs from the parent
interferon-omega therapeutic to the extent that the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant comprises (1) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to a non-native glycosylation site not found in the parent
interferon-omega therapeutic and/or (2) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently attached to a native glycosylation site found but not
glycosylated in the parent interferon-omega therapeutic; and
comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a
native protease cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
Interferon-Kappa
[0294] The amino acid sequence of any known IFN-kappa can be
modified to generate a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist. The term interferon-kappa includes IFN-kappa
polypeptides that are naturally occurring; and
non-naturally-occurring IFN-kappa polypeptides. Suitable kappa
interferons include, but are not limited to, naturally-occurring
IFN-kappa and the like. IFN-kappa may comprise an amino acid
sequence as set forth in any one of GenBank Accession No.
NM.sub.--020124. Any hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated IFN-kappa polypeptide variant that retains a
desired pharmacologic activity of IFN-kappa may be used in the
methods or compositions of the invention.
[0295] Suitable hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants include protease-resistant
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated forms of any parent
IFN-kappa polypeptide. In one aspect, a hyperglycosylated variant
of a parent IFN-kappa polypeptide has an amino acid sequence that
differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to
the extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation
sites not found in the parent polypeptide. In one aspect, a
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a
parent IFN-kappa polypeptide has an amino acid sequence that
differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to
the extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation
sites not found in the parent polypeptide and at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in a parent IFN-kappa polypeptide.
[0296] In another aspect, the following non-limiting list of
hyperglycosylated variants of IFN-.kappa. are described:
[L31S]interferon .kappa. (SEQ ID No.:1711), [T102N]interferon (SEQ
ID No.:1712), [K108N]interferon .kappa. (SEQ ID No.:1713),
[P138T]interferon (SEQ ID No.:1714), [L315, T102N]interferon
.kappa. (SEQ ID No.:1715), [L315, K108N]interferon .kappa. (SEQ ID
No.:1716), [L315, P138T]interferon .kappa. (SEQ ID No.:1717),
[T102N, K108N]interferon .kappa. (SEQ ID No.:1718), [T102N,
P138T]interferon .kappa. (SEQ ID No.:1719), [K108N,
P138T]interferon .kappa. (SEQ ID No.:1720), [L31S, T102N,
K108N]interferon .kappa. (SEQ ID No.:1721), [L315, T102N,
P138T]interferon .kappa. (SEQ ID No.:1722), [L31S, K108N,
P138T]interferon .kappa. (SEQ ID No.:1723), [T102N, K108N,
P138T]interferon .kappa. (SEQ ID No.:1724), and [L315, T102N,
K108N, P138T]interferon (SEQ ID No.:1725).
Interferon-Gamma
[0297] The nucleic acid sequences encoding IFN-.gamma. polypeptides
may be accessed from public databases, e.g., GenBank, journal
publications, and the like. While various mammalian IFN-gamma
polypeptides are of interest, for the treatment of human disease,
generally the human protein will be used. Human IFN-gamma coding
sequence may be found in Genbank, accession numbers X13274; V00543;
and NM.sub.--000619. The corresponding genomic sequence may be
found in Genbank, accession numbers J00219; M37265; and V00536.
See, for example. Gray et al. (1982) Nature 295:501 (Genbank
X13274); and Rinderknecht et al. (1984) J.B.C. 259:6790. In some
embodiments, the IFN-.gamma. is glycosylated.
[0298] IFN-.gamma.1b (Actimmune.RTM.; human interferon) is a
single-chain polypeptide of 140 amino acids. It is made
recombinantly in E. coli and is unglycosylated (Rinderknecht et al.
1984, J. Biol. Chem. 259:6790-6797). Recombinant IFN-gamma as
discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,497,871 is also suitable for use
herein.
[0299] The term "IFN-gamma" includes any of natural IFN-gamma,
recombinant IFN-gamma and the derivatives thereof so far as they
have an IFN-.gamma. activity, particularly human IFN-gamma
activity. Human IFN-gamma exhibits the antiviral and
anti-proliferative properties characteristic of the interferons, as
well as a number of other immunomodulatory activities, as is known
in the art. Although IFN-gamma is based on the sequences as
provided above, the production of the protein and proteolytic
processing can result in processing variants thereof. The
unprocessed sequence provided by Gray et al., supra, consists of
166 amino acids (aa). Although the recombinant IFN-gamma produced
in E. coli was originally believed to be 146 amino acids,
(commencing at amino acid 20) it was subsequently found that native
human IFN-gamma is cleaved after residue 23, to produce a 143 aa
protein, or 144 aa if the terminal methionine is present, as
required for expression in bacteria. During purification, the
mature protein can additionally be cleaved at the C terminus after
reside 162 (referring to the Gray et al. sequence), resulting in a
protein of 139 amino acids, or 140 amino acids if the initial
methionine is present, e.g. if required for bacterial expression.
The N-terminal methionine is an artifact encoded by the mRNA
translational "start" signal AUG that, in the particular case of E.
coli expression is not processed away. In other microbial systems
or eukaryotic expression systems, methionine may be removed.
[0300] Any of the native IFN-gamma peptides, modifications and
variants thereof, or a combination of one or more peptides can
serve as a parent polypeptide referent in connection with the
present methods and/or compositions. IFN-gamma peptides of interest
include fragments, and can be variously truncated at the carboxyl
terminus relative to the full sequence. Such fragments continue to
exhibit the characteristic properties of human gamma interferon, so
long as amino acids 24 to about 149 (numbering from the residues of
the unprocessed polypeptide) are present. Extraneous sequences can
be substituted for the amino acid sequence following amino acid 155
without loss of activity. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No.
5,690,925. Native IFN-gamma moieties include molecules variously
extending from amino acid residues 24-150; 24-151, 24-152; 24-153,
24-155; and 24-157.
[0301] Any hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated IFN-gamma polypeptide variant that retains a
desired pharmacologic activity of a parent IFN-gamma polypeptide
may be used in the methods and/or compositions of the
invention.
[0302] In another aspect, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a
parent interferon-gamma therapeutic differs from the parent
interferon-gamma therapeutic to the extent that the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant comprises (1) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to a non-native glycosylation site not found in the parent
interferon-gamma therapeutic and/or (2) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently attached to a native glycosylation site found but not
glycosylated in the parent interferon-gamma therapeutic; and
comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a
native protease cleavage site found in the parent IFN-.gamma.
polypeptide.
[0303] In another aspect, the parent protein therapeutic is
interferon gamma-1b and the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the
parent interferon gamma-1b therapeutic is a protease-resistant
variant of glycosylated native (wild-type) human IFN-.gamma..
Glycosylated native (wild-type) human IFN-.gamma. is described in
WO 02/081507.
Erythropoietin
[0304] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
an erythropoietin amino acid sequence comprising at least one
non-native glycosylation site compared to a parent erythropoietin
polypeptide; and comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage
site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in the
parent EPO polypeptide. Suitable erythropoietin polypeptides
include those proteins that have the biological activity of human
erythropoietin such as erythropoietin analogs; erythropoietin
isoforms; erythropoietin fragments; hybrid erythropoietin proteins;
fusion proteins; and oligomers and multimers of any of the
foregoing.
[0305] Specific examples of erythropoietin include, but are not
limited to, human erythropoietin (see, e.g., Jacobs et al. (1985)
Nature 313:806-810; and Lin et al. (1985) Proc Natl Acad Sci USA
82:7580-7584); erythropoietin polypeptides discussed in U.S. Pat.
Nos. 6,696,056 and 6,585,398; the amino acid sequences provided in
GenBank Accession Nos. NP.sub.--00790 and CAA26095; Epoetin alfa
(EPREX.RTM.; ERYPO.RTM.); Novel erythropoiesis stimulating protein
(NESP) (a hyperglycosylated analog of recombinant human
eryhropoietin (Epoetin) described in European patent application
EP640619); human erythropoietin analog-human serum albumin fusion
proteins described in International patent application WO10266054;
erythropoietin mutants described in International patent
application WO10238890; erythropoietin omega, which may be produced
from an Apa I restriction fragment of the human erythropoietin gene
described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,688,679; altered glycosylated human
erythropoietin described in International patent application
WO10211781; PEG conjugated erythropoietin analogs described in
WO9805363 or U.S. Pat. No. 5,643,575. Specific examples of cell
lines modified for expression of endogenous human erythropoietin
are described in international patent applications WO10205268 and
WO9412650.
[0306] In one aspect, a hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated variant of a parent erythropoietin polypeptide
retains the hematopoietic activity of the parent erythropoietin as
determined by monitoring and measurement of the patient's
hematocrit.
[0307] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is EPOGEN.RTM.
epoetin alfa and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a protease-resistant
variant of ARANESP.RTM. darbepoetin alfa.
Insulin
[0308] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
an insulin amino acid sequence comprising at least one non-native
glycosylation site compared to a parent insulin polypeptide; and
comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a
native protease cleavage site found in the parent insulin
polypeptide. Suitable insulin polypeptides include, but are not
limited to, proinsulin, preproinsulin, and the insulin forms
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,1022,417; 4,1022,418; 5,474,978;
5,514,646; 5,504,188; 5,547,929; 5,650,486; 5,693,609; 5,700,662;
5,747,642; 5,922,675; 5,952,297; 6,034,054; and 6,211,144; and
published PCT applications WO 00/121197; WO 09/010,645; and WO
90/12814. Insulin analogs include, but are not limited to,
superactive insulin analogs, monomeric insulins, and hepatospecific
insulin analogs. Various forms of insulin include Humalog.RTM.;
Humalog.RTM. Mix 50/50.TM.; Humalog.RTM. Mix 75/25.TM.;
Humulin.RTM. 50/50; Humulin.RTM. 70/30; Humulin.RTM. L;
Humulin.RTM. N; Humulin.RTM. R; Humulin.RTM. Ultralente;
Lantus.RTM.; Lente.RTM. Iletin.RTM. II; Lente.RTM. Insulin;
Lente.RTM. L; Novolin.RTM. 70/30; Novolin.RTM. L; Novolin.RTM. N;
Novolin.RTM. R; NovoLog.TM.; NPH Iletin.RTM. I; NPH-N; Pork NPH
Iletin.RTM. II; Pork Regular Iletin.RTM. II; Regular (Concentrated)
Iletin.RTM. II U-500; Regular Iletin.RTM. I; and Velosulin.RTM. BR
Human (Buffered).
[0309] Insulin polypeptides suitable for modification and use
according to the present invention include analogs of human insulin
wherein position B28 is Asp, Lys, Leu, Val or Ala and position B29
is Lys or Pro; des(B28-B30) human insulin; des(B27) human insulin;
des(B30) human insulin; an analog of human insulin in which
position B28 is Asp and position B29 is Lys or Pro; an analog of
human insulin in which position B28 is Lys, and position B29 is Lys
or Pro; Asp.sup.B28 human insulin; Lys.sup.B28 Pro.sup.B29 human
insulin; B29-N.sup..epsilon.-myristoyl-des(B30) human insulin;
B29-N.sup..epsilon.-palmitoyl-des(B30) human insulin;
B29-N.sup..epsilon.-myristoyl human insulin;
B29-N.sup..epsilon.-palmitoyl human insulin;
B28-N.sup..epsilon.-myristoyl Lys.sup.B28 Pro.sup.B29 human
insulin; B28-N.sup..epsilon.-palmitoyl Lys.sup.B28 Pro.sup.B29
human insulin; B30-N.sup..epsilon.-myristoyl-Thr.sup.B29
Lys.sup.B30 human insulin;
B30-N.sup..epsilon.-palmitoyl-Thr.sup.B29 Lys.sup.B30 human
insulin;
B29-N.sup..epsilon.-(N-palmitoyl-.gamma.-glutamyl)-des(B30) human
insulin;
B29-N.sup..epsilon.-(N-lithocholyl-.gamma.-glutamyl)-des(B30) human
insulin;
B29-N.sup..epsilon.-(.omega.-carboxyheptadecanoyl)-des(B30) human
insulin; and B29-N.sup..epsilon.-(.omega.-carboxyheptadecanoyl)
human insulin.
[0310] The amino acid sequences of various insulin polypeptides are
publicly available in, e.g., public databases such as GenBank,
journal articles, patents and published patent applications, and
the like. For example, the amino acid sequences of human insulin
are found in GenBank under the following accession numbers:
CAA00714; CAA00713; CAA00712; CAA01254; 1HISA and 1HISB; 1HIQA and
1HIQB; 1HITA and 1HITB; 1HLSA and 1HLSB; 1VKTA and 1VKTB.
[0311] In addition, insulin derivatives and protease-resistant or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated forms thereof can be used as
parent polypeptides and hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants, respectively, in methods
and/or compositions of the present invention. Insulin derivatives,
include, but not are limited to, acylated insulin, glycosylated
insulin, and the like. Examples of acylated insulin include those
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,922,675, e.g., insulin derivatized
with a C.sub.6-C.sub.21 fatty acid (e.g., myristic, pentadecylic,
palmitic, heptadecylic, or stearic acid) at an .alpha.- or
.epsilon.-amino acid of glycine, phenylalanine, or lysine.
Antibodies
[0312] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
an antibody polypeptide amino acid sequence, and further comprises
at least one non-native glycosylation site compared to a parent
antibody polypeptide; and further comprises at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in the parent polypeptide. Suitable antibodies include, but
are not limited to, antibodies of various isotypes (e.g., IgG1,
IgG3 and IgG4); monoclonal antibodies produced by any means;
humanized antibodies; chimeric antibodies; single-chain antibodies;
antibody fragments such as Fv, F(ab').sub.2, Fab', Fab, Facb, and
the like; and the like, provided that the antibody is capable of
binding to antigen. Suitable monoclonal antibodies include
antibodies that are specific for a cell surface receptor and that
function as antagonists to the receptor, including, but not limited
to, antibody to TGF-.beta. receptor, antibody to TNF-.alpha.
receptor, antibody to VEGF receptor (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos.
6,617,160, 6,448,077, and 6,365,157), antibody to epidermal growth
factor receptor, and the like; antibodies specific for receptor
ligands, including, but not limited to, antibody to TGF-13,
antibody to TNF-.alpha., antibody to VEGF, and the like; antibody
specific for a tumor-associated antigen; antibody specific for
CD20; antibody specific for epidermal growth factor receptor-2;
antibody specific for the receptor binding domain of IgE; antibody
specific for adhesion molecules (e.g., antibody specific for
.alpha. subunit (CD11a) of LFA-1; antibody specific for
.alpha.4.beta.7; etc.); and the like.
Blood Factors
[0313] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
a blood factor polypeptide amino acid sequence, and further
comprises at least one non-native glycosylation site compared to a
parent blood factor polypeptide; and comprises at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in a parent polypeptide. Suitable blood factor polypeptides
include, but are not limited to, a tissue plasminogen activator
(TPA); Factor VIIa; Factor VIII; Factor IX; .beta.-globin;
hemoglobin; and the like. The amino acid sequences of various blood
factors are publicly available, e.g., in public databases such as
GenBank; journal articles; patents and published patent
applications; and the like. For example, the amino acid sequences
of human TPA are found under GenBank Accession Nos. P0070,
NP.sub.--127509, and NP-000921; the amino acid sequence of a human
Factor VIIa is found under GenBank Accession No. KFHU7; the amino
acid sequence of a human Factor IX is found under GenBank Accession
Nos. P00740 and NP.sub.--000124; the amino acid sequence of a human
Factor VIII is found under GenBank Accession Nos. AAH64380,
AAH22513, and P00451.
[0314] In one aspect, the parent polypeptide is ACTIVASE.RTM.
alteplase and the protease-resistant, polypeptide variant is a
protease-resistant variant of TNKase.TM. tenecteplase.
Colony Stimulating Factors
[0315] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
a colony stimulating factor polypeptide amino acid sequence, and
further comprises at least one non-native glycosylation site
compared to a parent colony stimulating factor polypeptide; and
comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a
native protease cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
Suitable colony stimulating factor polypeptides include, but are
not limited to, granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), such
as NEUPOGEN.RTM. filgrastim and NEULASTAT.TM. pegfilgrastim,
granulocyte-monocyte colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), such as
LEUKINE.RTM. sargramostim, macrophage colony stimulating factor,
megakaryocyte colony stimulating factor; IL-3; stem cell factor
(SCF); and the like.
[0316] The amino acid sequences of various blood factors are
publicly available, e.g., in public databases such as GenBank;
journal articles; patents and published patent applications; and
the like. For example, amino acid sequences of IL-3 are disclosed
in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,877,729 and 4,959,455, and International Patent
Publication No. WO 88/00598; amino acid sequences of human G-CSF
are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,810,643; WO 91/02754 and WO
92/04455 disclose the amino acid sequence of fusion proteins
comprising IL-3; WO 95/21197, WO 95/21254, and U.S. Pat. No.
6,730,303 disclose fusion proteins capable of broad
multi-functional hematopoietic properties; amino acid sequences of
human G-CSF are found under GenBank Accession Nos. NP 757374,
P010219, FQHUGL, and NP.sub.--000750; amino acid sequences of human
GM-CSF are found under GenBank Accession Nos. NP.sub.--000749 and
P04141; amino acid sequences of IL-3 are found under GenBank
Accession Nos. AAH66272, AAH66273, and AAH66276; etc.
Growth Hormones
[0317] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
a growth hormone polypeptide amino acid sequence, and further
comprises at least one non-native glycosylation site compared to a
parent growth hormone polypeptide; and comprises at least one
mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native protease
cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide. Suitable growth
hormone polypeptides include, but are not limited to, somatotropin;
a human growth hormone; any of the growth hormone variants
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,143,523, 6,136,563, 6,022,711, and
5,688,666; fusion proteins comprising a growth hormone, e.g., as
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,889,144; growth hormone fragments that
retain growth hormone activity; a growth hormone receptor
polypeptide agonist as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,387,879; and
the like. Growth hormones include alternative forms of known growth
hormones, e.g., alternative forms of human growth hormone (hGH),
including naturally-occurring derivatives, variants and metabolic
products, degradation products primarily of biosynthetic hGH and
engineered variants of hGH produced by recombinant methods (see,
e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,348,444).
Growth Factors
[0318] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
a growth factor amino acid sequence comprising at least one
non-native glycosylation site compared to a parent growth hormone
polypeptide; and comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage
site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in the
parent polypeptide. Suitable growth factor polypeptides include,
but are not limited to, keratinocyte growth factor; an acidic
fibroblast growth factor, a stem cell factor, a basic fibroblast
growth factor, a hepatocyte growth factor, an insulin-like growth
factor, etc.; active fragments of a growth factor; fusion proteins
comprising a growth factor; and the like. The amino acid sequences
of various growth factors are publicly available, e.g., in public
databases such as GenBank; journal articles; patents and published
patent applications; and the like. For example, amino acid
sequences of bFGF are found under GenBank Accession Nos. AAB20640,
AAA57275, A43498, and AAB20639; amino acid sequences of aFGF are
found under GenBank Accession Nos. AAB29059, CAA46661, and
1605206A; amino acid sequences of stem cell factor are found under
GenBank Accession Nos. AAH69733, AAH69783, and AAH69797; amino acid
sequences of keratinocyte growth factor are found under GenBank
Accession Nos. 035565, AAL05875, and P21781; amino acid sequences
of hepatocye growth factor are found under GenBank Accession Nos.
AAA64239, AAB20169, and CAA40802.
Soluble Receptors
[0319] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
a soluble receptor polypeptide amino acid sequence, and further
comprises at least one non-native glycosylation site compared to a
parent soluble receptor polypeptide; and comprises at least one
mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native protease
cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide. Suitable soluble
receptor polypeptides include, but are not limited to, a
TNF-.alpha.-binding soluble receptor; a soluble VEGF receptor; a
soluble interleukin receptor; a soluble IL-1 receptor; a soluble
type II IL-1 receptor; a soluble .gamma./.delta. T cell receptor;
ligand-binding fragments of a soluble receptor; and the like.
Suitable soluble receptors bind a ligand that, under normal
physiological conditions, binds to and activates the corresponding
membrane-bound or cell surface receptor. Thus, a suitable soluble
receptor is one that functions as a receptor antagonist, by binding
the ligand that would ordinarily bind the receptor in its native
(e.g., membrane-bound) form.
[0320] The amino acid sequences of various soluble receptors are
publicly available, e.g., in public databases such as GenBank;
journal articles; patents and published patent applications; and
the like. For example, amino acid sequences of soluble VEGF
receptors are found under GenBank Accession Nos. AAC50060 and
NP.sub.--002010; soluble VEGF receptors are described in U.S. Pat.
Nos. 6,383,486, 6,375,929, and 6,100,071; soluble IL-4 receptors
are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,5102,905; soluble IL-1 receptors
are described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 20040023869; etc.
Chemokines
[0321] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
a chemokine polypeptide amino acid sequence, and further comprises
at least one non-native glycosylation site compared to a parent
chemokine polypeptide; and further comprises at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in the parent polypeptide. Suitable chemokine polypeptides
include, but are not limited to, IP-10; Mig; Gro.alpha./IL-8,
RANTES; MIP-1.alpha.; MIP-1.beta.; MCP-1; PF-4; and the like; as
well as fusion proteins comprising a chemokine. The amino acid
sequences of various chemokines are publicly available, e.g., in
public databases such as GenBank; journal articles; patents and
published patent applications; and the like. For example, amino
acid sequences of IP-10 are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,491,906,
5,935,567, 6,153,600, 5,728,377, and 5,1024,292; amino acid
sequences of Mig are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,491,906, and
Farber (11023) Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications
192(1):223-230; amino acid sequences of RANTES are disclosed in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,709,649, 6,168,784, and 5,965,697; etc.
Angiogenic Agents
[0322] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
an angiogenic polypeptide amino acid sequence, and further
comprises at least one non-native glycosylation site compared to a
parent angiogenic polypeptide; and comprises at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in the parent polypeptide. Suitable angiogenic polypeptides
include, but are not limited to, VEGF polypeptides, including
VEGF.sub.121, VEGF.sub.165, VEGF-C, VEGF-2, etc.; transforming
growth factor-beta; basic fibroblast growth factor; glioma-derived
growth factor; angiogenin; angiogenin-2; and the like. The amino
acid sequences of various angiogenic agents are publicly available,
e.g., in public databases such as GenBank; journal articles;
patents and published patent applications; and the like. For
example, amino acid sequences of VEGF polypeptides are disclosed in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,194,596, 5,332,671, 5,240,848, 6,475,796,
6,485,942, and 6,057,428; amino acid sequences of VEGF-2
polypeptides are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,726,152 and
6,608,182; amino acid sequences of glioma-derived growth factors
having angiogenic activity are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,338,840 and 5,532,343; amino acid sequences of angiogenin are
found under GenBank Accession Nos. AAA72611, AAA51678, AAA02369,
AAL67710, AAL67711, AAL67712, AAL67713, and AAL67714; etc.
Neuroactive Peptides
[0323] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
a neuroactive polypeptide amino acid sequence, and further
comprises at least one non-native glycosylation site compared to a
parent neuroactive polypeptide; and comprises at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in the parent polypeptide. Suitable neuroactive polypeptides
include, but are not limited to, nerve growth factor, bradykinin,
cholecystokinin, gastin, secretin, oxytocin, gonadotropin-releasing
hormone, beta-endorphin, enkephalin, substance P, somatostatin,
prolactin, galanin, growth hormone-releasing hormone, bombesin,
dynorphin, neurotensin, motilin, thyrotropin, neuropeptide Y,
luteinizing hormone, calcitonin, insulin, glucagons, vasopressin,
angiotensin II, thyrotropin-releasing hormone, vasoactive
intestinal peptide, a sleep peptide, etc.
Additional Proteins
[0324] In its broadest sense, the compositions and methods of the
invention contemplate the use of any hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant that
comprises an amino acid sequence derived from a parent polypeptide
of pharmacologic interest; and that further comprises at least one
non-native glycosylation site compared to the parent polypeptide;
and that further comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage
site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in the
parent polypeptide. Other proteins of pharmacologic interest
include, but are not limited to, a thrombolytic agent, an atrial
natriuretic peptide, bone morphogenic protein, thrombopoietin,
glial fibrillary acidic protein, follicle stimulating hormone, a
human alpha-1 antitrypsin, a leukemia inhibitory factor, a
transforming growth factor, an insulin-like growth factor, a
luteinizing hormone, a macrophage activating factor, tumor necrosis
factor, a neutrophil chemotactic factor, a nerve growth factor a
tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases; a vasoactive intestinal
peptide, angiotropin, fibrin; hirudin; a leukemia inhibitory
factor; and the like. The amino acid sequences of various
therapeutic proteins are publicly available, e.g., in public
databases such as GenBank; journal articles; patents and published
patent applications; and the like. For example, amino acid
sequences of tissue plasminogen activator are found under GenBank
Accession Nos. P00750, AAA01895, AAA01378, AAB06956, and
CAA00642.
[0325] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
a relaxin amino acid sequence, and further comprises at least one
non-native glycosylation site compared to a parent relaxin
polypeptide; and further comprises at least one mutated protease
cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in
the parent polypeptide. The relaxin polypeptide can be a
naturally-occurring relaxin or a synthetic relaxin. Naturally
occurring biologically active relaxin may be derived from human,
murine (i.e., rat or mouse), porcine, or other mammalian sources.
The term "relaxin" encompasses human H1 preprorelaxin, prorelaxin,
and relaxin; H2 preprorelaxin, prorelaxin, and relaxin; recombinant
human relaxin (rhRLX); and H3 preprorelaxin, prorelaxin, and
relaxin. H3 relaxin has been described in the art. See, e.g., Sudo
et al. (2003) J Biol Chem. 7; 278(10):7855-62. The amino acid
sequences of human relaxin are described in the art. For example,
human relaxin amino acid sequences are found under the following
GenBank Accession Nos.: Q3WXF3, human H3 prorelaxin; P04808, human
H1 prorelaxin; NP.sub.--604390 and NP.sub.--005050, human H2
prorelaxin; AAH05956, human relaxin 1 preproprotein;
NP.sub.--008842, human H1 preprorelaxin; etc. The relaxin
polypeptide can be a relaxin polypeptide comprising A and B chains
having N- and/or C-terminal truncations. For example, in H2
relaxin, the A chain can be varied from A(1-24) to A(10-24) and B
chain from B(1-33) to B(10-22); and in H1 relaxin, the A chain can
be varied from A(1-24) to A(10-24) and B chain from B(1-32) to
B(10-22). Also suitable for modification is a relaxin analog having
an amino acid sequence which differs from a wild-type (e.g.,
naturally-occurring) sequence, including, but not limited to,
relaxin analogs disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,811,395, and U.S. Pat.
No. 6,200,953. Other suitable relaxins and relaxin formulations are
found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,945,402. Other possible relaxin
polypeptides include relaxin having a replacement of one or more of
the natural amino-acids in the B and/or A chains with a different
amino acid (including the D-form of a natural amino-acid),
including, but not limited to, replacement of the Met moiety at B24
with norleucine (Nle), valine (Val), alanine (Ala), glycine (Gly),
serine (Ser), or homoserine (HomoSer). Other possible relaxin
polypeptides include relaxin having an amino acid substitutions at
the B/C and C/A junctions of prorelaxin, which modifications
facilitate cleavage of the C chain from prorelaxin; and variant
relaxin comprising a non-naturally occurring C peptide, e.g., as
described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,759,807.
Protease-Resistant or Protease-Resistant, Hyperglycosylated
Polypeptide Variants of Parent Cytokine Polypeptides
[0326] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a
variant of a parent protein therapeutic, and the parent protein
therapeutic is a cytokine. In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant
comprises one or more of the amino acid replacements, compared to
an unmodified parent cytokine, as set forth in an amino acid
sequence as depicted in any one of SEQ ID NOs:2-181 (IFN-.alpha.2b
variants), 233-289 (IFN-.beta. variants), 290-311 (IFN-.gamma.
variants), 362-400 (GM-CSF variants), 631-662 (G-CSF variants),
850-895 (hGH variants), 940-977 (EPO variants), 978-988
(IFN-.alpha. variants), and 989-1302 (IFN-.beta. variants); and
further comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the
amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that
the variant comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in
the parent polypeptide. Exemplary amino acid replacements that
generate hyperglycosylation are depicted in FIGS. 23-30. In some
embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a structural homolog of a
protein comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth in any one
of SEQ ID NOs:2-181 (IFN-.alpha.2b variants), 233-289 (IFN-.beta.
variants), 290-311 (IFN-.gamma. variants), 362-400 (GM-CSF
variants), 631-662 (G-CSF variants), 850-895 (hGH variants),
940-977 (EPO variants), 978-988 (IFN-.alpha. variants), and
989-1302 (IFN-.beta. variants); and further comprises an amino acid
sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent
polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one or more
glycosylation sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
[0327] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
one or more of the amino acid replacements, compared to an
unmodified parent cytokine, as set forth in an amino acid sequence
as set forth in any one of SEQ ID NOs:87, 89, 90, 93, 96, 101, 103,
107, 124, 979, 980, 983, 984, 986, and 987; and further comprises
an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of
the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one
or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0328] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a
cytokine modified on the basis of 3-dimensional structural homology
with any one of SEQ ID NOs:87, 89, 90, 93, 96, 101, 103, 107, 124,
979, 980, 983, 984, 986, and 987; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0329] In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated cytokine variant is selected
from protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
variants of: interleukin-10 (IL-10), interferon beta (IFN.beta.),
interferon alpha-2a (IFN-.alpha.2a), interferon alpha-2b
(IFN-.alpha.2b), interferon gamma (IFN-.gamma.), granulocyte colony
stimulating factor (G-CSF), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), human
growth hormone (hGH), ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), leptin,
oncostatin M, interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-12 (IL-12),
erythropoietin (EPO), granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating
factor (GM-CSF), interleukin-2 (IL-2), interleukin-3 (IL-3),
interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-5 (IL-5), interleukin-13 (IL-13),
Flt3 ligand and stem cell factor (SCF). In particular embodiments,
the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
cytokine variant is selected from protease-resistant or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated variants of IFN.beta.,
IFN-.alpha.2a, IFN-.alpha.2b, IFN-.gamma., G-CSF, hGH, EPO, and
GM-CSF. In particular embodiments, the known protease-resistant
cytokine variant is an interferon.
[0330] The hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated cytokine variant of a parent cytokine exhibits
increased resistance to proteolysis compared to the unmodified
(parent) cytokine. In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated cytokine variant is an
interferon variant. In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated cytokine variant is an
IFN-.alpha.2a variant. In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated cytokine variant is an
IFN-.alpha.2b variant. In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated cytokine variant is an
IFN-.beta. variant. In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated cytokine variant is an
IFN-.gamma. variant. In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated cytokine variant is a variant
of a consensus interferon comprising the amino acid sequence
identified as SEQ ID NO:232, or as shown in FIG. 9, or as depicted
in FIG. 24.
IFN-.alpha. Polypeptide Variants
[0331] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
one or more of the mutations shown in Table 1, below, where the
amino acid numbering coincides with the amino acid numbering set
forth in FIG. 1; and further comprises an amino acid sequence that
differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to
the extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation
sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 IFN-.alpha. LEAD SEQ ID N.degree.
Mutation(s) 1 983 K121Q-P109A 2 987 E159H-Y89H 3 124 E159Q 4 90
E58H 5 89 E58Q 6 979 E41H/Y89H/N45D 7 103 L117I 8 986 R125H/M111V 9
96 E107H 10 101 E113H 11 87 E41Q 12 107 R125Q 13 985 L117V/A139G 14
980 E41Q/D94G 15 93 E78H 16 984 K133Q/K121Q/P109A/G102R
[0332] In one aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.alpha.2a or
IFN-.alpha.2b and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises one or more single
amino acid replacements of the IFN-.alpha.2a amino acid sequence
depicted in FIG. 1 or of the IFN-.alpha.2b amino acid sequence
depicted in FIG. 2, corresponding to the replacement of: L by V at
position 3; L by I at position 3; P by S at position 4; P by A at
position 4; R by H at position 12; R by Q at position 12; R by H at
position 13; R by Q at position 13; M by V at position 16; M by I
at position 16; R by H at position 22; R by Q at position 22; R or
K by H at position 23; R or K by Q at position 23; F by I at
position 27; F by V at position 27; L by V at position 30; L by I
at position 30; K by Q at position 31; K by T at position 31; R by
H at position 33; R by Q at position 33; E by Q at position 41; E
by H at position 41; K by Q at position 49; K by T at position 49;
E by Q at position 58; E by H at position 58; K by Q at position
70; K by T at position 70; E by Q at position 78; E by H at
position 78; K by Q at position 83; K by T at position 83; Y by H
at position 89; Y by I at position 89; E by Q at position 96; E by
H at position 96; E by Q at position 107; E by H at position 107; P
by S at position 109; P by A at position 109; L by V at position
110; L by I at position 110; M by Vat position 111; M by I at
position 111; E by Q at position 113; E by H at position 113; L by
V at position 117; L by I at position 117; R by H at position 120;
R by Q at position 120; K by Q at position 121; K by T at position
121; R by H at position 125; R by Q at position 125; L by V at
position 128; L by I at position 128; K by Q at position 131; K by
T at position 131; E by Q at position 132; E by H at position 132;
K by Q at position 133; K by T at position 133; K by Q at position
138; K by T at position 138; Y by H at position 135; Y by I at
position 135; P by S at position 137; P by A at position 137; M by
V at position 148; M by I at position 148; R by H at position 149;
R by Q at position 149; E by Q at position 159; E by H at position
159; L by V at position 161; L by I at position 161; R by H at
position 162; R by Q at position 162; K by Q at position 164; K by
T at position 164; E by Q at position 165; and E by H at position
165, wherein residue 1 corresponds to residue 1 of the mature
IFN-.alpha.2a protein as depicted in FIG. 1 or wherein residue 1
corresponds to residue 1 of the mature IFN-.alpha.2b protein as
depicted in FIG. 2; and further comprises an amino acid sequence
that differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide
to the extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation
sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
[0333] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.alpha.2a
or IFN-.alpha.2b, and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises one or more single
amino acid replacements of the IFN-.alpha.2a amino acid sequence
depicted in FIG. 1 or of the IFN-.alpha.2b amino acid sequence
depicted in FIG. 2, corresponding to: F by V at position 27; R by H
at position 33; E by Q at position 41; E by H at position 41; E by
Q at position 58; E by H at position 58; E by Q at position 78; E
by H at position 78; Y by H at position 89; E by Q at position 107;
E by H at position 107; P by A at position 109; L by V at position
110; M by V at position 111; E by Q at position 113; E by H at
position 113; L by V at position 117; L by I at position 117; K by
Q at position 121; K by T at position 121; R by H at position 125;
R by Q at position 125; K by Q at position 133; K by T at position
133; E by Q at position 159 and E by H at position 159, wherein
residue 1 corresponds to residue 1 of the mature IFN-.alpha.2a
protein as depicted in FIG. 1 or wherein residue 1 corresponds to
residue 1 of the mature IFN-.alpha.2b protein as depicted in FIG.
2; and further comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from
the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent
that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation sites not
found in the parent polypeptide.
[0334] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.alpha.2a
or IFN-.alpha.2b, and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises one or more sets of
dual-amino acid replacements in the IFN-.alpha.2a amino acid
sequence depicted in FIG. 1, or in the IFN-.alpha.2b amino acid
sequence depicted in FIG. 2, corresponding to:
[0335] D by N at position 2 and P by S at position 4;
[0336] D by N at position 2 and P by T at position 4;
[0337] L by N at position 3 and Q by S at position 5;
[0338] L by N at position 3 and Q by T at position 5;
[0339] P by N at position 4 and T by S at position 6;
[0340] P by N at position 4 and T by T at position 6;
[0341] Q by N at position 5 and H by S at position 7;
[0342] Q by N at position 5 and H by T at position 7;
[0343] T by N at position 6 and S by S at position 8;
[0344] T by N at position 6 and S by T at position 8;
[0345] H by N at position 7 and L by S at position 9;
[0346] H by N at position 7 and L by T at position 9;
[0347] S by N at position 8 and G by S at position 10;
[0348] S by N at position 8 and G by T at position 10;
[0349] L by N at position 9 and S by S at position 11;
[0350] L by N at position 9 and S by T at position 11;
[0351] M by N at position 21 and K by S at position 23;
[0352] M by N at position 21 and K by T at position 23;
[0353] R by N at position 22 and I by S at position 24;
[0354] R by N at position 22 and I by T at position 24;
[0355] R or K by N at position 23 and S by S at position 25;
[0356] R or K by N at position 23 and S by T at position 25;
[0357] I by N at position 24 and L by S at position 26;
[0358] I by N at position 24 and L by T at position 26;
[0359] S by N at position 25 and F by S at position 27;
[0360] S by N at position 25 and F by T at position 27;
[0361] L by N at position 26 and S by S at position 28;
[0362] L by N at position 26 and S by T at position 28;
[0363] S by N at position 28 and L by S at position 30;
[0364] S by N at position 28 and L by T at position 30;
[0365] L by N at position 30 and D by S at position 32;
[0366] L by N at position 30 and D by T at position 32;
[0367] K by N at position 31 and R by S at position 33;
[0368] K by N at position 31 and R by T at position 33;
[0369] D by N at position 32 and H by S at position 34;
[0370] D by N at position 32 and H by T at position 34;
[0371] R by N at position 33 and D by S at position 35;
[0372] R by N at position 33 and D by T at position 35;
[0373] H by N at position 34 and F by S at position 36;
[0374] H by N at position 34 and F by T at position 36;
[0375] D by N at position 35 and G by S at position 37;
[0376] D by N at position 35 and G by T at position 37;
[0377] F by N at position 36 and F by S at position 38;
[0378] F by N at position 36 and F by T at position 38;
[0379] G by N at position 37 and P by S at position 39;
[0380] G by N at position 37 and P by T at position 39;
[0381] F by N at position 38 and Q by S at position 40;
[0382] F by N at position 38 and Q by T at position 40;
[0383] P by N at position 39 and E by S at position 41;
[0384] P by N at position 39 and E by T at position 41;
[0385] Q by N at position 40 and E by S at position 42;
[0386] Q by N at position 40 and E by T at position 42;
[0387] E by N at position 41 and F by S at position 43;
[0388] E by N at position 41 and F by T at position 43;
[0389] E by N at position 42 and G by S at position 44;
[0390] E by N at position 42 and G by T at position 44;
[0391] F by N at position 43 and N by S at position 45;
[0392] F by N at position 43 and N by T at position 45;
[0393] G by N at position 44 and Q by S at position 46;
[0394] G by N at position 44 and Q by T at position 46;
[0395] N by N at position 45 and F by S at position 47;
[0396] N by N at position 45 and F by T at position 47;
[0397] Q by N at position 46 and Q by S at position 48;
[0398] Q by N at position 46 and Q by T at position 48;
[0399] F by N at position 47 and K by S at position 49;
[0400] F by N at position 47 and K by T at position 49;
[0401] Q by N at position 48 and A by S at position 50;
[0402] Q by N at position 48 and A by T at position 50;
[0403] K by N at position 49 and E by S at position 51;
[0404] K by N at position 49 and E by T at position 51;
[0405] A by N at position 50 and T by S at position 52;
[0406] A by N at position 50 and T by T at position 52;
[0407] S by N at position 68 and K by S at position 70;
[0408] S by N at position 68 and K by T at position 70;
[0409] K by N at position 70 and S by S at position 72;
[0410] K by N at position 70 and S by T at position 72;
[0411] A by N at position 75 and D by S at position 77;
[0412] A by N at position 75 and D by T at position 77;
[0413] D by N at position 77 and T by S at position 79;
[0414] D by N at position 77 and T by T at position 79;
[0415] I by N at position 100 and G by S at position 102;
[0416] I by N at position 100 and G by T at position 102;
[0417] Q by N at position 101 and V by S at position 103;
[0418] Q by N at position 101 and V by T at position 103;
[0419] G by N at position 102 and G by S at position 104;
[0420] G by N at position 102 and G by T at position 104;
[0421] V by N at position 103 and V by S at position 105;
[0422] V by N at position 103 and V by T at position 105;
[0423] G by N at position 104 and T by S at position 106;
[0424] G by N at position 104 and T by T at position 106;
[0425] V by N at position 105 and E by S at position 107;
[0426] V by N at position 105 and E by T at position 107;
[0427] T by N at position 106 and T by S at position 108;
[0428] T by N at position 106 and T by T at position 108;
[0429] E by N at position 107 and P by S at position 109;
[0430] E by N at position 107 and P by T at position 109;
[0431] T by N at position 108 and I by S at position 110;
[0432] T by N at position 108 and I by T at position 110;
[0433] K by N at position 138 and S by S at position 136;
[0434] K by N at position 138 and S by T at position 136;
[0435] S by N at position 154 and N by S at position 156;
[0436] S by N at position 154 and N by T at position 156;
[0437] T by N at position 155 and L by S at position 157;
[0438] T by N at position 155 and L by T at position 157;
[0439] N by N at position 156 and Q by S at position 158;
[0440] N by N at position 156 and Q by T at position 158;
[0441] L by N at position 157 and E by S at position 159;
[0442] L by N at position 157 and E by T at position 159;
[0443] Q by N at position 158 and S by S at position 160;
[0444] Q by N at position 158 and S by T at position 160;
[0445] E by N at position 159 and L by S at position 161;
[0446] E by N at position 159 and L by T at position 161;
[0447] S by N at position 160 and R by S at position 162;
[0448] S by N at position 160 and R by T at position 162;
[0449] L by N at position 161 and S by S at position 163;
[0450] L by N at position 161 and S by T at position 163;
[0451] R by N at position 162 and K by S at position 164;
[0452] R by N at position 162 and K by T at position 164;
[0453] S by N at position 163 and E by S at position 165; and
[0454] S by N at position 163 and E by T at position 165, wherein
residue 1 corresponds to residue 1 of the mature IFN-.alpha.2a
depicted in FIG. 1, or IFN-.alpha.2b depicted in FIG. 2; and
further comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the
amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that
the variant comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in
the parent polypeptide.
[0455] In another aspect, the parent polypeptide is IFN-.alpha.2a
or IFN-.alpha.2b, and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises one or more sets of
dual-amino acid replacements in the IFN-.alpha.2a amino acid
sequence depicted in FIG. 1, or in the IFN-.alpha.2b amino acid
sequence depicted in FIG. 2, corresponding to:
[0456] Q by N at position 5 and H by S at position 7;
[0457] P by N at position 39 and E by S at position 41;
[0458] P by N at position 39 and E by T at position 41;
[0459] Q by N at position 40 and E by S at position 42;
[0460] Q by N at position 40 and E by T at position 42;
[0461] E by N at position 41 and F by S at position 43;
[0462] E by N at position 41 and F by T at position 43;
[0463] F by N at position 43 and N by S at position 45;
[0464] G by N at position 44 and Q by T at position 46;
[0465] N by N at position 45 and F by S at position 47;
[0466] N by N at position 45 and F by T at position 47;
[0467] Q by N at position 46 and Q by S at position 48;
[0468] F by N at position 47 and K by S at position 49;
[0469] F by N at position 47 and K by T at position 49;
[0470] I by N at position 100 and G by S at position 102;
[0471] I by N at position 100 and G by T at position 102;
[0472] V by N at position 105 and E by S at position 107;
[0473] V by N at position 105 and E by T at position 107;
[0474] T by N at position 106 and T by S at position 108;
[0475] T by N at position 106 and T by T at position 108;
[0476] E by N at position 107 and P by S at position 109;
[0477] E by N at position 107 and P by T at position 109;
[0478] L by N at position 157 and E by S at position 159;
[0479] L by N at position 157 and E by T at position 159;
[0480] E by N at position 159 and L by S at position 161; and
[0481] E by N at position 159 and L by T at position 161, wherein
residue 1 corresponds to residue 1 of the mature IFN-.alpha.2a
depicted in FIG. 1, or IFN-.alpha.2b depicted in FIG. 2; and
further comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the
amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that
the variant comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in
the parent polypeptide.
[0482] In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated cytokine variant is an
IFN-.alpha.2b, IFN-.alpha.2a, or an IFN-2c variant comprising one
or more single amino acid replacements corresponding to the
replacement of: N by D at position 45; D by G at position 94; G by
R at position 102; A by G at position 139; or any combination
thereof, where the amino acid numbering is as set forth in FIG.
1.
[0483] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated cytokine variant is an
IFN-.alpha.2b, IFN-.alpha.2a, or an IFN-2c variant comprising one
or more single amino acid replacements in any of SEQ ID Nos. 1,
182, 185 or 232 (e.g., in any of the sequences set forth in FIGS.
2, 1, 11, and 9, respectively) corresponding to the replacement: L
by V at position 3; L by I at position 3; P by S at position 4; P
by S at position 4; P by A at position 4; R by H at position 12; R
by Q at position 12; R by H at position 13; R by Q at position 13;
M by V at position 16; M by I at position 16; R by H at position
22; R by Q at position 22; R or K by H at position 23; R or K by Q
at position 23; F by I at position 27; F by V at position 27; L by
V at position 30; L by I at position 30; K by Q at position 31; K
by T at position 31; R by H at position 33; R by Q at position 33;
E by Q at position 41; E by H at position 41; K by Q at position
49; K by T at position 49; E by Q at position 58; E by H at
position 58; K by Q at position 70; K by T at position 70; E by Q
at position 78; E by H at position 78; K by Q at position 83; K by
T at position 83; Y by H at position 89; Y by I at position 89; E
by Q at position 96; E by H at position 96; E by Q at position 107;
E by H at position 107; P by S at position 109; P by A at position
109; L by V at position 110; L by I at position 110; M by Vat
position 111; M by I at position 111; E by Q at position 113; E by
H at position 113; L by Vat position 117; L by I at position 117; R
by H at position 120; R by Q at position 120; K by Q at position
121; K by T at position 121; R by H at position 125; R by Q at
position 125; L by V at position 128; L by I at position 128; K by
Q at position 131; K by T at position 131; E by Q at position 132;
E by H at position 132; K by Q at position 133; K by T at position
133; K by Q at position 138; K by T at position 138; Y by H at
position 135; Y by I at position 135; P by S at position 137; P by
A at position 137; M by V at position 148; M by I at position 148;
R by H at position 149; R by Q at position 149; E by Q at position
159; E by H at position 159; L by V at position 161; L by I at
position 161; R by H at position 162; R by Q at position 162; K by
Q at position 164; K by T at position 164; E by Q at position 165;
or E by H at position 165; or any combination thereof, wherein
residue 1 corresponds to residue 1 of the mature IFN-.alpha.2b or
IFN-.alpha.2a cytokine set forth in SEQ ID NOS:1 or 182 (or as set
forth in FIGS. 2 and 1, respectively); and further comprising an
amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of
the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one
or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0484] In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated cytokine variant is an
IFN-.alpha.2b, IFN-.alpha.2a, or an IFN-2c variant comprising one
or more single amino acid replacements in any of SEQ ID Nos. 1,
182, 185 or 232 (e.g., in any of the sequences set forth in FIGS.
2, 1, 11, and 9, respectively) corresponding to the replacement: L
by V at position 3; L by I at position 3; P by S at position 4; P
by A at position 4; R by H at position 12; R by Q at position 12; R
by H at position 13; R by Q at position 13; M by V at position 16;
M by I at position 16; R by H at position 22; R by Q at position
22; R or K by H at position 23; R or K by Q at position 23; F by I
at position 27; F by V at position 27; L by V at position 30; L by
I at position 30; K by Q at position 31; K by T at position 31; R
by H at position 33; R by Q at position 33; E by Q at position 41;
E by H at position 41; K by Q at position 49; K by T at position
49; E by Q at position 58; E by H at position 58; K by Q at
position 70; K by T at position 70; E by Q at position 78; E by H
at position 78; K by Q at position 83; K by T at position 83; Y by
H at position 89; Y by I at position 89; E by Q at position 96; E
by H at position 96; E by Q at position 107; E by H at position
107; P by S at position 109; P by A at position 109; L by Vat
position 110; L by I at position 110; M by Vat position 111; M by I
at position 111; Eby Q at position 113; E by H at position 113; L
by V at position 117; L by I at position 117; R by H at position
120; R by Q at position 120; K by Q at position 121; K by T at
position 121; R by H at position 125; R by Q at position 125; L by
Vat position 128; L by I at position 128; K by Q at position 131; K
by T at position 131; E by Q at position 132; E by H at position
132; K by Q at position 133; K by T at position 133; K by Q at
position 138; K by T at position 138; Y by H at position 135; Y by
I at position 135; P by S at position 137; P by A at position 137;
M by V at position 148; M by I at position 148; R by H at position
149; R by Q at position 149; E by Q at position 159; E by H at
position 159; L by V at position 161; L by I at position 161; R by
H at position 162; R by Q at position 162; K by Q at position 164;
K by T at position 164; E by Q at position 165; E by H at position
165; N by D at position 45; D by G at position 94; G by R at
position 102; or A by G at position 139; or any combination
thereof, wherein residue 1 corresponds to residue 1 of the mature
IFN-.alpha.2b or IFN-.alpha.2a cytokine set forth in SEQ ID No. 1
or 182; and further comprising an amino acid sequence that differs
from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to the
extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation sites
not found in the parent polypeptide.
[0485] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.alpha.2a variants is an [D102N]IFN-.alpha.2a glycopeptide,
where the [D102N]IFN-.alpha.2a glycopeptide is a variant of
IFN-.alpha.2a having (a) an asparagine residue in place of the
native aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 102 in the
amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2a corresponding to the native
aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 99 depicted in FIG. 24
(where the amino acid position is as set forth in FIG. 24; and
corresponds to D71 of the sequence set forth in FIG. 1); and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of said
asparagine residue. In some embodiments, the IFN-.alpha.2a sequence
has a lysine residue in place of the arginine residue at amino acid
position 50 in the IFN-.alpha.2b sequence shown in FIG. 24
(corresponding to amino acid position 23 of the IFN-.alpha.2b
sequence shown in FIG. 2).
[0486] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.alpha.2a variants is an [D102N, D108N]IFN-.alpha.2a
glycopeptide, where the [D102N, D108N]IFN-.alpha.2a glycopeptide is
a variant of IFN-.alpha.2a having (a) an asparagine residue in
place of the native aspartic acid residue at each of amino acid
positions 102 and 108 in the amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2a
corresponding to the native aspartic acid residue at amino acid
positions 99 and 105 depicted in FIG. 24 (where the amino acid
positions are as set forth in FIG. 24; and where D99 and D105 in
FIG. 24 correspond to D71 and D77, respectively, in FIG. 1); and
(b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of
each of said asparagine residues. In some embodiments, the
IFN-.alpha.2a sequence has a lysine residue in place of the
arginine residue at amino acid position 50 in the IFN-.alpha.2b
sequence shown in FIG. 24 (corresponding to Arg 23 in the
IFN-.alpha.2b sequence shown in FIG. 2).
[0487] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.alpha.2b variants is an [D102N]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide,
where the [D102N]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide is a variant of
IFN-.alpha.2b having (a) an asparagine residue in place of the
native aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 102 in the
amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2b corresponding to the native
aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 99 depicted in FIG. 24
(where the amino acid position is as set forth in FIG. 24; and
where D99 in FIG. 24 corresponds to D71 in FIGS. 1 and 2); and (b)
a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of said
asparagine residue.
[0488] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.alpha.2b variants is an [D102N, D108N]IFN-.alpha.2b
glycopeptide, where the [D102N, D108N]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide is
a variant of IFN-.alpha.2b having (a) an asparagine residue in
place of the native aspartic acid residue at each of amino acid
positions 102 and 108 in the amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2b
corresponding to the native aspartic acid residues at amino acid
positions 99 and 105 depicted in FIG. 24 (where the amino acid
positions are as set forth in FIG. 24; and where D99 and D105 in
FIG. 24 correspond to D71 and D77, respectively, in FIGS. 1 and 2);
and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of
each of said asparagine residues.
[0489] In another aspect, any of the aforementioned
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.alpha.2a or IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variants further
comprises one or more pseudo-wild type mutations. In particular
embodiments, any of the aforementioned protease-resistant or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated IFN-.alpha.2a polypeptide
variants further comprises one or more pseudo-wild type mutations
at one or more of amino acid residues 9, 10, 17, 20, 24, 25, 35,
37, 41, 52, 54, 56, 57, 58, 60, 63, 64, 65, 76, 89, and 90 as
depicted in FIG. 1, wherein the mutation(s) are one or more of an
insertion, a deletion, and a replacement of the native amino acid
residue. In other particular embodiments, any of the aforementioned
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variants further comprises one or more
pseudo-wild type mutations at one or more of amino acid residues 9,
10, 17, 20, 24, 25, 35, 37, 41, 52, 54, 56, 57, 58, 60, 63, 64, 65,
76, 89, and 90 as depicted in FIG. 2, wherein the mutation(s) are
one or more of an insertion, a deletion, and a replacement of the
native amino acid residue.
[0490] Exemplary pseudo-wild type replacements are one or more
mutations in the IFN-.alpha.2a amino acid sequence depicted in FIG.
1, or the IFN-.alpha.2b amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 2,
corresponding to: P by A at position 4; Q by A at position 5, T by
A at position 6; L by A at position 9, LG by A at position 10; L by
A at position 17, Q by A at position 20; I by A at position 24, S
by A at position 25; D by A at position 35, G by A at position 37;
G by A at position 39; E by A at position 41; E by A at position 42
E by A at position 51; T by A at position 52, P by A at position
54; V by A at position 55 L by A at position 56; H by A at position
57, E by A at position 58; I by A at position 60, I by A at
position 63; F by A at position 64, N by A at position 65; W by A
at position 76, D by A at position 77; E by A at position 78 L by A
at position 81; Y by A at position 85 Y by A at position 89; Q by A
at position 90 G by A at position 104; L by A at position 110 S by
A at position 115 and E by A at position 146.
[0491] In another aspect, any of the aforementioned
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.alpha.2a or IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variants further
comprises one or more pseudo-wild type mutations. In particular
embodiments, any of the aforementioned protease-resistant
IFN-.alpha.2a polypeptide variants further comprises one or more
pseudo-wild type mutations at one or more of amino acid residues 4,
5, 6, 9, 10, 17, 20, 24, 25, 35, 37, 39, 41, 42, 51, 52, 54, 56,
57, 58, 60, 63, 64, 65, 76, 77, 78, 81, 85, 89, 90, 104, 110, 115
and 146 as depicted in FIG. 1, wherein the mutation(s) are one or
more of an insertion, a deletion, and a replacement of the native
amino acid residue. In other particular embodiments, any of the
aforementioned protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variants further
comprises one or more pseudo-wild type mutations at one or more of
amino acid residues 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 17, 20, 24, 25, 35, 37, 39, 41,
42, 51, 52, 54, 56, 57, 58, 60, 63, 64, 65, 76, 77, 78, 81, 85, 89,
90, 104, 110, 115 and 146 as depicted in FIG. 2, wherein the
mutation(s) are one or more of an insertion, a deletion, and a
replacement of the native amino acid residue.
[0492] Exemplary pseudo-wild type replacements are one or more
mutations in the IFN-.alpha.2a amino acid sequence depicted in FIG.
1, or the IFN-.alpha.2b amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 2,
corresponding to: P by A at position 4; Q by A at position 5; T by
A at position 6; L by A at position 9; LG by A at position 10; L by
A at position 17; Q by A at position 20; I by A at position 24; S
by A at position 25; D by A at position 35; G by A at position 37;
G by A at position 39; E by A at position 41; E by A at position
42; E by A at position 51; T by A at position 52; P by A at
position 54; V by A at position 55; L by A at position 56; H by A
at position 57; E by A at position 58; I by A at position 60; I by
A at position 63; F by A at position 64; N by A at position 65; W
by A at position 76; D by A at position 77; E by A at position 78;
L by A at position 81; Y by A at position 85; Y by A at position
89, Q by A at position 90; G by A at position 104; L by A at
position 110; S by A at position 115 and E by A at position
146.
[0493] In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a
variant of a parent cytokine that exhibits anti-viral activity. In
some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated anti-viral cytokine (e.g., a protease-resistant
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated variant of IFN-.alpha.2a
polypeptide, an IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide, an IFN-.gamma.
polypeptide) exhibits at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at
least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least
about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about
90%, or up to about 100% retention of the antiviral activity when
compared to the corresponding unmodified (parent) cytokine (e.g.,
when compared to the parent IFN-.alpha.2a polypeptide, an
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide, or IFN-.gamma. polypeptide).
[0494] Antiviral activity is readily detected using any known
assay. For example, the antiviral activity of an IFN-.alpha.2a
polypeptide is tested in vitro in the following manner. An
interferon-sensitive HeLa cell line (e.g., ATCC accession no.
CCL-2) is contacted in vitro with an IFN-.alpha.2a polypeptide;
subsequently, the cells are contacted with encephalomyocarditis
virus (EMCV). Antiviral activity is detected by assessing
cytopathic effect (CPE); or by measuring the amount of EMCV mRNA in
extracts of infected cells using reverse transcription-polymerase
chain reaction (RT-PCR).
[0495] The assay can be quantitative. For example, in some
embodiments, the antiviral activity is assessed by reverse
transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). For
example, confluent cells (e.g., ATCC accession no. CCL-2) are
plated at a density of 2.times.10.sup.4 cells/well in a suitable
culture medium (e.g., DMEM 5% SVF medium). Cells are then incubated
with IFN-.alpha.2b at a concentration of 500 U/ml for 24 hours at
37.degree. C. After the 24-hour incubation with IFN-.alpha.2b, the
cells are challenged with EMCV (MOI=100). After incubation with
virus for 16 hours, or when virus-induce CPE is near maximum in
control cells not treated with IFN-.alpha.2b, the number of EMCV
particles in each well is determined by RT-PCR quantification of
EMCV mRNA in cell lysates. RNA is purified from the cell lysates.
See, e.g., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2004/0132977.
[0496] In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is
effective in reducing viral load in an individual. Viral load can
be measured by measuring the titer or level of virus in serum.
These methods include, but are not limited to, a quantitative
polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and a branched DNA (bDNA) test.
Quantitative assays for measuring the viral load (titer) of HCV RNA
have been developed. Many such assays are available commercially,
including a quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR)
(Amplicor HCV Monitor.TM., Roche Molecular Systems, New Jersey);
and a branched DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) signal amplification
assay (Quantiplex.TM. HCV RNA Assay (bDNA), Chiron Corp.,
Emeryville, Calif.). See, e.g., Gretch et al. (11025) Ann. Intern.
Med. 123:321-329. Also of interest is a nucleic acid test (NAT),
developed by Gen-Probe Inc. (San Diego) and Chiron Corporation, and
sold by Chiron Corporation under the trade name Procleix.RTM.,
which NAT simultaneously tests for the presence of HIV-1 and HCV.
See, e.g., Vargo et al. (2002) Transfusion 42:876-885.
[0497] In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated anti-viral cytokine variant
(e.g., a protease-resistant variant of IFN-.alpha.2a polypeptide,
an IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide, an IFN-.gamma. polypeptide) exhibits
retention of anti-proliferative activity compared to the unmodified
(parent) cytokine protein therapeutic.
[0498] Anti-proliferative activity can be measured using any known
method. For example, anti-proliferative activity is assessed by
measuring cell proliferation in the presence of the
protease-resistant anti-viral cytokine variant, where cell
proliferation is measured using any convenient assay. Cell
proliferation is measured using assays based on .sup.3H-thymidine
incorporation; incorporation of the thymidine analog BrdU; cleavage
of a tetrazolium salt; DNA-dye complex formation; and the like. One
non-limiting example of a suitable assay for cell proliferation is
The CellTiter 96.RTM. AQueous Non-Radioactive Cell Proliferation
Assay (Promega). The CellTiter 96.RTM. Aqueous assay is a
colorimetric method for determining the number of viable cells in
proliferation or chemosensitivity assays. The CellTiter 96.RTM.
AQueous Assay is composed of solutions of a tetrazolium compound
(3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl-
)-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt; MTS) and an electron coupling reagent
(phenazine methosulfate; PMS). MTS is bioreduced by cells into a
formazan product that is soluble in tissue culture medium. The
absorbance of the formazan at 490 nm can be measured directly from
96 well assay plates without additional processing. The conversion
of MTS into aqueous, soluble formazan is accomplished by
dehydrogenase enzymes found in metabolically active cells. The
quantity of formazan product as measured by the amount of 490 nm
absorbance is directly proportional to the number of living cells
in culture.
[0499] In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated anti-viral cytokine variant
(e.g., a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant variant of
IFN-.alpha.2a polypeptide, an IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide, an
IFN-.gamma. polypeptide) binds to an interferon receptor, but
exhibits decreased antiviral activity compared to the unmodified
(parent) cytokine protein therapeutic, or exhibits decreased
anti-proliferative activity, compared to the parent cytokine
protein therapeutic.
[0500] In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated anti-viral cytokine variant
(e.g., a protease-resistant variant of IFN-.alpha.2a polypeptide,
an IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide, an IFN-.gamma. polypeptide) comprises
two or more mutations, e.g., the protease-resistant anti-viral
cytokine variant comprises two, three, four, five, six, seven,
eight, nine, or ten single amino acid changes compared to the
corresponding parent cytokine. In some embodiments, the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
anti-viral cytokine variant is a variant of an IFN-.alpha.2a
polypeptide. In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated anti-viral cytokine variant
is a variant of an IFN-.alpha.2a polypeptide. In other embodiments,
the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
anti-viral cytokine variant is a variant of an IFN-.gamma.
polypeptide.
[0501] In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide cytokine variant
comprises an amino acid sequence as set forth in any one of SEQ ID
NOs:2-181, where the arginine at position 23 is replaced with a
lysine; and further comprises an amino acid sequence that differs
from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to the
extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation sites
not found in the parent polypeptide. In other embodiments, the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide cytokine variant exhibits greater resistance to
proteolysis compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, and the
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide cytokine variant comprises one or more amino acid
replacements at one or more positions on the cytokine,
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-D structure of a IFN-.alpha.2a polypeptide, a
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide, a IFN-.alpha.2c polypeptide, or a
consensus IFN-.alpha. as depicted in FIG. 9. In some embodiments,
resistance to proteolysis is measured by contacting the polypeptide
variant in vitro, as described above. In other embodiments,
resistance to proteolysis is measured by contacting the polypeptide
variant in vitro or in vivo with blood (e.g., human blood). In
other embodiments, resistance to proteolysis is measured by
contacting the polypeptide variant in vitro with serum (e.g., human
serum), as described above.
[0502] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide IFN-.alpha.2b variants has increased stability compared
to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, where the stability is
assessed by measuring residual biological activity to either
inhibit viral replication or to inhibit cell proliferation in
appropriate cells, after incubation with either a mixture of
proteases, individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as
described above.
[0503] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide IFN-.alpha.2b variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, where the
activity is assessed by the capacity to either inhibit viral
replication in appropriate cells, or to inhibit cell proliferation
in appropriate cells, after incubation with either a mixture of
proteases, individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as
described above.
[0504] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide IFN-.alpha.2a variants has increased stability compared
to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, where the stability is
assessed by measuring residual biological activity to either
inhibit viral replication or to inhibit cell proliferation in
appropriate cells, after incubation with either a mixture of
proteases, individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as
described above.
[0505] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide IFN-.alpha.2a variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, where the
activity is assessed by the capacity to either inhibit viral
replication in appropriate cells, or to inhibit cell proliferation
in appropriate cells, after incubation with either a mixture of
proteases, individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as
described above.
[0506] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide IFN-.alpha.2c variants has increased stability compared
to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, where the stability is
assessed by measuring residual biological activity after incubation
with either a mixture of proteases, individual proteases, blood
lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0507] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide IFN-.alpha.2c variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
3-D Structural Homologs
[0508] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant is a modified cytokine. In some embodiments, a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant cytokine variant is a
modified interferon. In some embodiments, any of the
above-described hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant cytokine
variants that is a structural homolog of IFN-.alpha.2b comprises
one or more amino acid replacements at positions corresponding to
the 3-dimensional-structurally-similar modified positions within
the 3-D structure of the modified IFN-.alpha.2b, IFN-.alpha.2a,
IFN-.alpha.2c, or a consensus IFN-.alpha. as depicted in FIG. 9. In
some embodiments, the structural homolog has increased resistance
to proteolysis compared to its unmodified (parent) cytokine
counterpart, where the resistance to proteolysis is measured by
mixture with a protease in vitro, incubation with blood or
incubation with serum, as described above.
[0509] In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant cytokine variant is a structural homolog of an
IFN-.alpha. cytokine. In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a structural homolog of
IFN-.alpha.2b. In some of these embodiments, the IFN-.alpha.
cytokine is selected from variants of IFN-.alpha.2a, IFN-.alpha.2c,
IFN-.alpha., IFN-ad, IFN-.alpha.5, IFN-.alpha.6, IFN-.alpha.4,
IFN-.alpha.4b, IFN-.alpha.I, IFN-.alpha.J, IFN-.alpha.H,
IFN-.alpha.F, IFN-.alpha.8, and a consensus IFN-.alpha.. Thus, in
some embodiments, the known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
IFN-.alpha. variant comprises one or more amino acid replacements
at one or more target positions in the amino acid sequence of
IFN-.alpha.2a, IFN-.alpha.2c, IFN-.alpha., IFN-ad, IFN-.alpha.5,
IFN-.alpha.6, IFN-.alpha.4, IFN-.alpha.4b, IFN-.alpha.I,
IFN-.alpha.J, IFN-.alpha.H, IFN-.alpha.F, IFN-.alpha.8, or a
consensus IFN-.alpha., corresponding to a structurally-related
modified amino acid position within the 3-dimensional structure of
the IFN-.alpha.2b modified proteins described above. The
replacements lead to greater resistance to proteases, as assessed
by incubation with a protease or a with a blood lysate or by
incubation with serum, compared to the unmodified (parent)
IFN-.alpha., e.g., compared to a parent IFN-.alpha.2a, or
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide.
[0510] In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified IFN-.alpha.2a
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in the amino acid sequence set forth in FIG.
1 (or SEQ ID NO:182) corresponding to a structurally-related
modified amino acid position within the 3-dimensional structure of
an above-described IFN-.alpha.2b variant, where the replacement(s)
lead to greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation
with a protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum
(as described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.alpha.2a.
[0511] In some embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.2a variant comprises one or more
single amino acid replacements at one or more target positions in
SEQ ID NO: 182 (or the amino acid sequence set forth in FIG. 1),
corresponding to any of amino acid positions: 41, 58, 78, 107, 117,
125, 133 and 159; and further comprises an amino acid sequence that
differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to
the extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation
sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
[0512] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified IFN-.alpha.
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:183 (as set forth in FIG. 10)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.alpha.. In some
of these embodiments, the modified IFN-.alpha. is selected from
among proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 183 (as
set forth in FIG. 10), corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 41, 59, 79, 108, 118, 126, 138 and 160; where the
variant further comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from
the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent
that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation sites not
found in the parent polypeptide.
[0513] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified IFN-.alpha.2c
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:185 (as set forth in FIG. 11)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.alpha.2c. In some
of these embodiments, the modified IFN-.alpha.2c is selected from
among proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 185 (as
set forth in FIG. 11), corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 41, 58, 78, 107, 117, 125, 133 and 159, or to any of
amino acid positions: 27, 33, 41, 59, 79, 90, 108, 110, 111, 112,
114, 118, 122, 126, 138, and 160; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0514] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.2c variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.2c variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0515] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified IFN-ad
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:186 (as set forth in FIG. 12)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-ad. In some of
these embodiments, the modified IFN-ad is selected from among
proteins comprising one or more single amino acid replacements at
one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 186 (as set forth in
FIG. 12), corresponding to any of amino acid positions: 41, 59, 79,
108, 118, 126, 138 and 160, or to any of amino acid positions: 27,
33, 41, 59, 79, 90, 108, 110, 111, 112, 114, 118, 122, 126, 138,
and 160; where the variant further comprises an amino acid sequence
that differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide
to the extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation
sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
[0516] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.d variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-ad variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0517] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified IFN-.alpha.5
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:187 (as set forth in FIG. 13)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.alpha.5. In some
of these embodiments, the modified IFN-.alpha.5 is selected from
among proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 187 (as
set forth in FIG. 13), corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 41, 59, 79, 108, 118, 126, 138 and 160, or to any of
amino acid positions: 27, 33, 41, 59, 79, 90, 108, 110, 111, 112,
114, 118, 122, 126, 138, and 160; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0518] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.5 variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.5 variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0519] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified IFN-.alpha.6
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:188 (as set forth in FIG. 14)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.alpha.6. In some
of these embodiments, the modified IFN-.alpha.6 is selected from
among proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 188 (as
set forth in FIG. 14), corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 41, 59, 79, 108, 118, 126, 138 and 160, or to any of
amino acid positions: 27, 33, 41, 59, 79, 90, 108, 110, 111, 112,
114, 118, 122, 126, 138, and 160; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0520] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.6 variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.6 variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0521] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. polypeptide variant is a modified
IFN-.alpha.4 cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO:189 (as
set forth in FIG. 15) corresponding to a structurally-related
modified amino acid position within the 3-dimensional structure of
an above-described IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the
replacement(s) lead to greater resistance to proteases, as assessed
by incubation with a protease or with a blood lysate or by
incubation with serum (as described above), compared to the
unmodified IFN-.alpha.4. In some of these embodiments, the modified
IFN-.alpha.4 is selected from among proteins comprising one or more
single amino acid replacements at one or more target positions in
SEQ ID NO: 189 (as set forth in FIG. 15), corresponding to any of
amino acid positions: 41, 59, 79, 108, 118, 126, 138 and 160, or to
any of amino acid positions: 27, 33, 41, 59, 79, 90, 108, 110, 111,
112, 114, 118, 122, 126, 138, and 160; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0522] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.4 variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.4 variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0523] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified IFN-.alpha.4b
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:190 (as set forth in FIG. 16)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.alpha.4b. In some
of these embodiments, the modified IFN-.alpha.4b is selected from
among proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 190 (as
set forth in FIG. 16), corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 41, 59, 79, 108, 118, 126, 138 and 160, or to any of
amino acid positions: 27, 33, 41, 59, 79, 90, 108, 110, 111, 112,
114, 118, 122, 126, 138, and 160; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0524] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.4b variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.4b variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0525] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified IFN-.alpha.I
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:191 (as set forth in FIG. 17)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.alpha.I. In some
of these embodiments, the modified IFN-.alpha.I is selected from
among proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 191 (as
set forth in FIG. 17), corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 41, 59, 79, 108, 118, 126, 138 and 160, or to any of
amino acid positions: 27, 33, 41, 59, 79, 90, 108, 110, 111, 112,
114, 118, 122, 126, 138, and 160; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0526] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.I variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.I variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0527] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified IFN-.alpha.J
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:192 (as set forth in FIG. 18)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.alpha.J. In some
of these embodiments, the modified IFN-.alpha.J is selected from
among proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 192 (as
set forth in FIG. 18), corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 41, 59, 79, 108, 118, 126, 138 and 160, or to any of
amino acid positions: 27, 33, 41, 59, 79, 90, 108, 110, 111, 112,
114, 118, 122, 126, 138, and 160; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0528] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.J variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.J variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0529] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified IFN-.alpha.H
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:193 (as set forth in FIG. 19)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.alpha.H. In some
of these embodiments, the modified IFN-.alpha.H is selected from
among proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 193 (as
set forth in FIG. 19), corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 41, 59, 79, 108, 118, 126, 138 and 160, or to any of
amino acid positions: 27, 33, 41, 59, 79, 90, 108, 110, 111, 112,
114, 118, 122, 126, 138, and 160; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0530] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.H variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.H variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0531] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified IFN-.alpha.F
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:194 (as set forth in FIG. 20)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.alpha.F. In some
of these embodiments, the modified IFN-.alpha.F is selected from
among proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 194 (as
set forth in FIG. 20), corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 41, 59, 79, 108, 118, 126, 138 and 160, or to any of
amino acid positions: 27, 33, 41, 59, 79, 90, 108, 110, 111, 112,
114, 118, 122, 126, 138, and 160; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0532] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.F variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.F variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0533] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified IFN-.alpha.8
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:195 (as set forth in FIG. 21)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.alpha.8. In some
of these embodiments, the modified IFN-.alpha.8 is selected from
among proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 195 (as
set forth in FIG. 21), corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 41, 59, 79, 108, 118, 126, 138 and 160, or to any of
amino acid positions: 27, 33, 41, 59, 79, 90, 108, 110, 111, 112,
114, 118, 122, 126, 138, and 160; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0534] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.8 variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha.8 variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
Consensus IFN-.alpha. Polypeptide Variants
[0535] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. variant is a modified consensus
IFN-.alpha. cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO:232 (as
set forth in FIG. 9) corresponding to a structurally-related
modified amino acid position within the 3-dimensional structure of
an above-described IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the
replacement(s) lead to greater resistance to proteases, as assessed
by incubation with a protease or with a blood lysate or by
incubation with serum (as described above), compared to the
unmodified consensus IFN-.alpha.. In some of these embodiments, the
modified consensus IFN-.alpha. is selected from among proteins
comprising one or more single amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 232 (as set forth in FIG. 9),
corresponding to any of amino acid positions: 42, 59, 79, 108, 118,
126, 134 and 160, or to any of amino acid positions: 27, 33, 42,
60, 80, 91, 109, 111, 112, 113, 115, 119, 123, 127, 135, and 161;
where the variant further comprises an amino acid sequence that
differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to
the extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation
sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
[0536] In some embodiments, any of the above-described consensus
IFN-.alpha. variants is an [D102N]interferon alfacon-1
glycopeptide, where the [D102N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is
a variant of the interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an
asparagine residue substituted for the native aspartic acid residue
at amino acid position 102 in the amino acid sequence of Infergen
(interferon alfacon-1) corresponds to the native aspartic acid
residue at amino acid position 99 depicted in FIG. 24 (where the
amino acid position is as set forth in FIG. 24; and where D99 in
FIG. 24 corresponds to D72 in FIG. 9); and (b) a carbohydrate
moiety covalently attached to the R-group of said asparagine
residue.
[0537] In some embodiments, any of the above-described consensus
IFN-.alpha. variants is an [D102N, D108N]interferon alfacon-1
glycopeptide, where the [D102N, D108N]interferon alfacon-1
glycopeptide is a variant of the interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide
having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for each of the native
aspartic acid residues at amino acid positions 102 and 108 in the
amino acid sequence of Infergen corresponding to the native
aspartic acid residues at amino acid positions 99 and 105,
respectively, depicted in FIG. 24 (where the amino acid positions
are as set forth in FIG. 24; and where D99 and D105 in FIG. 24
correspond to D72 and D78, respectively, in FIG. 9); and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine residues.
[0538] In some embodiments, any of the above-described consensus
IFN-.alpha. variants is an [D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon
alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the [D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon
alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the interferon alfacon-1
polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for each
of the native aspartic acid, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid
residues at amino acid positions 102, 108 and 138, corresponding to
the native aspartic acid, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid residues
at amino acid positions 99, 105, and 134, respectively, in the
amino acid sequence of Infergen depicted in FIG. 24 (where the
amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG. 24; and where D99,
D105, and E134 in FIG. 24 correspond to D72, D78, and E107,
respectively, in FIG. 9); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to the R-group of each of said asparagine residues.
[0539] In some embodiments, any of the above-described consensus
IFN-.alpha. variants is an [D102N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1
glycopeptide, where the [D102N, E138N] interferon alfacon-1
glycopeptide is a variant of the interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide
having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for each of the native
aspartic acid and glutamic acid residues at amino acid positions
102 and 138, corresponding to the native aspartic acid residue at
amino acid position 99 and the native glutamic acid residue at
amino acid position 134, respectively, in the amino acid sequence
of Infergen depicted in FIG. 24 (where the amino acid positions are
as set forth in FIG. 24; and where D99 and E134 in FIG. 24
correspond to D72 and E107, respectively, in FIG. 9); and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine residues.
[0540] In some embodiments, any of the above-described consensus
IFN-.alpha. variants is an [D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1
glycopeptide, where the [D108N, E138N] interferon alfacon-1
glycopeptide is a variant of the interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide
having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for each of the native
aspartic acid and glutamic acid residues at amino acid positions
108 and 138, corresponding to the native aspartic acid residues at
amino acid positions 105 and the native glutamic acid residue at
position 134, respectively, in the amino acid sequence of Infergen
depicted in FIG. 24 (where the amino acid positions are as set
forth in FIG. 24; and where D105 and E134 in FIG. 24 correspond to
D78 and E107, respectively, in FIG. 9); and (b) a carbohydrate
moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of said
asparagine residues.
[0541] In some embodiments, any of the above-described consensus
IFN-.alpha. variants is an [D102N, D108N, E138T]interferon
alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the [D102N, D108N, E138T]interferon
alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the interferon alfacon-1
polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for each
of the native aspartic acid residues at amino acid positions 102
and 108 in the amino acid sequence of Infergen corresponding to the
native aspartic acid residues at amino acid positions 99 and 105
depicted in FIG. 24 (b) a threonine residue substituted for the
native glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 138 in the
amino acid sequence of Infergen corresponding to the native
glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 134 depicted in FIG.
24 (where the amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG. 24; and
where D99, D105, and E134 in FIG. 24 correspond to D72, D78, and
E107, respectively, in FIG. 9); and (c) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently attached to the R-group of each of said asparagine and
threonine residues.
[0542] In some embodiments, any of the above-described consensus
IFN-.alpha. variants is an [D102N, E138T]interferon alfacon-1
glycopeptide, where the [D102N, E138T]interferon alfacon-1
glycopeptide is a variant of the interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide
having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for the native
aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 102 in the amino acid
sequence of Infergen corresponding to the native aspartic acid
residue at amino acid positions 99 depicted in FIG. 24 (b) a
threonine residue substituted for the native glutamic acid residue
at amino acid position 138 in the amino acid sequence of Infergen
corresponds to the native glutamic acid residue at amino acid
position 134 depicted in FIG. 24 (where the amino acid positions
are as set forth in FIG. 24; and where D99 and E134 in FIG. 24
correspond to D72 and E107, respectively, in FIG. 9); and (c) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine and threonine residues.
[0543] In some embodiments, any of the above-described consensus
IFN-.alpha. variants is an [D108N, E138T]interferon alfacon-1
glycopeptide, where the [D108N, E138T]interferon alfacon-1
glycopeptide is a variant of the interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide
having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for the native
aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 108 in the amino acid
sequence of Infergen corresponding to the native aspartic acid
residue at amino acid positions 105 depicted in FIG. 24 (b) a
threonine residue substituted for the native glutamic acid residue
at amino acid position 138 in the amino acid sequence of Infergen
corresponding to the native glutamic acid residue at amino acid
position 134 depicted in FIG. 24 (where the amino acid positions
are as set forth in FIG. 24; and where D105 and E134 in FIG. 24
correspond to D78 and E107, respectively, in FIG. 9); and (c) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine and threonine residues.
Hybrid Type I Interferon Receptor Polypeptide Agonists
[0544] As used herein, a "hybrid Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist" is a polypeptide having an amino acid sequence
comprising discrete sub-sequences corresponding in amino acid
identity and number to sub-sequences of different, naturally
occurring Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonists, wherein
the amino acid sequence of the subject polypeptide agonist differs
from that of any naturally-occurring Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist. In some embodiments, the polypeptide variant
is composed of discrete sub-sequences selected from IFN-.alpha.2b,
IFN-.alpha.14, IFN-.beta.1, and IFN-w, and the amino acid sequence
of the polypeptide variant agonist differs from the amino acid
sequences of IFN-.alpha.2b, IFN-.alpha.14, IFN-.beta.1, and IFN-w.
In other embodiments, the polypeptide variant is composed of
discrete sub-sequences selected from IFN-.alpha.2b, IFN-.alpha.14,
IFN-.beta.1, Infergen.RTM. consensus IFN-.alpha., and IFN-.omega.,
and the amino acid sequence of polypeptide variant differs from the
amino acid sequences of IFN-.alpha.2b, IFN-.alpha.14, Infergen.RTM.
consensus IFN-.alpha., and IFN-.omega..
[0545] Suitable protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants include protease-resistant
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated forms of any parent hybrid
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. In one aspect, a
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated variant
of a parent hybrid Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
has an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide; and comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage
site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in the
parent polypeptide.
[0546] In one aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist is [D102N]IFN-.alpha.2a glycopeptide, where the
[D102N]IFN-.alpha.2a glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.alpha.2a
having an asparagine residue in place of the native aspartic acid
residue at amino acid position 102 in the amino acid sequence of
IFN-.alpha.2a; and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is
a [D102N, D108N]IFN-.alpha.2a glycopeptide, where [D102N,
D108N]IFN-.alpha.2a glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.alpha.2a
having (a) an asparagine residue in place of the native aspartic
acid residue at each of amino acid positions 102 and 108 in the
amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2a (where the D102 and D105 amino
acid positions correspond to the D99 and D105 positions as set
forth in FIG. 24; and correspond to D71 and D77, respectively, of
the amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2a set forth in FIG. 1); and
(b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of
each of said asparagine residues; and comprises at least one
mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native protease
cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide. It will be
appreciated that the amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2a is the
same as the amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2b depicted in FIG.
24, provided that the IFN-.alpha.2a sequence has a lysine residue
in place of the arginine residue at amino acid position 50 in the
IFN-.alpha.2b sequence shown in FIG. 24 (corresponding to R50 of
the IFN-.alpha.2b sequence set forth in FIG. 2).
[0547] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is [D102N]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide,
where the [D102N]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide is a variant of
IFN-.alpha.2b having an asparagine residue in place of the native
aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 102 in the amino acid
sequence of IFN-.alpha.2b corresponding to the native aspartic acid
residue at amino acid position 99 in the amino acid sequence
depicted in FIG. 24; and the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the
parent polypeptide is a [D102N, D108N]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide,
where the [D102N, D108N]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide is a variant of
IFN-.alpha.2b having (a) an asparagine residue in place of the
native aspartic acid residue at each of amino acid positions 102
and 108 in the amino acid sequence of IFN-.alpha.2b corresponding
to the native aspartic acid residues at amino acid positions 99 and
105 in the amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 24 (where the D99
and D105 amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG. 24; and
corresponds to D71 and D77, respectively, of the amino acid
sequence of IFN-.alpha.2b set forth in FIG. 2); and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine residues; and comprises at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in the parent polypeptide.
[0548] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the interferon alfacon-1
polypeptide; and the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is
an [D102N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the
[D102N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the
interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue
substituted for the native aspartic acid residue at amino acid
position 102 corresponding to the native aspartic acid residue at
amino acid position 99 in the amino acid sequence of Infergen
depicted in FIG. 24 (where the D99 amino acid position is as set
forth in FIG. 24; and corresponds to D72 of the amino acid sequence
of consensus IFN-.alpha. set forth in FIG. 9); and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of said
asparagine residue; and comprises at least one mutated protease
cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in
the parent polypeptide.
[0549] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the interferon alfacon-1
polypeptide; and the protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is
an [D102N, D108N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the
[D102N, D108N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the
interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue
substituted for each of the native aspartic acid residues at amino
acid positions 102 and 108 in the amino acid sequence of Infergen
corresponding to the native aspartic acid residues at amino acid
positions 99 and 105 depicted in FIG. 24 (where the D99 and D105
amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG. 24; and correspond to
D72 and D78, respectively, of the amino acid sequence of consensus
IFN-.alpha. set forth in FIG. 9); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently attached to the R-group of each of said asparagine
residues; and comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage site
in place of a native protease cleavage site found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0550] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the interferon alfacon-1
polypeptide; and the protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is
an [D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where
the [D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a
variant of the interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an
asparagine residue substituted for each of the native aspartic
acid, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid residues at amino acid
positions 102, 108 and 138, respectively, in the amino acid
sequence of Infergen corresponding to the native aspartic acid
residues at amino acid positions 99 and 105 and to the native
glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 134 depicted in FIG.
24 (where the D99, D105, and E134 amino acid positions are as set
forth in FIG. 24; and correspond to D72, D78, and E107,
respectively, of the amino acid sequence of consensus IFN-.alpha.
set forth in FIG. 9); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to the R-group of each of said asparagine residues; and
comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a
native protease cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0551] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the interferon alfacon-1
polypeptide; and the protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is
an [D102N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the
[D102N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the
interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue
substituted for each of the native aspartic acid and glutamic acid
residues at amino acid positions 102 and 138, respectively, in the
amino acid sequence of Infergen corresponding to the native
aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 99 and the native
glutamic acid residue at position 134 depicted in FIG. 24 (where
the D99 and E134 amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG. 24;
and correspond to D72 and E107, respectively, of the amino acid
sequence of consensus IFN-.alpha. set forth in FIG. 9); and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine residues; and comprises at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in the parent polypeptide.
[0552] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the interferon alfacon-1
polypeptide; and the protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is
an [D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the
[D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the
interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue
substituted for each of the native aspartic acid and glutamic acid
residues at amino acid positions 108 and 138, respectively, in the
amino acid sequence of Infergen corresponding to the native
aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 105 and native
glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 134 depicted in FIG.
24 (where the D105 and E134 amino acid positions are as set forth
in FIG. 24; and correspond to D78 and E107, respectively, of the
amino acid sequence of consensus IFN-.alpha. set forth in FIG. 9);
and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of
each of said asparagine residues; and comprises at least one
mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native protease
cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0553] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the interferon alfacon-1
polypeptide; and the protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is
an [D102N, D108N, E138T]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where
the [D102N, D108N, E138T]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a
variant of the interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an
asparagine residue substituted for each of the native aspartic acid
residues at amino acid positions 102 and 108 in the amino acid
sequence of Infergen corresponding to the native aspartic acid
residues at amino acid positions 99 and 105 depicted in FIG. 24;
(b) a threonine residue substituted for the native glutamic acid
residue at amino acid position 138 in the amino acid sequence of
Infergen corresponding to the native glutamic acid residue at amino
acid position 134 depicted in FIG. 24 (where the D99, D105, and
E134 amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG. 24; and
correspond to D72, D78, and E107, respectively, of the amino acid
sequence of consensus IFN-.alpha. set forth in FIG. 9); and (c) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine and threonine residues; and comprises at least one
mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native protease
cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0554] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the interferon alfacon-1
polypeptide; and the protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is
an [D102N, E138T]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the
[D102N, E138T]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the
interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue
substituted for the native aspartic acid residue at amino acid
position 102 in the amino acid sequence of Infergen corresponding
to the native aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 99
depicted in FIG. 24; (b) a threonine residue substituted for the
native glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 138 in the
amino acid sequence of Infergen corresponding to the native
glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 134 depicted in FIG.
24 (where the D99 and E134 amino acid positions are as set forth in
FIG. 24; and correspond to D72 and E107, respectively, of the amino
acid sequence of consensus IFN-.alpha. set forth in FIG. 9); and
(c) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of
each of said asparagine and threonine residues; and comprises at
least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0555] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the interferon alfacon-1
polypeptide; and the protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is an [D108N,
E138T]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide, where the [D108N,
E138T]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptide is a variant of the
interferon alfacon-1 polypeptide having (a) an asparagine residue
substituted for the native aspartic acid residue at amino acid
position 108 in the amino acid sequence of Infergen corresponding
to the native aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 105
depicted in FIG. 24; (b) a threonine residue substituted for the
native glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 138 in the
amino acid sequence of Infergen corresponding to the native
glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 134 depicted in FIG.
24 (where the D105 and E134 amino acid positions are as set forth
in FIG. 24; and correspond to D78 and E107, respectively, of the
amino acid sequence of consensus IFN-.alpha. set forth in FIG. 9);
and (c) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of
each of said asparagine and threonine residues; and comprises at
least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0556] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the "majority" consensus Type I
interferon amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 24; and the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is a
[D102N]"majority" consensus Type I interferon glycopeptide, where
the [D102N]"majority" consensus Type I interferon glycopeptide is
the "majority" amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 24 having (a)
an asparagine residue substituted for the native aspartic acid
residue at amino acid position 102 corresponding to the native
aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 99 in the "majority"
amino acid sequence and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to the R-group of said asparagine residue; and comprises
at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0557] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the "majority" consensus Type I
interferon amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 24; and the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is a [D102N,
D108N]"majority" consensus Type I interferon glycopeptide, where
the [D102N, D108N]"majority" consensus Type I interferon
glycopeptide is the "majority" amino acid sequence depicted in FIG.
24 having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for each of the
native aspartic acid residues at amino acid positions 102 and 108
corresponding to the native aspartic acid residues at amino acid
positions 99 and 105 in the "majority" amino acid sequence and (b)
a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine residues; and comprises at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in the parent polypeptide.
[0558] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the "majority" consensus Type I
interferon amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 24; and the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is a [D102N, D108N,
E138N]"majority" consensus Type I interferon glycopeptide, where
the [D102N, D108N, E138N]"majority" consensus Type I interferon
glycopeptide is the "majority" amino acid sequence depicted in FIG.
24 having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for each of the
native aspartic acid, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid residues at
amino acid positions 102, 108 and 138, corresponding to the native
aspartic acid residues at amino acid positions 99 and 105 and the
native glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 134
respectively, in the "majority" amino acid sequence and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine residues; and comprises at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in the parent polypeptide.
[0559] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the "majority" consensus Type I
interferon amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 24; and the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is a [D102N,
E138N]"majority" consensus Type I interferon glycopeptide, where
the [D102N, E138N]"majority" consensus Type I interferon
glycopeptide is the "majority" amino acid sequence depicted in FIG.
24 having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for each of the
native aspartic acid and glutamic acid residues at amino acid
positions 102 and 138, corresponding to the native aspartic acid
residue at amino acid position 99 and the native glutamic acid
residue at position 134 respectively, in the "majority" amino acid
sequence (where the amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG.
24); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the
R-group of each of said asparagine residues; and comprises at least
one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native protease
cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0560] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the "majority" consensus Type I
interferon amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 24; and the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is a [D108N,
E138N]"majority" consensus Type I interferon glycopeptide, where
the [D108N, E138N]"majority" consensus Type I interferon
glycopeptide is the "majority" amino acid sequence depicted in FIG.
24 having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for each of the
native aspartic acid and glutamic acid residues at amino acid
positions 108 and 138, corresponding to the native aspartic acid
residue at amino acid position 105 and the native glutamic acid
residue at position 134 respectively, in the "majority" amino acid
sequence (where the amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG.
24); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the
R-group of each of said asparagine residues; and comprises at least
one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native protease
cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0561] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the "majority" consensus Type I
interferon amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 24; and the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is a [D102N, D108N,
E138T]"majority" consensus Type I interferon glycopeptide, where
the [D102N, D108N, E138T]"majority" consensus Type I interferon
glycopeptide is the "majority" amino acid sequence depicted in FIG.
24 having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for each of the
native aspartic acid residues at amino acid positions 102 and 108
corresponding to the native aspartic acid residues at amino acid
positions 99 and 105 in the "majority" amino acid sequence (b) a
threonine residue substituted for the native glutamic acid residue
at amino acid position 138 corresponding to the native glutamic
acid residue at position 134 in the "majority" amino acid sequence
and (c) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of
each of said asparagine and threonine residues; and comprises at
least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0562] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the "majority" consensus Type I
interferon amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 24; and the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is a [D102N,
E138T]"majority" consensus Type I interferon glycopeptide, where
the [D102N, E138T]"majority" consensus Type I interferon
glycopeptide is the "majority" amino acid sequence depicted in FIG.
24 having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for the native
aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 102 corresponding to
the native aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 99 in the
"majority" amino acid sequence (b) a threonine residue substituted
for the native glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 138
corresponding to the native glutamic acid residue at position 134
in the "majority" amino acid sequence and (c) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently attached to the R-group of each of said asparagine and
threonine residues; and comprises at least one mutated protease
cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in
the parent polypeptide.
[0563] In another aspect, the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is the "majority" consensus Type I
interferon amino acid sequence depicted in FIG. 24; and the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent polypeptide is a [D108N,
E138T]"majority" consensus Type I interferon glycopeptide, where
the [D108N, E138T]"majority" consensus Type I interferon
glycopeptide is the "majority" amino acid sequence depicted in FIG.
24 having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for the native
aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 108 corresponding to
the native aspartic acid residue at amino acid position 105 in the
"majority" amino acid sequence (b) a threonine residue substituted
for the native glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 138
corresponding to the native glutamic acid residue at position 134
in the "majority" amino acid sequence (where the amino acid
positions are as set forth in FIG. 24); and (c) a carbohydrate
moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of said
asparagine and threonine residues; and comprises at least one
mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native protease
cleavage site found in the parent polypeptide.
[0564] The numbering of amino acid replacements (discussed in the
context of generating hyperglycosylation variants of the parent
protein therapeutic) used to describe the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants of
parent hybrid Type I receptor polypeptide agonists herein coincides
with the numbering of amino acids used to depict the Type I
interferon amino acid sequences as described above and corresponds
to the sequence numbering appearing in FIG. 24. Thus, position 102
in the variant [D102N]interferon .alpha.2b polypeptide described by
SEQ ID No.:1440 corresponds to position 99 as set forth in FIG.
24.
[0565] In another aspect, a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a
parent hybrid Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
therapeutic differs from the parent hybrid Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist therapeutic to the extent that the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant comprises (1) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to a non-native glycosylation site not found in the parent
hybrid Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapeutic
and/or (2) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to a native
glycosylation site found but not glycosylated in the parent hybrid
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapeutic.
[0566] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant consensus IFN-.alpha.
variants has increased stability compared to the unmodified
(parent) cytokine, where the stability is assessed by measuring
residual biological activity after incubation with either a mixture
of proteases, individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as
described above. In other embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant consensus IFN-.alpha.
variants has increased biological activity compared to the
unmodified (parent) cytokine, after incubation with either a
mixture of proteases, individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum,
as described above.
IFN-.beta. Polypeptide Variants
[0567] In some embodiments, a protease-resistant or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated cytokine variant is an
IFN-.beta. variant. In some embodiments, the protease-resistant or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated IFN-.beta. variant comprises
one or more single amino acid replacements in SEQ ID NO:197 (or the
amino acid sequence as set forth in FIG. 3), corresponding to the
replacement of one or more of: M by V at position 1, M by I at
position 1, M by T at position 1, M by Q at position 1, M by A at
position 1, L by V at position 5, L by I at position 5, L by T at
position 5, L by Q at position 5, L by H at position 5, L by A at
position 5, F by I at position 8, F by V at position 8, L by V at
position 9, L by I at position 9, L by T at position 9, L by Q at
position 9, L by H at position 9, L by A at position 9, R by H at
position 11, R by Q at position 11, F by I at position 15, F by V
at position 15, K by Q at position 19, K by T at position 19, K by
S at position 19, K by H at position 19, W by S at position 22, W
by H at position 22, N by H at position 25, N by S at position 25,
N by Q at position 25, R by H position 27, R by Q position 27, L by
V at position 28, L by I at position 28, L by T at position 28, L
by Q at position 28, L by H at position 28, L by A at position 28,
E by Q at position 29, E by H at position 29, Y by H at position
30, Y by I at position 30, L by V at position 32, L by I at
position 32, L by T at position 32, L by Q at position 32, L by H
at position 32, L by A at position 32, K by Q at position 33, K by
T at position 33, K by S at position 33, K by H at position 33, R
by H at position 35, R by Q at position 35, M by V at position 36,
M by I at position 36, M by T at position 36, M by Q at position
36, M by A at position 36, D by Q at position 39, D by H at
position 39, D by G at position 39, E by Q at position 42, E by H
at position 42, K by Q at position 45, K by T at position 45, K by
S at position 45, K by H at position 45, L by V at position 47, L
by I at position 47, L by T at position 47, L by, Q at position 47,
L by H at position 47, L by A at position 47, K by Q at position
52, K by T at position 52, K by S at position 52, K by H at
position 52, F by I at position 67, F by V at position 67, R by H
at position 71, R by Q at position 71, D by Q at position 73, D by
H at position 73, D by G at position 73, E by Q at position 81, E
by H at position 81, E by Q at position 85, E by H at position 85,
Y by H at position 92, Y by I at position 92, K by Q at position
102, K by T at position 102, K by S at position 102, K by H at
position 102, E by Q at position 103, E by H at position 103, E by
Q at position 104, E by H at position 104, K by Q at position 105,
K by T at position 105, K by S at position 105, K by H at position
105, E by Q at position 107, E by H at position 107, K by Q at
position 108, K by T at position 108, K by S at position 108, K by
H at position 108, E by Q at position 109, E by H at position 109,
D by Q at position 110, D by H at position 110, D by G at position
110, F by I at position 111, F by V at position 111, R by H at
position 113, R by Q at position 113, L by V at position 116, L by
I at position 116, L by T at position 116, L by Q at position 116,
L by H at position 116, L by A at position 116, L by V at position
120, L by I at position 120, L by T at position 120, L by Q at
position 120, L by H at position 120, L by A at position 120, K by
Q at position 123, K by T at position 123, K by S at position 123,
K by H at position 123, R by H at position 124, R by Q at position
124, R by H at position 128, R by Q at position 128, L by V at
position 130, L by I at position 130, L by T at position 130, L by
Q at position 130, L by H at position 130, L by A at position 130,
K by Q at position 138, K by T at position 138, K by S at position
138, K by H at position 138, K by Q at position 136, K by T at
position 136, K by S at position 136, K by H at position 136, E by
Q at position 137, E by H at position 137, Y by H at position 138,
Y by I at position 138, R by H at position 152, R by Q at position
152, Y by H at position 155, Y by I at position 155, R by H at
position 159, R by Q at position 159, Y by H at position 163, Y by
I at position 163, R by H at position 165, R by Q at position 165,
M by D at position 1, M by E at position 1, M by K at position 1, M
by N at position 1, M by R at position 1, M by S at position 1, L
by D at position 5, L by E at position 5, L by K at position 5, L
by N at position 5, L by R at position 5, L by S at position 5, L
by D at position 6, L by E at position 6, L by K at position 6, L
by N at position 6, L by R at position 6, L by S at position 6, L
by Q at position 6, L by T at position 6, F by E at position 8, F
by K at position 8, F by R at position 8, F by D at position 8, L
by D at position 9, L by E at position 9, L by K at position 9, L
by N at position 9, L by R at position 9, L by S at position 9, Q
by D at position 10, Q by E at position 10, Q by K at position 10,
Q by N at position 10, Q by R at position 10, Q by S at position
10, Q by T at position 10, S by D at position 12, S by E at
position 12, S by K at position 12, S by R at position 12, S by D
at position 13, S by E at position 13, S by K at position 13, S by
R at position 13, S by N at position 13, S by Q at position 13, S
by T at position 13, N by D at position 14, N by E at position 14,
N by K at position 14, N by Q at position 14, N by R at position
14, N by S at position 14, N by T at position 14, F by D at
position 15, F by E at position 15, F by K at position 15, F by R
at position 15, Q by D at position 16, Q by E at position 16, Q by
K at position 16, Q by N at position 16, Q by R at position 16, Q
by S at position 16, Q by T at position 16, C by D at position 17,
C by E at position 17, C by K at position 17, C by N at position
17, C by Q at position 17, C by Rat position 17, C by S at position
17, C by T at position 17, L by N at position 20, L by Q at
position 20, L by R at position 20, L by S at position 20, L by T
at position 20, L by D at position 20, L by E at position 20, L by
K at position 20, W by D at position 22, W by E at position 22, W
by K at position 22, W by R at position 22, Q by D at position 23,
Q by E at position 23, Q by K at position 23, Q by R at position
23, L by D at position 24, L by E at position 24, L by K at
position 24, L by R at position 24, W by D at position 79, W by E
at position 79, W by K at position 79, W by R at position 79, N by
D at position 80, N by E at position 80, N by K at position 80, N
by R at position 80, T by D at position 82, T by E at position 82,
T by K at position 82, T by R at position 82, I by D at position
83, I by E at position 83, I by K at position 83, I by R at
position 83, I by N at position 83, I by Q at position 83, I by S
at position 83, I by T at position 83, N by D at position 86, N by
E at position 86, N by K at position 86, N by R at position 86, N
by Q at position 86, N by S at position 86, N by T at position 86,
L by D at position 87, L by E at position 87, L by K at position
87, L by R at position 87, L by N at position 87, L by Q at
position 87, L by S at position 87, L by T at position 87, A by D
at position 89, A by E at position 89, A by K at position 89, A by
R at position 89, N by D at position 90, N by E at position 90, N
by K at position 90, N by Q at position 90, N by R at position 90,
N by S at position 90, N by T at position 90, V by D at position
91, V by E at position 91, V by K at position 91, V by N at
position 91, V by Q at position 91, V by R at position 91, V by S
at position 91, V by T at position 91, Q by D at position 94, Q by
E at position 94, Q by Q at position 94, Q by N at position 94, Q
by R at position 94, Q by S at position 94, Q by T at position 94,
I by D at position 95, I by E at position 95, I by K at position
95, I by N at position 95, I by Q at position 95, I by R at
position 95, I by S at position 95, I by T at position 95, H by D
at position 97, H by E at position 97, H by K at position 97, H by
N at position 97, H by Q at position 97, H by R at position 97, H
by S at position 97, H by T at position 97, L by D at position 98,
L by E at position 98, L by K at position 98, L by N at position
98, L by Q at position 98, L by R at position 98, L by S at
position 98, L by T at position 98, V by D at position 101, V by E
at position 101, V by K at position 101, V by N at position 101, V
by Q at position 101, V by R at position 101, V by S at position
101, V by T at position 101, M by C at position 1, L by C at
position 6, Q by C at position 10, S by C at position 13, Q by C at
position 16, L by C at position 17, V by C at position 101, L by C
at position 98, H by C at position 97, Q by C at position 94, V by
C at position 91, or N by C at position 90, wherein residue 1
corresponds to residue 1 of the mature IFN-.beta. cytokine set
forth in SEQ ID NO:197; and further comprises an amino acid
sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent
polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one or more
glycosylation sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
3-D Structural Homologs
[0568] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant interferon variant is a modified IFN-.beta.
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:197 (as set forth in FIG. 3)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.beta.. In some of
these embodiments, the modified IFN-.beta. is selected from among
proteins comprising one or more single amino acid replacements at
one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 197 (as set forth in
FIG. 3), corresponding to any of amino acid positions: 39, 42, 45,
47, 52, 67, 71, 73, 81, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 113, 116, 120,
123, 124, 128, 130, 138, 136, 137, 163 and 165, where the mutations
include insertions, deletions and replacements of the native amino
acid residue(s); where the variant further comprises an amino acid
sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent
polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one or more
glycosylation sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
[0569] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant interferon variant is a modified IFN-.beta.
cytokine comprising one or more amino acid replacements, where the
replacements are selected from amino acid substitutions in SEQ ID
NO:197 (as set forth in FIG. 3) corresponding to: D by Q at
position 39, D by H at position 39, D by G at position 39, E by Q
at position 42, E by H at position 42, K by Q at position 45, K by
T at position 45, K by S at position 45, K by H at position 45, L
by V at position 47, L by I at position 47, L by T at position 47,
L by Q at position 47, L by H at position 47, L by A at position
47, K by Q at position 52, K by T at position 52, K by S at
position 52, K by H at position 52, F by I at position 67, F by V
at position 67, R by H at position 71, R by Q at position 71, D by
H at position 73, D by G at position 73, D by Q at position 73, E
by Q at position 81, E by H at position 81, E by Q at position 107,
E by H at position 107, K by Q at position 108, K by T at position
108, K by S at position 108, K by H at position 108, E by Q at
position 109, E by H at position 109, D by Q at position 110, D by
H at position 110, D by G at position 110, F by I at position 111,
F by V at position 111, R by H at position 113, R by Q at position
113, L by V at position 116, L by I at position 116, L by T at
position 116, L by Q at position 116, L by H at position 116, L by
A at position 116, L by V at position 120, L by I at position 120,
L by T at position 120, L by Q at position 120, L by H at position
120, L by A at position 120, K by Q at position 123, K by T at
position 123, K by S at position 123, K by H at position 123, R by
H at position 124, R by Q at position 124, R by H at position 128,
R by Q at position 128, L by V at position 130, L by I at position
130, L by T at position 130, L by Q at position 130, L by H at
position 130, L by A at position 130, K by Q at position 138, K by
T at position 138, K by S at position 138, K by H at position 138,
K by Q at position 136, K by T at position 136, K by S at position
136, K by H at position 136, E by Q at position 137, E by H at
position 137, Y by H at position 163, Y by I at position 1631, R by
H at position 165, or R by Q at position 165, wherein the first
amino acid listed is substituted by the second at the position
indicated; where the variant further comprises an amino acid
sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent
polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one or more
glycosylation sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
[0570] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.beta. variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.beta. variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0571] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant interferon variant is a modified IFN-.beta.1
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:196 (as set forth in FIG. 22)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.beta.1. In some
of these embodiments, the modified IFN-131 is selected from among
proteins comprising one or more single amino acid replacements at
one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 196 (as set forth in
FIG. 22), corresponding to any of amino acid positions: 39, 42, 45,
47, 52, 67, 71, 73, 81, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 113, 116, 120,
123, 124, 128, 130, 138, 136, 137, 163 and 165, where the mutations
include insertions, deletions and replacements of the native amino
acid residue(s); where the variant further comprises an amino acid
sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent
polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one or more
glycosylation sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
[0572] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.beta.1 variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.beta.1 variants has increased biological
activity compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after
incubation with either a mixture of proteases, individual
proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
[0573] In other embodiments, the protease-resistant interferon
variant is a modified IFN-.beta.2a cytokine, comprising one or more
amino acid replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID
NO:198 (as set forth in FIG. 23) corresponding to a
structurally-related modified amino acid position within the
3-dimensional structure of an above-described IFN-.alpha.2b
polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to greater
resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a protease
or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as described
above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.beta.2a. In some of these
embodiments, the modified IFN-.beta.2a is selected from among
proteins comprising one or more single amino acid replacements at
one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 198 (as set forth in
FIG. 23), corresponding to any of amino acid positions: 39, 42, 45,
47, 52, 67, 71, 73, 81, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 113, 116, 120,
123, 124, 128, 130, 138, 136, 137, 163 and 165, where the mutations
include insertions, deletions and replacements of the native amino
acid residue(s); where the variant further comprises an amino acid
sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent
polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one or more
glycosylation sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
[0574] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide IFN-.beta.b 2a
variants has increased stability compared to the unmodified
(parent) cytokine, where the stability is assessed by measuring
residual biological activity after incubation with either a mixture
of proteases, individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as
described above. In other embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.beta.2a variants has
increased biological activity compared to the unmodified (parent)
cytokine, after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described
above.
[0575] In another aspect, the present invention provides a cytokine
structural homolog of any of the above-described protease-resistant
IFN-.beta. variants, where the homolog comprises one or more amino
acid replacements at positions corresponding to the
3-dimensional-structurally-similar modified positions within the
3-dimensional structure of the modified IFN-.beta.. In many
embodiments, the homolog has increased resistance to proteolysis
compared to its unmodified cytokine counterpart, wherein the
resistance to proteolysis is measured by mixture with a protease in
vitro, incubation with blood, or incubation with serum. In many
embodiments, the cytokine is an IFN-.beta. cytokine.
[0576] In another aspect, the present invention provides a modified
IFN-.beta. cytokine (e.g., a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
IFN-.beta. variant), comprising one or more amino acid replacements
at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO. 197 (the amino acid
sequence set forth in FIG. 3) corresponding to a
structurally-related modified amino acid position within the
3-dimensional structure of any of the above-described IFN-.beta.
modified cytokines, where the replacements lead to greater
resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a protease
or a with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum, compared to
the unmodified IFN-.beta..
[0577] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.beta. variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity to either inhibit viral replication or to stimulate cell
proliferation in appropriate cells, after incubation with either a
mixture of proteases, individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum,
as described above.
[0578] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.beta. variants has
increased biological activity compared to the unmodified (parent)
cytokine, where the activity is assessed by the capacity to either
inhibit viral replication in appropriate cells, or to inhibit cell
proliferation in appropriate cells, after incubation with either a
mixture of proteases, individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum,
as described above.
[0579] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
IFN-.beta. variant (a "modified IFN-.beta. cytokine") is selected
from the group of proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements in SEQ ID NO:197, as set forth in FIG. 3,
corresponding to the replacement of: M by V at position 1, M by I
at position 1, M by T at position 1, M by Q at position 1, M by A
at position 1, L by V at position 5, L by I at position 5, L by T
at position 5, L by Q at position 5, L by H at position 5, L by A
at position 5, F by I at position 8, F by V at position 8, L by V
at position 9, L by I at position 9, L by T at position 9, L by Q
at position 9, L by H at position 9, L by A at position 9, R by H
at position 11, R by Q at position 11, F by I at position 15, F by
V at position 15, K by Q at position 19, K by T at position 19, K
by S at position 19, K by H at position 19, W by S at position 22,
W by H at position 22, N by H at position 25, N by S at position
25, N by Q at position 25, R by H position 27, R by Q position 27,
L by V at position 28, L by I at position 28, L by T at position
28, L by Q at position 28, L by H at position 28, L by A at
position 28, E by Q at position 29, E by H at position 29, Y by H
at position 30, Y by I at position 30, L by V at position 32, L by
I at position 32, L by T at position 32, L by Q at position 32, L
by H at position 32, L by A at position 32, K by Q at position 33,
K by T at position 33, K by S at position 33, K by H at position
33, R by H at position 35, R by Q at position 35, M by V at
position 36, M by I at position 36, M by T at position 36, M by Q
at position 36, M by A at position 36, D by Q at position 39, D by
H at position 39, D by G at position 39, E by Q at position 42, E
by H at position 42, K by Q at position 45, K by T at position 45,
K by S at position 45, K by H at position 45, L by V at position
47, L by I at position 47, L by T at position 47, L by, Q at
position 47, L by H at position 47, L by A at position 47, K by Q
at position 52, K by T at position 52, K by S at position 52, K by
H at position 52, F by I at position 67, F by V at position 67, R
by H at position 71, R by Q at position 71, D by Q at position 73,
D by H at position 73, D by G at position 73, E by Q at position
81, E by H at position 81, E by Q at position 85, E by H at
position 85, Y by H at position 92, Y by I at position 92, K by Q
at position 102, K by T at position 102, K by S at position 102, K
by H at position 102, E by Q at position 103, E by H at position
103, E by Q at position 104, E by H at position 104, K by Q at
position 105, K by T at position 105, K by S at position 105, K by
H at position 105, E by Q at position 107, E by H at position 107,
K by Q at position 108, K by T at position 108, K by S at position
108, K by H at position 108, E by Q at position 109, E by H at
position 109, D by Q at position 110, D by H at position 110, D by
G at position 110, F by I at position 111, F by V at position 111,
R by H at position 113, R by Q at position 113, L by V at position
116, L by I at position 116, L by T at position 116, L by Q at
position 116, L by H at position 116, L by A at position 116, L by
V at position 120, L by I at position 120, L by T at position 120,
L by Q at position 120, L by H at position 120, L by A at position
120, K by Q at position 123, K by T at position 123, K by S at
position 123, K by H at position 123, R by H at position 124, R by
Q at position 124, R by H at position 128, R by Q at position 128,
L by V at position 130, L by I at position 130, L by T at position
130, L by Q at position 130, L by H at position 130, L by A at
position 130, K by Q at position 138, K by T at position 138, K by
S at position 138, K by H at position 138, K by Q at position 136,
K by T at position 136, K by S at position 136, K by H at position
136, E by Q at position 137, E by H at position 137, Y by H at
position 138, Y by I at position 138, R by H at position 152, R by
Q at position 152, Y by H at position 155, Y by I at position 155,
R by H at position 159, R by Q at position 159, Y by H at position
163, Y by I at position 163, R by H at position 165, R by Q at
position 165, M by D at position 1, M by E at position 1, M by K at
position 1, M by N at position 1, M by Rat position 1, M by S at
position 1, L by D at position 5, L by E at position 5, L by K at
position 5, L by N at position 5, L by R at position 5, L by S at
position 5, L by D at position 6, L by E at position 6, L by K at
position 6, L by N at position 6, L by R at position 6, L by S at
position 6, L by Q at position 6, L by T at position 6, F by E at
position 8, F by K at position 8, F by R at position 8, F by D at
position 8, L by D at position 9, L by E at position 9, L by K at
position 9, L by N at position 9, L by R at position 9, L by S at
position 9, Q by D at position 10, Q by E at position 10, Q by K at
position 10, Q by N at position 10, Q by R at position 10, Q by S
at position 10, Q by T at position 10, S by D at position 12, S by
E at position 12, S by K at position 12, S by R at position 12, S
by D at position 13, S by E at position 13, S by K at position 13,
S by R at position 13, S by N at position 13, S by Q at position
13, S by T at position 13, N by D at position 14, N by E at
position 14, N by K at position 14, N by Q at position 14, N by R
at position 14, N by S at position 14, N by T at position 14, F by
D at position 15, F by E at position 15, F by K at position 15, F
by R at position 15, Q by D at position 16, Q by E at position 16,
Q by K at position 16, Q by N at position 16, Q by R at position
16, Q by S at position 16, Q by T at position 16, C by D at
position 17, C by E at position 17, C by K at position 17, C by N
at position 17, C by Q at position 17, C by R at position 17, C by
S at position 17, C by T at position 17, L by N at position 20, L
by Q at position 20, L by R at position 20, L by S at position 20,
L by T at position 20, L by D at position 20, L by E at position
20, L by K at position 20, W by D at position 22, W by E at
position 22, W by K at position 22, W by R at position 22, Q by D
at position 23, Q by E at position 23, Q by K at position 23, Q by
R at position 23, L by D at position 24, L by E at position 24, L
by K at position 24, L by R at position 24, W by D at position 79,
W by E at position 79, W by K at position 79, W by R at position
79, N by D at position 80, N by E at position 80, N by K at
position 80, N by R at position 80, T by D at position 82, T by E
at position 82, T by K at position 82, T by R at position 82, I by
D at position 83, I by E at position 83, I by K at position 83, I
by R at position 83, I by N at position 83, I by Q at position 83,
I by S at position 83, I by T at position 83, N by D at position
86, N by E at position 86, N by K at position 86, N by R at
position 86, N by Q at position 86, N by S at position 86, N by T
at position 86, L by D at position 87, L by E at position 87, L by
K at position 87, L by R at position 87, L by N at position 87, L
by Q at position 87, L by S at position 87, L by T at position 87,
A by D at position 89, A by E at position 89, A by K at position
89, A by R at position 89, N by D at position 90, N by E at
position 90, N by K at position 90, N by Q at position 90, N by R
at position 90, N by S at position 90, N by T at position 90, V by
D at position 91, V by E at position 91, V by K at position 91, V
by N at position 91, V by Q at position 91, V by R at position 91,
V by S at position 91, V by T at position 91, Q by D at position
94, Q by E at position 94, Q by Q at position 94, Q by N at
position 94, Q by R at position 94, Q by S at position 94, Q by T
at position 94, I by D at position 95, I by E at position 95, I by
K at position 95, I by N at position 95, I by Q at position 95, I
by R at position 95, I by S at position 95, I by T at position 95,
H by D at position 97, H by E at position 97, H by K at position
97, H by N at position 97, H by Q at position 97, H by R at
position 97, H by S at position 97, H by T at position 97, L by D
at position 98, L by E at position 98, L by K at position 98, L by
N at position 98, L by Q at position 98, L by R at position 98, L
by S at position 98, L by T at position 98, V by D at position 101,
V by E at position 101, V by K at position 101, V by N at position
101, V by Q at position 101, V by R at position 101, V by S at
position 101, V by T at position 101, M by C at position 1, L by C
at position 6, Q by C at position 10, S by C at position 13, Q by C
at position 16, L by C at position 17, V by C at position 101, L by
C at position 98, H by C at position 97, Q by C at position 94, V
by C at position 91, or N by C at position 90, or any combination
of such replacements, wherein residue 1 corresponds to residue 1 of
the mature IFN-.beta.. cytokine set forth in SEQ ID NO:197 (as set
forth in FIG. 3); where the variant further comprises an amino acid
sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent
polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one or more
glycosylation sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
[0580] In other embodiments, a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.beta. variant (a "modified IFN-.beta.
cytokine") is selected from the group of proteins comprising one or
more single amino acid replacements in SEQ ID NO:197, as set forth
in FIG. 3, corresponding to the replacement of: D by Q at position
39, D by H at position 39, D by G at position 39, E by Q at
position 42, E by H at position 42, K by Q at position 45, K by T
at position 45, K by S at position 45, K by H at position 45, L by
V at position 47, L by I at position 47, L by T at position 47, L
by Q at position 47, L by H at position 47, L by A at position 47,
K by Q at position 52, K by T at position 52, K by S at position
52, K by H at position 52, F by I at position 67, F by V at
position 67, R by H at position 71, R by Q at position 71, D by H
at position 73, D by G at position 73, D by Q at position 73, E by
Q at position 81, E by H at position 81, E by Q at position 107, E
by H at position 107, K by Q at position 108, K by T at position
108, K by S at position 108, K by H at position 108, E by Q at
position 109, E by H at position 109, D by Q at position 110, D by
H at position 110, D by G at position 110, F by I at position 111,
F by V at position 111, R by H at position 113, R by Q at position
113, L by V at position 116, L by I at position 116, L by T at
position 116, L by Q at position 116, L by H at position 116, L by
A at position 116, L by V at position 120, L by I at position 120,
L by T at position 120, L by Q at position 120, L by H at position
120, L by A at position 120, K by Q at position 123, K by T at
position 123, K by S at position 123, K by H at position 123, R by
H at position 124, R by Q at position 124, R by H at position 128,
R by Q at position 128, L by V at position 130, L by I at position
130, L by T at position 130, L by Q at position 130, L by H at
position 130, L by A at position 130, K by Q at position 138, K by
T at position 138, K by S at position 138, K by H at position 138,
K by Q at position 136, K by T at position 136, K by S at position
136, K by H at position 136, E by Q at position 137, E by H at
position 137, Y by H at position 163, Y by I at position 1631, R by
H at position 165, or R by Q at position 165, or any combination of
such replacements, wherein the first amino acid listed is
substituted by the second at the position indicated; where the
variant further comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from
the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent
that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation sites not
found in the parent polypeptide.
[0581] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
IFN-.beta. variant (a "modified IFN-.beta. cytokine") is selected
from the group of proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements in SEQ ID NO:197, as set forth in FIG. 3,
corresponding to the replacement of: M by V at position 1, M by I
at position 1, M by T at position 1, M by Q at position 1, M by A
at position 1, L by V at position 5, L by I at position 5, L by T
at position 5, L by Q at position 5, L by H at position 5, L by A
at position 5, F by I at position 8, F by V at position 8, L by V
at position 9, L by I at position 9, L by T at position 9, L by Q
at position 9, L by H at position 9, L by A at position 9, R by H
at position 11, R by Q at position 11, F by I at position 15, F by
V at position 15, K by Q at position 19, K by T at position 19, K
by S at position 19, K by H at position 19, W by S at position 22,
W by H at position 22, N by H at position 25, N by S at position
25, N by Q at position 25, R by H position 27, R by Q position 27,
L by V at position 28, L by I at position 28, L by T at position
28, L by Q at position 28, L by H at position 28, L by A at
position 28, E by Q at position 29, E by H at position 29, Y by H
at position 30, Y by I at position 30, L by V at position 32, L by
I at position 32, L by T at position 32, L by Q at position 32, L
by H at position 32, L by A at position 32, K by Q at position 33,
K by T at position 33, K by S at position 33, K by H at position
33, R by H at position 35, R by Q at position 35, M by V at
position 36, M by I at position 36, M by T at position 36, M by Q
at position 36, M by A at position 36, D by Q at position 39, D by
H at position 39, D by G at position 39, E by Q at position 42, E
by H at position 42, K by Q at position 45, K by T at position 45,
K by S at position 45, K by H at position 45, L by V at position
47, L by I at position 47, L by T at position 47, L by, Q at
position 47, L by H at position 47, L by A at position 47, K by Q
at position 52, K by T at position 52, K by S at position 52, K by
H at position 52, F by I at position 67, F by V at position 67, R
by H at position 71, R by Q at position 71, D by Q at position 73,
D by H at position 73, D by G at position 73, E by Q at position
81, E by H at position 81, E by Q at position 85, E by H at
position 85, Y by H at position 92, Y by I at position 92, K by 0
at position 102, K by T at position 102, K by S at position 102, K
by H at position 102, E by Q at position 103, E by H at position
103, E by Q at position 104, E by H at position 104, K by Q at
position 105, K by T at position 105, K by S at position 105, K by
H at position 105, E by Q at position 107, E by H at position 107,
K by Q at position 108, K by T at position 108, K by S at position
108, K by H at position 108, E by Q at position 109, E by H at
position 109, D by Q at position 110, D by H at position 110, D by
G at position 110, F by I at position 111, F by V at position 111,
R by H at position 113, R by Q at position 113, L by V at position
116, L by I at position 116, L by T at position 116, L by Q at
position 116, L by H at position 116, L by A at position 116, L by
V at position 120, L by I at position 120, L by T at position 120,
L by Q at position 120, L by H at position 120, L by A at position
120, K by Q at position 123, K by T at position 123, K by S at
position 123, K by H at position 123, R by H at position 124, R by
Q at position 124, R by H at position 128, R by Q at position 128,
L by V at position 130, L by I at position 130, L by T at position
130, L by Q at position 130, L by H at position 130, L by A at
position 130, K by Q at position 138, K by T at position 138, K by
S at position 138, K by H at position 138, K by Q at position 136,
K by T at position 136, K by S at position 136, K by H at position
136, E by Q at position 137, E by H at position 137, Y by H at
position 138, Y by I at position 138, R by H at position 152, R by
Q at position 152, Y by H at position 155, Y by I at position 155,
R by H at position 159, R by Q at position 159, Y by H at position
163, Y by I at position 163, R by H at position 165, R by Q at
position 165, M by D at position 1, M by E at position 1, M by K at
position 1, M by N at position 1, M by Rat position 1, M by S at
position 1, L by D at position 5, L by E at position 5, L by K at
position 5, L by N at position 5, L by R at position 5, L by S at
position 5, L by D at position 6, L by E at position 6, L by K at
position 6, L by N at position 6, L by R at position 6, L by S at
position 6, L by Q at position 6, L by T at position 6, F by E at
position 8, F by K at position 8, F by R at position 8, F by D at
position 8, L by D at position 9, L by E at position 9, L by K at
position 9, L by N at position 9, L by R at position 9, L by S at
position 9, Q by D at position 10, Q by E at position 10, Q by K at
position 10, Q by N at position 10, Q by R at position 10, Q by S
at position 10, Q by T at position 10, S by D at position 12, S by
E at position 12, S by K at position 12, S by R at position 12, S
by D at position 13, S by E at position 13, S by K at position 13,
S by R at position 13, S by N at position 13, S by Q at position
13, S by T at position 13, N by D at position 14, N by E at
position 14, N by K at position 14, N by Q at position 14, N by R
at position 14, N by S at position 14, N by T at position 14, F by
D at position 15, F by E at position 15, F by K at position 15, F
by R at position 15, Q by D at position 16, Q by E at position 16,
Q by K at position 16, Q by N at position 16, Q by R at position
16, Q by S at position 16, Q by T at position 16, C by D at
position 17, C by E at position 17, C by K at position 17, C by N
at position 17, C by Q at position 17, C by R at position 17, C by
S at position 17, C by T at position 17, L by N at position 20, L
by Q at position 20, L by R at position 20, L by S at position 20,
L by T at position 20, L by D at position 20, L by E at position
20, L by K at position 20, W by D at position 22, W by E at
position 22, W by K at position 22, W by R at position 22, Q by D
at position 23, Q by E at position 23, Q by K at position 23, Q by
R at position 23, L by D at position 24, L by E at position 24, L
by K at position 24, L by R at position 24, W by D at position 79,
W by E at position 79, W by K at position 79, W by R at position
79, N by D at position 80, N by E at position 80, N by K at
position 80, N by R at position 80, T by D at position 82, T by E
at position 82, T by K at position 82, T by R at position 82, I by
D at position 83, I by E at position 83, I by K at position 83, I
by R at position 83, I by N at position 83, I by Q at position 83,
I by S at position 83, I by T at position 83, N by D at position
86, N by E at position 86, N by K at position 86, N by R at
position 86, N by Q at position 86, N by S at position 86, N by T
at position 86, L by D at position 87, L by E at position 87, L by
K at position 87, L by R at position 87, L by N at position 87, L
by Q at position 87, L by S at position 87, L by T at position 87,
A by D at position 89, A by E at position 89, A by K at position
89, A by R at position 89, N by D at position 90, N by E at
position 90, N by K at position 90, N by Q at position 90, N by R
at position 90, N by S at position 90, N by T at position 90, V by
D at position 91, V by E at position 91, V by K at position 91, V
by N at position 91, V by Q at position 91, V by R at position 91,
V by S at position 91, V by T at position 91, Q by D at position
94, Q by E at position 94, Q by Q at position 94, Q by N at
position 94, Q by R at position 94, Q by S at position 94, Q by T
at position 94, I by D at position 95, I by E at position 95, I by
K at position 95, lby N at position 95, I by Q at position 95, I by
R at position 95, I by S at position 95, I by T at position 95, H
by D at position 97, H by E at position 97, H by K at position 97,
H by N at position 97, H by Q at position 97, H by R at position
97, H by S at position 97, H by T at position 97, L by D at
position 98, L by E at position 98, L by K at position 98, L by N
at position 98, L by Q at position 98, L by R at position 98, L by
S at position 98, L by T at position 98, V by D at position 101, V
by E at position 101, V by K at position 101, V by N at position
101, V by Q at position 101, V by R at position 101, V by S at
position 101, V by T at position 101, M by C at position 1, L by C
at position 6, Q by C at position 10, S by C at position 13, Q by C
at position 16, L by C at position 17, V by C at position 101, L by
C at position 98, H by C at position 97, Q by C at position 94, V
by C at position 91, N by C at position 90, D by Q at position 39,
D by H at position 39, D by G at position 39, E by Q at position
42, E by H at position 42, K by Q at position 45, K by T at
position 45, K by S at position 45, K by H at position 45, L by V
at position 47, L by I at position 47, L by T at position 47, L by
Q at position 47, L by H at position 47, L by A at position 47, K
by Q at position 52, K by T at position 52, K by S at position 52,
K by H at position 52, F by I at position 67, F by V at position
67, R by H at position 71, R by Q at position 71, D by H at
position 73, D by G at position 73, D by Q at position 73, E by Q
at position 81, E by H at position 81, E by Q at position 107, E by
H at position 107, K by Q at position 108, K by T at position 108,
K by S at position 108, K by H at position 108, E by Q at position
109, E by H at position 109, D by Q at position 110, D by H at
position 110, D by G at position 110, F by I at position 111, F by
V at position 111, R by H at position 113, R by Q at position 113,
L by V at position 116, L by I at position 116, L by T at position
116, L by Q at position 116, L by H at position 116, L by A at
position 116, L by V at position 120, L by I at position 120, L by
T at position 120, L by Q at position 120, L by H at position 120,
L by A at position 120, K by Q at position 123, K by T at position
123, K by S at position 123, K by H at position 123, R by H at
position 124, R by Q at position 124, R by H at position 128, R by
Q at position 128, L by V at position 130, L by I at position 130,
L by T at position 130, L by Q at position 130, L by H at position
130, L by A at position 130, K by Q at position 138, K by T at
position 138, K by S at position 138, K by H at position 138, K by
Q at position 136, K by T at position 136, K by S at position 136,
K by H at position 136, E by Q at position 137, E by H at position
137, Y by H at position 163, Y by I at position 163, R by H at
position 165, or R by Q at position 165, or any combination of such
replacements, wherein the first amino acid listed is substituted by
the second at the position indicated; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0582] In particular embodiments, a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.beta. variant (a "modified IFN-.beta.
cytokine") is selected from the group consisting of a modified
IFN-.beta. comprising an amino acid sequence as depicted in any of
SEQ ID Nos.234-289, and 989-1302; where the variant further
comprises an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid
sequence of the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant
comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
[0583] In particular embodiments, a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.beta. variant (a "modified IFN-.beta.
cytokine") comprises one or more of the amino acid replacements set
forth in Table 2 (IFN-.beta.); where the variant further comprises
an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of
the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one
or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 (IFN-.beta.) 1. D39Q 2. D39N 3. E42Q 4. E42N
5. E42H 6. K45Q 7. K45N 8. L47V 9. L47I 10. K52Q 11. K52N 12. F67I
13. F67V 14. R71H 15. R71Q 16. D73Q 17. D73N 18. E81Q 19. E81N 20.
E81H 21. E107Q 22. E107N 23. E107H 24. K108Q 25. K108N 26. E109Q
27. E109N 28. E109H 29. D110Q 30. D110N 31. F111I 32. F111V 33.
R113H 34. R113Q 35. L116V 36. L116I 37. L120V 38. L120I 39. K123Q
40. K123N 41. R124H 42. R124Q 43. R128H 44. R128Q 45. L130V 46.
L130I 47. K134Q 48. K134N 49. K136Q 50. K136N 51. E137Q 52. E137N
53. E137H 54. Y163H 55. Y163I 56. R165H 57. R165Q
[0584] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a, and the variant
is an [S102N]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide, where the
[S102N]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a
having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for the native serine
residue at amino acid position 102 in the amino acid sequence of
IFN-.beta.1a (where the S102 amino acid position is as set forth in
FIG. 24; and corresponds to S74 in the IFN-amino acid sequence set
forth in FIG. 3); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached
to the R-group of said asparagine residue.
[0585] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a, and the variant
is an [S102N, E138N]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide, where the [S102N,
E138N]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a having
(a) an asparagine residue substituted for each of the native serine
and glutamic acid residues at amino acid positions 102 and 138,
respectively, in the amino acid sequence of IFN-.beta.1a (where the
S102 and E138 amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG. 24; and
correspond to S74 and E109, respectively, in the IFN-.beta. amino
acid sequence set forth in FIG. 3); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently attached to the R-group of each of said asparagine
residues.
[0586] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a, and the variant
is an [S102N, E138N, F136T]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide, where the
[S102N, E138N, F136T]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide is a variant of
IFN-.beta.1a having (a) asparagine, asparagine and threonine
residues substituted for the native serine, glutamic acid and
phenylalanine residues at amino acid positions 102, 138 and 136,
respectively, in the amino acid sequence of IFN-.beta.1a (where the
S102, E138, and F136 amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG.
24; and correspond to S74, E109, and F111, respectively, in the
IFN-.beta. amino acid sequence set forth in FIG. 3); and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine residues.
[0587] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a, and the variant
is an [E138N]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide, where the
[E138N]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a
having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for the native
glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 138 in the amino acid
sequence of IFN-.beta.1a (where the amino acid positions are as set
forth in FIG. 24); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to the R-group of said asparagine residue.
[0588] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a, and the variant
is an [E138N, F136T]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide, where the [E138N,
F136T]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a having
(a) asparagine and threonine residues substituted for the native
glutamic acid and phenylalanine residues at amino acid positions
138 and 136, respectively, in the amino acid sequence of
IFN-.beta.1a (where the amino acid positions are as set forth in
FIG. 24); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the
R-group of said asparagine residue.
[0589] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a, and the variant
is an [E138T]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide, where the
[E138T]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a
having (a) a threonine residue substituted for the native glutamic
acid residue at amino acid position 138 in the amino acid sequence
of IFN-.beta.1a (where the amino acid positions are as set forth in
FIG. 24); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the
R-group of said threonine residue.
[0590] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a, and the variant
is an [S102N, E138T]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide, where the [S102N,
E138T]IFN-.beta.1a glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.beta.1a having
(a) asparagine and threonine residues substituted for the native
serine and glutamic acid residues at amino acid positions 102 and
138, respectively, in the amino acid sequence of IFN-.beta.1a
(where the amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG. 24); and
(b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of
each of said asparagine and threonine residues.
[0591] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b, and the variant
is an [S102N]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide, where the
[S102N]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b
having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for the native serine
residue at amino acid position 102 in the amino acid sequence of
IFN-.beta.1b (where the amino acid positions are as set forth in
FIG. 24); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the
R-group of said asparagine residue.
[0592] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b, and the variant
is an [S102N, E138N]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide, where the [S102N,
E138N]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b having
(a) an asparagine residue substituted for the native serine residue
and glutamic acid residue at amino acid positions 102 and 138,
respectively, in the amino acid sequence of IFN-.beta.1b (where the
amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG. 24); and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine residues.
[0593] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b, and the variant
is an [S102N, E138N, F136T]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide, where the
[S102N, E138N, F136T]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide is a variant of
IFN-.beta.1b having (a) asparagine, asparagine and threonine
residues substituted for the native serine, glutamic acid and
phenylalanine residues at amino acid positions 102, 138 and 136,
respectively, in the amino acid sequence of IFN-.beta.1b (where the
amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG. 24); and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of each of
said asparagine residues.
[0594] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b, and the variant
is an [E138N]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide, where the
[E138N]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b
having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for the native
glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 138 in the amino acid
sequence of IFN-.beta.1b (where the amino acid positions are as set
forth in FIG. 24); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to the R-group of said asparagine residue.
[0595] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b, and the variant
is an [E138N, F136T]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide, where the [E138N,
F136T]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b having
(a) asparagine and threonine residues substituted for the native
glutamic acid and phenylalanine residues at amino acid positions
138 and 136, respectively, in the amino acid sequence of
IFN-.beta.1b (where the amino acid positions are as set forth in
FIG. 24); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the
R-group of said asparagine residue.
[0596] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b, and the variant
is an [E138T]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide, where the
[E138T]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b
having (a) a threonine residue substituted for the native glutamic
acid residue at amino acid position 138 in the amino acid sequence
of IFN-.beta.1b (where the amino acid positions are as set forth in
FIG. 24); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the
R-group of said threonine residue.
[0597] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. variants is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b, and the variant
is an [S102N, E138T]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide, where the [S102N,
E138T]IFN-.beta.1b glycopeptide is a variant of IFN-.beta.1b having
(a) asparagine and threonine residues substituted for the native
serine and glutamic acid residues at amino acid positions 102 and
138, respectively, in the amino acid sequence of IFN-.beta.1b
(where the amino acid positions are as set forth in FIG. 24); and
(b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of
each of said asparagine and threonine residues.
IFN-.gamma. Polypeptide Variants
[0598] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant interferon variant is a modified IFN-.gamma.
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:1102 (as set forth in FIG. 4)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified IFN-.gamma.. In some
of these embodiments, the modified IFN-.gamma. is selected from
among proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 1102 (as
set forth in FIG. 4), corresponding to any of amino acid positions:
33, 37, 40, 41, 42, 58, 61, 64, 65 and 66, where the mutations
include insertions, deletions and replacements of the native amino
acid residue(s). In particular embodiments, the replacements are
selected from among amino acid substitutions in SEQ ID NO:1102 set
forth in Table 3, below, where the first amino acid listed is
substituted by the second amino acid at the position indicated; and
where the variant further comprises an amino acid sequence that
differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to
the extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation
sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 1. L33V 2. L33I 3. K37Q 4. K37N 5. K40Q 6.
K40N 7. E41Q 8. E41N 9. E41H 10. E42Q 11. E42N 12. E42H 13. K58Q
14. K58N 15. K61Q 16. K61N 17. K64Q 18. K64N 19. D65Q 20. D65N 21.
D66Q
[0599] In other embodiments, the modified IFN-.gamma. comprises an
amino acid sequence corresponding to any of SEQ ID NOS: 290-311,
and further comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in
the parent polypeptide.
[0600] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
protease-resistant or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.gamma. variants is an [S102T]IFN-gamma glycopeptide, where the
[S102T]IFN-gamma glycopeptide is a variant of the mature, native
IFN-gamma having (a) a threonine residue substituted for the native
serine residue at amino acid position 102 in the amino acid
sequence of IFN-gamma depicted in FIG. 31 (corresponding to S102 of
the IFN-.gamma. amino acid sequence set forth in FIG. 4); and (b) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to the R-group of the
asparagine residue at amino acid position 97 in the amino acid
sequence of (a); and comprising at least one mutated protease
cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in
the parent IFN-.gamma. polypeptide.
[0601] Since the glycosylation site formed by N97, Y98, T102 in the
[S102T]IFN-gamma variant is different than the glycosylation site
formed by N97, Y98, S102 in native IFN-gamma, the N97, Y98, T102
glycosylation site qualifies as a non-native glycosylation site not
found in the parent polypeptide. In addition, as described in WO
02/081507, the S102T substitution in the amino acid sequence of
native IFN-gamma provides for greater efficiency of glycosylation
at the N97, Y98, T102 glycosylation site in the [S102T]IFN-gamma
variant compared to the efficiency of glycosylation at the N97,
Y98, S102 glycosylation site in native IFN-gamma. Thus,
[S102T]IFN-gamma qualifies as a hyperglycosylated polypeptide
variant of the parent IFN-gamma polypeptide (where the N97, Y98,
and S102 amino acid positions in the IFN-.gamma. amino acid
sequence set forth in FIG. 31 correspond to N100, Y101, and S102 in
the IFN-.gamma. amino acid sequence set forth in FIG. 4).
[0602] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.gamma. variants is an [E38N]IFN-gamma glycopeptide, where the
[E38N]IFN-gamma glycopeptide is a variant of the mature, native
IFN-gamma having (a) an asparagine residue substituted for the
native glutamic acid residue at amino acid position 38 in the amino
acid sequence of IFN-gamma depicted in FIG. 31 (where amino acid
E38 in the IFN-.gamma. amino acid sequence set forth in FIG. 31
corresponds to E41 of the IFN-.gamma. amino acid sequence set forth
in FIG. 4); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to
the R-group of the asparagine residue at amino acid position 38 in
the amino acid sequence of (a); and comprising at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in the parent IFN-.gamma. polypeptide.
[0603] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.gamma. variants is an [E38N, S102T]IFN-gamma glycopeptide,
where the [E38N, S102T]IFN-gamma glycopeptide is a variant of the
mature, native IFN-gamma having (a) asparagine and threonine
residues substituted for the native glutamic acid and serine
residues at amino acid positions 38 and 102 in the amino acid
sequence of IFN-gamma depicted in FIG. 31 (where amino acids E38
and S102 in the IFN-.gamma. amino acid sequence set forth in FIG.
31 correspond to E41 and S102, respectively, of the IFN-.gamma.
amino acid sequence set forth in FIG. 4); and (b) a carbohydrate
moiety covalently attached to the R-group of the asparagine residue
at each of amino acid positions 38 and 97 in the amino acid
sequence of (a); and comprising at least one mutated protease
cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in
the parent IFN-.gamma. polypeptide.
[0604] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.gamma. variants is an [E38N, S40T]IFN-gamma glycopeptide,
where the [E38N, S40T]IFN-gamma glycopeptide is a variant of the
mature, native IFN-gamma having (a) asparagine and threonine
residues substituted for the native glutamic acid and serine
residues at amino acid positions 38 and 40 in the amino acid
sequence of IFN-gamma depicted in FIG. 31 (where amino acids E38
and S40 in the IFN-.gamma. amino acid sequence set forth in FIG. 31
correspond to E41 and S43, respectively, of the IFN-.gamma. amino
acid sequence set forth in FIG. 4); and (b) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently attached to the R-group of the asparagine residue at
amino acid position 38 in the amino acid sequence (a); and
comprising at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of
a native protease cleavage site found in the parent IFN-.gamma.
polypeptide.
[0605] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.gamma. variants is an [E38N, S40T, S102T]IFN-gamma
glycopeptide, where the [E38N, S40T, S102T]IFN-gamma glycopeptide
is a variant of the mature, native IFN-gamma having (a) asparagine,
threonine and threonine residues substituted for the native
glutamic acid, serine and serine residues at amino acid positions
38, 40 and 102, respectively, in the amino acid sequence of
IFN-gamma depicted in FIG. 31 (where amino acids E38, S40, and S102
in the IFN-.gamma. amino acid sequence set forth in FIG. 31
correspond to E41, S43, and S102, respectively, of the IFN-.gamma.
amino acid sequence set forth in FIG. 4); and (b) a carbohydrate
moiety covalently attached to the R-group of the asparagine residue
at amino acid position 38 in the amino acid sequence of (a), and
optionally further having (c) a carbohydrate moiety covalently
attached to the R-group of the asparagine residue at amino acid
position 97 in the amino acid sequence of (a); and comprising at
least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent IFN-.gamma.
polypeptide.
[0606] In some embodiments, any of the above-described
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.gamma. variants has
increased stability compared to the unmodified (parent) cytokine,
where the stability is assessed by measuring residual biological
activity after incubation with either a mixture of proteases,
individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum, as described above.
In other embodiments, any of the above-described protease-resistant
IFN-.gamma. variants has increased biological activity compared to
the unmodified (parent) cytokine, after incubation with either a
mixture of proteases, individual proteases, blood lysate, or serum,
as described above.
Erythropoietin Polypeptide Variants
[0607] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant cytokine variant is a modified erythropoietin
cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions in SEQ ID NO:201 (as set forth in FIG. 7)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified erythropoietin. In
some of these embodiments, the modified erythropoietin is selected
from among proteins comprising one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 201 (as
set forth in FIG. 7), corresponding to any of amino acid positions:
43, 45, 48, 49, 52, 53, 55, 72, 75, 76, 123, 129, 130, 131, 162,
and 165, where the mutations include insertions, deletions and
replacements of the native amino acid residue(s). In particular
embodiments, the replacements are selected from among amino acid
substitutions in SEQ ID NO:201, set forth in Table 4, below, where
the first amino acid listed is substituted by the second amino acid
at the position indicated; and where the variant further comprises
an amino acid sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of
the parent polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one
or more glycosylation sites not found in the parent
polypeptide.
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 1. D43Q 2. D43N 3. K45Q 4. K45N 5. F48I 6.
F48V 7. Y49H 8. Y49I 9. K52Q 10. K52N 11. R53H 12. R53Q 13. E55Q
14. E55N 15. E55H 16. E72Q 17. E72N 18. E72H 19. L75V 20. L75I 21.
R76H 22. R76Q 23. D123Q 24. D123N 25. P129S 26. P129A 27. L130V 28.
L130I 29. R131H 30. R131Q 31. R162H 32. R162Q 33. D165Q 34. D165N
35. P121S 36. P121A 37. P122S 38. P122A
[0608] In other embodiments, the modified erythropoietin comprises
an amino acid sequence corresponding to any of SEQ ID NOS: 940-977,
and further comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in
the parent polypeptide.
GM-CSF Polypeptide Variants
[0609] In other embodiments, hyperglycosylated, the
protease-resistant cytokine variant is a modified GM-CSF cytokine,
comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or more
target positions in SEQ ID NO:202 (as set forth in FIG. 8)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
erythropoietin polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead
to greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with
a protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified GM-CSF. In some of
these embodiments, the modified GM-CSF is selected from among
proteins comprising one or more single amino acid replacements at
one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO: 202 (as set forth in
FIG. 8), corresponding to any of amino acid positions: 38, 41, 45,
46, 48, 49, 51, 60, 63, 67, 92, 93, 119, 120, 123, and 124, where
the mutations include insertions, deletions and replacements of the
native amino acid residue(s). In particular embodiments, the
replacements are selected from among amino acid substitutions in
SEQ ID NO:202, set forth in Table 5, below, where the first amino
acid listed is substituted by the second amino acid at the position
indicated; where the variant further comprises an amino acid
sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent
polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one or more
glycosylation sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 1. E38Q 2. E38N 3. E38H 4. E41Q 5. E41N 6.
E41H 7. E45Q 8. E45N 9. E45H 10. M46V 11. M46I 12. D48Q 13. D48N
14. L49V 15. L49I 16. E51Q 17. E51N 18. E51H 19. E60Q 20. E60N 21.
E60H 22. K63Q 23. K63N 24. R67H 25. R67Q 26. P92S 27. P92A 28. E93Q
29. E93N 30. E93H 31. F119I 32. F119V 33. D120Q 34. D120N 35. E123Q
36. E123N 37. E123H 38. P124S 39. P124A
[0610] In other embodiments, the modified GM-CSF comprises an amino
acid sequence corresponding to any of SEQ ID NOs: 362-400, and
further comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the
parent polypeptide.
G-CSF Polypeptide Variants
[0611] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant cytokine variant is a modified G-CSF cytokine,
comprising one or more amino acid replacements at one or more
target positions in SEQ ID NO:210 (as set forth in FIG. 5)
corresponding to a structurally-related modified amino acid
position within the 3-dimensional structure of an above-described
IFN-.alpha.2b polypeptide variant, where the replacement(s) lead to
greater resistance to proteases, as assessed by incubation with a
protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation with serum (as
described above), compared to the unmodified G-CSF. In some of
these embodiments, the modified G-CSF is selected from among
proteins comprising one or more single amino acid replacements at
one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO:210 (as set forth in FIG.
5), corresponding to any of amino acid positions: 61, 63, 68, 72,
86, 96, 100, 101, 131, 133, 135, 147, 169, 172, and 177, where the
mutations include insertions, deletions and replacements of the
native amino acid residue(s). In particular embodiments, the
replacements are selected from among amino acid substitutions in
SEQ ID NO:210, set forth in Table 6, below, where the first amino
acid listed is substituted by the second amino acid at the position
indicated; where the variant further comprises an amino acid
sequence that differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent
polypeptide to the extent that the variant comprises one or more
glycosylation sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 6 1. W61S 2. W61H 3. P63S 4. P63A 5. P68S 6.
P68A 7. L72V 8. L72I 9. F86I 10. F86V 11. E96Q 12. E96N 13. E96H
14. P100S 15. P100A 16. E101Q 17. E101N 18. E101H 19. P131S 20.
P131A 21. L133V 22. L133I 23. P135S 24. P135A 25. F147I 26. F147V
27. R169H 28. R169Q 29. R172H 30. R172Q 31. P177S 32. P177A
[0612] In other embodiments, the modified G-CSF comprises an amino
acid sequence corresponding to any of SEQ ID NOs: 631-662, and
further comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the
parent polypeptide.
Human Growth Hormone Polypeptide Variants
[0613] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant cytokine variant is a modified human growth
hormone (hGH) cytokine, comprising one or more amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO:1405 (as
set forth in FIG. 6) corresponding to a structurally-related
modified amino acid position within the 3-dimensional structure of
an above-described G-CSF polypeptide variant, where the
replacement(s) lead to greater resistance to proteases, as assessed
by incubation with a protease or with a blood lysate or by
incubation with serum (as described above), compared to the
unmodified hGH. In some of these embodiments, the modified hGH is
selected from among proteins comprising one or more single amino
acid replacements at one or more target positions in SEQ ID NO:
1405 (as set forth in FIG. 6), corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 56, 59, 64, 65, 66, 88, 92, 94, 101, 129, 130, 133, 138,
140, 143, 145, 146, 147, 183, and 186, where the mutations include
insertions, deletions and replacements of the native amino acid
residue(s). In particular embodiments, the replacements are
selected from among amino acid substitutions in SEQ ID NO:201, set
forth in Table 7, below, where the first amino acid listed is
substituted by the second amino acid at the position indicated;
where the variant further comprises an amino acid sequence that
differs from the amino acid sequence of the parent polypeptide to
the extent that the variant comprises one or more glycosylation
sites not found in the parent polypeptide.
TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 7 1. E56Q 2. E56N 3. E56H 4. P59S 5. P59A 6.
R64H 7. R64Q 8. E65Q 9. E65N 10. E65H 11. E66Q 12. E66N 13. E66H
14. E88Q 15. E88N 16. E88H 17. F92I 18. F92V 19. R94H 20. R94Q 21.
L101V 22. L101I 23. E129Q 24. E129N 25. E129H 26. D130Q 27. D130N
28. P133S 29. P133A 30. R134H 31. R134Q 32. K140Q 33. K140N 34.
Y143H 35. Y143I 36. K145Q 37. K145N 38. F146I 39. F146V 40. D147Q
41. D147N 42. R183H 43. R183Q 44. E186Q 45. E186N 46. E186H
[0614] In other embodiments, the modified hGH comprises an amino
acid sequence corresponding to any of SEQ ID NOs: 850-895, and
further comprises one or more glycosylation sites not found in the
parent polypeptide.
[0615] In other embodiments, the hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant cytokine variant is a modified cytokine that
exhibits greater resistance to proteolysis, compared to a
corresponding unmodified (parent) cytokine, where the modified
cytokine comprises one or more amino acid replacements at one or
more target positions on the cytokine corresponding to a
structurally-related modified amino acid position within the
3-dimensional structure of an above-described IFN-.beta.
polypeptide variant. The amino acid replacement(s) lead to greater
resistance to proteolysis, compared to the unmodified (parent)
cytokine. Increased resistance to proteolysis is assessed by
incubation with a protease or with a blood lysate or by incubation
with serum (as described above), compared to the unmodified
hGH.
Additional Modifications
[0616] Typically, a hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant will have an amino acid
sequence that is substantially similar to the amino acid sequence
of a parent polypeptide. For example, a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant can have an amino acid
sequence that differs by at least one amino acid, and may differ by
at least two but not more than about ten amino acids, compared to
the amino acid sequence of a parent polypeptide. The sequence
changes may be substitutions, insertions or deletions. Scanning
mutations that systematically introduce alanine, or other residues,
may be used to determine key amino acids. Specific amino acid
substitutions of interest include conservative and non-conservative
changes. Conservative amino acid substitutions typically include
substitutions within the following groups: (glycine, alanine);
(valine, isoleucine, leucine); (aspartic acid, glutamic acid);
(asparagine, glutamine); (serine, threonine); (lysine, arginine);
or (phenylalanine, tyrosine).
[0617] Additional modifications of interest that may or may not
alter the primary amino acid sequence of a parent protein
therapeutic include chemical derivatization of polypeptides, e.g.,
acetylation, or carboxylation; changes in amino acid sequence that
make the protein susceptible to PEGylation; and the like. A
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant may be
modified with one or more polyethylene glycol moieties (PEGylated).
In one embodiment, the invention contemplates the use of
polypeptide variants with one or more non-naturally occurring
pegylation sites that are engineered to provide PEG-derivatized
polypeptides with reduced serum clearance. Also embraced are
sequences that have phosphorylated amino acid residues, e.g.,
phosphotyrosine, phosphoserine, or phosphothreonine.
[0618] Also suitable for use in connection with the present
invention are polypeptides that have been modified using ordinary
chemical techniques so as to improve their resistance to
proteolytic degradation, to optimize solubility properties, or to
render them more suitable as a therapeutic agent. For examples, the
backbone of the peptide may be cyclized to enhance stability (see,
for example, Friedler et al. 2000, J. Biol. Chem. 275:23783-23789).
Analogs may be used that include residues other than naturally
occurring L-amino acids, e.g., D-amino acids or non-naturally
occurring synthetic amino acids. The protein may be pegylated to
enhance stability.
[0619] Modifications of interest that may or may not alter the
primary amino acid sequence include chemical derivatization of
polypeptides, e.g., acetylation, or carboxylation; changes in amino
acid sequence that make the protein susceptible to PEGylation
(addition of a polyethylene glycol moiety); and the like. In one
embodiment, the invention contemplates the use of synthetic Type I
interferon receptor agonist variants, hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variants that further include one or
more non-naturally occurring pegylation sites that are engineered
to provide PEG-derivatized polypeptides with reduced serum
clearance. Thus, the invention includes PEGylated synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. Also included are
modifications of glycosylation, e.g., those made by modifying the
glycosylation patterns of a polypeptide during its synthesis and
processing or in further processing steps; e.g., by exposing the
polypeptide to enzymes that affect glycosylation, such as mammalian
glycosylating or deglycosylating enzymes. The invention
contemplates the use of any PEGylated hyperglycosylated, PEGylated
protease-resistant and PEGylated preotease-resistent
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variants. Also embraced are sequences
that have phosphorylated amino acid residues, e.g.,
phosphotyrosine, phosphoserine, or phosphothreonine.
Fusion Proteins
[0620] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant further comprises a heterologous polypeptide
(e.g., a fusion partner) to form a fusion protein. Suitable fusion
partners include peptides and polypeptides that confer enhanced
stability in vivo (e.g., enhanced serum half-life); provide ease of
purification, e.g., (H is), e.g., 6His, and the like; provide for
secretion of the fusion protein from a cell; provide an epitope
tag, e.g., GST, hemagglutinin (HA; e.g., CYPYDVPDYA; SEQ ID
NO:1304), FLAG (e.g., DYKDDDDK; SEQ ID NO:1305), c-myc (e.g.,
CEQKLISEEDL; SEQ ID NO:1306), and the like; provide a detectable
signal, e.g., an enzyme that generates a detectable product (e.g.,
.beta.-galactosidase, luciferase), or a protein that is itself
detectable, e.g., a green fluorescent protein, etc.; provides for
multimerization, e.g., a multimerization domain such as an Fc
portion of an immunoglobulin; and the like.
[0621] A fusion protein may comprise an amino acid sequence that
provides for secretion of the fusion protein from the cell. Those
skilled in the art are aware of such secretion signal sequences.
Secretion signals that are suitable for use in bacteria include,
but are not limited to, the secretion signal of Braun's lipoprotein
of E. coli, S. marcescens, E. amylosora, M. morganii, and P.
mirabilis, the TraT protein of E. coli and Salmonella; the
penicillinase (PenP) protein of B. licheniformis and B. cereus and
S. aureus; pullulanase proteins of Klebsiella pneumoniae and
Klebsiella aerogenese; E. coli lipoproteins 1pp-28, Pal, Rp1A,
Rp1B, OsmB, NIpB, and Orl17; chitobiase protein of V. harseyi; the
.beta.-1,4-endoglucanase protein of Pseudomonas solanacearum, the
Pal and Pcp proteins of H. influenzae; the OprI protein of P.
aeruginosa; the MalX and AmiA proteins of S. pneumoniae; the 34 kda
antigen and TpmA protein of Treponema pallidum; the P37 protein of
Mycoplasma hyorhinis; the neutral protease of Bacillus
amyloliquefaciens; and the 17 kda antigen of Rickettsia rickettsii.
Secretion signal sequences suitable for use in yeast are known in
the art, and can be used. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,712,113.
[0622] In some embodiments, a signal peptide from IFN-.alpha.14 is
used. In other embodiments, a signal peptide from IFN-.beta. is
used. Examples of synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist comprising an IFN-.alpha.14 or an IFN-.beta. signal peptide
are provided in Example 2. Such signal peptides provide for
secretion from a mammalian cell.
[0623] In some embodiments, a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant comprises a fusion partner and a protease
cleavage site that is positioned between the fusion partner and the
remainder of the polypeptide variant.
[0624] Proteolytic cleavage sites are known to those skilled in the
art; a wide variety are known and have been described amply in the
literature, including, e.g., Handbook of Proteolytic Enzymes
(11028) A J Barrett, N D Rawlings, and J F Woessner, eds., Academic
Press. Proteolytic cleavage sites include, but are not limited to,
an enterokinase cleavage site: (Asp).sub.4Lys (SEQ ID NO:1307); a
factor Xa cleavage site: Ile-Glu-Gly-Arg (SEQ ID NO:1308); a
thrombin cleavage site, e.g., Leu-Val-Pro-Arg-Gly-Ser (SEQ ID
NO:1309); a renin cleavage site, e.g.,
His-Pro-Phe-His-Leu-Val-Ile-His (SEQ ID NO:1310); a collagenase
cleavage site, e.g., X-Gly-Pro (where X is any amino acid); a
trypsin cleavage site, e.g., Arg-Lys; a viral protease cleavage
site, such as a viral 2A or 3C protease cleavage site, including,
but not limited to, a protease 2A cleavage site from a picornavirus
(see, e.g., Sommergruber et al. (11024) Virol. 198:741-745), a
Hepatitis A virus 3C cleavage site (see, e.g., Schultheiss et al.
(11025) J. Virol. 69:1727-1733), human rhinovirus 2A protease
cleavage site (see, e.g., Wang et al. (11027) Biochem. Biophys.
Res. Comm. 235:562-566), and a picornavirus 3 protease cleavage
site (see, e.g., Walker et al. (11024) Biotechnol. 12:601-605.
Preparation of a Hyperglycosylated, Protease-Resistant Polypeptide
Variant
[0625] A subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist is conveniently prepared using any known method, including
chemical synthesis methods, production by standard recombinant
techniques, and combinations thereof. For example, a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist can be
synthesized using an automated solid-phase tert-butyloxycarbonyl
and benzyl protection strategy. A subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist can be synthesized by
native chemical ligation, e.g., fragments of from about 15 to about
40 amino acids in length (e.g., fragments of from about 15 to about
20, from about 20 to about 25, from about 25 to about 30, from
about 30 to about 35, or from about 35 to about 40 amino acids in
length) can be synthesized using standard methods of chemical
synthesis, and the fragments ligated, using a process as described
in Dawson, et al. (11024) Science 266:776-779. The purity of
synthesized polypeptides may be assessed by reverse-phase high
performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and isoelectric focusing.
The primary structures of the ligands may be verified by Edman
sequencing methods.
[0626] In many embodiments, an expression vector comprising a
nucleotide sequence that encodes a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is prepared, using
conventional methods, and is introduced into a host cell,
particularly a eukaryotic cell that is capable of glycosylating
proteins. The expression vector provides for production of the
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist in
the host cell. Thus, the present invention provides a method for
producing a synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist, the method comprising culturing a eukaryotic host cell,
which host cell comprises a subject recombinant expression vector,
under conditions that favor production of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist; and isolating the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist from the
culture. The subject polypeptide agonist may be isolated and
purified to greater than 80%, greater than 90%, greater than 95%,
greater than 98%, or greater than 102% purity.
[0627] The polypeptides may be expressed in prokaryotes or
eukaryotes in accordance with conventional ways, depending upon the
purpose for expression. As noted above, in many embodiments, a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is
synthesized in a eukaryotic cell. For large scale production of the
protein, a unicellular organism, such as S. cerevisiae, insect
cells in combination with baculovirus vectors, or cells of a higher
organism such as vertebrates, particularly mammals, e.g. COS 7
cells, CHO cells, HEK293 cells, and the like, may be used as the
expression host cells. In many embodiments, it is desirable to
express the gene in eukaryotic cells, where the protein will
benefit from native folding and post-translational
modifications.
[0628] With the availability of the protein or fragments thereof in
large amounts, by employing an expression host, the protein may be
isolated and purified in accordance with conventional ways. A
lysate may be prepared of the expression host and the lysate
purified using HPLC, hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC),
anion exchange chromatography, cation exchange chromatography, size
exclusion chromatography, ultrafiltration, gel electrophoresis,
affinity chromatography, or other purification technique.
[0629] A subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist may also be isolated and purified from cell culture
supernatants or from cell lysates using conventional methods. For
example, a lysate may be prepared of the expression host and the
lysate purified using HPLC, hydrophobic interaction chromatography
(HIC), anion exchange chromatography, cation exchange
chromatography, size exclusion chromatography, ultrafiltration, gel
electrophoresis, affinity chromatography, or other purification
technique. For the most part, the compositions which are used will
comprise at least 20% by weight of the desired product, more
usually at least about 75% by weight, preferably at least about 95%
by weight, and for therapeutic purposes, usually at least about
102.5% by weight, in relation to contaminants related to the method
of preparation of the product and its purification. Usually, the
percentages will be based upon total protein.
[0630] In many embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist is purified, e.g., a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is free of other,
non-subject proteins, and is free other macromolecules (e.g.,
carbohydrates, lipids, etc.). In many embodiments, a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is at
least about 75% pure, at least about 80% pure, at least about 85%
pure, at least about 90% pure, at least about 95% pure, at least
about 98% pure, or at least about 102% pure, or more than 102%
pure. Methods of determining whether a protein is free of other
proteins and other macromolecules are known in the art.
[0631] The hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide
variants may be prepared by recombinant methods, using conventional
techniques known in the art. The particular sequence and the manner
of preparation will be determined by convenience, economics, purity
required, and the like.
[0632] Typically, an oligonucleotide encoding the amino acid
sequence of the desired polypeptide variant is prepared by chemical
synthesis, e.g., by using an oligonucleotide synthesizer, wherein
oligonucleotides are designed based on the amino acid sequence of
the desired polypeptide, and in many embodiments, selecting those
codons that are favored in the host cell in which the recombinant
polypeptide will be produced. For example, several small
oligonucleotides coding for portions of the desired polypeptide may
be synthesized and assembled by PCR, ligation or ligation chain
reaction (LCR). The individual oligonucleotides typically contain
5' or 3' overhangs for complementary assembly. Once assembled, the
nucleotide sequence encoding the polypeptide variant is inserted
into a recombinant vector and operably linked to control sequences
necessary for expression of the desired nucleic acid, and
subsequent production of the subject polypeptide, in the desired
transformed host cell.
[0633] In some embodiments, a desired nucleic acid is generated
such that at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about
30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at
least about 70%, at least about 80%, or at least about 90%, or
more, of the codons are codons that are preferred in human
sequences. See, e.g., Table 8, below.
TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 8 Codon Usage in Human. FREQUENCY CODONS AND
IN HUMAN THEIR USAGE IN AMINO ACID PROTEINS (%).sup.a HUMAN
PROTEINS (%).sup.b Alanine 6.99 GCU (28.0) GCC (41.6) GCA (20.0)
GCG (10.3) Arginine 5.28 CGU (8.9) CGC (21.4) CGA (5.4) CGG (10.4)
AGA (9.9) AGG (11.1) Asparagine 3.92 AAU (42.3) AAC (57.7) Aspartic
Acid 5.07 GAU (42.8) GAC (57.2) Cysteine 2.44 UGU (40.6) UGC (59.4)
Glutamic Acid 6.82 GAA (39.2) GAG (60.7) Glutamine 4.47 CAA (24.8)
CAG (75.2) Glycine 7.10 GGU (15.8) GGC (35.8) GGA (24.1) GGG (24.3)
Histidine 2.35 CAU (39.6) CAC (60.4) Isoleucine 4.50 AUU (33.1) AUC
(54.0) AUA (12.9) Leucine 9.56 UUA (5.5) UUG (11.5) CUU (11.1) CUC
(20.8) CUA (6.5) CUG (44.5) Lysine 5.71 AAA (38.9) AAG (61.1)
Methionine 2.23 AUG (100) Phenylalanine 3.84 UUU (41.1) UUC (58.2)
Proline 5.67 CCU (27.3) CCC (35.2) CCA (25.7) CCG (11.6) Serine
7.25 UCU (18.3) UCC (23.7) UCA (12.9) UCG (5.9) AGU (13.2) AGC
(25.9) Threonine 5.68 ACU (22.4) ACC (40.5) ACA (25.4) ACG (11.8)
Tryptophan 1.38 UGG (100) Tyrosine 3.13 UAU (40.0) UAC (60.0)
Valine 6.35 GUU (16.4) GUC (25.7) GUA (9.3) GUG (48.7) Molecular
Cloning: A Laboratory Manual. Sambrook J. and Russell D. W. Third
Edition .COPYRGT.2001 by Cold Spring Harbor Press.
[0634] The polypeptide-encoding nucleic acid molecules are
generally propagated by placing the molecule in a vector. Viral and
non-viral vectors are used, including plasmids. The choice of
plasmid will depend on the type of cell in which propagation is
desired and the purpose of propagation. Certain vectors are useful
for amplifying and making large amounts of the desired DNA
sequence.
[0635] A recombinant expression vector is useful for effecting
expression of a polypeptide-encoding nucleic acid molecule in a
cell, e.g., for production of a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant. The choice of appropriate
vector is well within the skill of the art. Many such vectors are
available commercially.
[0636] Expression vectors are suitable for expression in cells in
culture. These vectors will generally include regulatory sequences
("control sequences" or "control regions") which are necessary to
effect the expression of a desired polynucleotide to which they are
operably linked.
[0637] Expression vectors generally have convenient restriction
sites located near the promoter sequence to provide for the
insertion of nucleic acid sequences encoding a desired protein or
other protein. A selectable marker operative in the expression host
may be present. Expression vectors may be used for the production
of fusion proteins, where the exogenous fusion peptide provides
additional functionality, i.e. increased protein synthesis,
stability, reactivity with defined antisera, an enzyme marker, e.g.
.beta.-galactosidase, luciferase, etc.
[0638] Expression cassettes may be prepared that comprise a
transcription initiation region, a promoter region (e.g., a
promoter that is functional in a eukaryotic cell), a desired
polynucleotide, and a transcriptional termination region. After
introduction of the DNA, the cells containing the construct may be
selected by means of a selectable marker, the cells expanded and
then used for expression.
[0639] The expression cassettes may be introduced into a variety of
vectors suitable for eukaryotic host cell expression, e.g. plasmid,
HAC, YAC, vectors derived from animal viruses, e.g., Moloney's
murine leukemia virus, SV40, vaccinia virus, baculovirus,
retroviruses, or plant viruses, e.g., cauliflower mosaic virus,
tobacco mosaic virus, and the like, where the vectors are normally
characterized by the ability to provide selection of cells
comprising the expression vectors. The vectors may provide for
extrachromosomal maintenance, particularly as plasmids or viruses,
or for integration into the host chromosome. Where extrachromosomal
maintenance is desired, an origin sequence is provided for the
replication of the plasmid, which may be low- or high copy-number.
A wide variety of markers are available for selection, particularly
those which protect against toxins, more particularly against
antibiotics. The particular marker that is chosen is selected in
accordance with the nature of the host, where in some cases,
complementation may be employed with auxotrophic hosts.
Introduction of the DNA construct into a host cell may use any
convenient method, e.g., calcium-precipitated DNA, electroporation,
fusion, transfection, infection with viral vectors, biolistics,
etc.
[0640] The present invention further contemplates the production of
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variants in
genetically modified host cells, which may be isolated host cells,
comprising a polynucleotide encoding the polypeptide variant, or,
in some embodiments, an expression vector capable of expressing
such a polynucleotide. Suitable host cells are eukaryotic cells,
including insect cells in combination with baculovirus vectors,
yeast cells, such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, or cells of a higher
organism such as vertebrates, including amphibians (e.g., Xenopus
laevis oocytes), and mammals, particularly mammals, e.g. COS cells,
CHO cells, HEK293 cells, MA-10 cells, and the like, may be used as
the expression host cells. In particular, the host cell is a
eukaryotic host cell that is capable of glycosylating a
protein.
[0641] The hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide
variant can be harvested from the production host cells and then
isolated and purified in accordance with conventional methods of
recombinant synthesis. A lysate may be prepared of the expression
host and the lysate purified using high performance liquid
chromatography, exclusion chromatography, gel electrophoresis,
affinity chromatography, or other purification technique. For the
most part, the compositions which are used will comprise at least
20% by weight of the desired product, more usually at least about
75% by weight, preferably at least about 95% by weight, and for
therapeutic purposes, usually at least about 102.5% by weight, in
relation to contaminants related to the method of preparation of
the product and its purification. Usually, the percentages will be
based upon total protein.
PEGylated Type I Interferon Receptor Polypeptide Agonists
[0642] As noted above, in some embodiments, a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is modified with one
or more polyethylene glycol moieties, i.e., PEGylated. The PEG
molecule is conjugated to one or more amino acid side chains of the
subject polypeptide agonist. In some embodiments, a subject
PEGylated polypeptide agonist contains a PEG moiety on only one
amino acid. In other embodiments, a subject PEGylated polypeptide
agonist contains a PEG moiety on two or more amino acids, e.g., the
subject PEGylated polypeptide agonist contains a PEG moiety
attached to two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten
different amino acid residues.
[0643] A subject polypeptide may be coupled directly to PEG (i.e.,
without a linking group) through an amino group, a sulfhydryl
group, a hydroxyl group, or a carboxyl group.
[0644] In some embodiments, the PEGylated subject polypeptide is
PEGylated at or near the amino terminus (N-terminus) of the subject
polypeptide, e.g., the PEG moiety is conjugated to the subject
polypeptide at one or more amino acid residues from amino acid 1
through amino acid 4, or from amino acid 5 through about 10. In
other embodiments, the PEGylated subject polypeptide is PEGylated
at one or more amino acid residues from about 10 to about 28. In
other embodiments, the PEGylated subject polypeptide is PEGylated
at or near the carboxyl terminus (C-terminus) of the subject
polypeptide, e.g., at one or more residues from amino acids
156-166, or from amino acids 150 to 155. In other embodiments, the
PEGylated subject polypeptide is PEGylated at one or more amino
acid residues at one or more residues from amino acids 100-114.
[0645] The polyethylene glycol derivatization of amino acid
residues at or near the receptor-binding and/or active site domains
of the subject protein can disrupt the functioning of these
domains. In certain embodiments of the invention, amino acids at
which PEGylation is to be avoided include amino acid residues from
amino acid 30 to amino acid 40; and amino acid residues from amino
acid 113 to amino acid 149.
[0646] In some embodiments, PEG is attached to the subject
polypeptide via a linking group. The linking group is any
biocompatible linking group, where "biocompatible" indicates that
the compound or group is non-toxic and may be utilized in vitro or
in vivo without causing injury, sickness, disease, or death. PEG
can be bonded to the linking group, for example, via an ether bond,
an ester bond, a thiol bond or an amide bond. Suitable
biocompatible linking groups include, but are not limited to, an
ester group, an amide group, an imide group, a carbamate group, a
carboxyl group, a hydroxyl group, a carbohydrate, a succinimide
group (including, for example, succinimidyl succinate (SS),
succinimidyl propionate (SPA), succinimidyl butanoate (SBA),
succinimidyl carboxymethylate (SCM), succinimidyl succinamide (SSA)
or N-hydroxy succinimide (NHS)), an epoxide group, an
oxycarbonylimidazole group (including, for example,
carbonyldimidazole (CDI)), a nitro phenyl group (including, for
example, nitrophenyl carbonate (NPC) or trichlorophenyl carbonate
(TPC)), a trysylate group, an aldehyde group, an isocyanate group,
a vinylsulfone group, a tyrosine group, a cysteine group, a
histidine group or a primary amine.
[0647] Methods for making succinimidyl propionate (SPA) and
succinimidyl butanoate (SBA) ester-activated PEGs are described in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,672,662 (Harris, et al.) and WO 97/03106.
[0648] Methods for attaching a PEG to a polypeptide are known in
the art, and any known method can be used. See, for example, by
Park et al, Anticancer Res., 1:373-376 (1981); Zaplipsky and Lee,
Polyethylene Glycol Chemistry: Biotechnical and Biomedical
Applications, J. M. Harris, ed., Plenum Press, NY, Chapter 21
(11022); U.S. Pat. No. 5,985,265; U.S. Pat. No. 5,672,662 (Harris,
et al.) and WO 97/03106.
[0649] In many embodiments, the PEG is a monomethoxyPEG molecule
that reacts with primary amine groups on the subject polypeptide.
Methods of modifying polypeptides with monomethoxy PEG via
reductive alkylation are known in the art. See, e.g., Chamow et al.
(11024) Bioconj. Chem. 5:133-140.
Polyethylene Glycol
[0650] Polyethylene glycol suitable for conjugation to a subject
polypeptide is soluble in water at room temperature, and has the
general formula R(O--CH.sub.2--CH.sub.2).sub.nO--R, where R is
hydrogen or a protective group such as an alkyl or an alkanol
group, and where n is an integer from 1 to 1000. Where R is a
protective group, it generally has from 1 to 8 carbons.
[0651] In many embodiments, PEG has at least one hydroxyl group,
e.g., a terminal hydroxyl group, which hydroxyl group is modified
to generate a functional group that is reactive with an amino
group, e.g., an epsilon amino group of a lysine residue, a free
amino group at the N-terminus of a polypeptide, or any other amino
group such as an amino group of asparagine, glutamine, arginine, or
histidine.
[0652] In other embodiments, PEG is derivatized so that it is
reactive with free carboxyl groups in the subject polypeptide,
e.g., the free carboxyl group at the carboxyl terminus of the
subject polypeptide. Suitable derivatives of PEG that are reactive
with the free carboxyl group at the carboxyl-terminus of a subject
polypeptide include, but are not limited to PEG-amine, and
hydrazine derivatives of PEG (e.g., PEG-NH--NH.sub.2).
[0653] In other embodiments, PEG is derivatized such that it
comprises a terminal thiocarboxylic acid group, --COSH, which
selectively reacts with amino groups to generate amide derivatives.
Because of the reactive nature of the thio acid, selectivity of
certain amino groups over others is achieved. For example, --SH
exhibits sufficient leaving group ability in reaction with
N-terminal amino group at appropriate pH conditions such that the
.epsilon.-amino groups in lysine residues are protonated and remain
non-nucleophilic. On the other hand, reactions under suitable pH
conditions may make some of the accessible lysine residues to react
with selectivity.
[0654] In other embodiments, the PEG comprises a reactive ester
such as an N-hydroxy succinimidate at the end of the PEG chain.
Such an N-hydroxysuccinimidate-containing PEG molecule reacts with
select amino groups at particular pH conditions such as neutral
6.5-7.5. For example, the N-terminal amino groups may be
selectively modified under neutral pH conditions. However, if the
reactivity of the reagent were extreme, accessible --NH.sub.2
groups of lysine may also react.
[0655] The PEG can be conjugated directly to the subject
polypeptide, or through a linker. In some embodiments, a linker is
added to the subject polypeptide, forming a linker-modified
polypeptide. Such linkers provide various functionalities, e.g.,
reactive groups such sulfhydryl, amino, or carboxyl groups to
couple a PEG reagent to the linker-modified polypeptide.
[0656] In some embodiments, the PEG conjugated to the subject
polypeptide is linear. In other embodiments, the PEG conjugated to
the subject polypeptide is branched. Branched PEG derivatives such
as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,643,575, "star-PEG's" and
multi-armed PEG's such as those described in Shearwater Polymers,
Inc. catalog "Polyethylene Glycol Derivatives 11027-11028." Star
PEGs are described in the art including, e.g., in U.S. Pat. No.
6,046,305.
[0657] PEG having a molecular weight in a range of from about 2 kDa
to about 100 kDa, is generally used, where the term "about," in the
context of PEG, indicates that in preparations of polyethylene
glycol, some molecules will weigh more, some less, than the stated
molecular weight. For example, PEG suitable for conjugation to a
subject polypeptide has a molecular weight of from about 2 kDa to
about 5 kDa, from about 5 kDa to about 10 kDa, from about 10 kDa to
about 15 kDa, from about 15 kDa to about 20 kDa, from about 20 kDa
to about 25 kDa, from about 25 kDa to about 30 kDa, from about 30
kDa to about 40 kDa, from about 40 kDa to about 50 kDa, from about
50 kDa to about 60 kDa, from about 60 kDa to about 70 kDa, from
about 70 kDa to about 80 kDa, from about 80 kDa to about 90 kDa, or
from about 90 kDa to about 100 kDa.
Populations of Subject Synthetic Type I Interferon Receptor
Polypeptide Agonists
[0658] The instant invention provides a composition that comprises
a population of synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonists as described above. The subject composition comprises a
population of subject polypeptides, wherein the population
comprises at least two different subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonists (e.g., polypeptide
agonists that differ from one another in amino acid sequence by at
least one amino acid).
[0659] Generally, a given subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist represents from about 0.5% to about
102.5% of the total population of synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonists in a population, e.g, a given
modified synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
represents about 0.5%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%,
about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%,
about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%,
about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%,
about 95%, about 102%, or about 102.5% of the total population of
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonists in a
population.
Compositions
[0660] The present invention provides compositions, including
pharmaceutical compositions, comprising a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a known hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a known protease-resistant polypeptide
variant, or a known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, i.e., a polypeptide variant of a parent
protein therapeutic that comprises at least one mutated protease
cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in
the parent protein therapeutic; and that includes (1) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to at least one non-native
glycosylation site not found in the parent protein therapeutic
and/or (2) a carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to at least
one native glycosylation site found but not glycosylated in the
parent protein therapeutic. Compositions will comprise a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a known
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a known protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant; and one or more additional
components, which are selected based in part on the use of the
polypeptide variant. Suitable additional components include, but
are not limited to, salts, buffers, solubilizers, stabilizers,
detergents, protease-inhibiting agents, and the like.
[0661] In some embodiments, a subject composition comprises a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
known hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant or a known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a
pharmaceutically acceptable excipient. A wide variety of
pharmaceutically acceptable excipients are known in the art and
need not be discussed in detail herein. Pharmaceutically acceptable
excipients have been amply described in a variety of publications,
including, for example, A. Gennaro (2000) "Remington: The Science
and Practice of Pharmacy," 20.sup.th edition, Lippincott, Williams,
& Wilkins; Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery
Systems (11029) H. C. Ansel et al., eds., 7.sup.th ed., Lippincott,
Williams, & Wilkins; and Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients
(2000) A. H. Kibbe et al., eds., 3.sup.rd ed. Amer. Pharmaceutical
Assoc.
[0662] In pharmaceutical dosage forms, a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a known hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant or a known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant is in some embodiments
provided in the form of a pharmaceutically acceptable salts, used
alone, or in appropriate association, as well as in combination,
with other pharmaceutically active compounds.
Formulations Suitable for Injection
[0663] A subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist is in some embodiments formulated into a preparation
suitable for injection (e.g., subcutaneous, intravenous,
intramuscular, intradermal, transdermal, or other injection routes)
by dissolving, suspending or emulsifying the agonist in an aqueous
solvent (e.g., saline, and the like) or a nonaqueous solvent, such
as vegetable or other similar oils, synthetic aliphatic acid
glycerides, esters of higher aliphatic acids or propylene glycol;
and if desired, with conventional additives such as solubilizers,
isotonic agents, suspending agents, emulsifying agents, stabilizers
and preservatives.
Formulations for Enteral Delivery
[0664] For oral preparations, a subject agent (e.g., a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist) is
formulated alone or in combination with appropriate additives to
make tablets, powders, granules or capsules, for example, with
conventional additives, such as lactose, mannitol, corn starch or
potato starch; with binders, such as crystalline cellulose,
cellulose derivatives, acacia, corn starch or gelatins; with
disintegrators, such as corn starch, potato starch or sodium
carboxymethylcellulose; with lubricants, such as talc or magnesium
stearate; and if desired, with diluents, buffering agents,
moistening agents, preservatives, and flavoring agents.
[0665] Furthermore, a subject agonist can be made into
suppositories by mixing with a variety of bases such as emulsifying
bases or water-soluble bases. A subject agonist can be administered
rectally via a suppository. The suppository can include vehicles
such as cocoa butter, carbowaxes and polyethylene glycols, which
melt at body temperature, yet are solidified at room
temperature.
[0666] Unit dosage forms for oral or rectal administration such as
syrups, elixirs, and suspensions may be provided wherein each
dosage unit, for example, teaspoonful, tablespoonful, tablet or
suppository, contains a predetermined amount of the composition
containing one or more active agents. Similarly, unit dosage forms
for injection or intravenous administration may comprise the
agonist(s) in a composition as a solution in sterile water, normal
saline or another pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
[0667] For enteral delivery, a subject formulation will in some
embodiments include an enteric-soluble coating material. Suitable
enteric-soluble coating material include hydroxypropyl
methylcellulose acetate succinate (HPMCAS), hydroxypropyl methyl
cellulose phthalate (HPMCP), cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP),
polyvinyl phthalic acetate (PUPA), Eudragit.TM., and shellac.
[0668] As one non-limiting example of a suitable oral formulation,
a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
can be formulated together with one or more pharmaceutical
excipients and coated with an enteric coating, as described in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,346,269. For example, a solution comprising a solvent, a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist,
and a stabilizer is coated onto a core comprising pharmaceutically
acceptable excipients, to form an active agent-coated core; a
sub-coating layer is applied to the active agent-coated core, which
is then coated with an enteric coating layer. The core generally
includes pharmaceutically inactive components such as lactose, a
starch, mannitol, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium starch
glycolate, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, pigments, salts of
alginic acid, talc, titanium dioxide, stearic acid, stearate,
micro-crystalline cellulose, glycerin, polyethylene glycol,
triethyl citrate, tributyl citrate, propanyl triacetate, dibasic
calcium phosphate, tribasic sodium phosphate, calcium sulfate,
cyclodextrin, and castor oil. Suitable solvents for the active
agent include aqueous solvents. Suitable stabilizers include
alkali-metals and alkaline earth metals, bases of phosphates and
organic acid salts and organic amines. The sub-coating layer
comprises one or more of an adhesive, a plasticizer, and an
anti-tackiness agent. Suitable anti-tackiness agents include talc,
stearic acid, stearate, sodium stearyl fumarate, glyceryl behenate,
kaolin and aerosil. Suitable adhesives include polyvinyl
pyrrolidone (PVP), gelatin, hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC),
hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose
(HPMC), vinyl acetate (VA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), methyl
cellulose (MC), ethyl cellulose (EC), hydroxypropyl methyl
cellulose phthalate (HPMCP), cellulose acetate phthalates (CAP),
xanthan gum, alginic acid, salts of alginic acid, Eudragit.TM.,
copolymer of methyl acrylic acid/methyl methacrylate with polyvinyl
acetate phthalate (PVAP). Suitable plasticizers include glycerin,
polyethylene glycol, triethyl citrate, tributyl citrate, propanyl
triacetate and castor oil. Suitable enteric-soluble coating
material include hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate
(HPMCAS), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose phthalate (HPMCP),
cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP), polyvinyl phthalic acetate
(PVPA), Eudragit.TM. and shellac.
[0669] Suitable oral formulations also include a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist formulated with any
of the following: microgranules (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No.
6,458,398); biodegradable macromers (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No.
6,703,037); biodegradable hydrogels (see, e.g., Graham and McNeill
(1989) Biomaterials 5:27-36); biodegradable particulate vectors
(see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,736,371); bioabsorbable lactone
polymers (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,631,015); slow release protein
polymers (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,6102,504; Pelias Technologies,
Inc.); a poly(lactide-co-glycolide/polyethylene glycol block
copolymer (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,630,155; Atrix Laboratories,
Inc.); a composition comprising a biocompatible polymer and
particles of metal cation-stabilized agent dispersed within the
polymer (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,379,701; Alkermes Controlled
Therapeutics, Inc.); and microspheres (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No.
6,303,148; Octoplus, B.V.).
[0670] Suitable oral formulations also include a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist formulated with any
of the following: a carrier such as Emisphere.RTM. (Emisphere
Technologies, Inc.); TIMERx, a hydrophilic matrix combining xanthan
and locust bean gums which, in the presence of dextrose, form a
strong binder gel in water (Penwest); Geminex.TM. (Penwest);
Procise.TM. (GlaxoSmithKline); SAVIT.TM. (Mistral Pharma Inc.);
RingCap.TM. (Alza Corp.); Smartrix.RTM. (Smartrix Technologies,
Inc.); SQZgel.TM. (MacroMed, Inc.); Geomatrix.TM. (Skye Pharma,
Inc.); Oros.RTM. Tri-layer (Alza Corporation); and the like.
[0671] Also suitable for use are formulations such as those
described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,296,842 (Alkermes Controlled
Therapeutics, Inc.); U.S. Pat. No. 6,187,330 (Scios, Inc.); and the
like.
Formulations for Oral Delivery
[0672] The present invention provides pharmaceutical compositions
comprising a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a known hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant,
a known protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant; and a
pharmaceutical excipient suitable for oral delivery.
[0673] For oral preparations, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist, a known hyperglycosylated polypeptide
variant, a known protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant is
formulated alone or in combination with appropriate additives to
make tablets, powders, granules or capsules, for example, with
conventional additives, such as lactose, mannitol, corn starch or
potato starch; with binders, such as crystalline cellulose,
cellulose derivatives, acacia, corn starch or gelatins; with
disintegrators, such as corn starch, potato starch or sodium
carboxymethylcellulose; with lubricants, such as talc or magnesium
stearate; and if desired, with diluents, buffering agents,
moistening agents, preservatives, and flavoring agents.
[0674] Unit dosage forms for oral administration such as syrups,
elixirs, and suspensions may be provided wherein each dosage unit,
for example, teaspoonful, tablespoonful, tablet, contains a
predetermined amount of the composition containing one or more
active agents.
[0675] For oral delivery, a subject formulation will in some
embodiments include an enteric-soluble coating material. Suitable
enteric-soluble coating material include hydroxypropyl
methylcellulose acetate succinate (HPMCAS), hydroxypropyl methyl
cellulose phthalate (HPMCP), cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP),
polyvinyl phthalic acetate (PVPA), Eudragit.TM., and shellac.
[0676] As one non-limiting example of a suitable oral formulation,
a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist,
a known hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, or a known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant can be
formulated together with one or more pharmaceutical excipients and
coated with an enteric coating, as described in U.S. Pat. No.
6,346,269. For example, a solution comprising a solvent, a known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant, and a
stabilizer is coated onto a core comprising pharmaceutically
acceptable excipients, to form an active agent-coated core; a
sub-coating layer is applied to the active agent-coated core, which
is then coated with an enteric coating layer. The core generally
includes pharmaceutically inactive components such as lactose, a
starch, mannitol, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium starch
glycolate, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, pigments, salts of
alginic acid, talc, titanium dioxide, stearic acid, stearate,
micro-crystalline cellulose, glycerin, polyethylene glycol,
triethyl citrate, tributyl citrate, propanyl triacetate, dibasic
calcium phosphate, tribasic sodium phosphate, calcium sulfate,
cyclodextrin, and castor oil. Suitable solvents for the active
agent include aqueous solvents. Suitable stabilizers include
alkali-metals and alkaline earth metals, bases of phosphates and
organic acid salts and organic amines. The sub-coating layer
comprises one or more of an adhesive, a plasticizer, and an
anti-tackiness agent. Suitable anti-tackiness agents include talc,
stearic acid, stearate, sodium stearyl fumarate, glyceryl behenate,
kaolin and aerosil. Suitable adhesives include polyvinyl
pyrrolidone (PVP), gelatin, hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC),
hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose
(HPMC), vinyl acetate (VA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), methyl
cellulose (MC), ethyl cellulose (EC), hydroxypropyl methyl
cellulose phthalate (HPMCP), cellulose acetate phthalates (CAP),
xanthan gum, alginic acid, salts of alginic acid, Eudragit.TM.,
copolymer of methyl acrylic acid/methyl methacrylate with polyvinyl
acetate phthalate (PVAP). Suitable plasticizers include glycerin,
polyethylene glycol, triethyl citrate, tributyl citrate, propanyl
triacetate and castor oil. Suitable enteric-soluble coating
material include hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate
(HPMCAS), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose phthalate (HPMCP),
cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP), polyvinyl phthalic acetate
(PVPA), Eudragit.TM. and shellac.
[0677] Suitable oral formulations also include a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a known
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant or a known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant formulated with any of the
following: microgranules (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,458,398);
biodegradable macromers (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,703,037);
biodegradable hydrogels (see, e.g., Graham and McNeill (1989)
Biomaterials 5:27-36); biodegradable particulate vectors (see,
e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,736,371); bioabsorbable lactone polymers
(see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,631,015); slow release protein polymers
(see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,6102,504; Pelias Technologies, Inc.); a
poly(lactide-co-glycolide/polyethylene glycol block copolymer (see,
e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,630,155; Atrix Laboratories, Inc.); a
composition comprising a biocompatible polymer and particles of
metal cation-stabilized agent dispersed within the polymer (see,
e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,379,701; Alkermes Controlled Therapeutics,
Inc.); and microspheres (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,303,148;
Octoplus, B.V.).
[0678] Suitable oral formulations also include a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a known
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant or a known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant formulated with any of the
following: a carrier such as Emisphere.RTM. (Emisphere
Technologies, Inc.); TIMERx, a hydrophilic matrix combining xanthan
and locust bean gums which, in the presence of dextrose, form a
strong binder gel in water (Penwest); Geminex.TM. (Penwest);
Procise.TM. (GlaxoSmithKline); SAVIT.TM. (Mistral Pharma Inc.);
RingCap.TM. (Alza Corp.); Smartrix.RTM. (Smartrix Technologies,
Inc.); SQZgel.TM. (MacroMed, Inc.); Geomatrix.TM. (Skye Pharma,
Inc.); Oros.RTM. Tri-layer (Alza Corporation); and the like.
[0679] Also suitable for use are formulations such as those
described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,296,842 (Alkermes Controlled
Therapeutics, Inc.); U.S. Pat. No. 6,187,330 (Scios, Inc.); and the
like.
[0680] Also suitable for use herein are formulations comprising an
intestinal absorption enhancing agent. Suitable intestinal
absorption enhancers include, but are not limited to, calcium
chelators (e.g., citrate, ethylenediamine tetracetic acid);
surfactants (e.g., sodium dodecyl sulfate, bile salts,
palmitoylcarnitine, and sodium salts of fatty acids); toxins (e.g.,
zonula occludens toxin); and the like.
[0681] In one aspect, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist, a known hyperglycosylated polypeptide
variant or a known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant is in a first unit form of an orally delivered
formulation. The known synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant or
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant is a
variant of a parent protein therapeutic. In these embodiments, the
first unit form comprises a first number of moles of the known
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant or hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant. The parent protein
therapeutic is one that is typically administered at a dosage of a
second number of moles of the parent protein therapeutic in a
second unit form, where the second unit form is an immediate
release formulation, e.g., an immediate release formulation that is
suitable for subcutaneous injection. The parent protein therapeutic
is delivered by subcutaneous bolus injection at a selected dosing
frequency. The parent protein therapeutic must be proven to be
effective in the treatment of a disease in a patient when
administered to the patient in the second unit form by subcutaneous
bolus injection at the selected dosing frequency. The first number
of moles in the first unit form is greater than the second number
of moles in the second unit form. Nevertheless, when the first unit
form is administered orally to the patient, the first number of
moles of the known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant is released by the first unit form over a
period of time that is no greater than the time interval between
doses of the parent protein therapeutic in the selected dosing
frequency.
[0682] In another aspect, the oral pharmaceutical composition of
the invention comprises a first dose of the known synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, or hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant in a first unit form. In these embodiments, the
parent protein therapeutic is one that is typically administered at
a second dose of the parent protein in a parenteral pharmaceutical
composition, where the parenteral pharmaceutical composition is an
immediate release formulation, e.g., an immediate release
formulation suitable for bolus injection of the second dose at a
selected dosing frequency. The parent protein therapeutic must be
proven to be effective in the treatment of the disease in a patient
when administered to the patient by subcutaneous bolus injection in
an amount of the parenteral pharmaceutical composition whereby the
patient receives the second dose of the parent protein therapeutic
at the selected dosing frequency. When the first dose of the known
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, or hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant is administered orally to
the patient, the time required for release of all of the known
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, or hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant in the first dose is no
greater than the time between doses in the selected dosing
interval. The amount of the known synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist, hyperglycosylated polypeptide
variant, or hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide
variant in moles of drug per kilogram of patient body weight in the
first dose is greater than the amount of parent protein therapeutic
in moles of drug per kilogram of patient body weight in the second
dose when the first and second doses are calculated for the average
patient body weight in the total population of patients suffering
from the disease.
[0683] In some embodiments, the second dose is a weight-based dose,
and the first dose is greater in moles of drug than the product of
the second dose in moles of drug per kilogram of patient body
weight multiplied by an average patient's body weight (e.g. 75
kilograms).
[0684] In other embodiments, the second dose is stratified by
patient body weight, i.e., the second dose is selected from a set
of two or more doses stratified by patient body weight (e.g., 1,000
mg of drug for patients having a body weight .ltoreq.75 kg and
1,200 mg of drug for patients having a body weight >75 kg), and
the first dose is greater in moles of drug than the largest dose of
the set of patient body weight-stratified doses.
[0685] In still other embodiments, the second dose is a fixed dose,
and the first dose is greater than the second dose in moles of
drug.
[0686] In one non-limiting example, the invention provides any of
the oral pharmaceutical compositions used to administer orally a
known synthetic IFN-.alpha. receptor polypeptide agonist,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant or hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant in a method of treatment
described in "Treatment Methods Using IFN-.alpha." below.
[0687] In another non-limiting example, the invention provides any
of the oral pharmaceutical compositions used to administer orally a
known a subject synthetic IFN-.beta. receptor polypeptide agonist,
a known hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant or a known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant in a
method of treatment described in "Treatment Methods Using
IFN-.beta." below.
[0688] In another non-limiting example, the invention provides any
of the oral pharmaceutical compositions used to administer orally a
known synthetic IFN-.gamma. receptor polypeptide agonist,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant or hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant in a method of treatment
described in "Treatment Methods Using IFN-.gamma." below.
Oral Formulations with a Peptide Carrier
[0689] Additional oral formulations suitable for use herein include
a known subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
variant, a known hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, or a known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant
formulated with a carrier for oral delivery as described in WO
03/066859. Also included are oral formulations of erythropoietin
and darbepoetin alfa formulated with a carrier for oral delivery.
For example, a suitable oral formulation includes a desired
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant or erythropoietin or
darbepoetin alfa; and a penetrating peptide (also referred to as a
"peptide carrier"). A penetrating peptide is any peptide that
facilitates translocation of a substance across a biological
barrier, e.g., the epithelial layer lining the gastrointestinal
tract. Suitable peptide carriers include those derived from various
proteins including, but not limited to, an integral membrane
protein, a bacterial toxin, a non-pathogenic bacterium, a viral
protein, an extracellular protein, and the like. The amino acid
sequence of the peptide carrier can be the same as the amino acid
sequence of a naturally-occurring peptide, or may be an altered
version of such a peptide (e.g., including one or more amino acid
substitutions compared to a naturally-occurring peptide).
[0690] Peptide carriers are typically from about 10 amino acids to
about 30 amino acids in length, e.g., from about 10 amino acids to
about 15 amino acids, from about 15 amino acids to about 20 amino
acids, from about 20 amino acids to about 25 amino acids, or from
about 25 amino acids to about 30 amino acids in length.
[0691] Suitable peptide carriers include, but are not limited to,
any one of peptides 1-34, as shown in Table 9, below (SEQ ID
NOs:1311-1326).
TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 9 Peptide/Organism Sequence Peptide 1: from
ORF NYHDIVLALAGVCQSAKLVHQLA HI0638 Haemophilus influenzae Peptide
2: from PM1850 NYYDITLALAGVCQAAKLVQQFA Pasturella multocida Peptide
3: from YCFC NYYDITLALAGICQSARLVQQLA Escherichia coli Peptide 4:
from VCI127 AIYDRTIAFAGICQAVALVQQVA Vibrio cholerae Peptide 5: from
BU262 KIHLITLSLAGICQSAHLVQQLA Buchnera aphidicola Peptide 6: from
PA2627 DPRQQLIALGAVFESAALVDKLA Pseudomonas aeruginosa Peptide 7:
from XF1439 LIDNRVLALAGVVQALQQVRQIA Xylella fastidiosa Peptide 8:
from MLR0187 NLPPIVLAVIGICAAVFLLQQYV Rhizobium loti Peptide 9: from
Human NYFIVNLALADLCMAAFNAAFNF NK-2 Receptor Peptide 10: from
TAFDFNKMLDGVCTYVKGVQQYL CPN0710/C Chlamydia pneumoniae Peptide 11:
from MLR4119 RAILIPLALAGLCQVARAGDISS Rhizobium loti Peptide 12:
from NprB MRNLTKTSLLLAGLCTAAQMVF Bacillus subtilis VTH Peptide 13:
from Pilin IELMIVIAHGILAAIALPAYQEYV Kingella dentrificans Peptide
14: from Pilin IELMIVIAHGILAAIALPAYQDYV Eikenella corrodens Peptide
15: from zonula ASFGFCIGRLCVQDGF occludens toxin (ZOT) Peptide 29:
from Human NYFLVNLAFAEASMAAFNTVVNF NK-1 Receptor Peptide 30: from
YCFC MNYYDITLALAGICQSARLVQQLA Escherichia coli Peptide 31: from
YCFC MYYDITLALAGICQSARLVQQLA Escherichia coli Peptide 32: from YCFC
MYDITLALAGICQSARLVQQLA Escherichia coli Peptide 33: from NprB
MRNLTRTSLLLAGLCTAAQMVFV Bacillus subtilis Peptide 34: from ORF
NYHDIVLALAGVCQSARLVHQLA HI0638 Haemophilus influenzae
[0692] Suitable peptide carriers also include variants of any one
of peptides 1-34 as shown in Table 9, e.g., a variant which differs
from any one of peptides 1-34 by from about one amino acid to about
5 amino acids; and fragments of any one of peptides 1-34. Variants
of any one of peptides 1-34 include those having from about one to
about five conservative amino acid substitutions, and/or
non-conservative amino acid substitutions compared to the amino
acid sequence of any one of peptides 1-34. Fragments of any one of
peptides 1-34 include fragments containing from about 10 contiguous
amino acids to about 15 contiguous amino acids, fragments
containing from about 15 contiguous amino acids to about 20
contiguous amino acids, and fragments containing from about 20
contiguous amino acids to about 25 contiguous amino acids, of any
one of peptides 1-34.
[0693] The peptide carrier may be "associated with" (also referred
to as "fused to," "coupled to," "linked to," or "attached to") a
desired synthetic Type I interferon receptor, a hyperglycosylated,
a protease-resistant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
protein or erythropoietin or darbepoetin alfa in any of a number of
ways, including, e.g., via a covalent interaction, an ionic
interaction, a hydrophobic interaction, a hydrogen bond, or other
type of association (e.g., van der Waal interaction; a non-specific
association due to solvent preference; and the like). Attachment of
a peptide carrier to a desired protein is achieved by any chemical,
biochemical, enzymatic, or genetic coupling method known to those
skilled in the art.
[0694] If the peptide carrier is coupled to the desired synthetic
Type I interferon receptor, a hyperglycosylated or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant protein, or erythropoietin or
darbepoetin alfa, typically the N-terminus of the desired protein
is coupled to the carboxyl terminus of the peptide carrier. A
desired synthetic Type I interferon receptor, a hyperglycosylated
or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant protein, or
erythropoietin or darbepoetin alfa may be coupled to the peptide
carrier directly or indirectly via a covalent bond. For example,
the covalent bond may be a peptide bond; or the covalent bond may
be achieved by a homo- or a hetero-functional bridging reagent. The
bridging reagent may be a
succinimidyl-(N-maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxylate
(SMCC)-type carrier. The covalent bond may be achieved using a
peptide linker.
[0695] In some embodiments, a desired synthetic Type I interferon
receptor, a hyperglycosylated or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant protein or erythropoietin or darbepoetin alfa is
coupled to the peptide carrier via a linker peptide, which may be
cleavable. The linker peptide may have any of a variety of amino
acid sequences. Proteins can be joined by a spacer peptide,
generally of a flexible nature, although other chemical linkages
are not excluded. Currently, it is contemplated that the most
useful linker sequences will generally be peptides of between about
6 and about 40 amino acids in length, or between about 6 and about
25 amino acids in length. These linkers are generally produced by
using synthetic, linker-encoding oligonucleotides to couple the
proteins. Peptide linkers with a degree of flexibility will
generally be preferred. The linking peptides may have virtually any
amino acid sequence, bearing in mind that the preferred linkers
will have a sequence that results in a generally flexible peptide.
The use of small amino acids, such as glycine and alanine, are of
use in creating a flexible peptide. The creation of such sequences
is routine to those of skill in the art. A variety of different
linkers are commercially available and are considered suitable for
use according to the present invention.
[0696] Amino acid sequences rich in alanine and proline residues
are known to impart flexibility to multi-domain protein structures.
For example, such sequences link the domains of the so-called E2
components of the 2-oxo acid dehydrogenase complexes, such as
pyruvate dehydrogenase complex and 2-oxo glutarate dehydrogenase
complex. Alanine-proline rich regions are also found in myosin
light chains. Exemplary linkers for use in the invention have a
combination of glycine, alanine, proline and methionine residues,
such as AAAGGM (SEQ ID NO:1332); AAAGGMPPAAAGGM (SEQ ID NO:1333);
AAAGGM (SEQ ID NO:1334); and PPAAAGGM.sub.2 (SEQ ID NO:1335). Other
exemplary linker peptides include IEGR (SEQ ID NO:1336; which can
be cleaved by factor Xa) and GGKGGK (SEQ ID NO:1337). However, any
flexible linker generally between about 6 and about 40 amino acids
in length may be used. Linkers may have virtually any sequence that
results in a generally flexible peptide, including alanine-proline
rich sequences of the type exemplified above.
[0697] In some embodiments, a desired synthetic Type I interferon
receptor, a hyperglycosylated or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant protein is coupled to the peptide carrier via a
linker peptide that is cleavable by an enzyme. In some embodiments,
the enzyme is conditionally activated under a particular
physiological condition.
[0698] In other embodiments, a desired synthetic Type I interferon
receptor, a hyperglycosylated or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant protein is coupled to the peptide carrier via a
non-covalent bond, where the non-covalent bond is achieved by an
attachment of a hydrophobic moiety to the peptide carrier, such
that the hydrophobic moiety enables the peptide carrier to be
incorporated at the interface of a hydrophobic vesicle in which a
desired synthetic Type I interferon receptor, a hyperglycosylated
or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide is
contained. In other embodiments, the non-covalent bond is a
non-covalent, high affinity bond, such as a biotin-avidin or a
biotin-streptavidin bond.
[0699] Peptides may be synthesized chemically or enzymatically, may
be produced recombinantly, may be isolated from a natural source,
or a combination of the foregoing. Peptides may be isolated from
natural sources using standard methods of protein purification
known in the art, including, but not limited to, high-performance
liquid chromatography, exclusion chromatography, gel
electrophoresis, affinity chromatography, or other purification
technique. One may employ solid phase peptide synthesis techniques,
where such techniques are known to those of skill in the art. See
Jones, The Chemical Synthesis of Peptides (Clarendon Press, Oxford)
(11024). Generally, in such methods a peptide is produced through
the sequential additional of activated monomeric units to a solid
phase bound growing peptide chain. Well-established recombinant DNA
techniques can be employed for production of peptides.
[0700] Exemplary oral formulations include enteric coated tablets
and gelatin capsules that include a peptide carrier; a desired
synthetic Type I interferon receptor, a hyperglycosylated or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant protein; and one or more of:
a) a diluent, e.g., lactose, dextrose, sucrose, mannitol, sorbitol,
cellulose and/or glycine; b) a protease inhibitor such as Aprotinin
or trasylol; c) a lubricant, e.g., silica, talcum, stearic acid,
its magnesium and/or calcium salt, poloxamer or polyethylene
glycol; d) a binder (e.g., for tablets), e.g., magnesium aluminum
silicate, starch paste, gelatin, tragacanth, methylcellulose,
sodium carboxymethylcellulose and/or polyvinylpyrrolidone; e) an
ionic surfactant active agent such as bile salts; f) a
disintegrant, e.g., starches, agar, alginic acid or its sodium
salt, or effervescent mixtures; and g) one or more of an absorbent,
a colorant, a flavoring agent, and a sweetener. In some embodiments
the oral formulation further comprises one or more of a preserving
agent, a stabilizing agent, a wetting agent, an emulsifying agent,
a solution promoter, a salt, and a buffer.
[0701] The oral formulations will in some embodiments further
include one or more of a non-ionic detergent, an ionic detergent, a
protease inhibitor, and a reducing agent. The non-ionic detergent
may be a poloxamer such as Pluronic F-68; the ionic detergent may
be a bile salt such as taurodeoxycholate; the protease inhibitor
may be aprotinin or soy bean trypsin inhibitor; and the reducing
agent may be N-acetyl-L-cysteine.
Combination Formulations
[0702] The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition
comprising a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist that is glycosylated; a glycosylated
IFN-.gamma.; and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient. In some
embodiments, the subject glycosylated synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist and the glycosylated IFN-.gamma. are
co-formulated. In some embodiments, the subject glycosylated
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and the
glycosylated IFN-.gamma. are co-formulated in a single liquid
formulation that is contained in a single reservoir, for use in a
drug delivery device. In some embodiments, the subject glycosylated
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and the
glycosylated IFN-.gamma. are in a formulation suitable for delivery
by injection. In other embodiments, the subject glycosylated
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and the
glycosylated IFN-.gamma. are in a formulation suitable for oral
delivery. Formulations suitable for oral delivery include those
discussed above.
[0703] The present invention provides a pharmaceutical formulation
comprising a single dose of a subject glycosylated synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and a single dose of a
glycosylated IFN-.gamma. sufficient for use in any method described
herein that employs the co-administration of a subject glycosylated
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and a
glycosylated IFN-.gamma. in the treatment of a patient. In some
aspects, the present invention provides a drug reservoir or other
container containing a subject glycosylated synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and a glycosylated
IFN-.gamma. co-formulated in a liquid, wherein both subject
glycosylated synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist and glycosylated IFN-.gamma. are present in the formulation
in an amount suitable for one dose each. Dosage amounts are
described herein. The reservoir can be provided in any of a variety
of forms, including, but not limited to, a cartridge, a syringe, a
reservoir of a continuous delivery device, and the like.
[0704] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition comprising
a subject glycosylated synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist and a glycosylated IFN-.gamma. polypeptide is
formed by admixture of (a) a pharmaceutical composition comprising
the subject glycosylated synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist in a sterile water solution; and (b) a
pharmaceutical composition comprising the glycosylated IFN-.gamma.
in a sterile water solution.
Polynucleotides, Vectors, and Host Cells
[0705] The present invention further provides a polynucleotide
("nucleic acid") comprising a nucleotide sequence that encodes a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist,
vectors comprising a subject polynucleotide, and host cells
comprising a subject polynucleotide or vector. A subject
polynucleotide is useful for generating a subject expression vector
and genetically modified host cells, which are useful for producing
a subject polypeptide agonist.
[0706] The subject invention provides nucleic acid compositions
encoding a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist. As used herein, the term "nucleic acid composition" refers
to a composition comprising a sequence of a nucleic acid having an
open reading frame that encodes a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, and is capable, under
appropriate conditions, of being expressed such that a synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is produced in a
host cell comprising the nucleic acid. Also encompassed in this
term are nucleic acids that are homologous or substantially similar
or identical to the nucleic acids encoding a subject synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist.
[0707] Thus, the subject invention provides nucleic acids
comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding a subject synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, and nucleic acids having
substantial nucleotide sequence identity to such nucleic acids
(e.g., homologs). In many embodiments, a subject nucleic acid
comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and that has at
least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least
about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 98%, or at least
about 102%, or more, nucleotide sequence identity with a nucleotide
sequence (particularly the subject polypeptide-encoding region of
the nucleotide sequence) encoding a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist.
[0708] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1363-1373. In some embodiments, a subject
nucleic acid comprises a nucleotide sequence as set forth in any
one of SEQ ID NOs:1376-1386.
[0709] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1407-1421.
[0710] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1423-1433.
[0711] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1439-1449.
[0712] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1455-1469.
[0713] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1471-1485.
[0714] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1487-1501.
[0715] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1503-1517.
[0716] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1519-1533.
[0717] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1535-1549.
[0718] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1551-1565.
[0719] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1567-1581.
[0720] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1585-1592.
[0721] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1599-1613.
[0722] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1615-1629.
[0723] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1631-1645.
[0724] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1647-1656.
[0725] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1663-1677.
[0726] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1679-1693.
[0727] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1695-1706.
[0728] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1711-1725.
[0729] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1727-1738.
[0730] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid comprises a
nucleotide sequence encoding a synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth
in any one of SEQ ID NOs:1743-1757.
[0731] Sequence similarity is calculated based on a reference
sequence, which may be a subset of a larger sequence, such as a
conserved motif, coding region, flanking region, etc. A reference
sequence will usually be at least about 18 nt long, more usually at
least about 30 nt long, and may extend to the complete sequence
that is being compared. Algorithms for sequence analysis are known
in the art, such as BLAST, described in Altschul et al. (11020), J.
Mol. Biol. 215:403-10 (using default settings, i.e. parameters w=4
and T=17).
[0732] Also provided are nucleic acids that hybridize to the
above-described nucleic acids under stringent conditions. An
example of stringent hybridization conditions is hybridization at
50.degree. C. or higher and 0.1.times.SSC (15 mM sodium
chloride/1.5 mM sodium citrate). Another example of stringent
hybridization conditions is overnight incubation at 42.degree. C.
in a solution: 50% formamide, 5.times.SSC (150 mM NaCl, 15 mM
trisodium citrate), 50 mM sodium phosphate (pH 7.6),
5.times.Denhardt's solution, 10% dextran sulfate, and 20 .mu.g/ml
denatured, sheared salmon sperm DNA, followed by washing the
filters in 0.1.times.SSC at about 65.degree. C. Stringent
hybridization conditions are hybridization conditions that are at
least as stringent as the above representative conditions. Other
stringent hybridization conditions are known in the art and may
also be employed to identify nucleic acids of this particular
embodiment of the invention.
[0733] Nucleic acids encoding the proteins and polypeptides of the
subject invention are in many embodiments DNA, including cDNA. The
term "synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
nucleic acid," as used herein, refers to the open reading frame
encoding specific subject polypeptides, as well as adjacent 5' and
3' non-coding nucleotide sequences involved in the regulation of
expression, e.g., from about 100 by up to about 20 kb beyond the
coding region, but possibly further in either direction. The
nucleic acid may be introduced into an appropriate vector for
extrachromosomal maintenance or for integration into a host genome,
as described in greater detail below.
[0734] The nucleic acid compositions of the subject invention may
encode all or a part of the subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonists. Double or single stranded fragments
may be obtained from the DNA sequence by chemically synthesizing
oligonucleotides in accordance with conventional methods, by
restriction enzyme digestion, by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
amplification, etc.
[0735] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid is prepared by
chemical synthesis, e.g. by using an oligonucleotide synthesizer,
wherein oligonucleotides are designed based on the amino acid
sequence of the desired polypeptide, and in many embodiments,
selecting those codons that are favored in the host cell in which
the recombinant polypeptide will be produced. For example, several
small oligonucleotides coding for portions of the desired
polypeptide may be synthesized and assembled by PCR, ligation or
ligation chain reaction (LCR). The individual oligonucleotides
typically contain 5' or 3' overhangs for complementary assembly.
Once assembled, the nucleotide sequence encoding the subject
polypeptide is inserted into a recombinant vector and operably
linked to control sequences necessary for expression of the subject
nucleic acid, and subsequent production of the subject polypeptide,
in the desired transformed host cell.
[0736] In some embodiments, a subject nucleic acid is generated
such that at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about
30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at
least about 70%, at least about 80%, or at least about 90%, or
more, of the codons are codons that are preferred in human
sequences. See, e.g., Table 8, below.
[0737] The subject nucleic acid molecules are generally propagated
by placing the molecule in a vector. Viral and non-viral vectors
are used, including plasmids. The choice of plasmid will depend on
the type of cell in which propagation is desired and the purpose of
propagation. Certain vectors are useful for amplifying and making
large amounts of the desired DNA sequence.
[0738] The present invention further provides recombinant vectors
("constructs") comprising a subject polynucleotide. Recombinant
vectors include vectors used for propagation of a polynucleotide of
the invention, and expression vectors. Recombinant vectors are
useful for propagation of the subject polynucleotides (cloning
vectors). A subject recombinant expression vector is useful for
effecting expression of a subject polynucleotide in a cell, e.g.,
for production of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist. The choice of appropriate vector is well
within the skill of the art. Many such vectors are available
commercially.
[0739] Expression vectors are suitable for expression in cells in
culture. These vectors will generally include regulatory sequences
("control sequences" or "control regions") which are necessary to
effect the expression of a subject polynucleotide to which they are
operably linked. Still other vectors are suitable for transfer and
expression in cells in a whole organism or person.
[0740] Expression vectors generally have convenient restriction
sites located near the promoter sequence to provide for the
insertion of nucleic acid sequences encoding heterologous proteins.
A selectable marker operative in the expression host may be
present. Expression vectors may be used for the production of
fusion proteins, where the exogenous fusion peptide provides
additional functionality, i.e. increased protein synthesis,
stability, reactivity with defined antisera, an enzyme marker, e.g.
.beta.-galactosidase, luciferase, etc.
[0741] Expression cassettes may be prepared that comprise a
transcription initiation region, a promoter region (e.g., a
promoter that is functional in a eukaryotic cell), a subject
polynucleotide, and a transcriptional termination region. After
introduction of the DNA, the cells containing the construct may be
selected by means of a selectable marker, the cells expanded and
then used for expression.
[0742] The expression cassettes may be introduced into a variety of
vectors, e.g. plasmid, BAC, HAC, YAC, bacteriophage such as lambda,
P1, M13, etc., animal or plant viruses, and the like, where the
vectors are normally characterized by the ability to provide
selection of cells comprising the expression vectors. The vectors
may provide for extrachromosomal maintenance, particularly as
plasmids or viruses, or for integration into the host chromosome.
Where extrachromosomal maintenance is desired, an origin sequence
is provided for the replication of the plasmid, which may be low-
or high copy-number. A wide variety of markers are available for
selection, particularly those that protect against toxins, more
particularly against antibiotics. The particular marker that is
chosen is selected in accordance with the nature of the host, where
in some cases, complementation may be employed with auxotrophic
hosts. Introduction of the DNA construct into a host cell may use
any convenient method, e.g. conjugation, bacterial transformation,
calcium-precipitated DNA, electroporation, fusion, transfection,
infection with viral vectors, biolistics, etc.
[0743] General aspects of mammalian cell host system
transformations have been described by Axel in U.S. Pat. No.
4,3102,216 issued Aug. 16, 1983. Transformations into yeast are
typically carried out according to the method of Van Solingen et
al., J. Bact., 130: 946 (1977) and Hsiao et al., Proc. Natl. Acad.
Sci. (USA), 76: 3829 (1979). Optimized methods for calcium
phosphate transfection of eukaryotic host cells are described by
Wurm and Jordan in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,484,720 and 5,593,875. However,
other methods for introducing DNA into cells such as by nuclear
injection, electroporation, or by protoplast fusion may also be
used.
[0744] The present invention further provides genetically modified
host cells, which may be isolated host cells, comprising a subject
polynucleotide, or, in some embodiments, a subject expression
vector. Suitable host cells include prokaryotes such as E. coli, B.
subtilis, eukaryotes, including insect cells in combination with
baculovirus vectors, yeast cells, such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae,
or cells of a higher organism such as vertebrates, including
amphibians (e.g., Xenopus laevis oocytes), and mammals,
particularly mammals, e.g. COS cells, CHO cells, HEK293 cells,
MA-10 cells, and the like, may be used as the expression host
cells. Host cells can be used for the purposes of propagating a
subject polynucleotide, for production of a subject synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. In many embodiments, the
host cell is a eukaryotic host cell. In particular, the host cell
is in many embodiments a eukaryotic host cell that is capable of
glycosylating a protein.
[0745] The mammalian host cells used to produce a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist can be cultured in a
variety of media. Commercially available media such as Ham's F10
(Sigma), Minimal Essential Medium ((MEM), Sigma), RPMI-1640
(Sigma), and Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium ((DMEM), Sigma) are
suitable for culturing the host cells. In addition, any of the
media described in Ham and Wallace, Meth. Enz., 58: 44 (1979),
Barnes and Sato, Anal Biochem., 102: 255 (1980), U.S. Pat. Nos.
4,767,704; 4,657,866; 4,927,762; or U.S. Pat. No. 4,560,655; WO
90/03430; WO 87/00195; U.S. Pat. Re. No. 30,985; or U.S. Pat. No.
5,122,469, the disclosures of all of which are incorporated herein
by reference, may be used as culture media for the host cells. Any
of these media may be supplemented as necessary with hormones
and/or other growth factors (such as insulin, transferrin, or
epidermal growth factor), salts (such as sodium chloride, calcium,
magnesium, and phosphate), buffers (such as HEPES), nucleosides
(such as adenosine and thymidine), antibiotics (such as
Gentamycin.TM. drug), trace elements (defined as inorganic
compounds usually present at final concentrations in the micromolar
range), and glucose or an equivalent energy source. Any other
necessary supplements may also be included at appropriate
concentrations that would be known to those skilled in the art. The
culture conditions, such as temperature, pH, and the like, are
those previously used with the host cell selected for expression,
and will be apparent to the ordinarily skilled artisan.
Antibody Compositions
[0746] Also provided are antibodies that bind specifically a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist.
Suitable antibodies are obtained by immunizing a host animal with
peptides comprising all or a portion of the subject protein.
Suitable host animals include mouse, rat sheep, goat, hamster,
rabbit, etc. In many embodiments, a subject antibody is isolated;
and in many embodiments a subject antibody is purified.
[0747] The immunogen may comprise the complete protein, or
fragments and derivatives thereof. Exemplary immunogens comprise
all or a part of the protein, where these residues contain the
post-translation modifications found on the native target protein.
Immunogens are produced in a variety of ways known in the art,
e.g., expression of cloned genes using conventional recombinant
methods, chemical synthesis of synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist polypeptides, etc.
[0748] For preparation of polyclonal antibodies, the first step is
immunization of the host animal with the target protein, where the
target protein will preferably be in substantially pure form,
comprising less than about 1% contaminant. The immunogen may
comprise the complete target protein, fragments or derivatives
thereof. To increase the immune response of the host animal, the
target protein may be combined with an adjuvant, where suitable
adjuvants include alum, dextran, sulfate, large polymeric anions,
oil and water emulsions, e.g. Freund's adjuvant, Freund's complete
adjuvant, and the like. The target protein may also be conjugated
to synthetic carrier proteins or synthetic antigens. A variety of
hosts may be immunized to produce the polyclonal antibodies. Such
hosts include rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents, e.g. mice, rats,
sheep, goats, and the like. The target protein is administered to
the host, usually intradermally, with an initial dosage followed by
one or more, usually at least two, additional booster dosages.
Following immunization, the blood from the host will be collected,
followed by separation of the serum from the blood cells. The Ig
present in the resultant antiserum may be further fractionated
using known methods, such as ammonium salt fractionation, DEAE
chromatography, and the like.
[0749] Monoclonal antibodies are produced by conventional
techniques. Generally, the spleen and/or lymph nodes of an
immunized host animal provide a source of plasma cells. The plasma
cells are immortalized by fusion with myeloma cells to produce
hybridoma cells. Culture supernatant from individual hybridomas is
screened using standard techniques to identify those producing
antibodies with the desired specificity. Suitable animals for
production of monoclonal antibodies to the human protein include
mouse, rat, hamster, etc. To raise antibodies against the mouse
protein, the animal will generally be a hamster, guinea pig,
rabbit, etc. The antibody may be purified from the hybridoma cell
supernatants or ascites fluid by conventional techniques, e.g.
affinity chromatography using protein bound to an insoluble
support, protein A sepharose, etc.
[0750] The antibody may be produced as a single chain, instead of
the normal multimeric structure. Single chain antibodies are
described in Jost et al. (11024) J. Biol. Chem. 269:26267-73, and
others. DNA sequences encoding the variable region of the heavy
chain and the variable region of the light chain are ligated to a
spacer encoding at least about 4 amino acids of small neutral amino
acids, including glycine and/or serine. The protein encoded by this
fusion allows assembly of a functional variable region that retains
the specificity and affinity of the original antibody.
[0751] Also of interest in certain embodiments are humanized
antibodies. Methods of humanizing antibodies are known in the art.
The humanized antibody may be the product of an animal having
transgenic human immunoglobulin constant region genes (see for
example International Patent Applications WO 90/10077 and WO
90/04036). Alternatively, the antibody of interest may be
engineered by recombinant DNA techniques to substitute the CH1,
CH2, CH3, hinge domains, and/or the framework domain with the
corresponding human sequence (see WO 92/02190).
[0752] The use of Ig cDNA for construction of chimeric
immunoglobulin genes is known in the art (Liu et al. (1987) Proc.
Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 84:3439 and (1987) J. Immunol. 139:3521). mRNA
is isolated from a hybridoma or other cell producing the antibody
and used to produce cDNA. The cDNA of interest may be amplified by
the polymerase chain reaction using specific primers (U.S. Pat.
Nos. 4,683,195 and 4,683,202). Alternatively, a library is made and
screened to isolate the sequence of interest. The DNA sequence
encoding the variable region of the antibody is then fused to human
constant region sequences. The sequences of human constant regions
genes may be found in Kabat et al. (11021) Sequences of Proteins of
Immunological Interest, N.I.H. publication no. 91-3242. Human C
region genes are readily available from known clones. The choice of
isotype will be guided by the desired effector functions, such as
complement fixation, or activity in antibody-dependent cellular
cytotoxicity. Exemplary isotypes are IgG1, IgG3 and IgG4. Either of
the human light chain constant regions, kappa or lambda, may be
used. The chimeric, humanized antibody is then expressed by
conventional methods.
[0753] Antibody fragments, such as Fv, F(ab').sub.2 and Fab may be
prepared by cleavage of the intact protein, e.g. by protease or
chemical cleavage. Alternatively, a truncated gene is designed. For
example, a chimeric gene encoding a portion of the F(ab').sub.2
fragment would include DNA sequences encoding the CH1 domain and
hinge region of the H chain, followed by a translational stop codon
to yield the truncated molecule.
[0754] Consensus sequences of H and L J regions may be used to
design oligonucleotides for use as primers to introduce useful
restriction sites into the J region for subsequent linkage of V
region segments to human C region segments. C region cDNA can be
modified by site directed mutagenesis to place a restriction site
at the analogous position in the human sequence.
[0755] Expression vectors include plasmids, retroviruses, YACs, EBV
derived episomes, and the like. A convenient vector is one that
encodes a functionally complete human CH or CL immunoglobulin
sequence, with appropriate restriction sites engineered so that any
VH or VL sequence can be easily inserted and expressed. In such
vectors, splicing usually occurs between the splice donor site in
the inserted J region and the splice acceptor site preceding the
human C region, and also at the splice regions that occur within
the human CH exons. Polyadenylation and transcription termination
occur at native chromosomal sites downstream of the coding regions.
The resulting chimeric antibody may be joined to any strong
promoter, including retroviral LTRs, e.g. SV-40 early promoter,
(Okayama et al. (1983) Mol. Cell. Bio. 3:280), Rous sarcoma virus
LTR (Gorman et al. (1982) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 79:6777), and
moloney murine leukemia virus LTR (Grosschedl et al. (1985) Cell
41:885); native Ig promoters, etc.
Diagnostic Uses
[0756] The synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonists of the invention are unique research reagents which
provide Type I interferon activity templates for use in chemical
library screening, wherein the practitioner can use a signal
transduction assay as an initial, high volume screen for agents
that inhibit a broad array of Type I interferon activities similar
to the Type I interferon activity pattern of a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. In this way,
candidate agents likely to inhibit a broad spectrum of Type I
interferon activities (similar to the activity profile of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist) can be
obtained with ease, avoiding prohibitively expensive and
logistically impossible numbers of viral growth inhibition assays
or cell proliferation inhibition assays on large chemical
libraries.
[0757] In one embodiment, the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonists of the invention are used to screen chemical
libraries in a Kinase Receptor Activation (KIRA) Assay as described
in WO 95/14930 (published 1 June 11025). The KIRA assay is suitable
for use herein because ligand binding to the Type I interferon
receptor complex in situ in on the surface of host cells expressing
the receptor induces a rapid increase in the phosphorylation of
tyrosine residues in the intracellular domains of both IFNAR1 and
IFNAR2 components of the receptor as taught in Platanias and
Colamonici, J. Biol. Chem., 269: 17761-17764 (11024). The level of
tyrosine phosphorylation can be used as a measure of signal
transduction. The effect of a library compound on the levels of
tyrosine phosphorylation induced by a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist in the KIRA assay is an
indication of the compound's inhibitory activity against the broad
array of Type I interferons mimicked by the subject synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist.
[0758] The KIRA assay suitable for use herein employs (a) a host
cell that expresses the Type I interferon receptor (both IFNAR1 and
IFNAR2 components of the receptor) and (b) the subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, which defines the
inhibitor profile of interest. Cells which naturally express the
human Type I interferon receptor, such as the human Daudi cells and
U-266 human myeloma cells described in Colamonici and Domanski, J.
Biol. Chem. 268: 10895-108102 (11023), can be used. In addition,
cells which are transfected with the IFNAR1 and IFNAR2 components
and contain intracellular signaling proteins necessary for Type I
interferon signal transduction, such as mouse L-929 cells as
described in Domanski et al., J. Biol. Chem., 270: 21606-21611
(11025), can be used. In the KIRA assay, the candidate antagonist
is incubated with the subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist to be tested, and the incubation mixture is
contacted with the Type I interferon receptor-expressing host
cells. The treated cells are lysed, and IFNAR2 protein in the cell
lysate is immobilized by capture with solid phase anti-IFNAR2
antibody. Signal transduction is assayed by measuring the amount of
tyrosine phosphorylation that exists in the intracellular domain
(ICD) of captured IFNAR2 and the amount of tyrosine phosphorylation
that exists in the intracellular domain of any co-captured IFNAR1.
Alternatively, cell lysis and immunoprecipitation can be performed
under denaturing conditions in order to avoid co-capture of IFNAR1
and permit measurement of IFNAR2 tyrosine phosphorylation alone,
e.g. as described in Platanias et al., J. Biol. Chem., 271:
23630-23633 (11026). The level of tyrosine phosphorylation can be
accurately measured with labeled anti-phosphotyrosine antibody,
which identifies phosphorylated tyrosine residues.
[0759] In another embodiment, a host cell coexpressing IFNAR1 and a
chimeric construct containing IFNAR2 fused at its carboxy terminus
to an affinity handle polypeptide is used in the KIRA assay. The
chimeric IFNAR2 construct permits capture of the construct from
cell lysate by use of a solid phase capture agent (in place of an
anti-IFNAR2 antibody) specific for the affinity handle polypeptide.
In a preferred embodiment, the affinity handle polypeptide is
Herpes simplex virus glycoprotein D (gD) and the capture agent is
an anti-gD monoclonal antibody as described in Examples 2 and 3 of
WO 95/14930.
[0760] In this system, the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist of the invention that possesses the Type I
interferon activity profile of interest is used as a standard for
analysis of the tyrosine phosphorylation inhibition patterns
generated by the members of the chemical library that is screened.
The IFNAR2 ICD tyrosine phosphorylation pattern generated by the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist standard
is compared to the tyrosine phosphorylation patterns produced by
the standard in the presence of library compounds, and patterns
found to indicate inhibition of tyrosine phosphorylation identify
candidate agents that are likely to inhibit a range of type I
interferon activities similar to the spectrum of Type I interferon
activities mimicked by the standard. Accordingly, the synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist of the invention
provides a useful means to quickly and efficiently screen large
chemical libraries for compounds likely to inhibit the particular
spectrum of Type I interferon activities exhibited by the subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist.
[0761] In addition, the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist of the invention are useful in diagnostic
assays for Type I interferon receptor expression in specific cells
or tissues. In these assays, the subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonists are labeled as described
below and/or immobilized on an insoluble matrix, which allows for
the detection of Type I interferon receptor in a sample.
[0762] The subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonists can be used for the detection of Type I interferon
receptor in any one of a number of well known diagnostic assay
methods. For example, a biological sample may be assayed for Type I
interferon receptor by obtaining the sample from a desired source,
admixing the sample with a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist to allow the subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist to form agonist/Type I
interferon receptor complex with any Type I interferon receptor
present in the mixture, and detecting any agonist/Type I interferon
receptor complex present in the mixture. The biological sample may
be prepared for assay by methods known in the art that are suitable
for the particular sample. The methods of admixing the sample with
the subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist and the methods of detecting agonist/Type I interferon
receptor complex are chosen according to the type of assay used.
Such assays include competitive and sandwich assays, and steric
inhibition assays. Competitive and sandwich methods employ a
phase-separation step as an integral part of the method while
steric inhibition assays are conducted in a single reaction
mixture.
[0763] Analytical methods for Type I interferon receptor all use
one or more of the following reagents: labeled Type I interferon
receptor analogue, immobilized Type I interferon receptor analogue,
labeled synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist,
immobilized synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist and steric conjugates. The labeled reagents also are known
as "tracers."
[0764] The label used is any detectable functionality that does not
interfere with the binding of Type I interferon receptor and the
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist.
Numerous labels are known for use in immunoassay, examples
including moieties that may be detected directly, such as
fluorochrome, chemiluminescent, and radioactive labels, as well as
moieties, such as enzymes, that must be reacted or derivatized to
be detected. Examples of such labels include the radioisotopes
.sup.32P, .sup.14C, .sup.125I, .sup.3H, and .sup.131I, fluorophores
such as rare earth chelates or fluorescein and its derivatives,
rhodamine and its derivatives, dansyl, umbelliferone,
luceriferases, e.g., firefly luciferase and bacterial luciferase
(U.S. Pat. No. 4,737,456), luciferin, 2,3-dihydrophthalazinediones,
horseradish peroxidase (HRP), alkaline phosphatase,
.beta.-galactosidase, glucoamylase, lysozyme, saccharide oxidases,
e.g., glucose oxidase, galactose oxidase, and glucose-6-phosphate
dehydrogenase, heterocyclic oxidases such as uricase and xanthine
oxidase, coupled with an enzyme that employs hydrogen peroxide to
oxidize a dye precursor such as HRP, lactoperoxidase, or
microperoxidase, biotin/avidin, spin labels, bacteriophage labels,
stable free radicals, and the like.
[0765] Conventional methods are available to bind these labels
covalently to proteins or polypeptides. For instance, coupling
agents such as dialdehydes, carbodiimides, dimaleimides,
bis-imidates, bis-diazotized benzidine, and the like may be used to
tag the antibodies with the above-described fluorescent,
chemiluminescent, and enzyme labels. See, for example, U.S. Pat.
No. 3,940,475 (fluorimetry) and U.S. Pat. No. 3,645,090 (enzymes);
Hunter et al., Nature, 144: 945 (1962); David eta al.,
Biochemistry, 13: 1014-1021 (1974); Pain et al., J. Immunol.
Methods, 40: 219-230 (1981); and Nygren, J. Histochem. and
Cytochem., 30: 407-412 (1982). Preferred labels herein are enzymes
such as horseradish peroxidase and alkaline phosphatase.
[0766] The conjugation of such label, including the enzymes, to the
antibody is a standard manipulative procedure for one of ordinary
skill in immunoassay techniques. See, for example, O'Sullivan et
al., "Methods for the Preparation of Enzyme-antibody Conjugates for
Use in Enzyme Immunoassay," in Methods in Enzymology, ed. J. J.
Langone and H. Van Vunakis, Vol. 73 (Academic Press, New York,
N.Y., 1981), pp. 147-166.
[0767] Immobilization of reagents is required for certain assay
methods. Immobilization entails separating the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist from any Type I interferon
receptor that remains free in solution. This conventionally is
accomplished by either insolubilizing the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist or Type I interferon
receptor analogue before the assay procedure, as by adsorption to a
water-insoluble matrix or surface (Bennich et al., U.S. Pat. No.
3,720,760), by covalent coupling (for example, using glutaraldehyde
cross-linking), or by insolubilizing the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist or Type I interferon
receptor analogue afterward, e.g., by immunoprecipitation.
[0768] Other assay methods, known as competitive or sandwich
assays, are well established and widely used in the commercial
diagnostics industry.
[0769] Competitive assays rely on the ability of a tracer Type I
interferon receptor analogue to compete with the test sample Type I
interferon receptor for a limited number of synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist binding sites. The
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist generally
is insolubilized before or after the competition and then the
tracer and Type I interferon receptor bound to the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist are separated from the
unbound tracer and Type I interferon receptor. This separation is
accomplished by decanting (where the binding partner was
preinsolubilized) or by centrifuging (where the binding partner was
precipitated after the competitive reaction). The amount of test
sample Type I interferon receptor is inversely proportional to the
amount of bound tracer as measured by the amount of marker
substance. Dose-response curves with known amounts of Type I
interferon receptor are prepared and compared with the test results
to quantitatively determine the amount of Type I interferon
receptor present in the test sample. These assays are called ELISA
systems when enzymes are used as the detectable markers.
[0770] Another species of competitive assay, called a "homogeneous"
assay, does not require a phase separation. Here, a conjugate of an
enzyme with the Type I interferon receptor is prepared and used
such that when synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist binds to the Type I interferon receptor the presence of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist modifies
the enzyme activity. In this case, the Type I interferon receptor
or its immunologically active fragments are conjugated with a
bifunctional organic bridge to an enzyme such as peroxidase.
Conjugates are selected for use with synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist so that binding of the synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist inhibits or potentiates
the enzyme activity of the label. This method per se is widely
practiced under the name of EMIT.
[0771] Steric conjugates are used in steric hindrance methods for
homogeneous assay. These conjugates are synthesized by covalently
linking a low-molecular-weight hapten to a small Type I interferon
receptor fragment so that antibody to hapten is substantially
unable to bind the conjugate at the same time as synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. Under this assay procedure
the Type I interferon receptor present in the test sample will bind
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, thereby
allowing anti-hapten to bind the conjugate, resulting in a change
in the character of the conjugate hapten, e.g., a change in
fluorescence when the hapten is a fluorophore.
[0772] Sandwich assays particularly are useful for the
determination of Type I interferon receptor in a sample. In
sequential sandwich assays an immobilized synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist is used to adsorb test
sample Type I interferon receptor, the test sample is removed as by
washing, the bound Type I interferon receptor is used to adsorb a
labeled anti-Type I interferon receptor antibody and bound material
is then separated from residual tracer. The amount of bound tracer
is directly proportional to test sample Type I interferon receptor.
In "simultaneous" sandwich assays the test sample is not separated
before adding the labeled anti-Type I interferon receptor
antibody.
[0773] The foregoing are merely exemplary diagnostic assays for
Type I interferon receptor. Other methods now or hereafter
developed that use synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist for the determination of Type I interferon receptor are
included within the scope hereof, including the bioassays described
above.
Therapeutic Methods
[0774] The present invention provides method of treating fibrotic
disorders. The subject methods generally involve administering to
an individual in need thereof an effective combination of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist. In
some embodiments, a subject treatment method further includes
administering at least one additional anti-fibrotic agent.
[0775] The present invention further provides methods of treating
cancer. The subject methods generally involve administering to an
individual in need thereof an effective amount of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant. In some embodiments, a subject method further
includes administering at least one additional anti-cancer
agent.
[0776] The present invention additionally provides methods of
treating viral infection. The subject methods generally involve
administering to an individual in need thereof an effective amount
of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant. In some embodiments, a
subject method further includes administering at least one
additional anti-viral agent.
[0777] In some embodiments, a subject treatment method further
includes administering a side effect management agent, to treat a
side effect induced by a therapeutic agent.
Fibrotic Disorders
[0778] The present invention provides methods for treating a
fibrotic disorder in an individual having a fibrotic disorder. The
method generally involves administering an effective combination of
a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist,
a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist. The
methods provide for treatment of fibrotic diseases, including those
affecting the lung such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary
fibrosis from a known etiology, liver fibrosis or cirrhosis,
cardiac fibrosis, and renal fibrosis. The etiology may be due to
any acute or chronic insult including toxic, metabolic, genetic and
infectious agents.
[0779] Fibrosis is generally characterized by the pathologic or
excessive accumulation of collagenous connective tissue. Fibrotic
disorders include, but are not limited to, collagen disease,
interstitial lung disease, human fibrotic lung disease (e.g.,
obliterative bronchiolitis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis,
pulmonary fibrosis from a known etiology, tumor stroma in lung
disease, systemic sclerosis affecting the lungs, Hermansky-Pudlak
syndrome, coal worker's pneumoconiosis, asbestosis, silicosis,
chronic pulmonary hypertension, AIDS-associated pulmonary
hypertension, sarcoidosis, and the like), fibrotic vascular
disease, arterial sclerosis, atherosclerosis, varicose veins,
coronary infarcts, cerebral infarcts, myocardial fibrosis,
musculoskeletal fibrosis, post-surgical adhesions, human kidney
disease (e.g., nephritic syndrome, Alport's syndrome,
HIV-associated nephropathy, polycystic kidney disease, Fabry's
disease, diabetic nephropathy, chronic glomerulonephritis,
nephritis associated with systemic lupus, and the like), cutis
keloid formation, progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS), primary
sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), liver fibrosis, liver cirrhosis,
renal fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis, chronic graft
versus host disease, scleroderma (local and systemic), Grave's
opthalmopathy, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, Peyronie's disease,
penis fibrosis, urethrostenosis after the test using a cystoscope,
inner accretion after surgery, scarring, myelofibrosis, idiopathic
retroperitoneal fibrosis, peritoneal fibrosis from a known
etiology, drug-induced ergotism, fibrosis incident to benign or
malignant cancer, fibrosis incident to microbial infection (e.g.,
viral, bacterial, parasitic, fungal, etc.), Alzheimer's disease,
fibrosis incident to inflammatory bowel disease (including
stricture formation in Crohn's disease and microscopic colitis),
fibrosis induced by chemical or environmental insult (e.g., cancer
chemotherapy, pesticides, radiation (e.g., cancer radiotherapy),
and the like), and the like.
[0780] In some embodiments, effective amounts of a synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and a Type II interferon
receptor agonist are any combined dosage that, when administered to
an individual having a fibrotic disorder, is effective to reduce
fibrosis or reduce the rate of progression of fibrosis by at least
about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about
25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at
least about 45%, or at least about 50%, or more, compared with the
degree of fibrosis in the individual prior to treatment or compared
to the rate of progression of fibrosis that would have been
experienced by the patient in the absence of treatment.
[0781] In some embodiments, effective amounts of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist are
any combined dosage that, when administered to an individual having
a fibrotic disorder, is effective to increase, or to reduce the
rate of deterioration of, at least one function of the organ
affected by fibrosis (e.g., lung, liver, kidney, etc.) by at least
about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about
25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at
least about 45%, or at least about 50%, or more, compared to the
baseline level of organ function in the individual prior to
treatment or compared to the rate of deterioration in organ
function that would have been experienced by the individual in the
absence of treatment.
[0782] Methods of measuring the extent of fibrosis in a given
organ, and methods of measuring the function of any given organ,
are well known in the art.
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
[0783] The present invention provides methods of treating
idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The methods generally involve
administering to an individual having IPF effective amounts of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist.
[0784] In some embodiments, a diagnosis of IPF is confirmed by the
finding of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) on histopathological
evaluation of lung tissue obtained by surgical biopsy. The criteria
for a diagnosis of IPF are known. Ryu et al. (11028) Mayo Clin.
Proc. 73:1085-1101.
[0785] In other embodiments, a diagnosis of IPF is a definite or
probable IPF made by high resolution computer tomography (HRCT). In
a diagnosis by HRCT, the presence of the following characteristics
is noted: (1) presence of reticular abnormality and/or traction
bronchiectasis with basal and peripheral predominance; (2) presence
of honeycombing with basal and peripheral predominance; and (3)
absence of atypical features such as micronodules,
peribronchovascular nodules, consolidation, isolated
(non-honeycomb) cysts, ground glass attenuation (or, if present, is
less extensive than reticular opacity), and mediastinal adenopathy
(or, if present, is not extensive enough to be visible on chest
x-ray). A diagnosis of definite IPF is made if characteristics (1),
(2), and (3) are met. A diagnosis of probable IPF is made if
characteristics (1) and (3) are met.
[0786] In some embodiments, "effective amounts" of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist are a
combined dosage that is effective to decrease disease progression
by at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at
least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least
about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about
55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, or
more, compared with a placebo control or an untreated control.
[0787] Disease progression is the occurrence of one or more of the
following: (1) a decrease in predicted FVC of 10% or more; (2) an
increase in A-a gradient of 5 mm Hg or more; (3) a decrease of 15%
of more in single breath DL.sub.co. Whether disease progression has
occurred is determined by measuring one or more of these parameters
on two consecutive occasions 4 to 14 weeks apart, and comparing the
value to baseline.
[0788] Thus, e.g., where an untreated or placebo-treated individual
exhibits a 50% decrease in FVC over a period of time, an individual
administered with an effective combination of a synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and a Type II interferon
receptor agonist exhibits a decrease in FVC of 45%, about 42%,
about 40%, about 37%, about 35%, about 32%, about 30%, or less,
over the same time period.
[0789] In some embodiments, "effective amounts" of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist are
any combined dosage that is effective to increase progression-free
survival time, e.g., the time from baseline (e.g., a time point
from 1 day to 28 days before beginning of treatment) to death or
disease progression is increased by at least about 10%, at least
about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about
40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at
least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 2-fold, at
least about 3-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least about 5-fold,
or more, compared a placebo-treated or an untreated control
individual. Thus, e.g., in some embodiments effective amounts of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist are
any combined dosage that is effective to increase the
progression-free survival time by at least about 1 week, at least
about 2 weeks, at least about 3 weeks, at least about 4 weeks, at
least about 2 months, at least about 3 months, at least about 4
months, at least about 5 months, at least about 6 months, at least
about 8 months, at least about 10 months, at least about 12 months,
at least about 18 months, at least about 2 years, at least about 3
years, or longer, compared to a placebo-treated or untreated
control.
[0790] In some embodiments, effective amounts of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist are
any combined dosage that is effective to increase at least one
parameter of lung function, e.g., a combined dosage that increases
at least one parameter of lung function by at least about 10%, at
least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least
about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about
70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 2-fold,
at least about 3-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least about
5-fold, or more, compared to an untreated individual or a
placebo-treated control individual. In some of these embodiments, a
determination of whether a parameter of lung function is increased
is made by comparing the baseline value with the value at any time
point after the beginning of treatment, e.g., 48 weeks after the
beginning of treatment, or between two time points, e.g., about 4
to about 14 weeks apart, after the beginning of treatment.
[0791] In some embodiments, effective amounts of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist are
any combined dosage that is effective to increase the FVC by at
least about 10% at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least
about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about
60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at
least about 2-fold, at least about 3-fold, at least about 4-fold,
at least about 5-fold, or more compared to baseline on two
consecutive occasions 4 to 14 weeks apart.
[0792] In some embodiments, effective amounts of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist are
any combined dosage that results in a decrease in alveolar:arterial
(A-a) gradient of at least about 5 mm Hg, at least about 7 mm Hg,
at least about 10 mm Hg, at least about 12 mm Hg, at least about 15
mm Hg, or more, compared to baseline.
[0793] In some embodiments, effective amounts of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist are
any combined dosage that increases the single breath DL.sub.co by
at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at
least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least
about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about
2-fold, at least about 3-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least
about 5-fold, or more, compared to baseline. CL.sub.co is the lung
diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide, and is expressed as mL
CO/mm Hg/second.
[0794] Parameters of lung function include, but are not limited to,
forced vital capacity (FVC); forced expiratory volume (FEV.sub.1);
total lung capacity; partial pressure of arterial oxygen at rest;
partial pressure of arterial oxygen at maximal exertion.
[0795] Lung function can be measured using any known method,
including, but not limited to spirometry.
Liver Fibrosis
[0796] The present invention provides methods of treating liver
fibrosis, including reducing clinical liver fibrosis, reducing the
likelihood that liver fibrosis will occur, and reducing a parameter
associated with liver fibrosis. The methods generally involve
administering a combination of an effective amount of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and an effective amount of a Type II interferon
receptor agonist to an individual in need thereof. Of particular
interest in many embodiments is treatment of humans.
[0797] Liver fibrosis is a precursor to the complications
associated with liver cirrhosis, such as portal hypertension,
progressive liver insufficiency, and hepatocellular carcinoma. A
reduction in liver fibrosis thus reduces the incidence of such
complications. Accordingly, the present invention further provides
methods of reducing the likelihood that an individual will develop
complications associated with cirrhosis of the liver.
[0798] The present methods generally involve administering
therapeutically effective amounts of a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a
Type II interferon receptor agonist. As used herein, "effective
amounts" of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon
receptor agonist are any combined dosage that is effective in
reducing liver fibrosis or reducing the rate of progression of
liver fibrosis; and/or that is effective in reducing the likelihood
that an individual will develop liver fibrosis; and/or that is
effective in reducing a parameter associated with liver fibrosis;
and/or that is effective in reducing a disorder associated with
cirrhosis of the liver.
[0799] The invention also provides a method for treatment of liver
fibrosis in an individual comprising administering to the
individual an amount of a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide
variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant and an
amount of Type II interferon receptor agonist that in combination
are effective for prophylaxis or therapy of liver fibrosis in the
individual, e.g., increasing the probability of survival, reducing
the risk of death, ameliorating the disease burden or slowing the
progression of disease in the individual.
[0800] Whether treatment with a combination of a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a
Type II interferon receptor agonist is effective in reducing liver
fibrosis is determined by any of a number of well-established
techniques for measuring liver fibrosis and liver function. Whether
liver fibrosis is reduced is determined by analyzing a liver biopsy
sample. An analysis of a liver biopsy comprises assessments of two
major components: necroinflammation assessed by "grade" as a
measure of the severity and ongoing disease activity, and the
lesions of fibrosis and parenchymal or vascular remodeling as
assessed by "stage" as being reflective of long-term disease
progression. See, e.g., Brunt (2000) Hepatol. 31:241-246; and
METAVIR (11024) Hepatology 20:15-20. Based on analysis of the liver
biopsy, a score is assigned. A number of standardized scoring
systems exist which provide a quantitative assessment of the degree
and severity of fibrosis. These include the METAVIR, Knodell,
Scheuer, Ludwig, and Ishak scoring systems.
[0801] The METAVIR scoring system is based on an analysis of
various features of a liver biopsy, including fibrosis (portal
fibrosis, centrilobular fibrosis, and cirrhosis); necrosis
(piecemeal and lobular necrosis, acidophilic retraction, and
ballooning degeneration); inflammation (portal tract inflammation,
portal lymphoid aggregates, and distribution of portal
inflammation); bile duct changes; and the Knodell index (scores of
periportal necrosis, lobular necrosis, portal inflammation,
fibrosis, and overall disease activity). The definitions of each
stage in the METAVIR system are as follows: score: 0, no fibrosis;
score: 1, stellate enlargement of portal tract but without septa
formation; score: 2, enlargement of portal tract with rare septa
formation; score: 3, numerous septa without cirrhosis; and score:
4, cirrhosis.
[0802] Knodell's scoring system, also called the Hepatitis Activity
Index, classifies specimens based on scores in four categories of
histologic features: I. Periportal and/or bridging necrosis; II.
Intralobular degeneration and focal necrosis; III. Portal
inflammation; and IV. Fibrosis. In the Knodell staging system,
scores are as follows: score: 0, no fibrosis; score: 1, mild
fibrosis (fibrous portal expansion); score: 2, moderate fibrosis;
score: 3, severe fibrosis (bridging fibrosis); and score: 4,
cirrhosis. The higher the score, the more severe the liver tissue
damage. Knodell (1981) Hepatol. 1:431.
[0803] In the Scheuer scoring system scores are as follows: score:
0, no fibrosis; score: 1, enlarged, fibrotic portal tracts; score:
2, periportal or portal-portal septa, but intact architecture;
score: 3, fibrosis with architectural distortion, but no obvious
cirrhosis; score: 4, probable or definite cirrhosis. Scheuer
(11021) J. Hepatol. 13:372.
[0804] The Ishak scoring system is described in Ishak (11025) J.
Hepatol. 22:696-6102. Stage 0, No fibrosis; Stage 1, Fibrous
expansion of some portal areas, with or without short fibrous
septa; stage 2, Fibrous expansion of most portal areas, with or
without short fibrous septa; stage 3, Fibrous expansion of most
portal areas with occasional portal to portal (P-P) bridging; stage
4, Fibrous expansion of portal areas with marked bridging (P-P) as
well as portal-central (P-C); stage 5, Marked bridging (P-P and/or
P-C) with occasional nodules (incomplete cirrhosis); stage 6,
Cirrhosis, probable or definite. The benefit of anti-fibrotic
therapy can also be measured and assessed by using the Child-Pugh
scoring system which comprises a multicomponent point system based
upon abnormalities in serum bilirubin level, serum albumin level,
prothrombin time, the presence and severity of ascites, and the
presence and severity of encephalopathy. Based upon the presence
and severity of abnormality of these parameters, patients may be
placed in one of three categories of increasing severity of
clinical disease: A, B, or C.
[0805] In some embodiments, a therapeutically effective combination
of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon
receptor agonist is any combined dosage that effects a change of
one unit or more in the fibrosis stage based on pre- and
post-therapy liver biopsies. In particular embodiments, a
therapeutically effective combined dosage reduces liver fibrosis by
at least one unit in the METAVIR, the Knodell, the Scheuer, the
Ludwig, or the Ishak scoring system.
[0806] Secondary, or indirect, indices of liver function can also
be used to evaluate the efficacy of treatment with a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and Type II interferon receptor agonist.
Morphometric computerized semi-automated assessment of the
quantitative degree of liver fibrosis based upon specific staining
of collagen and/or serum markers of liver fibrosis can also be
measured as an indication of the efficacy of a subject treatment
method. Secondary indices of liver function include, but are not
limited to, serum transaminase levels, prothrombin time, bilirubin,
platelet count, portal pressure, albumin level, and assessment of
the Child-Pugh score.
[0807] In another embodiment, an effective combination of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist is
any combined dosage that is effective to increase an index of liver
function by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about
25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at
least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least
about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about
75%, or at least about 80%, or more, compared to the index of liver
function in an untreated individual, or in a placebo-treated
individual. Those skilled in the art can readily measure such
indices of liver function, using standard assay methods, many of
which are commercially available, and are used routinely in
clinical settings.
[0808] Serum markers of liver fibrosis can also be measured as an
indication of the efficacy of a subject treatment method. Serum
markers of liver fibrosis include, but are not limited to,
hyaluronate, N-terminal procollagen III peptide, 7S domain of type
IV collagen, C-terminal procollagen I peptide, and laminin.
Additional biochemical markers of liver fibrosis include
.alpha.-2-macroglobulin, haptoglobin, gamma globulin,
apolipoprotein A, and gamma glutamyl transpeptidase.
[0809] In another embodiment, a therapeutically effective
combination of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon
receptor agonist is any combined dosage that is effective to reduce
a serum level of a marker of liver fibrosis by at least about 10%,
at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at
least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least
about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about
65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, or at least about 80%,
or more, compared to the level of the marker in an untreated
individual, or in a placebo-treated individual. Those skilled in
the art can readily measure such serum markers of liver fibrosis,
using standard assay methods, many of which are commercially
available, and are used routinely in clinical settings. Methods of
measuring serum markers include immunological-based methods, e.g.,
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), radioimmunoassays, and
the like, using antibody specific for a given serum marker.
[0810] Quantitative tests of functional liver reserve can also be
used to assess the efficacy of treatment with a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a
Type II interferon receptor agonist. These include: indocyanine
green clearance (ICG), galactose elimination capacity (GEC),
aminopyrine breath test (ABT), antipyrine clearance,
monoethylglycine-xylidide (MEG-X) clearance, and caffeine
clearance.
[0811] As used herein, a "complication associated with cirrhosis of
the liver" refers to a disorder that is a sequellae of
decompensated liver disease, i.e., or occurs subsequently to and as
a result of development of liver fibrosis, and includes, but it not
limited to, development of ascites, variceal bleeding, portal
hypertension, jaundice, progressive liver insufficiency,
encephalopathy, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver failure requiring
liver transplantation, and liver-related mortality.
[0812] In another embodiment, a therapeutically effective
combination of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon
receptor agonist is any combined dosage that is effective in
reducing the incidence of (e.g., the likelihood that an individual
will develop) a disorder associated with cirrhosis of the liver by
at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at
least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least
about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about
60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, or
at least about 80%, or more, compared to an untreated individual,
or in a placebo-treated individual.
[0813] Whether combination therapy with a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a
Type II interferon receptor agonist is effective in reducing the
incidence of a disorder associated with cirrhosis of the liver can
readily be determined by those skilled in the art.
[0814] Reduction in liver fibrosis increases liver function. Thus,
the invention provides methods for increasing liver function,
generally involving administering a therapeutically effective
combined dosage of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon
receptor agonist. Liver functions include, but are not limited to,
synthesis of proteins such as serum proteins (e.g., albumin,
clotting factors, alkaline phosphatase, aminotransferases (e.g.,
alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase), 5'-nucleosidase,
.gamma.-glutaminyltranspeptidase, etc.), synthesis of bilirubin,
synthesis of cholesterol, and synthesis of bile acids; a liver
metabolic function, including, but not limited to, carbohydrate
metabolism, amino acid and ammonia metabolism, hormone metabolism,
and lipid metabolism; detoxification of exogenous drugs; a
hemodynamic function, including splanchnic and portal hemodynamics;
and the like.
[0815] Whether a liver function is increased is readily
ascertainable by those skilled in the art, using well-established
tests of liver function. Thus, synthesis of markers of liver
function such as albumin, alkaline phosphatase, alanine
transaminase, aspartate transaminase, bilirubin, and the like, can
be assessed by measuring the level of these markers in the serum,
using standard immunological and enzymatic assays. Splanchnic
circulation and portal hemodynamics can be measured by portal wedge
pressure and/or resistance using standard methods. Metabolic
functions can be measured by measuring the level of ammonia in the
serum.
[0816] Whether serum proteins normally secreted by the liver are in
the normal range can be determined by measuring the levels of such
proteins, using standard immunological and enzymatic assays. Those
skilled in the art know the normal ranges for such serum proteins.
The following are non-limiting examples. The normal range of
alanine transaminase is from about 7 to about 56 units per liter of
serum. The normal range of aspartate transaminase is from about 5
to about 40 units per liter of serum. Bilirubin is measured using
standard assays. Normal bilirubin levels are usually less than
about 1.2 mg/dL. Serum albumin levels are measured using standard
assays. Normal levels of serum albumin are in the range of from
about 35 to about 55 g/L. Prolongation of prothrombin time is
measured using standard assays. Normal prothrombin time is less
than about 4 seconds longer than control.
[0817] In another embodiment, a therapeutically effective
combination of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon
receptor agonist is any combined dosage that is effective to
increase liver function by at least about 10%, at least about 20%,
at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at
least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, or more.
For example, a therapeutically effective combination of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
includes any combined dosage that is effective to reduce an
elevated level of a serum marker of liver function by at least
about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about
40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at
least about 80%, or more, or to reduce the level of the serum
marker of liver function to within a normal range. A
therapeutically effective combination of a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a
Type II interferon receptor agonist also includes any combined
dosage effective to increase a reduced level of a serum marker of
liver function by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least
about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about
60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, or more, or to
increase the level of the serum marker of liver function to within
a normal range.
Renal Fibrosis
[0818] The present invention provides methods of treating renal
fibrosis. The methods generally involve administering to an
individual having renal fibrosis effective amounts of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist. As
used herein, "effective amounts" of a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a
Type II interferon receptor agonist are any combined dosage that is
effective in reducing renal fibrosis; and/or that is effective in
reducing the likelihood that an individual will develop renal
fibrosis; and/or that is effective in reducing a parameter
associated with renal fibrosis; and/or that is effective in
reducing a disorder associated with fibrosis of the kidney.
[0819] In one embodiment, effective amounts of a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a
Type II interferon receptor agonist are any combined dosage that is
sufficient to reduce renal fibrosis, or reduce the rate of
progression of renal fibrosis, by at least about 10%, at least
about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about
30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at
least about 50%, compared to the degree of renal fibrosis in the
individual prior to treatment, or compared to the rate of
progression of renal fibrosis that would have been experienced by
the patient in the absence of treatment.
[0820] Whether fibrosis is reduced in the kidney is determined
using any known method. For example, histochemical analysis of
kidney biopsy samples for the extent of ECM deposition and/or
fibrosis is performed. Other methods are known in the art. See,
e.g., Masseroli et al. (11028) Lab. Invest. 78:511-522; U.S. Pat.
No. 6,214,542.
[0821] In some embodiments, effective amounts of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist are
any combined dosage that is effective to increase kidney function
by at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at
least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least
about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, compared to the
baseline level of kidney function in the individual prior to
treatment.
[0822] In some embodiments, effective amounts of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist are
any combined dosage that is effective to slow the decline in kidney
function by at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about
20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at
least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, compared
to the decline in kidney function that would occur in the absence
of treatment.
[0823] Kidney function can be measured using any known assay,
including, but not limited to, plasma creatinine level (where
normal levels are generally in a range of from about 0.6 to about
1.2 mg/dL); creatinine clearance (where the normal range for
creatinine clearance is from about 97 to about 137 mL/minute in
men, and from about 88 to about 128 mL/minute in women); the
glomerular filtration rate (either calculated or obtained from
inulin clearance or other methods), blood urea nitrogen (where the
normal range is from about 7 to about 20 mg/dL); and urine protein
levels.
Additional Anti-Fibrotic Agents
[0824] Any of the above-described combination therapies for the
treatment of a fibrotic disorder can be modified to include
co-administration of one or more additional anti-fibrotic agents.
Accordingly, the present invention provides a method of treating a
fibrotic disorder, generally involving administering a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist in
combination therapy with at least one additional anti-fibrotic
agent. Suitable additional anti-fibrotic agents include, but are
not limited to, SAPK inhibitors (e.g., pirfenidone or pirfenidone
analogs), TNF antagonists, TGF-.beta. antagonists, endothelin
receptor antagonists, and the like.
[0825] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of an
amount of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a pirfenidone
analog) effective to augment the anti-fibrotic effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and Type
II interferon receptor agonist combination therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0826] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of an
amount of a TNF antagonist (e.g., etanercept, infliximab, or
adalimumab) effective to augment the anti-fibrotic effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and Type
II interferon receptor agonist combination therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0827] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of an
amount of a TGF-.beta. antagonist (e.g., GLEEVEC) effective to
augment the anti-fibrotic effect of the synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist and Type II interferon receptor
agonist combination therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0828] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of an
amount of an endothelin receptor antagonist (e.g., TRACLEER)
effective to augment the anti-fibrotic effect of the synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and Type II interferon
receptor agonist combination therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0829] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of a
combined dosage of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a
pirfenidone analog) and a TNF antagonist (e.g., etancercept,
infliximab, or adalimumab) effective to augment the anti-fibrotic
effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist and Type II interferon receptor agonist combination
therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
[0830] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of a
combined dosage of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a
pirfenidone analog) and a TGF-.beta. antagonist (e.g., GLEEVEC)
effective to augment the anti-fibrotic effect of the synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and Type II interferon
receptor agonist combination therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0831] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of a
combined dosage of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a
pirfenidone analog) and an endothelin receptor antagonist (e.g.,
TRACLEER) effective to augment the anti-fibrotic effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and Type
II interferon receptor agonist combination therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0832] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of a
combined dosage of a TNF antagonist (e.g., etanercept, infliximab,
or adalimumab) and a TGF-.beta. antagonist (e.g., GLEEVEC)
effective to augment the anti-fibrotic effect of the synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and Type II interferon
receptor agonist combination therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0833] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of a
combined dosage of a TNF antagonist (e.g., etanercept, infliximab,
or adalimumab) and an endothelin receptor antagonist (e.g.,
TRACLEER) effective to augment the anti-fibrotic effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and Type
II interferon receptor agonist combination therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0834] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of a
combined dosage of a TGF-.beta. antagonist (e.g., GLEEVEC) and an
endothelin receptor antagonist (e.g., TRACLEER) effective to
augment the anti-fibrotic effect of the synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist and Type II interferon receptor
agonist combination therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0835] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of a
combined dosage of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a
pirfenidone analog), TNF antagonist (e.g., etanercept, infliximab,
or adalimumab) and a TGF-.beta. antagonist (e.g., GLEEVEC)
effective to augment the anti-fibrotic effect of the synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and Type II interferon
receptor agonist combination therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0836] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of a
combined dosage of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a
pirfenidone analog), TNF antagonist (e.g., etanercept, infliximab,
or adalimumab) and an endothelin antagonist (e.g., TRACLEER)
effective to augment the anti-fibrotic effect of the synthetic Type
I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and Type II interferon
receptor agonist combination therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0837] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of a
combined dosage of TNF antagonist (e.g., etanercept, infliximab, or
adalimumab), TGF-.beta. antagonist (e.g., GLEEVEC) and an
endothelin antagonist (e.g., TRACLEER) effective to augment the
anti-fibrotic effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist and Type II interferon receptor agonist
combination therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
[0838] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of a
combined dosage of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a
pirfenidone analog), TGF-.beta. antagonist (e.g., GLEEVEC) and an
endothelin antagonist (e.g., TRACLEER) effective to augment the
anti-fibrotic effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist and Type II interferon receptor agonist
combination therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
[0839] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient can
be modified to include co-administration to the patient of a
combined dosage of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a
pirfenidone analog), a TNF antagonist (e.g., etanercept,
infliximab, or adalimumab), a TGF-.beta. antagonist (e.g., GLEEVEC)
and an endothelin antagonist (e.g., TRACLEER) effective to augment
the anti-fibrotic effect of the synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist and Type II interferon receptor
agonist combination therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0840] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with a combined dosage of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a Type II interferon receptor agonist
effective for the treatment of a fibrotic disorder in a patient,
with or without co-administration of one or more additional
anti-fibrotic agent(s), can be further modified to include
co-administration of an amount of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) effective
to augment the anti-fibrotic effect of the combination therapy, for
the desired treatment duration.
Cancer
[0841] The present invention provides a method of treating a
proliferative disorder (e.g., cancer), the method generally
involving administering to an individual in need thereof an
effective amount of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant.
[0842] The methods are effective to reduce the growth rate of a
tumor by at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 20%,
at least about 25%, at least about 50%, at least about 75%, at
least about 85%, or at least about 90%, up to total inhibition of
growth of the tumor, when compared to a suitable control. Thus, in
these embodiments, an "effective amount" of a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant is an
amount that is sufficient to reduce tumor growth rate by at least
about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about
25%, at least about 50%, at least about 75%, at least about 85%, or
at least about 90%, up to total inhibition of tumor growth, when
compared to a suitable control. In an experimental animal system, a
suitable control may be a genetically identical animal not treated
with the synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist.
In non-experimental systems, a suitable control may be the tumor
load present before administering the synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist. Other suitable controls may be a
placebo control.
[0843] Whether growth of a tumor is inhibited can be determined
using any known method, including, but not limited to, a
proliferation assay as described in the Example; a
.sup.3H-thymidine uptake assay; and the like.
[0844] The methods are useful for treating a wide variety of
cancers, including carcinomas, sarcomas, leukemias, and
lymphomas.
[0845] Carcinomas that can be treated using a subject method
include, but are not limited to, esophageal carcinoma,
hepatocellular carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma (a form of skin
cancer), squamous cell carcinoma (various tissues), bladder
carcinoma, including transitional cell carcinoma (a malignant
neoplasm of the bladder), bronchogenic carcinoma, colon carcinoma,
colorectal carcinoma, gastric carcinoma, lung carcinoma, including
small cell carcinoma and non-small cell carcinoma of the lung,
adrenocortical carcinoma, thyroid carcinoma, pancreatic carcinoma,
breast carcinoma, ovarian carcinoma, prostate carcinoma,
adenocarcinoma, sweat gland carcinoma, sebaceous gland carcinoma,
papillary carcinoma, papillary adenocarcinoma, cystadenocarcinoma,
medullary carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, ductal carcinoma in situ
or bile duct carcinoma, choriocarcinoma, seminoma, embryonal
carcinoma, Wilm's tumor, cervical carcinoma, uterine carcinoma,
testicular carcinoma, osteogenic carcinoma, epithelieal carcinoma,
and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, etc.
[0846] Sarcomas that can be treated using a subject method include,
but are not limited to, fibrosarcoma, myxosarcoma, liposarcoma,
chondrosarcoma, chordoma, osteogenic sarcoma, osteosarcoma,
angiosarcoma, endothelio sarcoma, lymphangiosarcoma,
lymphangioendotheliosarcoma, synovioma, mesothelioma, Ewing's
sarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, and other soft tissue
sarcomas.
[0847] Other solid tumors that can be treated using a subject
method include, but are not limited to, glioma, astrocytoma,
medulloblastoma, craniopharyngioma, ependymoma, pinealoma,
hemangioblastoma, acoustic neuroma, oligodendroglioma, menangioma,
melanoma, neuroblastoma, and retinoblastoma.
[0848] Leukemias that can be treated using a subject method
include, but are not limited to, a) chronic myeloproliferative
syndromes (neoplastic disorders of multipotential hematopoietic
stem cells); b) acute myelogenous leukemias (neoplastic
transformation of a multipotential hematopoietic stem cell or a
hematopoietic cell of restricted lineage potential; c) chronic
lymphocytic leukemias (CLL; clonal proliferation of immunologically
immature and functionally incompetent small lymphocytes), including
B-cell CLL, T-cell CLL prolymphocytic leukemia, and hairy cell
leukemia; and d) acute lymphoblastic leukemias (characterized by
accumulation of lymphoblasts). Lymphomas that can be treated using
a subject method include, but are not limited to, B-cell lymphomas
(e.g., Burkitt's lymphoma); Hodgkin's lymphoma; and the like.
Combination Therapies
[0849] In some embodiments, the present invention provides
combination therapies for the treatment of cancer. Accordingly, the
present invention provides a method of treating cancer, generally
involving administering a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide
variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant in
combination therapy with at least a second therapeutic agent.
[0850] In other embodiments, the present invention provides methods
of treating cancer that involve administering a synergistic
combination of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant and a second therapeutic
agent. As used herein, a "synergistic combination" of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and a second therapeutic agent is a combined
dosage that is more effective in the therapeutic or prophylactic
treatment of cancer than the incremental improvement in treatment
outcome that could be predicted or expected from a merely additive
combination of (i) the therapeutic or prophylactic benefit of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant when administered at that same dosage as a
monotherapy and (ii) the therapeutic or prophylactic benefit of the
second therapeutic agent when administered at the same dosage as a
monotherapy.
[0851] In some embodiments, a subject synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide
variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant is
administered as an adjuvant therapy to a standard cancer therapy.
Standard cancer therapies include surgery (e.g., surgical removal
of cancerous tissue), radiation therapy, bone marrow
transplantation, chemotherapeutic treatment, biological response
modifier treatment, and certain combinations of the foregoing.
[0852] Radiation therapy includes, but is not limited to, x-rays or
gamma rays that are delivered from either an externally applied
source such as a beam, or by implantation of small radioactive
sources.
[0853] Chemotherapeutic agents are non-peptidic (i.e.,
non-proteinaceous) compounds that reduce proliferation of cancer
cells, and encompass cytotoxic agents and cytostatic agents.
Non-limiting examples of chemotherapeutic agents include alkylating
agents, nitrosoureas, antimetabolites, antitumor antibiotics, plant
(vinca) alkaloids, and steroid hormones.
[0854] Agents that act to reduce cellular proliferation are known
in the art and widely used. Such agents include alkylating agents,
such as nitrogen mustards, nitrosoureas, ethylenimine derivatives,
alkyl sulfonates, and triazenes, including, but not limited to,
mechlorethamine, cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan.TM.), melphalan
(L-sarcolysin), carmustine (BCNU), lomustine (CCNU), semustine
(methyl-CCNU), streptozocin, chlorozotocin, uracil mustard,
chlormethine, ifosfamide, chlorambucil, pipobroman,
triethylenemelamine, triethylenethiophosphoramine, busulfan,
dacarbazine, and temozolomide.
[0855] Antimetabolite agents include folic acid analogs, pyrimidine
analogs, purine analogs, and adenosine deaminase inhibitors,
including, but not limited to, cytarabine (CYTOSAR-U), cytosine
arabinoside, fluorouracil (5-FU), floxuridine (FudR),
6-thioguanine, 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), pentostatin, 5-fluorouracil
(5-FU), methotrexate, 10-propargyl-5,8-dideazafolate (PDDF,
CB3717), 5,8-dideazatetrahydrofolic acid (DDATHF), leucovorin,
fludarabine phosphate, pentostatine, and gemcitabine.
[0856] Suitable natural products and their derivatives, (e.g.,
vinca alkaloids, antitumor antibiotics, enzymes, lymphokines, and
epipodophyllotoxins), include, but are not limited to, Ara-C,
paclitaxel (Taxol.RTM.), docetaxel (Taxotere.RTM.),
deoxycoformycin, mitomycin-C, L-asparaginase, azathioprine;
brequinar; alkaloids, e.g. vincristine, vinblastine, vinorelbine,
vindesine, etc.; podophyllotoxins, e.g. etoposide, teniposide,
etc.; antibiotics, e.g. anthracycline, daunorubicin hydrochloride
(daunomycin, rubidomycin, cerubidine), idarubicin, doxorubicin,
epirubicin and morpholino derivatives, etc.; phenoxizone
biscyclopeptides, e.g. dactinomycin; basic glycopeptides, e.g.
bleomycin; anthraquinone glycosides, e.g. plicamycin (mithramycin);
anthracenediones, e.g. mitoxantrone; azirinopyrrolo indolediones,
e.g. mitomycin; macrocyclic immunosuppressants, e.g. cyclosporine,
FK-506 (tacrolimus, prograf), rapamycin, etc.; and the like.
[0857] Other anti-proliferative cytotoxic agents are navelbene,
CPT-11, anastrazole, letrazole, capecitabine, reloxafine,
cyclophosphamide, ifosamide, and droloxafine.
[0858] Microtubule affecting agents that have antiproliferative
activity are also suitable for use and include, but are not limited
to, allocolchicine (NSC 406042), Halichondrin B (NSC 609395),
colchicine (NSC 757), colchicine derivatives (e.g., NSC 33410),
dolstatin 10 (NSC 376128), maytansine (NSC 153858), rhizoxin (NSC
332598), paclitaxel (Taxol.RTM.), Taxol.RTM. derivatives, docetaxel
(Taxotere.RTM.), thiocolchicine (NSC 361792), trityl cysterin,
vinblastine sulfate, vincristine sulfate, natural and synthetic
epothilones including but not limited to, eopthilone A, epothilone
B, discodermolide; estramustine, nocodazole, and the like.
[0859] Hormone modulators and steroids (including synthetic
analogs) that are suitable for use include, but are not limited to,
adrenocorticosteroids, e.g. prednisone, dexamethasone, etc.;
estrogens and pregestins, e.g. hydroxyprogesterone caproate,
medroxyprogesterone acetate, megestrol acetate, estradiol,
clomiphene, tamoxifen; etc.; and adrenocortical suppressants, e.g.
aminoglutethimide; 17.alpha.-ethinylestradiol; diethylstilbestrol,
testosterone, fluoxymesterone, dromostanolone propionate,
testolactone, methylprednisolone, methyl-testosterone,
prednisolone, triamcinolone, chlorotrianisene, hydroxyprogesterone,
aminoglutethimide, estramustine, medroxyprogesterone acetate,
leuprolide, Flutamide (Drogenil), Toremifene (Fareston), and
Zoladex.RTM.. Estrogens stimulate proliferation and
differentiation, therefore compounds that bind to the estrogen
receptor are used to block this activity. Corticosteroids may
inhibit T cell proliferation.
[0860] Other chemotherapeutic agents include metal complexes, e.g.
cisplatin (cis-DDP), carboplatin, etc.; ureas, e.g. hydroxyurea;
and hydrazines, e.g. N-methylhydrazine; epidophyllotoxin; a
topoisomerase inhibitor; procarbazine; mitoxantrone; leucovorin;
tegafur; etc. Other anti-proliferative agents of interest include
immunosuppressants, e.g. mycophenolic acid, thalidomide,
desoxyspergualin, azasporine, leflunomide, mizoribine, azaspirane
(SKF 105685); Iressa.RTM. (ZD 1839,
4-(3-chloro-4-fluorophenylamino)-7-methoxy-6-(3-(4-morpholinyl)propoxy)qu-
inazoline); etc.
[0861] "Taxanes" include paclitaxel, as well as any active taxane
derivative or pro-drug. "Paclitaxel" (which should be understood
herein to include analogues, formulations, and derivatives such as,
for example, docetaxel, TAXOL.TM., TAXOTERE.TM. (a formulation of
docetaxel), 10-desacetyl analogs of paclitaxel and
3'N-desbenzoyl-3'N-t-butoxycarbonyl analogs of paclitaxel) may be
readily prepared utilizing techniques known to those skilled in the
art (see also WO 94/07882, WO 94/07881, WO 94/07880, WO 94/07876,
WO 93/23555, WO 93/10076; U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,294,637; 5,283,253;
5,279,949; 5,274,137; 5,202,448; 5,200,534; 5,229,529; and EP
590,267), or obtained from a variety of commercial sources,
including for example, Sigma Chemical Co., St. Louis, Mo. (T7402
from Taxus brevifolia; or T-1912 from Taxus yannanensis).
[0862] Paclitaxel should be understood to refer to not only the
common chemically available form of paclitaxel, but analogs and
derivatives (e.g., Taxotere.TM. docetaxel, as noted above) and
paclitaxel conjugates (e.g., paclitaxel-PEG, paclitaxel-dextran, or
paclitaxel-xylose).
[0863] Also included within the term "taxane" are a variety of
known derivatives, including both hydrophilic derivatives, and
hydrophobic derivatives. Taxane derivatives include, but not
limited to, galactose and mannose derivatives described in
International Patent Application No. WO 102/18113; piperazino and
other derivatives described in WO 102/14209; taxane derivatives
described in WO 102/09021, WO 98/22451, and U.S. Pat. No.
5,869,680; 6-thio derivatives described in WO 98/28288; sulfenamide
derivatives described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,821,263; and taxol
derivative described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,415,869. It further
includes prodrugs of paclitaxel including, but not limited to,
those described in WO 98/58927; WO 98/13059; and U.S. Pat. No.
5,824,701.
[0864] Biological response modifiers suitable for use in connection
with the methods of the invention include, but are not limited to,
(1) inhibitors of tyrosine kinase (RTK) activity; (2) inhibitors of
serine/threonine kinase activity; (3) tumor-associated antigen
antagonists, such as antibodies that bind specifically to a tumor
antigen; (4) apoptosis receptor agonists; (5) interleukin-2; (6)
IFN-.alpha.; (7) IFN-.gamma. (8) colony-stimulating factors; and
(9) inhibitors of angiogenesis.
[0865] In one aspect, the invention contemplates the combination of
a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist,
a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant as an adjuvant to any therapy in which the
cancer patient receives treatment with at least one additional
antineoplastic drug, where the additional drug is a tyrosine kinase
inhibitor. In some embodiments, the tyrosine kinase inhibitor is a
receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) inhibitor, such as type I receptor
tyrosine kinase inhibitors (e.g., inhibitors of epidermal growth
factor receptors), type II receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors
(e.g., inhibitors of insulin receptor), type III receptor tyrosine
kinase inhibitors (e.g., inhibitors of platelet-derived growth
factor receptor), and type IV receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors
(e.g., fibroblast growth factor receptor). In other embodiments,
the tyrosine kinase inhibitor is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase
inhibitor, such as inhibitors of src kinases or janus kinases.
[0866] In another aspect, the invention contemplates the
combination of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant as an adjuvant to any
therapy in which the cancer patient receives treatment with at
least one additional antineoplastic drug, where the additional drug
is an inhibitor of a receptor tyrosine kinase involved in growth
factor signaling pathway(s). In some embodiments, the inhibitor is
genistein. In other embodiments, the inhibitor is an EGFR tyrosine
kinase-specific antagonist, such as IRESSA.TM. gefitinib (ZD18398;
Novartis), TARCEVA.TM. erolotinib (OSI-774; Roche; Genentech; OSI
Pharmaceuticals), or tyrphostin AG1478
(4-(3-chloroanilino)-6,7-dimethoxyquinazoline. In still other
embodiments, the inhibitor is any indolinone antagonist of
Flk-1/KDR (VEGF-R2) tyrosine kinase activity described in U.S.
Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0183364 A1, such as the
indolinone antagonists of Flk-1/KDR (VEGF-R2) tyrosine kinase
activity disclosed in Table 1 on pages 4-5 thereof. In further
embodiments, the inhibitor is any of the substituted
3-[(4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-indol-2-yl)methylene]-1,3-dihydroindol-2-one
antagonists of Flk-1/KDR (VEGF-R2), FGF-R1 or PDGF-R tyrosine
kinase activity disclosed in Sun, L., et al., J. Med. Chem.,
43(14): 2655-2663 (2000). In additional embodiments, the inhibitor
is any substituted 3-[(3- or
4-carboxyethylpyrrol-2-yl)methylidenyl]indolin-2-one antagonist of
Flt-1 (VEGF-R1), Flk-1/KDR (VEGF-R2), FGF-R1 or PDGF-R tyrosine
kinase activity disclosed in Sun, L., et al., J. Med. Chem.,
42(25): 5120-5130 (11029).
[0867] In another aspect, the invention contemplates the
combination of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant as an adjuvant to any
therapy in which the cancer patient receives treatment with at
least one additional antineoplastic drug, where the additional drug
is an inhibitor of a non-receptor tyrosine kinase involved in
growth factor signaling pathway(s). In some embodiments, the
inhibitor is an antagonist of JAK2 tyrosine kinase activity, such
as tyrphostin AG490
(2-cyano-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-N-(benzyl)-2-propenamide). In
other embodiments, the inhibitor is an antagonist of bcr-abl
tyrosine kinase activity, such as GLEEVEC.TM. imatinib mesylate
(STI-571; Novartis).
[0868] In another aspect, the invention contemplates the
combination of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant as an adjuvant to any
therapy in which the cancer patient receives treatment with at
least one additional antineoplastic drug, where the additional drug
is an inhibitor of one or more kinases involved in cell cycle
regulation. In some embodiments, the inhibitor is an antagonist of
CDK2 activation, such as tryphostin AG490
(2-cyano-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-N-(benzyl)-2-propenamide). In
other embodiments, the inhibitor is an antagonist of CDK1/cyclin B
activity, such as alsterpaullone. In still other embodiments, the
inhibitor is an antagonist of CDK2 kinase activity, such as
indirubin-3'-monoxime. In additional embodiments, the inhibitor is
an ATP pool antagonist, such as lometrexol (described in U.S.
Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0156023 A1).
[0869] In another aspect, the invention contemplates the
combination of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant as an adjuvant to any
therapy in which the cancer patient receives treatment with at
least one additional antineoplastic drug, where the additional drug
is a tumor-associated antigen antagonist, such as an antibody
antagonist. In some embodiments involving the treatment of
HER2-expressing tumors, the tumor-associated antigen antagonist is
an anti-HER2 monoclonal antibody, such as HERCEPTIN.TM.
trastuzumab. In some embodiments involving the treatment of
CD20-expressing tumors, such as B-cell lymphomas, the
tumor-associated antigen antagonist is an anti-CD20 monoclonal
antibody, such as RITUXAN.TM. rituximab.
[0870] In another aspect, the invention contemplates the
combination of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant as an adjuvant to any
therapy in which the cancer patient receives treatment with at
least one additional antineoplastic drug, where the additional drug
is a tumor growth factor antagonist. In some embodiments, the tumor
growth factor antagonist is an antagonist of epidermal growth
factor (EGF), such as an anti-EGF monoclonal antibody. In other
embodiments, the tumor growth factor antagonist is an antagonist of
epidermal growth factor receptor erbB1 (EGFR), such as an anti-EGFR
monoclonal antibody inhibitor of EGFR activation or signal
transduction, e.g. ERBITUX.TM. cetuximab.
[0871] In another aspect, the invention contemplates the
combination of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant as an adjuvant to any
therapy in which the cancer patient receives treatment with at
least one additional antineoplastic drug, where the additional drug
is an Apo-2 ligand agonist. In some embodiments, the Apo-2 ligand
agonist is any of the Apo-2 ligand polypeptides described in WO
97/25428.
[0872] In another aspect, the invention contemplates the
combination of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant as an adjuvant to any
therapy in which the cancer patient receives treatment with at
least one additional antineoplastic drug, where the additional drug
is an anti-angiogenic agent. In some embodiments, the
anti-angiogenic agent is a vascular endothelial cell growth factor
(VEGF) antagonist, such as an anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody, e.g.
AVASTIN.TM. bevacizumab (Genentech). In other embodiments, the
anti-angiogenic agent is an antagonist of VEGF-R1, such as an
anti-VEGF-R1 monoclonal antibody. In other embodiments, the
anti-angiogenic agent is an antagonist of VEGF-R2, such as an
anti-VEGF-R2 monoclonal antibody. In other embodiments, the
anti-angiogenic agent is an antagonist of basic fibroblast growth
factor (bFGF), such as an anti-bFGF monoclonal antibody. In other
embodiments, the anti-angiogenic factor is an antagonist of bFGF
receptor, such as an anti-bFGF receptor monoclonal antibody. In
other embodiments, the anti-angiogenic agent is an antagonist of
TGF-.beta., such as an anti-TGF-.beta. monoclonal antibody. In
other embodiments, the anti-angiogenic agent is an antagonist of
TGF-.beta. receptor, such as an anti-TGF-.beta. receptor monoclonal
antibody. In other embodiments, the anti-angiogenic agent is a
retinoic acid receptor (RXR) ligand, such as any RXR ligand
described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2001/0036955
A1 or in any of U.S. Pat. No. 5,824,685; 5,780,676; 5,3102,586;
5,466,861; 4,810,804; 5,770,378; 5,770,383; or 5,770,382. In still
other embodiments, the anti-angiogenic agent is a peroxisome
proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) gamma ligand, such as any
PPAR gamma ligand described in U.S. Patent Application Publication
No. 2001/0036955 A1.
[0873] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of cancer in a patient can be
modified to include co-administration to the patient of an amount
of IFN-.gamma. effective to augment the anti-cancer effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy,
for the desired treatment duration.
[0874] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of cancer in a patient can be
modified to include co-administration to the patient of an amount
of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a pirfenidone analog)
effective to augment the anti-cancer effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0875] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of cancer in a patient can be
modified to include co-administration to the patient of an amount
of IFN-.gamma. and an amount of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone
or a pirfenidone analog) effective to augment the anti-cancer
effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
[0876] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring combination therapy with an amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and an amount of an additional anti-cancer
agent, other than IFN-.gamma., effective for the treatment of
cancer in a patient can be modified to include co-administration to
the patient of an amount of IFN-.gamma. effective to augment the
anti-cancer effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist and additional anti-cancer agent combination
therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
[0877] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring combination therapy with an amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and an amount of an additional anti-cancer
agent, other than a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a
pirfenidone analog), effective for the treatment of cancer in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a
pirfenidone analog) effective to augment the anti-cancer effect of
the synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and
additional anti-cancer agent combination therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0878] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring combination therapy with an amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant and an amount of an additional anti-cancer
agent, other than IFN-.gamma. or a SAPK inhibitor (e.g.,
pirfenidone or a pirfenidone analog), effective for the treatment
of cancer in a patient can be modified to include co-administration
to the patient of an amount of IFN-.gamma. and an amount of a SAPK
inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a pirfenidone analog) that are
effective to augment the anti-cancer effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and additional anti-cancer
agent combination therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
Viral Infections
[0879] The present invention provides methods of treating a virus
infection, and methods of reducing viral load, or reducing the time
to viral clearance, or reducing morbidity or mortality in the
clinical outcomes, in patients suffering from a virus infection.
The present invention further provides methods of reducing the risk
that an individual will develop a pathological viral infection that
has clinical sequelae. The methods generally involve administering
a therapeutically effective amount of a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant for the
treatment of a virus infection.
[0880] In some embodiments, a subject treatment method is
prophylactic. Where a subject treatment method is prophylactic, the
methods reduce the risk that an individual will develop
pathological infection with a virus. An effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant is an amount that reduces the risk or reduces
the probability that an individual will develop a pathological
infection with a virus. For example, an effective amount reduces
the risk that an individual will develop a pathological infection
by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at
least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least
about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about
80%, at least about 90%, or more, compared to the risk of
developing a pathological infection with the virus in the absence
of treatment with a subject agent.
[0881] In some embodiments, an effective amount of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant is an amount that reduces viral load by at
least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least
about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about
50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at
least about 90%, or more, compared to the viral load in the absence
of treatment with the subject agent.
[0882] In some embodiments, an effective amount of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant is an amount that that reduces the time to
viral clearance, by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at
least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least
about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about
70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, or more, compared to
the time to viral clearance in the absence of treatment.
[0883] In some embodiments, an effective amount of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant is an amount that reduces morbidity or
mortality due to a virus infection by at least about 10%, at least
about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about
35%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at
least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, or more,
compared to the morbidity or mortality in the absence of
treatment.
[0884] Whether a subject treatment method is effective in reducing
the risk of a pathological virus infection, reducing viral load,
reducing time to viral clearance, or reducing morbidity or
mortality due to a virus infection is readily determined by those
skilled in the art. Viral load is readily measured by measuring the
titer or level of virus in serum. The number of virus in the serum
can be determined using any known assay, including, e.g., a
quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay using oligonucleotide
primers specific for the virus being assayed. Whether morbidity is
reduced can be determined by measuring any symptom associated with
a virus infection, including, e.g., fever, respiratory symptoms
(e.g., cough, ease or difficulty of breathing, and the like.)
[0885] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method
of reducing viral load, and/or reducing the time to viral
clearance, and/or reducing morbidity or mortality in an individual
who has been exposed to a virus (e.g., an individual who has come
into contact with an individual infected with a virus), the method
involving administering an effective amount of subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. In these
embodiments, therapy is begun from about 1 hour to about 14 days
following exposure, e.g., from about 1 hour to about 24 hours, from
about 24 hours to about 48 hours, from about 48 hours to about 3
days, from about 3 days to about 4 days, from about 4 days to about
7 days, from about 7 days to about 10 days, or from about 10 days
to about 14 days following exposure to the virus.
[0886] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method
of reducing the risk that an individual who has been exposed to a
virus (e.g., an individual who has come into contact with an
individual infected with a virus) will develop a pathological virus
infection with clinical sequelae, the method involving
administering an effective amount of a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant. In these
embodiments, therapy is begun from about 1 hour to about 35 days
following exposure, e.g., from about 1 hour to about 24 hours, from
about 24 hours to about 48 hours, from about 48 hours to about 3
days, from about 3 days to about 4 days, from about 4 days to about
7 days, from about 7 days to about 10 days, from about 10 days to
about 14 days, from about 14 days to about 21 days, or from about
21 days to about 35 days following exposure to the virus.
[0887] In some embodiments, the present invention provides methods
of reducing viral load, and/or reducing the time to viral
clearance, and/or reducing morbidity or mortality in an individual
who may or may not have been infected with a virus, and who has
been exposed to a virus. In some of these embodiments, the methods
involve administering an effective amount of a subject synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant within 24
hours of exposure to the virus.
[0888] In some embodiments, the present invention provides methods
of reducing viral load, and/or reducing the time to viral
clearance, and/or reducing morbidity or mortality in an individual
who has not been infected with a virus, and who has been exposed to
a virus. In some of these embodiments, the methods involve
administering effective amounts of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g.,
pirfenidone or a pirfenidone analog) and a Type I interferon
receptor agonist within 48 hours of exposure to the virus.
[0889] In some embodiments, the present invention provides methods
of reducing viral load, and/or reducing the time to viral
clearance, and/or reducing morbidity or mortality in an individual
who has not been infected with a virus, and who has been exposed to
a virus. The methods involve administering a subject agent more
than 48 hours after exposure to the virus, e.g., from 72 hours to
about 35 days, e.g., 72 hours, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, or 7 days
after exposure, or from about 7 days to about 10 days, from about
10 days to about 14 days, from about 14 days to about 17 days, from
about 17 days to about 21 days, from about 21 days to about 25
days, from about 25 days to about 30 days, or from about 30 days to
about 35 days after exposure to the virus. In some of these
embodiments, the methods involve administering an effective amount
of a subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist, a hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a
protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant more than 48 hours after
exposure to the virus.
[0890] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method
of reducing the risk that an individual who has been exposed to a
virus will develop a pathological virus infection with clinical
sequelae. In some of these embodiments, the methods involve
administering an effective amount of a subject synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant polypeptide variant, or a
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant within 24
hours of exposure to the virus.
[0891] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method
of reducing the risk that an individual who has been exposed to a
virus (e.g., an individual who has come into contact with an
individual infected with a virus) will develop a pathological viral
infection with clinical sequelae. In some of these embodiments, the
methods involve administering an effective amount of a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant within 48 hours of exposure to the virus.
Hepatitis Virus Infection
[0892] The present invention provides methods of treating a
hepatitis virus infection. In particular embodiments, the present
invention provides methods of treating a hepatitis C virus (HCV)
infection; methods of reducing the incidence of complications
associated with HCV and cirrhosis of the liver; and methods of
reducing viral load, or reducing the time to viral clearance, or
reducing morbidity or mortality in the clinical outcomes, in
patients suffering from HCV infection. The methods generally
involve administering to the individual an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant.
[0893] In many embodiments, a subject treatment method is effective
to decrease viral load in the individual, and to achieve a
sustained viral response. Optionally, the subject method further
provides administering to the individual an effective amount of a
nucleoside analog, such as ribavirin, levovirin, and viramidine. Of
particular interest in many embodiments is treatment of humans.
[0894] Whether a subject method is effective in treating an HCV
infection can be determined by measuring viral load, or by
measuring a parameter associated with HCV infection, including, but
not limited to, liver fibrosis, elevations in serum transaminase
levels, and necroinflammatory activity in the liver. Indicators of
liver fibrosis are discussed in detail below.
[0895] Viral load can be measured by measuring the titer or level
of virus in serum. These methods include, but are not limited to, a
quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and a branched DNA
(bDNA) test. Quantitative assays for measuring the viral load
(titer) of HCV RNA have been developed. Many such assays are
available commercially, including a quantitative reverse
transcription PCR (RT-PCR) (Amplicor HCV Monitor.TM., Roche
Molecular Systems, New Jersey); and a branched DNA
(deoxyribonucleic acid) signal amplification assay (Quantiplex.TM.
HCV RNA Assay (bDNA), Chiron Corp., Emeryville, Calif.). See, e.g.,
Gretch et al. (11025) Ann. Intern. Med. 123:321-329. Also of
interest is a nucleic acid test (NAT), developed by Gen-Probe Inc.
(San Diego) and Chiron Corporation, and sold by Chiron Corporation
under the trade name Procleix.RTM., which NAT simultaneously tests
for the presence of HIV-1 and HCV. See, e.g., Vargo et al. (2002)
Transfusion 42:876-885.
[0896] In general, an effective amount of a subject agent (e.g., a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant) is an amount that is effective to reduce viral
load to undetectable levels, e.g., to less than about 5000, less
than about 1000, less than about 500, or less than about 200 genome
copies/mL serum. In some embodiments, an effective amount of a
subject agent is an amount that is effective to reduce viral load
to less than 100 genome copies/mL serum. In many embodiments, the
methods of the invention achieve a sustained viral response, e.g.,
the viral load is reduced to undetectable levels for a period of at
least about one month, at least about two months, at least about
three months, at least about four months, at least about five
months, or at least about six months following cessation of
treatment.
[0897] Whether a subject method is effective in treating an HCV
infection can be determined by measuring a parameter associated
with HCV infection, such as liver fibrosis. Methods of determining
the extent of liver fibrosis are discussed in detail below. In some
embodiments, the level of a serum marker of liver fibrosis
indicates the degree of liver fibrosis.
[0898] As one non-limiting example, levels of serum alanine
aminotransferase (ALT) are measured, using standard assays. In
general, an ALT level of less than about 45 international units is
considered normal. In some embodiments, an effective amount of a
therapeutic agent that is administered as part of a subject
combination therapy is an amount effective to reduce ALT levels to
less than about 45 U/ml serum.
Combination Therapies
[0899] In some embodiments, the present invention provides
combination therapies for the treatment of a viral infection.
Accordingly, the present invention provides a method of treating a
viral infection, generally involving administering a subject
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant in combination therapy with at least a second
therapeutic agent. Suitable additional therapeutic agents include,
but are not limited to, nucleoside analogs such as ribavirin and
viramidine, L-nucleosides such as levovirin, Type II interferon
receptor agonists (e.g., IFN-.gamma.), TNF antagonists,
thymosin-.alpha., SAPK inhibitors (e.g., pirfenidone or pirfenidone
analogs), amantidine, and the like. In connection with combination
therapies for the treatment of HCV infection, suitable additional
therapeutic agents include, but are not limited to, nucleoside
analogs such as ribavirin, levovirin, and viramidine, Type II
interferon receptor agonists (e.g., IFN-.gamma.), TNF antagonists,
NS3 inhibitors, NS5B inhibitors, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors,
thymosin-.alpha., SAPK inhibitors (e.g., pirfenidone or pirfenidone
analogs), amantidine, and the like.
[0900] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection, e.g. HCV
infection, in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of IFN-.gamma.
effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0901] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection, e.g. HCV
infection, in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of a SAPK inhibitor
(e.g., pirfenidone or a pirfenidone analog) effective to augment
the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0902] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection, e.g. HCV
infection, in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of a nucleoside
analog effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the
desired treatment duration.
[0903] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection, e.g. HCV
infection, in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of ribavirin
effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0904] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection, e.g. HCV
infection, in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of an L-nucleoside
(e.g., levovirin) effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy,
for the desired treatment duration.
[0905] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection, e.g. HCV
infection, in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of viramidine
effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0906] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection, e.g. HCV
infection, in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of a TNF antagonist
(e.g. etanercept, infliximab or adalimumab) effective to augment
the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0907] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection, e.g. HCV
infection, in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of thymosin-.alpha.
effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0908] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an NS3 inhibitor effective to augment the
anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0909] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an NS5B inhibitor effective to augment the
anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0910] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor effective to augment
the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0911] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection (e.g., HCV
infection) in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of IFN-.gamma. and an
amount of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a pirfenidone
analog) effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic
Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the
desired treatment duration.
[0912] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection (e.g., HCV
infection) in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of IFN-.gamma. and an
amount of a nucleoside analog effective to augment the anti-viral
effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
[0913] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection (e.g., HCV
infection) in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of IFN-.gamma. and an
amount of ribavirin effective to augment the anti-viral effect of
the synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
[0914] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection (e.g., HCV
infection) in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of IFN-.gamma. and an
amount of an L-nucleoside (e.g., levovirin) effective to augment
the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0915] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection (e.g., HCV
infection) in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of IFN-.gamma. and an
amount of viramidine effective to augment the anti-viral effect of
the synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
[0916] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection (e.g., HCV
infection) in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of IFN-.gamma. and an
amount of a TNF antagonist (e.g., etanercept, infliximab, or
adalimumab) effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy,
for the desired treatment duration.
[0917] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection (e.g., HCV
infection) in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of IFN-.gamma. and an
amount of thymosin-.alpha. effective to augment the anti-viral
effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
[0918] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of IFN-.gamma. and an amount of an NS3 inhibitor
effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0919] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of IFN-.gamma. and an amount of an NS5B inhibitor
effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0920] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of IFN-.gamma. and an amount of an alpha-glucosidase
inhibitor effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy,
for the desired treatment duration.
[0921] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection (e.g., HCV
infection) in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of a nucleoside
analog (e.g., ribavirin, viramidine, or an L-nucleoside such as
levovirin) and an amount of IFN-.gamma. effective to augment the
anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0922] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection (e.g., HCV
infection) in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of a nucleoside
analog (e.g., ribavirin, viramidine, or an L-nucleoside such as
levovirin) and an amount of TNF antagonist (e.g., etanercept,
infliximab, or adalimumab) effective to augment the anti-viral
effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
[0923] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection (e.g., HCV
infection) in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of a nucleoside
analog (e.g., ribavirin, viramidine, or an L-nucleoside such as
levovirin) and an amount of thymosin-.alpha. effective to augment
the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0924] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of viral infection (e.g., HCV
infection) in a patient can be modified to include
co-administration to the patient of an amount of a nucleoside
analog (e.g., ribavirin, viramidine, or an L-nucleoside such as
levovirin) and an amount of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or
a pirfenidone analog) effective to augment the anti-viral effect of
the synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
[0925] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of a nucleoside analog (e.g., ribavirin, viramidine,
or an L-nucleoside such as levovirin) and an amount of an NS3
inhibitor effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy,
for the desired treatment duration.
[0926] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of a nucleoside analog (e.g., ribavirin, viramidine,
or an L-nucleoside such as levovirin) and an amount of an NS5B
inhibitor effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy,
for the desired treatment duration.
[0927] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of a nucleoside analog (e.g., ribavirin, viramidine,
or an L-nucleoside such as levovirin) and an amount of a TNF
antagonist (e.g., etanercept, infliximab, or adalimumab) effective
to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0928] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an NS3 inhibitor and an amount of a TNF antagonist
(e.g., etanercept, infliximab, or adalimumab) effective to augment
the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0929] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an NS5B inhibitor and an amount of a TNF antagonist
(e.g., etanercept, infliximab, or adalimumab) effective to augment
the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0930] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor and an amount of a
TNF antagonist (e.g., etanercept, infliximab, or adalimumab)
effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0931] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a
pirfendione analog) and an amount of a TNF antagonist (e.g.,
etanercept, infliximab, or adalimumab) effective to augment the
anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0932] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of thymosin-.alpha. and an amount of a TNF antagonist
(e.g., etanercept, infliximab, or adalimumab) effective to augment
the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0933] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of a nucleoside analog (e.g., ribavirin, viramidine,
or an L-nucleoside such as levovirin) and an amount of
thymosin-.alpha. effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy,
for the desired treatment duration.
[0934] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of a SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a
pirfenidone analog) and an amount of thymosin-.alpha. effective to
augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0935] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an NS3 inhibitor and an amount of thymosin-.alpha.
effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0936] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an NS5B inhibitor and an amount of thymosin-.alpha.
effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0937] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor and an amount of
thymosin-.alpha. effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy,
for the desired treatment duration.
[0938] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of a nucleoside analog (e.g., ribavirin, viramidine,
or an L-nucleoside such as levovirin) and an amount of a SAPK
inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a pirfenidone analog) effective to
augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0939] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an NS3 inhibitor and an amount of a SAPK inhibitor
(e.g., pirfenidone or a pirfenidone analog) effective to augment
the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0940] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an NS5B inhibitor and an amount of a SAPK inhibitor
(e.g., pirfenidone or a pirfenidone analog) effective to augment
the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
[0941] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor and an amount of a
SAPK inhibitor (e.g., pirfenidone or a pirfenidone analog)
effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0942] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of a nucleoside analog (e.g., ribavirin, viramidine,
or an L-nucleoside such as levovirin) and an amount of an
alpha-glucosidase inhibitor effective to augment the anti-viral
effect of the synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist therapy, for the desired treatment duration.
[0943] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an NS5B inhibitor and an amount of an NS3 inhibitor
effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I
interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired
treatment duration.
[0944] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist, a
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant, a protease-resistant
polypeptide variant, or a hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant for the treatment of an HCV infection in a
patient can be modified to include co-administration to the patient
of an amount of an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor and an amount of an
NS3 inhibitor effective to augment the anti-viral effect of the
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist therapy,
for the desired treatment duration.
[0945] As non-limiting examples, any of the above-described
treatment methods featuring therapy with an effective amount of a
subject synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist
for the treatment of an HCV infection in a patient can be modified
to include co-administration to the patient of an amount of an NS5B
inhibitor and an amount of an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor effective
to augment the anti-viral effect of the synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist therapy, for the desired treatment
duration.
Patient Identification
[0946] In certain embodiments, the specific regimen of drug therapy
used in treatment of the HCV patient is selected according to
certain disease parameters exhibited by the patient, such as the
initial viral load, genotype of the HCV infection in the patient,
liver histology and/or stage of liver fibrosis in the patient.
[0947] Thus, in some embodiments, the present invention provides
any of the above-described methods for the treatment of HCV
infection in which the subject method is modified to treat a
treatment failure patient for a duration of 48 weeks.
[0948] In other embodiments, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for HCV in which the subject method is
modified to treat a non-responder patient, where the patient
receives a 48 week course of therapy.
[0949] In other embodiments, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of HCV infection in which
the subject method is modified to treat a relapser patient, where
the patient receives a 48 week course of therapy.
[0950] In other embodiments, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of HCV infection in which
the subject method is modified to treat a naive patient infected
with HCV genotype 1, where the patient receives a 48 week course of
therapy.
[0951] In other embodiments, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of HCV infection in which
the subject method is modified to treat a naive patient infected
with HCV genotype 4, where the patient receives a 48 week course of
therapy.
[0952] In other embodiments, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of HCV infection in which
the subject method is modified to treat a naive patient infected
with HCV genotype 1, where the patient has a high viral load (HVL),
where "HVL" refers to an HCV viral load of greater than
2.times.10.sup.6 HCV genome copies per mL serum, and where the
patient receives a 48 week course of therapy.
[0953] In one embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having advanced or severe stage liver
fibrosis as measured by a Knodell score of 3 or 4 and then (2)
administering to the patient the drug therapy of the subject method
for a time period of about 24 weeks to about 60 weeks, or about 30
weeks to about one year, or about 36 weeks to about 50 weeks, or
about 40 weeks to about 48 weeks, or at least about 24 weeks, or at
least about 30 weeks, or at least about 36 weeks, or at least about
40 weeks, or at least about 48 weeks, or at least about 60
weeks.
[0954] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having advanced or severe stage liver
fibrosis as measured by a Knodell score of 3 or 4 and then (2)
administering to the patient the drug therapy of the subject method
for a time period of about 40 weeks to about 50 weeks, or about 48
weeks.
[0955] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV genotype 1 infection and an
initial viral load of greater than 2 million viral genome copies
per ml of patient serum and then (2) administering to the patient
the drug therapy of the subject method for a time period of about
24 weeks to about 60 weeks, or about 30 weeks to about one year, or
about 36 weeks to about 50 weeks, or about 40 weeks to about 48
weeks, or at least about 24 weeks, or at least about 30 weeks, or
at least about 36 weeks, or at least about 40 weeks, or at least
about 48 weeks, or at least about 60 weeks.
[0956] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV genotype 1 infection and an
initial viral load of greater than 2 million viral genome copies
per ml of patient serum and then (2) administering to the patient
the drug therapy of the subject method for a time period of about
40 weeks to about 50 weeks, or about 48 weeks.
[0957] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV genotype 1 infection and an
initial viral load of greater than 2 million viral genome copies
per ml of patient serum and no or early stage liver fibrosis as
measured by a Knodell score of 0, 1, or 2 and then (2)
administering to the patient the drug therapy of the subject method
for a time period of about 24 weeks to about 60 weeks, or about 30
weeks to about one year, or about 36 weeks to about 50 weeks, or
about 40 weeks to about 48 weeks, or at least about 24 weeks, or at
least about 30 weeks, or at least about 36 weeks, or at least about
40 weeks, or at least about 48 weeks, or at least about 60
weeks.
[0958] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV genotype 1 infection and an
initial viral load of greater than 2 million viral genome copies
per ml of patient serum and no or early stage liver fibrosis as
measured by a Knodell score of 0, 1, or 2 and then (2)
administering to the patient the drug therapy of the subject method
for a time period of about 40 weeks to about 50 weeks, or about 48
weeks.
[0959] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV genotype 1 infection and an
initial viral load of less than or equal to 2 million viral genome
copies per ml of patient serum and then (2) administering to the
patient the drug therapy of the subject method for a time period of
about 20 weeks to about 50 weeks, or about 24 weeks to about 48
weeks, or about 30 weeks to about 40 weeks, or up to about 20
weeks, or up to about 24 weeks, or up to about 30 weeks, or up to
about 36 weeks, or up to about 48 weeks.
[0960] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV genotype 1 infection and an
initial viral load of less than or equal to 2 million viral genome
copies per ml of patient serum and then (2) administering to the
patient the drug therapy of the subject method for a time period of
about 20 weeks to about 24 weeks.
[0961] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV genotype 1 infection and an
initial viral load of less than or equal to 2 million viral genome
copies per ml of patient serum and then (2) administering to the
patient the drug therapy of the subject method for a time period of
about 24 weeks to about 48 weeks.
[0962] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV genotype 2 or 3 infection and
then (2) administering to the patient the drug therapy of the
subject method for a time period of about 24 weeks to about 60
weeks, or about 30 weeks to about one year, or about 36 weeks to
about 50 weeks, or about 40 weeks to about 48 weeks, or at least
about 24 weeks, or at least about 30 weeks, or at least about 36
weeks, or at least about 40 weeks, or at least about 48 weeks, or
at least about 60 weeks.
[0963] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV genotype 2 or 3 infection and
then (2) administering to the patient the drug therapy of the
subject method for a time period of about 20 weeks to about 50
weeks, or about 24 weeks to about 48 weeks, or about 30 weeks to
about 40 weeks, or up to about 20 weeks, or up to about 24 weeks,
or up to about 30 weeks, or up to about 36 weeks, or up to about 48
weeks.
[0964] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV genotype 2 or 3 infection and
then (2) administering to the patient the drug therapy of the
subject method for a time period of about 20 weeks to about 24
weeks.
[0965] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV genotype 2 or 3 infection and
then (2) administering to the patient the drug therapy of the
subject method for a time period of at least about 24 weeks.
[0966] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV genotype 1 or 4 infection and
then (2) administering to the patient the drug therapy of the
subject method for a time period of about 24 weeks to about 60
weeks, or about 30 weeks to about one year, or about 36 weeks to
about 50 weeks, or about 40 weeks to about 48 weeks, or at least
about 24 weeks, or at least about 30 weeks, or at least about 36
weeks, or at least about 40 weeks, or at least about 48 weeks, or
at least about 60 weeks.
[0967] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV infection characterized by any
of HCV genotypes 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 and then (2) administering to the
patient the drug therapy of the subject method for a time period of
about 20 weeks to about 50 weeks.
[0968] In another embodiment, the invention provides any of the
above-described methods for the treatment of an HCV infection,
where the subject method is modified to include the steps of (1)
identifying a patient having an HCV infection characterized by any
of HCV genotypes 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 and then (2) administering to the
patient the drug therapy of the subject method for a time period of
at least about 24 weeks and up to about 48 weeks.
Type II Interferon Receptor Agonists
[0969] As used herein, the term "Type II interferon receptor
agonist" includes any naturally occurring or
non-naturally-occurring ligand of a human Type II interferon
receptor that binds to and causes signal transduction via the
receptor. Type II interferon receptor agonists include interferons,
including naturally-occurring interferons, modified interferons,
synthetic interferons, pegylated interferons, fusion proteins
comprising an interferon and a heterologous protein, shuffled
interferons; antibody specific for an interferon receptor;
non-peptide chemical agonists; and the like.
[0970] A specific example of a Type II interferon receptor agonist
is IFN-gamma and variants thereof. While the present invention
exemplifies use of an IFN-gamma polypeptide, it will be readily
apparent that any Type II interferon receptor agonist can be used
in a subject method.
SAPK Inhibitors
[0971] SAPK inhibitors suitable for use in a subject treatment
method specifically include pirfenidone and pirfenidone analogs;
and also specifically include any compound of Formula I as set
forth in U.S. Patent Publication No. 20030149041.
[0972] Additional SAPK inhibitors suitable for use herein include
agents that inhibit enzymatic activity of a SAPK by at least about
10%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at
least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least
about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, or at least
about 90%, or more, when compared with the enzymatic activity of
the SAPK in the absence of the SAPK inhibitor.
[0973] The signal transduction pathways that use mitogen-activated
protein kinases (MAPK) have an important role in a variety of
cellular responses, including growth, stress-induced gene
expression, and compensation for alterations in the environment.
The SAPK group of MAPKs includes the c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (INK)
and p38 kinases. The p38 group of MAPK include at least four
members, designated p38 or p38.alpha., p38.beta., p38.gamma., and
p38.delta.. The amino acid sequences of p38.alpha., p38.beta., and
p38.gamma. from various species are known. For example, the amino
acid sequences of human p38.alpha., p38.beta., and p38.gamma. are
found under the following GenBank Accession Nos.: 1) Q16539,
NP.sub.--620583, and NP.sub.--001306 provide amino acid sequences
of human p38.alpha. polypeptides; 2) NP.sub.--620478,
NP.sub.--002742, and Q15759 provide amino acid sequences of human
p38.beta. polypeptides; and 3) NP.sub.--002960, P53778, and JC5252
provide amino acid sequences of human p38.gamma. polypeptides.
[0974] In some embodiments, a suitable SAPK inhibitor is an agent
that inhibits enzymatic activity of p38.alpha., p38.beta., and
p38.gamma.. In other embodiments, a suitable SAPK inhibitor is an
agent that preferentially inhibits the enzymatic activity of
p38.alpha. and p38.beta., i.e., the agent is a stronger inhibitor
of the enzymatic activity of p38.alpha. and p38.beta. than that of
p38.gamma., e.g., the agent's IC50 against p38.alpha. and p38.beta.
is at least about two-fold lower, or about five-fold lower, or
about ten-fold lower, or more, below the agent's IC50 against
p38.gamma..
[0975] In other embodiments, a suitable SAPK inhibitor is an agent
that preferentially inhibits p38.gamma., i.e., the agent is a
stronger inhibitor of the enzymatic activity of p38.gamma. than
that of p38.alpha. and p38.beta., e.g., the agent's IC50 against
p38.gamma. is at least about two-fold lower, or about five-fold
lower, or about ten-fold lower, or more, below the agent's IC50
against p38.alpha. and p38.beta..
[0976] In some embodiments, a SAPK inhibitor is a competitive
inhibitor of a SAPK, e.g., a p38.alpha., a p38.beta., or a
p38.gamma.. In some of these embodiments, a SAPK inhibitor is one
that competes for adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for binding to the
ATP binding site of p38.alpha., p38.beta., or p38.gamma..
[0977] In addition, stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK)
inhibitors that are suitable for use in a subject combination
therapy include any 2-alkyl imidazole as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
6,548,520; any of the 1,4,5-substituted imidazole compounds
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,489,325; 1,4,5-substituted imidazole
compounds disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,569,871; heteroaryl
aminophenyl ketone compounds disclosed in Published U.S. Patent
Application No. 2003/0073832; pyridyl imidazole compounds disclosed
in U.S. Pat. No. 6,288,089; and heteroaryl aminobenzophenones
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,432,962. Also suitable for use are
compounds disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,214,854. Also suitable for
use are the heterocyclic compounds discussed in WO 102/61426.
[0978] Pirfenidone and pirfenidone analogs, which are specifically
included, are described in detail below. As discussed above,
compounds of Formula I of U.S. Patent Publication No. 20030149041
are specifically included. Formula I is as follows:
##STR00001##
[0979] wherein: R.sup.1 is chosen from --H, C.sub.1 to C.sub.20
hydrocarbon, aminocarbonylalkyl, alkoxyalkyl, substituted
arylalkyl, heteroaryl, heteroarylalkyl, heterocyclylalkyl, and
substituted heterocyclylalkyl;
[0980] R.sup.2 is chosen from halogen, C.sub.1 to C.sub.20
hydrocarbon, hydroxy, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl,
heterocyclyl, substituted heterocyclyl;
[0981] R.sup.5 is chosen from --H, alkyl and substituted alkyl;
[0982] R.sup.6 is chosen from a direct bond, alkyl, aryl,
substituted aryl and heteroaryl;
[0983] R.sup.7 is chosen from --H, acyl, alkyl, substituted alkyl,
alkoxycarbonyl, amidine, aryl, arylalkyl, heterocyclyl, heteroaryl,
substituted heteroaryl, substituted aryloxy, heteroarylsulfonamido,
dialkylsulfonamido,
##STR00002##
[0984] --C(O)NR.sup.8R.sup.9, --C(NH)NR.sup.8R.sup.9 and
--NR.sup.8R.sup.9;
[0985] R.sup.8 is chosen from --H and alkyl;
[0986] R.sup.9 is chosen from --H, alkyl, substituted alkyl, aryl,
heteroaryl, alkylcarbonyl and arylcarbonyl;
[0987] R.sup.3 is chosen from a direct bond,
##STR00003##
[0988] wherein the left hand bond is the point of attachment to the
ring and the right band bond is the point of attachment to
R.sup.4;
[0989] R.sup.4 is chosen from --H, halogen, alkyl, heterocyclyl,
alkylamino, aminocarbonyl,
##STR00004##
[0990] --C(S)NHR.sup.12, --CHR.sup.13R.sup.14, --C(O)NHR.sup.15,
--C(O)(CH.sub.2).sub.0-2R.sup.16, --S(O.sub.2)R.sup.17,
--OR.sup.18
##STR00005##
[0991] wherein R.sup.10 is chosen from --H, --OH, alkyl, cycloalkyl
and substituted cycloalkyl; R.sup.11 is chosen from --H, --OH,
--COOH, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl,
aryl substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, alkoxy,
aminocarbonyl, aminocarbonylalkyl,
##STR00006##
[0992] R.sup.12 is chosen from alkyl and aryl; R.sup.13 is chosen
from --H and aryl; R.sup.14 is chosen from aryl, substituted aryl,
heteroaryl, substituted alkyl, aryl substituted alkyl and alkoxy
substituted alkyl; R.sup.15 is chosen from alkyl, aryl, substituted
aryl and substituted alkyl; R.sup.16 is chosen from aryl,
substituted aryl, heteroaryl, carboxyl, alkoxy, substituted alkyl,
cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, aminocarbonyl, substituted
aminocarbonyl, heterocyclyl and
##STR00007##
[0993] R.sup.17 is chosen from alkyl and dialkylamino; R.sup.18 is
chosen from C.sub.1 to C.sub.20 hydrocarbon, substituted C.sub.1 to
C.sub.20 hydrocarbon and heteroaryl; Y is chosen from --H and lower
alkyl, or Y and R.sup.1 taken together with the attached N, may be
chosen from heterocyclyl, substituted heterocyclyl, heteroaryl and
substituted heteroaryl; wherein at least two of X, X.sup.1 and
X.sup.2 are --N.dbd., and the other is chosen from --C(H).dbd. and
--N.dbd..
[0994] Of particular interest in some embodiments is use of any of
the following SAPK inhibitor compounds, or pharmaceutically
acceptable salts, or derivatives, or esters, or analogs,
thereof:
##STR00008##
[0995] which compound has the IUPAC designation
(4-benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone. Also suitable
for use are any of the following compounds:
(4-benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(6-chloro-1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
(4-chloro-1H-indol-5-yl)-[4-(4-fluoro-benzyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-methanone;
(4-benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(4-methoxy-1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-{1-[3-(cyclohexylmethyl-amino)-2-hydroxy-propyl-
]-1H-indol-5-yl}-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-{1-[2-hydroxy-3-(4-methyl-piperazin-1-yl)-propy-
l]-1H-indol-5-yl}-methanone;
[1-(3-Benzylamino-2-hydroxy-propyl)-1H-indol-5-yl]-(4-benzyl-piperidin-1--
yl)-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-{1-[2-hydroxy-3-(4-methoxy-benzylamino)-propyl]-
-1H-indol-5-yl}-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-[1-(2-hydroxy-3-propylamino-propyl)-1H-indol-5--
yl]-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-[1-(pyridine-4-carbonyl)-1H-indol-5-yl]-methano-
ne; 1-[5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-indol-1-yl]-ethanone;
2-[5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-indol-1-yl]-N-(4-methoxy-benzyl)-ac-
etamide; 5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indole-3-carboxylic
acid (2-methoxy-ethyl)-amide;
5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indole-3-carboxylic acid
(2-methylamino-ethyl)-amide;
5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indole-3-carboxylic acid
(2-amino-ethyl)-amide;
[3-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indol-5-yl]-(4-benzyl-piperidin-1--
yl)-methanone;
[3-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indol-6-yl]-(4-benzyl-piperidin-1--
yl)-methanone;
5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indole-3-carboxylic acid
4-fluoro-benzylamide;
5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indole-3-carboxylicacid[2-(3,5-dime-
thoxy-phenyl)-ethyl]-amide;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(6-methoxy-1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
1-[5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indol-3-yl]-2,2,2-trifluoro-etha-
none;
5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-6-methoxy-1H-indole-3-carboxylic
acid (2-dimethylamino-ethyl)-amide;
5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indole-3-carboxylic acid;
5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indole-3-carboxylic acid
(2-dimethylamino-ethyl)-amide;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-(4-benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(4-fluoro-benzyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(3-morpholin-4-ylmethyl-1H-indol-5-yl)-methanon-
e;
1-[6-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indol-3-yl]-2,2,2-trifluoro-et-
hanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-[1-(pyridine-4-carbonyl)-1H-indol-6-yl]--
methanone;
(3-Benzyl-8-aza-bicyclo[3.2.1]oct-8-yl)-(6-methoxy-1H-indol-5-y-
l)-methanone;
(3H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-(3-benzyl-8-aza-bicyclo[3.2.1]oct-8-yl)-methanone-
; [3-(4-Fluoro-benzyl)-pyrrolidin-1-yl]-(1H-indol-6-yl)-methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(2,6-difluoro-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-methanon-
e;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(4-methylsulfanyl-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-me-
thanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(2,3-difluoro-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]--
methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(3,5-difluoro-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl-
]-methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(3-chloro-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-methanone;
4-[4-(1H-Benzoimidazole-5-carbonyl)-piperazin-1-ylmethyl]-benzoic
acid methyl ester;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(4-methoxy-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(4-trifluoromethoxy-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-me-
thanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(4-methyl-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-meth-
anone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(2,4-dichloro-benzoyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-m-
ethanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(3,4-dichloro-benzoyl)-piperazin-1-yl-
]-methanone;
trans-1-[4-(1H-Benzoimidazole-5-carbonyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-3-(3-trifluorom-
ethyl-phenyl)-propenone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(4-chloro-benzoyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-(4-benzoyl-piperazin-1-yl)-methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(2-trifluoromethyl-benzoyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-me-
thanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(4-methoxy-benzoyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-me-
thanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(3,4-dichloro-phenyl)-piperazin-1-yl]--
methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-{4-[(4-chloro-phenyl)-phenyl-methyl]-pi-
perazin-1-yl}-methanone;
trans-(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(3-phenyl-allyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-methano-
ne;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-{4-[bis-(4-fluoro-phenyl)-methyl]-piperazin-1--
yl}-methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(4-chloro-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(2-chloro-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(3,4,5-trimethoxy-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-meth-
anone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(4-diethylamino-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]--
methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-(4-biphenyl-4-ylmethyl-piperazin-1-yl)--
methanone;
(1H-Benzoimidazol-5-yl)-[4-(4-phenoxy-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-m-
ethanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(6-methoxy-1H-benzoimidazol-5-yl)-meth-
anone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(1-isopropyl-1H-benzoimidazol-5-yl)-metha-
none;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(3-isopropyl-3H-benzoimidazol-5-yl)-methan-
one;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(1-isopropyl-1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
[4-(4-Chloro-benzyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-(1-isopropyl-1H-indol-5-yl)-methanon-
e; (1H-Benzotriazol-5-yl)-(4-benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(1-isopropyl-1H-benzotriazol-5-yl)-methanone;
[4-(4-Chloro-benzyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-(1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
[4-(3-Chloro-benzyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-(1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
[4-(2-Chloro-benzyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-(1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-2-methyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(4-chloro-1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-[7-chloro-1-(pyridine-3-carbonyl)-1H-indol-6-yl-
]-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(5-chloro-1H-indol-6-yl)-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(7-chloro-1H-indol-6-yl)-methanone;
6-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-7-chloro-1-(pyridine-3-carbonyl)-1H-in-
dole-3-carboxylic acid (2-dimethylamino-ethyl)-amide;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(1-pyridin-4-ylmethyl-1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-[6-methoxy-1-(pyridine-3-carbonyl)-1H-indol-5-y-
l]-methanone;
[5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-indol-1-yl]-acetic acid methyl
ester;
1-[5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-indol-1-yl]-3-isopropylamino-propan-
-1-one;
1-[5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-indol-1-yl]-3-piperazin-1-yl-
-propan-1-one;
3-Benzylamino-1-[5-(4-benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-indol-1-yl]-propan-1--
one;
1-[5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-indol-1-yl]-3-morpholin-4-yl-pr-
opan-1-one;
2-[5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-indol-1-yl]-N-propyl-acetamide;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-[1-(2-diethylamino-ethyl)-6-methoxy-1H-indol-5--
yl]-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-[1-(3-diethylamino-propyl)-1H-indol-5-yl]-metha-
none;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-[1-(2-diethylamino-ethyl)-1H-indol-5-yl]-m-
ethanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-[6-chloro-1-(3-diethylamino-propyl)-1H-
-indol-5-yl]-methanone;
[1-(2-Diethylamino-ethyl)-1H-indol-5-yl]-[4-(4-fluoro-benzyl)-piperidin-1-
-yl]-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-[1-(3-diethylamino-propyl)-6-methoxy-1H-indol-5-
-yl]-methanone;
5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indole-3-carboxylic acid
(2-amino-ethyl)-methyl-amide;
5-(4-Benzyl-piperidine-1-carbonyl)-1H-indole-3-carboxylic acid
[2-(3,4-dimethoxy-phenyl)-ethyl]-amide;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(3-diethylaminomethyl-1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
[4-(4-Fluoro-benzyl)-piperidin-1-yl]-(6-methoxy-1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(1-pyridin-4-yl-1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
and
4-(4-Benzyl-piperidin-1-yl)-(4-chloro-2-methyl-1H-indol-5-yl)-methanone;
or pharmaceutically acceptable salts, or derivatives, or esters, or
analogs, of any of the foregoing compounds.
[0996] Of particular interest in some embodiments is use of any of
the following SAPK inhibitor compounds, or pharmaceutically
acceptable salts, or derivatives, or esters, or analogs,
thereof:
##STR00009##
[0997] which compound has the IUPAC designation
[2-(2-Chloro-phenyl)-quinazolin-4-yl]-pyridin-4-yl-amine. Also
suitable for use are any of the following compounds:
[2-(2,6-Dichloro-phenyl)-quinazolin-4-yl]-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
Pyridin-4-yl-(2-o-tolyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-amine;
[2-(2-Bromo-phenyl)-quinazolin-4-yl]-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
[2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-quinazolin-4-yl]-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
[2-(2,6-Difluoro-phenyl)-quinazolin-4-yl]-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
[2-(4-Fluoro-phenyl)-quinazolin-4-yl]-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
[2-(4-Methoxy-phenyl)-quinazolin-4-yl]-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
[2-(3-Fluoro-phenyl)-quinazolin-4-yl]-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
Isopropyl-(2-phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
(4-Methoxy-benzyl)-(2-phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-pyridin-4-ylmethyl-amine;
[2-(4-Chloro-phenyl)-quinazolin-4-yl]-pyridin-4-ylmethyl-amine;
(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-pyridin-3-yl-amine;
(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-pyridin-2-ylmethyl-amine;
(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-pyridin-3-ylmethyl-amine;
(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-(2-pyridin-2-yl-ethyl)-amine;
(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-pyrimidin-4-yl-amine;
(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-pyrimidin-2-yl-amine;
Phenyl-(2-phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-amine;
Benzyl-[2-(3-chloro-phenyl)-quinazolin-4-yl]-amine;
3-(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-ylamino)-phenol;
2-(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-ylamino)-phenol;
4-(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-ylamino)-phenol;
(1H-Indol-4-yl)-(2-phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-amine;
(1H-Indol-5-yl)-(2-phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-amine;
(4-Methoxy-phenyl)-(2-phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-amine;
(3-Methoxy-phenyl)-(2-phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-amine;
(2-Methoxy-phenyl)-(2-phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-amine;
2-[4-(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-ylamino)-phenyl]-ethanol;
3-(2-Phenyl-quinazolin-4-ylamino)-benzonitrile;
(2,5-Difluoro-benzyl)-(2-phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-amine;
[4-(2-Butyl)-phenyl]-(2-phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-amine;
N,N-Dimethyl-N'-(2-phenyl-quinazolin-4-yl)-benzene-1,4-diamine;
[2-(2-Chloro-phenyl)-6,7-dimethoxy-quinazolin-4-yl]-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
[2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-6-nitro-quinazolin-4-yl]-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-N4-pyridin-4-yl-quinazoline-4,6-diamine;
2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-N4-pyridin-4-yl-quinazoline-4,7-diamine;
2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-N6-(3-methoxy-benzyl)-N4-pyridin-4-yl-quinazoline-4,6-
-diamine;
2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-N6-(4-methoxy-benzyl)-N4-pyridin-4-yl-quinaz-
oline-4,6-diamine;
N6-Isobutyl-2-(2-fluoro-phenyl)-N4-pyridin-4-yl-quinazoline-4,6-diamine;
2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-N6-(4-methylsulfanyl-benzyl)-N4-pyridin-4-yl-quinazol-
ine-4,6-diamine; 4-(4-Pyridylamino)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)quinazoline;
2-Phenyl-4-(2-pyridylamino)-quinazoline; and
[2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-yl]-pyridin-4-yl-amine;
or pharmaceutically acceptable salts, or derivatives, or esters, or
analogs, of any of the foregoing compounds.
[0998] A further suitable SAPK inhibitor is BIRB796
(1-(5-tert-butyl-2-p-tolyl-2H-pyrazol-3-yl)-3-[4-(2-morpholin-4-yl-ethoxy-
)-naphthalen-1-yl]-urea); see U.S. Pat. No. 6,319,921.
[0999] BIRB796 has the following structure:
##STR00010##
[1000] Also suitable for use are pharmaceutically active
derivatives, analogs, esters, and salts of BIRB796.
[1001] Another suitable SAPK inhibitor is 2(1H)-quinazolinone, as
shown below:
##STR00011##
[1002] Also suitable for use are pharmaceutically active
derivatives, analogs, esters, and salts of 2(1H)-quinazolinone.
[1003] Additionally suitable for use is VX-745 (Vertex
Pharmaceuticals and Kissei Pharmaceutical Co.) VX-745 has been
reported to inhibit several isotypes of p38, including p38-alpha,
p38-beta and p38-gamma.
Pirfenidone and Analogs Thereof
[1004] Pirfenidone (5-methyl-1-phenyl-2-(1H)-pyridone) and specific
pirfenidone analogs can be used to enhance the methods of treatment
for HCV infection disclosed herein.
Pirfenidone
##STR00012##
[1005] Pirfenidone Analogs
##STR00013##
[1006] Descriptions for Substituents R.sub.1, R.sub.2, X
[1007] R.sub.1: carbocyclic (saturated and unsaturated),
heterocyclic (saturated or unsaturated), alkyls (saturated and
unsaturated). Examples include phenyl, benzyl, pyrimidyl, naphthyl,
indolyl, pyrrolyl, furyl, thienyl, imidazolyl, cyclohexyl,
piperidyl, pyrrolidyl, morpholinyl, cyclohexenyl, butadienyl, and
the like.
[1008] R.sub.1 can further include substitutions on the carbocyclic
or heterocyclic moieties with substituents such as halogen, nitro,
amino, hydroxyl, alkoxy, carboxyl, cyano, thio, alkyl, aryl,
heteroalkyl, heteroaryl and combinations thereof, for example,
4-nitrophenyl, 3-chlorophenyl, 2,5-dinitrophenyl, 4-methoxyphenyl,
5-methyl-pyrrolyl, 2,5-dichlorocyclohexyl, guanidinyl-cyclohexenyl
and the like.
[1009] R.sub.2: alkyl, carbocylic, aryl, heterocyclic, hydroxyl,
alkoxy, carboxyl. Examples include: methyl, ethyl, propyl,
isopropyl, phenyl, 4-nitrophenyl, thienyl, hydroxyl, methoxy,
carboxy and the like.
[1010] X: may be any number (from 1 to 3) of substituents on the
carbocyclic or heterocyclic ring. The substituents can be the same
or different. Substituents can include hydrogen, alkyl,
heteroalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, halo, nitro, carboxyl, hydroxyl,
cyano, amino, thio, alkylamino, haloaryl and the like.
[1011] The substituents may be optionally further substituted with
1-3 substituents from the group consisting of alkyl, aryl, nitro,
alkoxy, hydroxyl and halo groups. Examples include: methyl,
2,3-dimethyl, phenyl, p-tolyl, 4-chlorophenyl, 4-nitrophenyl,
2,5-dichlorophenyl, furyl, thienyl and the like.
[1012] Specific Examples include those shown in Table 10:
TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 10 IA 5-Methyl-1-(2'-pyridyl)-2-(1H) pyridine,
6-Methyl-1-phenyl-2-(1H) pyridone,
5-Methyl-3-phenyl-1-(2'-thienyl)-2-(1H) pyridone,
5-Methyl-1-(2'-naphthyl)-2-(1H) pyridone, 5-Methyl-1-p-tolyl-2-(1H)
pyridone, 5-Methyl-1-(1'naphthyl)-2-(1H) pyridone,
5-Ethyl-1-phenyl-2-(1H) pyridone, 5-Methyl-1-(5'-quinolyl)-2-(1H)
pyridone, 5-Methyl-1-(4'-quinolyl)-2-(1H) pyridone,
5-Methyl-1-(4'-pyridyl)-2-(1H) pyridone, 3-Methyl-1-phenyl-2-(1H)
pyridone, 5-Methyl-1-(4'-methoxyphenyl)-2-(1H) pyridone,
1-Phenyl-2-(1H) pyridone, 1,3-Diphenyl-2-(1H) pyridone,
1,3-Diphenyl-5-methyl-2-(1H) pyridone,
5-Methyl-1-(3'-trifluoromethylphenyl)-2-(1H)-pyridone,
3-Ethyl-1-phenyl-2-(1H) pyridone, 5-Methyl-1-(3'-pyridyl)-2-(1H)
pyridone, 5-Methyl-1-(3-nitrophenyl)-2-(1H) pyridone,
3-(4'-Chlorophenyl)-5-Methyl-1-phenyl-2-(1H) pyridone,
5-Methyl-1-(2'-Thienyl)-2-(1H) pyridone,
5-Methyl-1-(2'-thiazolyl)-2-(1H) pyridone,
3,6-Dimethyl-1-phenyl-2-(1H) pyridone,
1-(4'Chlorophenyl)-5-Methyl-2-(1H) pyridone,
1-(2'-Imidazolyl)-5-Methyl-2-(1H) pyridone,
1-(4'-Nitrophenyl)-2-(1H) pyridone, 1-(2'-Furyl)-5-Methyl-2-(1H)
pyridone, 1-Phenyl-3-(4'-chlorophenyl)-2-(1H) pyridine. IIB
6-Methyl-1-phenyl-3-(1H) pyridone, 5-Methyl-1-p-tolyl-3-(1H)
pyridone, 5-Methyl-1-(2'-naphthyl)-3-(1H) pyridone,
5-Methyl-1-phenyl-3-(1H) pyridone, 5-Methyl-1-(5'-quinolyl)-3-(1H)
pyridone, 5-Ethyl-1-phenyl-3-(1H) pyridone,
5-Methyl-1-(4'-methoxyphenyl)-3-(1H) pyridone,
4-Methyl-1-phenyl-3-(1H) pyridone, 5-Methyl-1-(3'-pyridyl)-3-(1H)
pyridone, 5-Methyl-1-(2'-Thienyl)-3-(1H) pyridone,
5-Methyl-1-(2'-pyridyl)-3-(1H) pyridone,
5-Methyl-1-(2'-quinolyl)-3-(1H) pyridone, 1-Phenyl-3-(1H) pyridine,
1-(2'-Furyl)-5-methyl-3-(1H) pyridone,
1-(4'-Chlorophenyl)-5-methyl-3-(1H) pyridine.
[1013] U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,974,281; 3,839,346; 4,042,6102; 4,052,509;
5,310,562; 5,518,729; 5,716,632; and 6,090,822 describe methods for
the synthesis and formulation of pirfenidone and specific
pirfenidone analogs in pharmaceutical compositions suitable for use
in the methods of the present invention.
TNF Antagonists
[1014] Suitable TNF-.alpha. antagonists for use herein include
agents that decrease the level of TNF-.alpha. synthesis, agents
that block or inhibit the binding of TNF-.alpha. to a TNF-.alpha.
receptor (TNFR), and agents that block or inhibit TNFR-mediated
signal transduction. Unless otherwise expressly stated, every
reference to a "TNF-.alpha. antagonist" or "TNF antagonist" herein
will be understood to mean a TNF-.alpha. antagonist other than SAPK
inhibitors (including pirfenidone and pirfenidone analogs).
[1015] As used herein, the terms "TNF receptor polypeptide" and
"TNFR polypeptide" refer to polypeptides derived from TNFR (from
any species) that are capable of binding TNF. Two distinct
cell-surface TNFRs have described: Type II TNFR (or p75 TNFR or
TNFRII) and Type I TNFR (or p55 TNFR or TNFRI). The mature
full-length human p75 TNFR is a glycoprotein having a molecular
weight of about 75-80 kilodaltons (kD). The mature full-length
human p55 TNFR is a glycoprotein having a molecular weight of about
55-60 kD. Exemplary TNFR polypeptides are derived from TNFR Type I
and/or TNFR type II. Soluble TNFR includes p75 TNFR polypeptide;
fusions of p75 TNFR with heterologous fusion partners, e.g., the Fc
portion of an immunoglobulin.
[1016] TNFR polypeptide may be an intact TNFR or a suitable
fragment of TNFR. U.S. Pat. No. 5,605,690 provides examples of TNFR
polypeptides, including soluble TNFR polypeptides, appropriate for
use in the present invention. In many embodiments, the TNFR
polypeptide comprises an extracellular domain of TNFR. In some
embodiments, the TNFR polypeptide is a fusion polypeptide
comprising an extracellular domain of TNFR linked to a constant
domain of an immunoglobulin molecule. In other embodiments, the
TNFR polypeptide is a fusion polypeptide comprising an
extracellular domain of the p75 TNFR linked to a constant domain of
an IgG1 molecule. In some embodiments, when administration to
humans is contemplated, an Ig used for fusion proteins is human,
e.g., human IgG1.
[1017] Monovalent and multivalent forms of TNFR polypeptides may be
used in the present invention. Multivalent forms of TNFR
polypeptides possess more than one TNF binding site. In some
embodiments, the TNFR is a bivalent, or dimeric, form of TNFR. For
example, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,605,690 and in Mohler et
al., 11023, J. Immunol., 151:1548-1561, a chimeric antibody
polypeptide with TNFR extracellular domains substituted for the
variable domains of either or both of the immunoglobulin heavy or
light chains would provide a TNFR polypeptide for the present
invention. Generally, when such a chimeric TNFR:antibody
polypeptide is produced by cells, it forms a bivalent molecule
through disulfide linkages between the immunoglobulin domains. Such
a chimeric TNFR:antibody polypeptide is referred to as TNFR:Fc.
[1018] In one embodiment, a subject method involves administration
of an effective amount of the soluble TNFR ENBREL.RTM. etanercept.
ENBREL.RTM. is a dimeric fusion protein consisting of the
extracellular ligand-binding portion of the human 75 kilodalton
(p75) TNFR linked to the Fc portion of human IgG1. The Fc component
of ENBREL.RTM. contains the CH2 domain, the CH3 domain and hinge
region, but not the CH1 domain of IgG1. ENBREL.RTM. is produced in
a Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) mammalian cell expression system. It
consists of 934 amino acids and has an apparent molecular weight of
approximately 150 kilodaltons. Smith et al. (11020) Science
248:1019-1023; Mohler et al. (11023) J. Immunol. 151:1548-1561;
U.S. Pat. No. 5,395,760; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,605,690.
[1019] Also suitable for use are monoclonal antibodies that bind
TNF-.alpha.. Monoclonal antibodies include "humanized" mouse
monoclonal antibodies; chimeric antibodies; monoclonal antibodies
that are at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about
95%, or 100% human in amino acid sequence; and the like. See, e.g.,
WO 90/10077; WO 90/04036; and WO 92/02190. Suitable monoclonal
antibodies include antibody fragments, such as Fv, F(ab').sub.2 and
Fab; synthetic antibodies; artificial antibodies; phage display
antibodies; and the like.
[1020] Examples of suitable monoclonal antibodies include
infliximab (REMICADE.RTM., Centocor); and adalimumab (HUMIRAT.TM.,
Abbott) REMICADE.RTM. is a chimeric monoclonal anti-TNF-.alpha.
antibody that includes about 25% mouse amino acid sequence and
about 75% human amino acid sequence. REMICADE.RTM.comprises a
variable region of a mouse monoclonal anti-TNF-.alpha. antibody
fused to the constant region of a human IgG1. Elliott et al.
(11023) Arthritis Rheum. 36:1681-1690; Elliott et al. (11024)
Lancet 344:1105-1110; Baert et al. (11029) Gastroenterology
116:22-28. HUMIRA.TM. is a human, full-length IgG1 monoclonal
antibody that was identified using phage display technology.
Piascik (2003) J. Am. Pharm. Assoc. 43:327-328.
[1021] Methods to assess TNF antagonist activity are known in the
art and exemplified herein. For example, TNF antagonist activity
may be assessed with a cell-based competitive binding assay. In
such an assay, radiolabeled TNF is mixed with serially diluted TNF
antagonist and cells expressing cell membrane bound TNFR. Portions
of the suspension are centrifuged to separate free and bound TNF
and the amount of radioactivity in the free and bound fractions
determined. TNF antagonist activity is assessed by inhibition of
TNF binding to the cells in the presence of the TNF antagonist.
[1022] As another example, TNF antagonists may be analyzed for the
ability to neutralize TNF activity in vitro in a bioassay using
cells susceptible to the cytotoxic activity of TNF as target cells.
In such an assay, target cells, cultured with TNF, are treated with
varying amounts of TNF antagonist and subsequently are examined for
cytolysis. TNF antagonist activity is assessed by a decrease in
TNF-induced target cell cytolysis in the presence of the TNF
antagonist.
TGF-.beta. Antagonists
[1023] TGF-.beta. antagonists suitable for use in a subject
treatment method include agents that decrease the level of
TGF-.beta. synthesis, agents that block or inhibit the binding of
TGF-.beta. to a TGF-.beta. receptor, and agents that block or
inhibit TGF-.beta. receptor-mediated signal transduction. As used
herein, the term "TGF-.beta. antagonist" refers to any agent that
decreases the level of TGF-.beta. synthesis, any agent that blocks
or inhibits the binding of TGF-.beta. to a TGF-.beta. receptor, and
any agent that blocks or inhibits TGF-.beta. receptor-mediated
signal transduction. Unless otherwise expressly stated, every
reference to a "TGF-.beta. antagonist" herein will be understood to
mean a TGF-.beta. antagonist other than SAPK inhibitors (including
pirfenidone and pirfenidone analogs). As used herein, the term
"TGF-.beta." includes any TGF-.beta. subtype, including
TGF-.beta.1, TGF-.beta.2, and TGF-.beta.3. Suitable TGF-.beta.
antagonists include, but are not limited to, antibodies specific
for TGF-.beta. (including antibodies specific for a particular
TGF-.beta. subtype; and antibodies cross-reactive with two or more
TGF-.beta. subtypes); antibodies to TGF-.beta. receptor; soluble
TGF-.beta. receptor; decorin; and agents that inhibit TGF-.beta.
signaling.
[1024] Suitable TGF-.beta. antagonists include antibodies specific
for TGF-13. Antibodies specific for TGF-.beta. are known in the
art. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,783,185, 5,772,1028, 5,674,843,
5,571,714, 5,462,925, and 5,426,098; WO 97/13844; and U.S. Patent
Publication Nos 20030064069 and 20030091566. Non-limiting examples
of suitable anti-TGF-.beta. antibodies include CAT-152
(lerdelibumab; Trabio.TM.; Cambridge Antibody Technology), a human
anti-TGF-.beta.2 monoclonal antibody; CAT-192 (metelimumab;
Cambridge Antibody Technology), a human anti-TGF-.beta.1 monoclonal
antibody; and GC-1008 (Genzyme Corp.), a pan-specific human
monoclonal antibody to TGF-.beta.1, TGF-.beta.2, and
TGF-.beta.3.
[1025] Suitable TGF-.beta. antagonists include soluble TGF-.beta.
receptors. Soluble TGF-.beta. receptors typically lack most or all
of the transmembrane portion of a naturally-occurring TGF-.beta.
receptor, such that the protein is not membrane bound, yet retains
TGF-.beta. binding. Soluble TGF-.beta. receptors include soluble
fusion proteins comprising a portion of a TGF-.beta. receptor fused
in-frame to a heterologous (non-TGF-.beta. receptor) protein (a
"fusion partner"). Non-limiting examples of fusion partners are
immunoglobulin Fc, poly-histidine, and the like. Soluble TGF-.beta.
receptors have been described in the art. See, e.g., Wang et al.
(11029) Thorax 54:805-812; George et al. (11029) Proc. Natl. Acad.
Sci. USA 96:12719-12724; Muraoka et al. (2002) J. Clin. Invest.
109:1551-1559; and Yata et al. (2002) Hepatology 35:1022-1030.
[1026] TGF-.beta. antagonists include Gleevec.TM.. Gleevec.TM.
(also known as STI-571, or CGP57148B) has the chemical name
4-[(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)methyl]-N-[4-methyl-3-[[4-(3-pyridinyl)-2-pyri-
midinyl]amino-phenyl]benzamide methanesulfonate is commonly known
as imatinib mesylate and sold under the trademark Gleevec.TM.
Gleevec.TM. is a 2-phenylaminopyrimidine that targets the
ATP-binding site of the kinase domain of Bcr-Abl tyrosine kinase
(see, e.g. Druker et al. (11026) Nature Med. 2, 561; and Buchdunger
et al. (11023) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 92:2558-2562).
[1027] In certain embodiments, the agents are pyrimidine
derivatives as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,521,184, the disclosure
of which is herein incorporated by reference. In these embodiments,
of interest are N-phenyl-2-pyrimidine-amine derivatives of formula
(I):
##STR00014##
[1028] wherein
[1029] R.sub.9' is hydrogen or lower alkyl,
[1030] X is oxo, thio, imino, N-lower alkyl-imino, hydroximino or
O-lower alkyl-hydroximino,
[1031] Y is oxygen or the group NH,
[1032] k is 0 or 1 and
[1033] R.sub.10 is an aliphatic radical having at least 5 carbon
atoms, or an aromatic, aromatic-aliphatic, cycloaliphatic,
cycloaliphatic-aliphatic, heterocyclic or heterocyclic-aliphatic
radical,
[1034] and the remaining radicals R.sub.4', R.sub.5', R.sub.6',
R.sub.7' and R.sub.8' are each independently of the others
hydrogen, lower alkyl that is unsubstituted or substituted by free
or alkylated amino, piperazinyl, piperidinyl, pyrrolidinyl or by
morpholinyl, or lower alkanoyl, trifluoromethyl, free, etherified
or esterifed hydroxy, free, alkylated or acylated amino or free or
esterified carboxy,
[1035] and salts of such compounds having at least one salt-forming
group.
[1036] In these embodiments:
[1037] 1-Methyl-1H-pyrrolyl is preferably 1-methyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl
or 1-methyl-1H-pyrrol-3-yl.
[1038] Amino- or amino-lower alkyl-substituted phenyl R.sub.1
wherein the amino group in each case is free, alkylated or
acylated, is phenyl substituted in any desired position (ortho,
meta or para) wherein an alkylated amino group is preferably mono-
or di-lower alkylamino, for example dimethylamino, and the lower
alkyl moiety of amino-lower alkyl is preferably linear
C.sub.1-C.sub.3 alkyl, such as especially methyl or ethyl.
[1039] 1H-Indolyl bonded at a carbon atom of the five-membered ring
is 1H-indol-2-yl or 1H-indol-3-yl.
[1040] Unsubstituted or lower alkyl-substituted pyridyl bonded at a
ring carbon atom is lower alkyl-substituted or preferably
unsubstituted 2-, or preferably 3- or 4-pyridyl, for example
3-pyridyl, 2-methyl-3-pyridyl, 4-methyl-3-pyridyl or 4-pyridyl.
Pyridyl substituted at the nitrogen atom by oxygen is a radical
derived from pyridine N-oxide, i.e., N-oxido-pyridyl, e.g.
N-oxido-4-pyridyl.
[1041] Fluoro-substituted lower alkoxy is lower alkoxy carrying at
least one, but preferably several, fluoro substituents, especially
trifluoromethoxy or preferably 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoro-ethoxy.
[1042] When X is oxo, thio, imino, N-lower alkyl-imino, hydroximino
or O-lower alkyl-hydroximino, the group C.dbd.X is, in the above
order, a radical C.dbd.O, C.dbd.S, C.dbd.N--H, C.dbd.N-lower alkyl,
C.dbd.N--OH or CN--O-lower alkyl, respectively. X is preferably
oxo.
[1043] k is preferably 0, i.e., the group Y is not present.
[1044] Y, if present, is preferably the group NH.
[1045] The term "lower" within the scope of this text denotes
radicals having up to and including 7, preferably up to and
including 4 carbon atoms.
[1046] Lower alkyl R.sub.1', R.sub.2', R.sub.3' and R.sub.9' is
preferably methyl or ethyl.
[1047] An aliphatic radical R.sub.10 having at least 5 carbon atoms
preferably has not more than 22 carbon atoms, generally not more
than 10 carbon atoms, and is such a substituted or preferably
unsubstituted aliphatic hydrocarbon radical, that is to say such a
substituted or preferably unsubstituted alkynyl, alkenyl or
preferably alkyl radical, such as C.sub.5-C.sub.7 alkyl, for
example n-pentyl. An aromatic radical R.sub.10 has up to 20 carbon
atoms and is unsubstituted or substituted, for example in each case
unsubstituted or substituted naphthyl, such as especially
2-naphthyl, or preferably phenyl, the sub stituents preferably
being selected from cyano, unsubstituted or hydroxy-, amino- or
4-methyl-piperazinyl-substituted lower alkyl, such as especially
methyl, trifluoromethyl, free, etherified or esterified hydroxy,
free, alkylated or acylated amino and free or esterified carboxy.
In an aromatic-aliphatic radical R.sub.10 the aromatic moiety is as
defined above and the aliphatic moiety is preferably lower alkyl,
such as especially C.sub.1-C.sub.2 alkyl, which is substituted or
preferably unsubstituted, for example benzyl. A cycloaliphatic
radical R.sub.10 has especially up to 30, more especially up to 20,
and most especially up to 10 carbon atoms, is mono- or poly-cyclic
and is substituted or preferably unsubstituted, for example such a
cycloalkyl radical, especially such a 5- or 6-membered cycloalkyl
radical, such as preferably cyclohexyl. In a
cycloaliphatic-aliphatic radical R.sub.10 the cycloaliphatic moiety
is as defined above and the aliphatic moiety is preferably lower
alkyl, such as especially C.sub.1-C.sub.2 alkyl, which is
substituted or preferably unsubstituted. A heterocyclic radical
R.sub.10 contains especially up to 20 carbon atoms and is
preferably a saturated or unsaturated monocyclic radical having 5
or 6 ring members and 1-3 hetero atoms which are preferably
selected from nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur, especially, for example,
thienyl or 2-, 3- or 4-pyridyl, or a bi- or tri-cyclic radical
wherein, for example, one or two benzene radicals are annellated
(fused) to the mentioned monocyclic radical. In a
heterocyclic-aliphatic radical R.sub.10 the heterocyclic moiety is
as defined above and the aliphatic moiety is preferably lower
alkyl, such as especially C.sub.1-C.sub.2 alkyl, which is
substituted or preferably unsubstituted.
[1048] Etherified hydroxy is preferably lower alkoxy. Esterified
hydroxy is preferably hydroxy esterified by an organic carboxylic
acid, such as a lower alkanoic acid, or a mineral acid, such as a
hydrohalic acid, for example lower alkanoyloxy or especially
halogen, such as iodine, bromine or especially fluorine or
chlorine.
[1049] Alkylated amino is, for example, lower alkylamino, such as
methylamino, or di-lower alkylamino, such as dimethylamino.
Acylated amino is, for example, lower alkanoylamino or
benzoylamino.
[1050] Esterified carboxy is, for example, lower alkoxycarbonyl,
such as methoxycarbonyl.
[1051] A substituted phenyl radical may carry up to 5 substituents,
such as fluorine, but especially in the case of relatively large
substituents is generally substituted by only from 1 to 3
substituents. Examples of substituted phenyl that may be given
special mention are 4-chloro-phenyl, pentafluoro-phenyl,
2-carboxy-phenyl, 2-methoxy-phenyl, 4-fluorophenyl, 4-cyano-phenyl
and 4-methyl-phenyl.
[1052] Salt-forming groups in a compound of formula (I) are groups
or radicals having basic or acidic properties. Compounds having at
least one basic group or at least one basic radical, for example a
free amino group, a pyrazinyl radical or a pyridyl radical, may
form acid addition salts, for example with inorganic acids, such as
hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid or a phosphoric acid, or with
suitable organic carboxylic or sulfonic acids, for example
aliphatic mono- or di-carboxylic acids, such as trifluoroacetic
acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, glycolic acid, succinic acid,
maleic acid, fumaric acid, hydroxymaleic acid, malic acid, tartaric
acid, citric acid or oxalic acid, or amino acids such as arginine
or lysine, aromatic carboxylic acids, such as benzoic acid,
2-phenoxy-benzoic acid, 2-acetoxybenzoic acid, salicylic acid,
4-aminosalicylic acid, aromatic-aliphatic carboxylic acids, such as
mandelic acid or cinnamic acid, heteroaromatic carboxylic acids,
such as nicotinic acid or isonicotinic acid, aliphatic sulfonic
acids, such as methane-, ethane- or 2-hydroxyethane-sulfonic acid,
or aromatic sulfonic acids, for example benzene-, p-toluene- or
naphthalene-2-sulfonic acid. When several basic groups are present
mono- or poly-acid addition salts may be formed.
[1053] Compounds of formula (I) having acidic groups, for example a
free carboxy group in the radical R.sub.10, may form metal or
ammonium salts, such as alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salts,
for example sodium, potassium, magnesium or calcium salts, or
ammonium salts with ammonia or suitable organic amines, such as
tertiary monoamines, for example triethylamine or
tri-(2-hydroxyethyl)-amine, or heterocyclic bases, for example
N-ethylpiperidine or N,N'-dimethyl-piperazine.
[1054] Compounds of formula (I) having both acidic and basic groups
can form internal salts.
[1055] Of particular interest in these embodiments is a pyrimidine
derivative in which R.sub.1', is 3-pyridyl, R.sub.2', R.sub.3',
R.sub.5', R.sub.6', and R.sub.8' are each hydrogen, R.sub.4' is
methyl, and R.sub.7' is a group of formula (II) in which R.sub.9'
is hydrogen, X is oxo, k is 0, and R.sub.10 is
4-[(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)methyl]phenyl. The mesylate salt of this
compound having the chemical name
4-[(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)methyl]-N-[4-methyl-3-[[4-(3-pyridinyl)-2-pyri-
midinyl]amino-phenyl]benzamide methanesulfonate is now commonly
known as imatinib mesylate and sold under the trademark
Gleevec.TM..
Endothelin Receptor Antagonists
[1056] Endothelin antagonists suitable for use in the present
invention include gents that decrease the level of endothelin
synthesis, agents that block or inhibit the binding of endothelin
to an endothelin receptor, and agents that block or inhibit
endothelin receptor-mediated signal transduction. As used herein,
the term "endothelin antagonist" refers to any agent that decreases
the level of endothelin synthesis, any agent that blocks or
inhibits the binding of endothelin to an endothelin receptor, and
any agent that blocks or inhibits endothelin receptor-mediated
signal transduction.
[1057] In some embodiments, an endothelin receptor antagonist is
selective for endothelin A (ETA) receptors. In some embodiments, an
endothelin receptor antagonist is selective for endothelin B (ETB)
receptors. In other embodiments, an endothelin receptor antagonist
is an antagonist of both ETA and ETB receptors.
[1058] Specific examples of endothelin antagonists useful in the
present invention include, but are not limited to, atrasentan
(ABT-627; Abbott Laboratories), Veletri.TM.(tezosentan; Actelion
Pharmaceuticals, Ltd.), sitaxsentan (ICOS-Texas Biotechnology),
enrasentan (GlaxoSmithKline), darusentan (LU135252; Myogen)
BMS-207940 (Bristol-Myers Squibb), BMS-193884 (Bristol-Myers
Squibb), BMS-182874 (Bristol-Myers Squibb), J-104132 (Banyu
Pharmaceutical), VML 588/Ro 61-1790 (Vanguard Medica), T-0115
(Tanabe Seiyaku), TAK-044 (Takeda), BQ-788 (Banyu Pharmaceutical),
BQ123, YM-598 (Yamanouchi Pharma), PD 145065 (Parke-Davis),
A-127722 (Abbott Laboratories), A-192621 (Abbott Laboratories),
A-182086 (Abbott Laboratories), TBC3711 (ICOS-Texas Biotechnology),
BSF208075 (Myogen), S-0139 (Shionogi), TBC2576 (Texas
Biotechnology), TBC3214 (Texas Biotechnology), PD156707
(Parke-Davis), PD180988 (Parke-Davis), ABT-546 (Abbott
Laboratories), ABT-627 (Abbott Laboratories), SB247083
(GlaxoSmithKline), SB 209670 (GlaxoSmithKline); and an endothelin
receptor antagonists discussed in the art, e.g., Davenport and
Battistini (2002) Clinical Science 103:15-35, Wu-Wong et al. (2002)
Clinical Science 103:1075-1115, and Luescher and Barton (2000)
Circulation 102:2434-2440.
[1059] A suitable endothelin receptor antagonist is TRACLEER.TM.
(bosentan; manufactured by Actelion Pharmaceuticals, Ltd.).
TRACLEER.TM. is an orally active dual endothelin receptor
antagonist, and blocks the binding of endothelin to both of its
receptors endothelin receptor A and endothelin receptor B.
[1060] TRACLEER.TM. belongs to a class of highly substituted
pyrimidine derivatives, with no chiral centers. It is designated
chemically as
4-tert-butyl-N-[6-(2-hydroxy-ethoxy)-5-(2-methoxy-phenoxy)-[2,2']-bipyrim-
idin-4-yl]-benzenesulfonamide monohydrate and has the following
structural formula:
##STR00015##
[1061] TRACLEER.TM. treatment is in some embodiments administered
at a dose of 62.5 mg bid orally for 4 weeks, followed by a
maintenance dose of 125 mg bid orally.
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)
[1062] N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a stable form of the sulfur amino
acid L-cysteine. NAC is an anti-oxidant that scavenges
H.sub.2O.sub.2 and other radicals. It is a precursor of glutathione
(a major antioxidant), providing cysteine substrate for glutathione
synthesis. NAC is commercially available as an over-the-counter
nutritional supplement or nutraceutical product. Suitable NAC
products for use herein include the NAC nutritional supplement
products made by Source Naturals (1000 mg tablets), Biochem (750 mg
tablets), Twinlab (600 mg tablets), Nutricology/Allergy Research
Group (500 mg tablets), and the like. Such products can be
purchased at minimal cost from health food stores and nutritional
supplement retailers, such as General Nutrion Corporation
(GNC).
Thymosin-.alpha.
[1063] Thymosin-.alpha. (Zadaxin.TM.; available from SciClone
Pharmaceuticals, Inc., San Mateo, Calif.) is a synthetic form of
thymosin alpha 1, a hormone found naturally in the circulation and
produced by the thymus gland. Thymosin-.alpha. increases activity
of T cells and NK cells. Zadaxin.TM. formulated for subcutaneous
injection is a purified sterile lyophilized preparation of
chemically synthesized thymosin alpha 1 identical to human thymosin
alpha 1. Thymosin alpha 1 is an acetylated polypeptide with the
following sequence:
Ac-Ser-Asp-Ala-Ala-Val-Asp-Thr-Ser-Ser-Glu-Ile-Thr-Thr-Lys-Asp-Leu-Lys-Gl-
u-Lys-Lys-Glu-Val-Val-Glu-Glu-Ala-Glu-Asn-OH (SEQ ID NO: 103), and
having a molecular weight of 3,108 daltons. The lyophilized
preparation contains 1.6 mg synthetic thymosin-.alpha., 50 mg
mannitol, and sodium phosphate buffer to adjust the pH to 6.8.
Ribavirin
[1064] Ribavirin,
1-.beta.-D-ribofuranosyl-1H-1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxamide, available
from ICN Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Costa Mesa, Calif., is described in
the Merck Index, compound No. 81102, Eleventh Edition. Its
manufacture and formulation is described in U.S. Pat. No.
4,211,771. The invention also contemplates use of derivatives of
ribavirin (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,277,830). The ribavirin may
be administered orally in capsule or tablet form, or in the same or
different administration form and in the same or different route as
the IFN-.alpha. (either PEGylated or non-PEGylated form). Of
course, other types of administration of both medicaments, as they
become available are contemplated, such as by nasal spray,
transdermally, by suppository, by sustained release dosage form,
etc. Any form of administration will work so long as the proper
dosages are delivered without destroying the active ingredient.
[1065] Ribavirin is generally administered in an amount ranging
from about 400 mg to about 1200 mg, from about 600 mg to about 1000
mg, or from about 700 to about 900 mg per day. In some embodiments,
ribavirin is administered throughout the entire course of PEGylated
IFN-.alpha. or non-PEGylated IFN-.alpha. therapy. In other
embodiments, ribavirin is administered only during the first period
of time. In still other embodiments, ribavirin is administered only
during the second period of time.
Levovirin
[1066] Levovirin is the L-enantiomer of ribavirin, and exhibits the
property of enhancing a Th1 immune response over a Th2 immune
response. Levovirin is manufactured by ICN Pharmaceuticals.
[1067] Levovirin has the following structure:
##STR00016##
Viramidine
[1068] Viramidine is a 3-carboxamidine derivative of ribavirin, and
acts as a prodrug of ribavirin. It is efficiently converted to
ribavirin by adenosine deaminases.
[1069] Viramidine has the following structure:
##STR00017##
Nucleoside Analogs
[1070] Nucleoside analogs that are suitable for use in a subject
therapy include, but are not limited to, ribavirin, levovirin,
viramidine, isatoribine, an L-ribofuranosyl nucleoside as disclosed
in U.S. Pat. No. 5,559,101 and encompassed by Formula I of U.S.
Pat. No. 5,559,101 (e.g., 1-.beta.3-L-ribofuranosyluracil,
1-.beta.-L-ribofuranosyl-5-fluorouracil,
1-.beta.-L-ribofuranosylcytosine, 9-.beta.-L-ribofuranosyladenine,
9-.beta.-L-ribofuranosylhypoxanthine,
9-.beta.-L-ribofuranosylguanine,
9-.beta.-L-ribofuranosyl-6-thioguanine,
2-amino-.alpha.-L-ribofuran[1',2':4,5]oxazoline,
O.sup.2,O.sup.2-anhydro-1-.alpha.-L-ribofuranosyluracil,
1-.alpha.-L-ribofuranosyluracil,
1-(2,3,5-tri-O-benzoyl-.alpha.-ribofuranosyl)-4-thiouracil,
1-.alpha.-L-ribofuranosylcytosine,
1-.alpha.-L-ribofuranosyl-4-thiouracil,
1-.alpha.-L-ribofuranosyl-5-fluorouracil,
2-amino-.beta.-L-arabinofurano[1',2':4,5]oxazoline,
O.sup.2,O.sup.2-anhydro-.beta.-L-arabinofuranosyluracil,
2'-deoxy-.beta.-L-uridine, 3'5'-Di-O-benzoyl-2'deoxy-4-thio
.beta.-L-uridine, 2'-deoxy-.beta.-L-cytidine,
2'-deoxy-.beta.-L-4-thiouridine, 2'-deoxy-.beta.-L-thymidine,
2'-deoxy-.beta.-L-5-fluorouridine,
2'-deoxy-.beta.-L-5-fluorouridine, and 2'-deoxy-.beta.-L-inosine);
a compound as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,423,695 and encompassed
by Formula I of U.S. Pat. No. 6,423,695; a compound as disclosed in
U.S. Patent Publication No. 2002/0058635, and encompassed by
Formula 1 of U.S. Patent Publication No. 2002/0058635; a nucleoside
analog as disclosed in WO 01/90121 A2 (Idenix); a nucleoside analog
as disclosed in WO 02/0610203 A2 (Biocryst Pharmaceuticals Inc.); a
nucleoside analog as disclosed in WO 02/057287 A2 or WO 02/057425
A2 (both Merck/Isis); and the like.
HCV NS3 Inhibitors
[1071] Suitable HCV non-structural protein-3 (NS3) inhibitors
include, but are not limited to, a tri-peptide as disclosed in U.S.
Pat. Nos. 6,642,204, 6,534,523, 6,420,380, 6,410,531, 6,329,417,
6,329,379, and 6,323,180 (Boehringer-Ingelheim); a compound as
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,143,715 (Boehringer-Ingelheim); a
macrocyclic compound as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,608,027
(Boehringer-Ingelheim); an NS3 inhibitor as disclosed in U.S. Pat.
Nos. 6,617,309, 6,608,067, and 6,265,380 (Vertex Pharmaceuticals);
an azapeptide compound as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,624,290
(Schering); a compound as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,1020,276
(Schering); a compound as disclosed in Pause et al. (2003) J. Biol.
Chem. 278:20374-20380; NS3 inhibitor BILN 2061
(Boehringer-Ingelheim; Lamarre et al. (2002) Hepatology 36:301 A;
and Lamarre et al. (Oct. 26, 2003) Nature
doi:10.1038/nature020102); NS3 inhibitor VX-950 (Vertex
Pharmaceuticals; Kwong et al. (Oct. 24-28, 2003) 54.sup.th Ann.
Meeting AASLD); NS3 inhibitor SCH6 (Abib et al. (Oct. 24-28, 2003)
Abstract 137. Program and Abstracts of the 54.sup.th Annual Meeting
of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases
(AASLD). Oct. 24-28, 2003. Boston, Mass.); any of the NS3 protease
inhibitors disclosed in WO 102/07733, WO 102/07734, WO 00/09558, WO
00/09543, WO 00/510229 or WO 02/060926 (e.g., compounds 2, 3, 5, 6,
8, 10, 11, 18, 19, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 37, 38, 55, 59, 71, 91, 103,
104, 105, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 120, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126 and
127 disclosed in the table of pages 224-226 in WO 02/060926); an
NS3 protease inhibitor as disclosed in any one of U.S. Patent
Publication Nos. 2003019067, 20030187018, and 20030186895; and the
like.
[1072] Of particular interest in many embodiments are NS3
inhibitors that are specific NS3 inhibitors, e.g., NS3 inhibitors
that inhibit NS3 serine protease activity and that do not show
significant inhibitory activity against other serine proteases such
as human leukocyte elastase, porcine pancreatic elastase, or bovine
pancreatic chymotrypsin, or cysteine proteases such as human liver
cathepsin B.
[1073] Of particular interest in some embodiments as NS3 inhibitors
that inhibit HCV non-structural protein-4 (NS4) helicase activity
and that do not show significant inhibitory activity against other
serine proteases such as human leukocyte elastase, porcine
pancreatic elastase, or bovine pancreatic chymotrypsin, or cysteine
proteases such as human liver cathepsin B.
NS5B Inhibitors
[1074] Suitable HCV non-structural protein-5 (N55; RNA-dependent
RNA polymerase) inhibitors include, but are not limited to, a
compound as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,479,508
(Boehringer-Ingelheim); a compound as disclosed in any of
International Patent Application Nos. PCT/CA02/01127,
PCT/CA02/01128, and PCT/CA02/01129, all filed on Jul. 18, 2002 by
Boehringer Ingelheim; a compound as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
6,440,985 (ViroPharma); a compound as disclosed in WO 01/47883,
e.g., JTK-003 (Japan Tobacco); a dinucleotide analog as disclosed
in Zhong et al. (2003) Antimicrob. Agents Chemother. 47:2674-2681;
a benzothiadiazine compound as disclosed in Dhanak et al. (2002) J.
Biol. Chem. 277(41):38322-7; an NS5B inhibitor as disclosed in WO
02/100846 A1 or WO 02/100851 A2 (both Shire); an NS5B inhibitor as
disclosed in WO 01/85172 A1 or WO 02/098424 A1 (both Glaxo
SmithKline); an NS5B inhibitor as disclosed in WO 00/06529 or WO
02/06246 A1 (both Merck); an NS5B inhibitor as disclosed in WO
03/000254 (Japan Tobacco); an NS5B inhibitor as disclosed in EP 1
256,628 A2 (Agouron); JTK-002 (Japan Tobacco); JTK-109 (Japan
Tobacco); and the like.
[1075] Of particular interest in many embodiments are NS5
inhibitors that are specific NS5 inhibitors, e.g., NS5 inhibitors
that inhibit NS5 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and that lack
significant inhibitory effects toward other RNA dependent RNA
polymerases and toward DNA dependent RNA polymerases.
Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors
[1076] Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are a class of oral medications
for type 2 diabetes that decrease the absorption of carbohydrates
from the intestine, resulting in a slower rise in blood glucose
throughout the day, especially following meals, in type 2 diabetic
patients. Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors suitable for use in a
subject combination therapy include, but are not limited to,
n-(n-nonyl)-deoxygalactonojirimycin (n,n-DGJ);
N-nonyl-deoxynojirimycin (N-nonyl-DNJ); N-butyl-deoxynojirimycin
(NB-DNJ); 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNM);
perbutylated-N-butyl-1-deoxynojiromycin (p-N-butyl-DNJ); and
6-O-butanoyl castanospermine; and the like.
Additional Antiviral Therapeutic Agents
[1077] Additional antiviral therapeutic agents that can be
administered in a subject combination therapy include, but are not
limited to, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors; inhibitors of inosine
monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH); ribozymes that are
complementary to viral nucleotide sequences; antisense RNA
inhibitors; and the like.
Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors
[1078] Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are a class of oral medications
for type 2 diabetes that decrease the absorption of carbohydrates
from the intestine, resulting in a slower rise in blood glucose
throughout the day, especially following meals, in type 2 diabetic
patients. Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors suitable for use in a
subject combination therapy include, but are not limited to,
n-(n-nonyl)-deoxygalactonojirimycin (n,n-DGJ);
N-nonyl-deoxynojirimycin (N-nonyl-DNJ); N-butyl-deoxynojirimycin
(NB-DNJ); 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNM);
perbutylated-N-butyl-1-deoxynojiromycin (p-N-butyl-DNJ); and
6-O-butanoyl castanospermine; and the like.
IMPDH Inhibitors
[1079] IMPDH inhibitors that are suitable for use in a subject
combination therapy include, but are not limited to, VX-497
((S)-N-3-[3-(3-methoxy-4-oxazol-5-yl-phenyl)-ureido]-benzyl-carbamic
acid tetrahydrofuran-3-yl-ester); Vertex Pharmaceuticals; see,
e.g., Markland et al. (2000) Antimicrob. Agents Chemother.
44:859-866); ribavirin; levovirin (Ribapharm; see, e.g., Watson
(2002) Curr Opin Investig Drugs 3(5):680-3); viramidine
(Ribapharm); and the like.
Ribozyme and Antisense
[1080] Ribozyme and antisense antiviral agents that are suitable
for use in a subject combination therapy include, but are not
limited to, ISIS 14803 (ISIS Pharmaceuticals/Elan Corporation; see,
e.g., Witherell (2001) Curr Opin Investig Drugs. 2(11):1523-9);
Heptazyme.TM.; and the like.
Side Effect Management Agents
[1081] In some embodiments, a subject therapy comprises
administering a palliative agent (e.g., an agent that reduces
patient discomfort caused by a therapeutic agent), or other agent
for the avoidance, treatment, or reduction of a side effect of a
therapeutic agent. Such agents are also referred to as "side effect
management agents."
[1082] Suitable side effect management agents include agents that
are effective in pain management; agents that ameliorate
gastrointestinal discomfort; analgesics, anti-inflammatories,
antipsychotics, antineurotics, anxiolytics, and hematopoietic
agents. In addition, the invention contemplates the use of any
compound for palliative care of patients suffering from pain or any
other side effect in the course of treatment with a subject
therapy. Exemplary palliative agents include acetaminophen,
ibuprofen, and other NSAIDs, H2 blockers, and antacids.
[1083] Analgesics that can be used to alleviate pain in the methods
of the invention include non-narcotic analgesics such as
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) acetaminophen,
salicylate, acetyl-salicylic acid (aspirin, diflunisal), ibuprofen,
Motrin, Naprosyn, Nalfon, and Trilisate, indomethacin,
glucametacine, acemetacin, sulindac, naproxen, piroxicam,
diclofenac, benoxaprofen, ketoprofen, oxaprozin, etodolac,
ketorolac tromethamine, ketorolac, nabumetone, and the like, and
mixtures of two or more of the foregoing.
[1084] Other suitable analgesics include fentanyl, buprenorphine,
codeine sulfate, morphine hydrochloride, codeine, hydromorphone
(Dilaudid), levorphanol (Levo-Dromoran), methadone (Dolophine),
morphine, oxycodone (in Percodan), and oxymorphone (Numorphan).
Also suitable for use are benzodiazepines including, but not
limited to, flurazepam (Dalmane), diazepam (Valium), and Versed,
and the like.
Anti-Inflammatory Agents
[1085] Suitable anti-inflammatory agents include, but are not
limited to, steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, and non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory agents.
[1086] Suitable steroidal anti-inflammatory agents include, but are
not limited to, hydrocortisone, hydroxyltriamcinolone, alpha-methyl
dexamethasone, dexamethasone-phosphate, beclomethasone
dipropionate, clobetasol valerate, desonide, desoxymethasone,
desoxycorticosterone acetate, dexamethasone, dichlorisone,
diflorasone diacetate, diflucortolone valerate, fluadrenolone,
fluclorolone acetonide, fludrocortisone, flumethasone pivalate,
fluosinolone acetonide, fluocinonide, flucortine butylester,
fluocortolone, fluprednidene (fluprednylidene) acetate,
flurandrenolone, halcinonide, hydrocortisone acetate,
hydrocortisone butyrate, methylprednisolone, triamcinolone
acetonide, conisone, cortodoxone, flucetonide, fludrocortisone,
difluorosone diacetate, fluradrenolone acetonide, medrysone,
amcinafel, amcinafide, betamethasone and the balance of its esters,
chloroprednisone, chlorprednisone acetate, clocortelone,
clescinolone, dichlorisone, difluprednate, flucloronide,
flunisolide, fluoromethalone, fluperolone, fluprednisolone,
hydrocortisone valerate, hydrocortisone cyclopentylpropionate,
hydrocortamate, meprednisone, paramethasone, prednisolone,
prednisone, beclomethasone dipropionate, triamcinolone, and
mixtures of two or more of the foregoing.
[1087] Suitable non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, include,
but are not limited to, 1) the oxicams, such as piroxicam,
isoxicam, tenoxicam, and sudoxicam; 2) the salicylates, such as
aspirin, disalcid, benorylate, trilisate, safapryn, solprin,
diflunisal, and fendosal; 3) the acetic acid derivatives, such as
diclofenac, fenclofenac, indomethacin, sulindac, tolmetin,
isoxepac, furofenac, tiopinac, zidometacin, acematacin, fentiazac,
zomepiract, clidanac, oxepinac, and felbinac; 4) the fenamates,
such as mefenamic, meclofenamic, flufenamic, niflumic, and
tolfenamic acids; 5) the propionic acid derivatives, such as
ibuprofen, naproxen, benoxaprofen, flurbiprofen, ketoprofen,
fenoprofen, fenbufen, indoprofen, pirprofen, carprofen, oxaprozin,
pranoprofen, miroprofen, tioxaprofen, suprofen, alminoprofen, and
tiaprofenic; and 6) the pyrazoles, such as phenylbutazone,
oxyphenbutazone, feprazone, azapropazone, and trimethazone,
mixtures of these non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents may also
be employed, as well as the pharmaceutically-acceptable salts and
esters of these agents.
[1088] Suitable anti-inflammatory agents include, but are not
limited to, Alclofenac; Alclometasone Dipropionate; Algestone
Acetonide; Alpha Amylase; Amcinafal; Amcinafide; Amfenac Sodium;
Amiprilose Hydrochloride; Anakinra; Anirolac; Anitrazafen; Apazone;
Balsalazide Disodium; Bendazac; Benoxaprofen; Benzydamine
Hydrochloride; Bromelains; Broperamole; Budesonide; Carprofen;
Cicloprofen; Cintazone; Cliprofen; Clobetasol Propionate;
Clobetasone Butyrate; Clopirac; Cloticasone Propionate;
Cormethasone Acetate; Cortodoxone; Deflazacort; Desonide;
Desoximetasone; -Dexamethasone Dipropionate; Diclofenac Potassium;
Diclofenac Sodium; Diflorasone Diacetate; -Diflumidone Sodium;
Diflunisal; Difluprednate; Diftalone; Dimethyl Sulfoxide;
Drocinonide; Endrysone; Enlimomab Enolicam Sodium; Epirizole;
Etodolac; Etofenamate; Felbinac; Fenamole; Fenbufen; Fenclofenac;
Fenclorac; Fendosal; Fenpipalone; Fentiazac; Flazalone; Fluazacort;
Flufenamic Acid; Flumizole; Flunisolide Acetate; Flunixin; Flunixin
Meglumine; Fluocortin Butyl; Fluorometholone Acetate; Fluquazone;
Flurbiprofen; Fluretofen; Fluticasone Propionate; Furaprofen;
Furobufen; Halcinonide; Halobetasol Propionate; Halopredone
Acetate; Ibufenac; Ibuprofen; Ibuprofen Aluminum; Ibuprofen
Piconol; Ilonidap; Indomethacin; Indomethacin Sodium; Indoprofen;
Indoxole; Intrazole; Isoflupredone Acetate; Isoxepac; Isoxicam;
Ketoprofen; Lofemizole Hydrochloride; Lornoxicam; Loteprednol
Etabonate; Meclofenamate Sodium; Meclofenamic Acid; Meclorisone
Dibutyrate; Mefenamic Acid; Mesalamine; Meseclazone;
Methylprednisolone Suleptanate; Morniflumate; Nabumetone; Naproxen;
Naproxen Sodium; Naproxol; Nimazone; Olsalazine Sodium; Orgotein;
Orpanoxin; Oxaprozin; Oxyphenbutazone; Paranyline Hydrochloride;
Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium; Phenbutazone Sodium Glycerate;
Pirfenidone; Piroxicam; Piroxicam Cinnamate; Piroxicam Olamine;
Pirprofen; Prednazate; Prifelone; Prodolic Acid; Proquazone;
Proxazole; Proxazole Citrate; Rimexolone; Romazarit; Salcolex;
Salnacedin; Salsalate; Sanguinarium Chloride; Seclazone;
Sermetacin; Sudoxicam; Sulindac; Suprofen; Talmetacin;
Talniflumate; Talosalate; Tebufelone; Tenidap; Tenidap Sodium;
Tenoxicam; Tesicam; Tesimide; Tetrydamine; Tiopinac; Tixocortol
Pivalate; Tolmetin; Tolmetin Sodium; Triclonide; Triflumidate;
Zidometacin; Zomepirac Sodium.
[1089] Antipsychotic and antineurotic drugs that can be used to
alleviate psychiatric side effects in the methods of the invention
include any and all selective serotonin receptor inhibitors (SSRIs)
and other anti-depressants, anxiolytics (e.g. alprazolam), etc.
Anti-depressants include, but are not limited to, serotonin
reuptake inhibitors such as Celexa.RTM., Desyrel.RTM.,
Effexor.RTM., Luvox.RTM., Paxil.RTM., Prozac.RTM., Zoloft.RTM., and
Serzone.RTM.; tricyclics such as Adapin.RTM., Anafrinil.RTM.,
Elavil.RTM., Janimmine.RTM., Ludiomil.RTM., Pamelor.RTM.,
Tofranil.RTM., Vivactil.RTM., Sinequan.RTM., and Surmontil.RTM.;
monoamine oxidase inhibitors such as Eldepryl.RTM., Marplan.RTM.,
Nardil.RTM., and Parnate.RTM.. Anti-anxiety agents include, but are
not limited to, azaspirones such as BuSpar.RTM., benzodiazepines
such as Ativan.RTM., Librium.RTM., Tranxene.RTM., Centrax.RTM.,
Klonopin.RTM., Paxipam.RTM., Serax.RTM., Valium.RTM., and
Xanax.RTM.; and beta-blockers such as Inderal.RTM. and
Tenormin.RTM..
[1090] Agents that reduce gastrointestinal discomfort such as
nausea, diarrhea, gastrointestinal cramping, and the like are
suitable palliative agents for use in a subject combination
therapy. Suitable agents include, but are not limited to,
antiemetics, anti-diarrheal agents, H2 blockers, antacids, and the
like.
[1091] Suitable H2 blockers (histamine type 2 receptor antagonists)
that are suitable for use as a palliative agent in a subject
therapy include, but are not limited to, Cimetidine (e.g., Tagamet,
Peptol, Nu-cimet, apo-cimetidine, non-cimetidine); Ranitidine
(e.g., Zantac, Nu-ranit, Novo-randine, and apo-ranitidine); and
Famotidine (Pepcid, Apo-Famotidine, and Novo-Famotidine).
[1092] Suitable antacids include, but are not limited to, aluminum
and magnesium hydroxide (Maalox.RTM., Mylanta.RTM.); aluminum
carbonate gel (Basajel.RTM.); aluminum hydroxide (Amphojel.RTM.,
AlternaGEL.RTM.); calcium carbonate (Tums.RTM., Titralac.RTM.);
magnesium hydroxide; and sodium bicarbonate.
[1093] Antiemetics include, but are not limited to,
5-hydroxytryptophan-3 (5HT3) inhibitors; corticosteroids such as
dexamethasone and methylprednisolone; Marinol.RTM. (dronabinol);
prochlorperazine; benzodiazepines; promethazine; and metoclopramide
cisapride; Alosetron Hydrochloride; Batanopride Hydrochloride;
Bemesetron; Benzquinamide; Chlorpromazine; Chlorpromazine
Hydrochloride; Clebopride; Cyclizine Hydrochloride; Dimenhydrinate;
Diphenidol; Diphenidol Hydrochloride; Diphenidol Pamoate;
Dolasetron Mesylate; Domperidone; Dronabinol; Fludorex;
Flumeridone; Galdansetron Hydrochloride; Granisetron; Granisetron
Hydrochloride; Lurosetron Mesylate; Meclizine Hydrochloride;
Metoclopramide Hydrochloride; Metopimazine; Ondansetron
Hydrochloride; Pancopride; Prochlorperazine; Prochlorperazine
Edisylate; Prochlorperazine Maleate; Promethazine Hydrochloride;
Thiethylperazine; Thiethylperazine Malate; Thiethylperazine
Maleate; Trimethobenzamide Hydrochloride; Zacopride
Hydrochloride.
[1094] Anti-diarrheal agents include, but are not limited to,
Rolgamidine, Diphenoxylate hydrochloride (Lomotil), Metronidazole
(Flagyl), Methylprednisolone (Medrol), Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine),
and the like.
[1095] Suitable hematopoietic agents that can be used to prevent or
restore depressed blood cell populations in the methods of the
invention include erythropoietins, such as EPOGEN.TM. epoetin-alfa,
granulocyte colony stimulating factors (G-CSFs), such as
NEUPOGEN.TM. filgrastim, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating
factors (GM-CSFs), thrombopoietins, etc.
Treatment Methods
[1096] The present invention provides a method of treating a
disease, disorder, or condition in a patient. In one aspect, a
subject treatment method utilizes an oral pharmaceutical
formulation comprising a known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant of a parent protein
therapeutic, the known protease-resistant polypeptide variant
comprising at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of
a native protease cleavage site that is present in the parent
protein therapeutic; and comprising: i) a carbohydrate moiety
covalently attached to at least one non-native glycosylation site
that is not present in the parent protein therapeutic; or ii) a
carbohydrate moiety covalently attached to at least one native
glycosylation site that is present but is not glycosylated in the
parent protein therapeutic. The oral pharmaceutical composition is
administered orally to the patient in an amount whereby the patient
receives a first number of moles of the known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant at a first dosing interval.
The first number of moles of the known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant variant is greater than a second number of moles
of the parent protein therapeutic in a parenteral pharmaceutical
composition. The parenteral pharmaceutical composition is an
immediate release formulation suitable for subcutaneous bolus
injection, and the parent polypeptide is proven to be effective in
the treatment of the disease, disorder or condition in the patient
when administered to the patient by subcutaneous bolus injection in
an amount of the parenteral pharmaceutical composition whereby the
patient receives the second number of moles of the parent protein
therapeutic at a second dosing interval. In a subject method of
treating a disease in a patient, the method comprises administering
orally to the patient the oral pharmaceutical composition in an
amount whereby the patient receives the first number of moles of
the known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant
at the first dosing interval that is the same as or shorter than
the second dosing interval.
[1097] Thus, the known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant is effective in the treatment of the disease,
disorder or condition in a patient when administered to the patient
orally at a dosage of the first number of moles at the first dosing
interval for a desired treatment duration.
[1098] In another aspect, the invention provides a modification of
the above-described method of treating a disease, disorder or
condition in a patient, where the oral pharmaceutical composition
comprising the known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant is administered orally to the patient in a
first dose at a first dosing frequency, where the parenteral
pharmaceutical composition is proven to be effective in the
treatment of the disease in a patient when administered to the
patient by subcutaneous bolus injection of a second dose of the
parent protein therapeutic at a second dosing frequency, where the
first dose in moles of the known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant per kilogram of patient body
weight is greater than the second dose in moles of the parent
protein therapeutic per kilogram of patient body weight when the
first and second doses are calculated for the same patient body
weight, and where upon oral administration of the first dose of the
known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant to
the patient, all of the known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant in the first dose is released in a period of
time no greater than the period of time between doses in the second
dosing frequency. In some embodiments, the parenteral
pharmaceutical composition is proven to be effective in the
treatment of the disease, disorder or condition in the patient when
administered to the patient in a weight-based dose of the parent
protein therapeutic at the second dosing interval, i.e., the second
dose is a weight-based dose and the parenteral pharmaceutical
composition is in a form that allows weight-based dosing. In some
of the foregoing embodiments, the first dose is a weight-based dose
of the known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide
variant and the oral pharmaceutical composition is in a form that
allows weight-based dosing.
[1099] In another aspect, the invention provides a modification of
the above-described method of treating a disease, disorder or
condition in a patient, where the oral pharmaceutical composition
comprising the known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant is administered orally to the patient in a
first dose at a first dosing frequency, where the parenteral
pharmaceutical composition is proven to be effective in the
treatment of the disease, disorder or condition in a patient when
administered to the patient by subcutaneous bolus injection of a
second dose of the parent protein therapeutic at a second dosing
frequency, where the first dose in moles of the known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant per
kilogram of patient body weight is greater than the second dose in
moles of the parent protein therapeutic per kilogram of patient
body weight when the first and second doses are calculated for the
same patient body weight, and where the time period between doses
in the first dosing frequency is the same as or shorter than the
time period between doses in the second dosing frequency. In some
embodiments, the parenteral pharmaceutical composition is proven to
be effective in the treatment of the disease, disorder or condition
in the patient when administered to the patient in a weight-based
dose of the parent protein therapeutic at the second dosing
interval, i.e., the second dose is a weight-based dose and the
parenteral pharmaceutical composition is in a form that allows
weight-based dosing. In some of the foregoing embodiments, the
first dose is a weight-based dose and the oral pharmaceutical
composition is in a form that allows weight-based dosing.
[1100] The choice of hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant will depend in part on the disease, disorder,
or condition being treated. As noted above, the desired
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant is
effective to treat the disease, disorder, or condition that is
treatable with a parent protein therapeutic. The following are
non-limiting examples.
Treatment Methods Using IFN-.alpha.
[1101] In one aspect, where the known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant polypeptide variant is a known
hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant IFN-.alpha., a subject method
provides for administering to an individual in need thereof a
therapeutically effective amount of a known hyperglycosylated,
protease-resistant IFN-.alpha. in a method of treating a viral
infection, e.g., a hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. In some
embodiments, the method generally comprises orally administering a
known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant polypeptide variant of
a parent IFN-.alpha.2 to an individual in need thereof in a first
dose at a first dosing frequency that is at least as frequent, or
more frequent, than a second dosing frequency proven to be
effective in a regimen for treatment of HCV infection comprising
administering to an individual in need thereof a parenteral
formulation of the parent IFN-.alpha.2 in a second dose at the
second dosing frequency, where the first dose comprises a first
number of moles of the known hyperglycosylated, protease-resistant
polypeptide variant that is greater than a second number of moles
of the parent IFN-.alpha.2 in the second dose.
[1102] In one non-limiting example, the parent IFN-.alpha.2 is
proven to be effective in the treatment of HCV infection in a
method comprising administering to a patient in need thereof 3
million units (or 15 micrograms) of IFN-.alpha.2 by subcutaneous
bolus injection three times per week for 48 weeks. In some of these
embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the parent IFN-.alpha.2
can be, e.g., selected from the group of the [D102N]IFN-.alpha.2a,
[D102N, D108N]IFN-.alpha.2a, [D102N]IFN-.alpha.2b, and [D102N,
D108N]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide variants (where the amino acid
numbering is as set forth in FIG. 24); where the variant further
comprises one or more single amino acid replacements at one or more
target positions corresponding to any of amino acid positions: 41,
58, 78, 107, 117, 125, 133 and 159 (where the amino acid numbering
is as set forth in FIG. 2), or any of the mutations depicted in
Table 1, such that the variant comprises at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
found in the parent IFN-.alpha.2. The variant is administered
orally to the patient in the first dose containing the first number
of moles of the variant at the first dosing frequency, where the
first number of moles is greater than the number of moles of the
parent IFN-.alpha.2 in 3 million units (or 15 micrograms) of the
parent IFN-.alpha.2, and where the first dosing frequency is at
least three times per week. Alternatively, the first dosing
frequency is four times per week, five times per week, six times
per week, once per day, twice per day, or three times per day.
[1103] In some embodiments, the invention provides any of the
foregoing methods of treating HCV infection with a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of IFN-.alpha.2, in which the hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant
comprises any of the carrier peptides described in Table 9 above in
a covalent or non-covalent association with the desired polypeptide
variant. In some of these embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant comprises
any such carrier peptide in a direct or indirect covalent linkage
with the desired polypeptide variant, including without limitation
any such carrier peptide fused to the N-terminus of the desired
polypeptide variant.
[1104] In another non-limiting example, the parent IFN-.alpha.2 is
proven to be effective in the treatment of HCV infection in a
method comprising administering to a patient in need thereof 15
micrograms (or 8.0.times.10.sup.-10 mol.) of IFN-.alpha.2 by
subcutaneous bolus injection three times per week for 48 weeks. In
some of these embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the
parent IFN-.alpha.2 can be, e.g., selected from the group of the
[D102N]IFN-.alpha.2a, [D102N, D108N]IFN-.alpha.2a,
[D102N]IFN-.alpha.2b, and [D102N, D108N]IFN-.alpha.2b glycopeptide
variants (where the amino acid numbering is as set forth in FIG.
24); where the variant further comprises one or more single amino
acid replacements at one or more target positions corresponding to
any of amino acid positions: 41, 58, 78, 107, 117, 125, 133 and 159
(where the amino acid numbering is as set forth in FIG. 2), or any
of the mutations depicted in Table 1, such that the variant
comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a
native protease cleavage site found in the parent IFN-.alpha.2; and
the variant is administered orally to the patient in the first dose
containing the first number of moles of the variant at the first
dosing frequency, where the first number of moles is greater than
8.0.times.10.sup.-10 mol., or at least about 1.6.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 2.4.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
3.2.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 4.0.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 4.8.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
5.6.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 6.4.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 7.2.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
8.0.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 8.0.times.10.sup.-8
mol., and where the first dosing frequency is at least three times
per week. Alternatively, the first dosing frequency is four times
per week, five times per week, six times per week, once per day,
twice per day, or three times per day.
[1105] In another aspect, where the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
consensus IFN-.alpha., a subject method provides for administering
to an individual in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount
of the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
consensus IFN-.alpha. in a method of treating a viral infection,
e.g., a hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. In some embodiments, the
method generally comprises orally administering a hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a
parent consensus IFN-.alpha. to an individual in need thereof in a
first dose and at a first dosing frequency that is at least as
frequent, or more frequent, than a second dosing frequency proven
to be effective in a regimen for treatment of HCV infection
comprising administering to an individual in need thereof a
parenteral formulation of the parent consensus IFN-.alpha. in a
second dose at the second dosing frequency, where the first dose
comprises a first number of moles of the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant that is
greater than a second number of moles of the parent consensus
IFN-.alpha. in the second dose.
[1106] In one non-limiting example, the parent interferon alfacon-1
is proven to be effective in the treatment of HCV infection in a
method comprising administering to a patient in need thereof 9
million units (or 9 micrograms) of INFERGEN.RTM. interferon
alfacon-1 by subcutaneous bolus injection three times per week for
48 weeks. In some of these embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the
parent interferon alfacon-1 can be, e.g., selected from the group
of the [D102N]interferon alfacon-1, [D102N, D108N]interferon
alfacon-1, [D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [D108N,
E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [E138N]interferon alfacon-1, and
[D102N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptides (where the amino
acid numbering is as set forth in FIG. 24); where the glycopeptide
further comprises one or more single amino acid replacements at one
or more target positions corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 41, 58, 78, 107, 117, 125, 133 and 159 (where the amino
acid numbering is as set forth in FIG. 9), such that the variant
comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a
native protease cleavage site found in the parent consensus
IFN-.alpha.; and administered orally to the patient in the first
dose containing the first number of moles of the hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant at the
first dosing frequency, where the first number of moles is greater
than the number of moles of interferon alfacon-1 in 9 million units
(or 9 micrograms) of interferon alfacon-1, and where the first
dosing frequency is at least three times per week. Alternatively,
the first dosing frequency is four times per week, five times per
week, six times per week, once per day, twice per day, or three
times per day.
[1107] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of HCV
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 15 million units (or 15 micrograms) of INFERGEN.RTM.
interferon alfacon-1 by subcutaneous bolus injection three times
per week for 48 weeks. In some of these embodiments, the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent interferon alfacon-1 can be,
e.g., selected from the group of the [D102N]interferon alfacon-1,
[D102N, D108N]interferon alfacon-1, [D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon
alfacon-1, [D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [E138N]interferon
alfacon-1, and [D102N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptides
(where the amino acid numbering is as set forth in FIG. 24); where
the glycopeptide further comprises one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions corresponding to any
of amino acid positions: 41, 58, 78, 107, 117, 125, 133 and 159
(where the amino acid numbering is as set forth in FIG. 9), such
that the variant comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage
site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in the
parent consensus IFN-.alpha.; and administered orally to the
patient in the first dose containing the first number of moles of
the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant at the first dosing frequency, where the first
number of moles is greater than the number of moles of interferon
alfacon-1 in 15 million units (or 15 micrograms) of interferon
alfacon-1, and where the first dosing frequency is at least three
times per week. Alternatively, the first dosing frequency is four
times per week, five times per week, six times per week, once per
day, twice per day, or three times per day.
[1108] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of HCV
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 9 micrograms (or 4.6.times.10.sup.-10 mol.) of interferon
alfacon-1 by subcutaneous bolus injection three times per week for
48 weeks. In some of these embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the
parent interferon alfacon-1 can be, e.g., selected from the group
of the [D102N]interferon alfacon-1, [D102N, D108N]interferon
alfacon-1, [D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [D108N,
E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [E138N]interferon alfacon-1, and
[D102N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptides (where the amino
acid numbering is as set forth in FIG. 24); where the glycopeptide
further comprises one or more single amino acid replacements at one
or more target positions corresponding to any of amino acid
positions: 41, 58, 78, 107, 117, 125, 133 and 159 (where the amino
acid numbering is as set forth in FIG. 9), such that the variant
comprises at least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a
native protease cleavage site found in the parent consensus
IFN-.alpha.; and administered orally to the patient in the first
dose containing the first number of moles of the hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant at the
first dosing frequency, where the first number of moles is greater
than 4.6.times.10.sup.-10 mol., or at least about
9.2.times.10.sup.-10 mol., or at least about 1.4.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 1.8.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
2.3.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 2.8.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 3.2.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
3.7.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 4.1.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 4.6.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
4.6.times.10.sup.-8 mol., and where the first dosing frequency is
at least three times per week. Alternatively, the first dosing
frequency is four times per week, five times per week, six times
per week, once per day, twice per day, or three times per day.
[1109] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of HCV
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 15 micrograms (or 7.6.times.10.sup.-10 mol.) of interferon
alfacon-1 by subcutaneous bolus injection three times per week for
48 weeks. In some of these embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the
parent interferon alfacon-1 can be, e.g., selected from the group
of the [D102N]interferon alfacon-1, [D102N, D108N]interferon
alfacon-1, [D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [D108N,
E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [E138N]interferon alfacon-1, and
[D102N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptides, where the
glycopeptide further comprises one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions corresponding to any
of amino acid positions: 41, 58, 78, 107, 117, 125, 133 and 159,
such that the variant comprises at least one mutated protease
cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in
the parent consensus IFN-.alpha.; and administered orally to the
patient in the first dose containing the first number of moles of
the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant at the first dosing frequency, where the first
number of moles is greater than 7.6.times.10.sup.-10 mol., or at
least about 1.5.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
2.3.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 3.0.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 3.8.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
4.6.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 5.3.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 6.1.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
6.8.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 7.6.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 7.6.times.10.sup.-8 mol., and where the
first dosing frequency is at least three times per week.
Alternatively, the first dosing frequency is four times per week,
five times per week, six times per week, once per day, twice per
day, or three times per day.
[1110] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of HCV
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 9 micrograms (or 4.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of interferon
alfacon-1 by subcutaneous bolus injection once per day for 48
weeks. In some of these embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the
parent interferon alfacon-1 can be, e.g., selected from the group
of the [D102N]interferon alfacon-1, [D102N, D108N]interferon
alfacon-1, [D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [D108N,
E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [E138N]interferon alfacon-1, and
[D102N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptides, where the
glycopeptide further comprises one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions corresponding to any
of amino acid positions: 41, 58, 78, 107, 117, 125, 133 and 159,
such that the variant comprises at least one mutated protease
cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in
the parent consensus IFN-.alpha.; and administered orally to the
patient in the first dose containing the first number of moles of
the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant at the first dosing frequency, where the first
number of moles is greater than 4.6.times.10.sup.-10 mol., or at
least about 9.2.times.10.sup.-10 mol., or at least about
1.4.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 1.8.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 2.3.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
2.8.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 3.2.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 3.7.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
4.1.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 4.6.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 4.6.times.10.sup.-8 mol., and where the
first dosing frequency is at least once per day. Alternatively, the
first dosing frequency is twice per day or three times per day.
[1111] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of HCV
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 15 micrograms (or 7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of interferon
alfacon-1 by subcutaneous bolus injection once per day for 48
weeks. In some of these embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the
parent interferon alfacon-1 can be, e.g., selected from the group
of the [D102N]interferon alfacon-1, [D102N, D108N]interferon
alfacon-1, [D102N, D108N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [D108N,
E138N]interferon alfacon-1, [E138N]interferon alfacon-1, and
[D102N, E138N]interferon alfacon-1 glycopeptides, where the
glycopeptide further comprises one or more single amino acid
replacements at one or more target positions corresponding to any
of amino acid positions: 41, 58, 78, 107, 117, 125, 133 and 159,
such that the variant comprises at least one mutated protease
cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site found in
the parent consensus IFN-.alpha.; and administered orally to the
patient in the first dose containing the first number of moles of
the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant at the first dosing frequency, where the first
number of moles is greater than 7.6.times.10.sup.-10 mol., or at
least about 1.5.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
2.3.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 3.0.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 3.8.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
4.6.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 5.3.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 6.1.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
6.8.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 7.6.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 7.6.times.10.sup.-8 mol., and where the
first dosing frequency is at least once per day. Alternatively, the
first dosing frequency is twice per day or three times per day.
[1112] In some embodiments, the invention provides any of the
foregoing methods of treating HCV infection with a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of a consensus IFN-.alpha., in which the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant comprises any of the carrier peptides described
in Table 9 above in a covalent or non-covalent association with the
desired polypeptide variant. In some of these embodiments, the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant comprises any such carrier peptide in a direct
or indirect covalent linkage with the desired polypeptide variant,
including without limitation any such carrier peptide fused to the
N-terminus of the desired polypeptide variant.
Treatment Methods Using IFN-.gamma.
[1113] In another aspect, where the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a
hyperglycosylated IFN-.gamma., a subject method provides for
administering to an individual in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of a hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated IFN-.gamma. in a method of treating a viral
infection, e.g., an HCV infection. In some embodiments, the method
generally comprises orally administering a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a
parent IFN-.gamma. to an individual in need thereof in a first dose
at a first dosing frequency that is at least as frequent, or more
frequent, than a second dosing frequency proven to be effective in
a regimen for treatment of HCV infection comprising administering
to an individual in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount
of an IFN-.alpha. and co-administering to the individual a
parenteral formulation of the parent IFN-.gamma. in a second dose
at the second dosing frequency, where the first dose comprises a
first number of moles of the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant that is
greater than a second number of moles of the parent IFN-.gamma. in
the second dose.
[1114] In one non-limiting example, the parent IFN-.gamma. is
IFN-.gamma.1b and is proven to be effective in the treatment of HCV
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof a therapeutically effective amount of an IFN-.alpha. and
co-administering to the patient 100 micrograms (6.0.times.10.sup.-9
mol.) of IFN-.gamma.1b by subcutaneous bolus injection three times
per week for 48 weeks. In some of these embodiments, the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent IFN-.gamma.1b can be, e.g.,
selected from the group of the [S102T]IFN-.gamma.,
[E38N]IFN-.gamma., [E38N, S40T]IFN-.gamma., [E38N,
S102T]IFN-.gamma., and [E38N, S40T, S102T]IFN-.gamma.
glycopeptides, where the glycopeptide variant further comprises one
or more of the amino acid replacements set forth in Table 3
(IFN-.gamma.), such that the glycopeptide variant comprises at
least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent IFN-.gamma. polypeptide;
and administered orally to the patient in the first dose containing
the first number of moles of the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant at the
first dosing frequency, where the first number of moles is greater
than the number of moles of IFN-.gamma.1b in 100 micrograms
(6.0.times.10.sup.-9 mol.) of IFN-.gamma.1b, and where the first
dosing frequency is at least three times per week. Alternatively,
the first dosing frequency is four times per week, five times per
week, six times per week, once per day, twice per day, or three
times per day.
[1115] In another non-limiting example, the parent IFN-.gamma. is
IFN-.gamma.1b and is proven to be effective in the treatment of HCV
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof a therapeutically effective amount of an IFN-.alpha. and
co-administering to the patient 50 micrograms (3.0.times.10.sup.-9
mol.) of IFN-.gamma.1b by subcutaneous bolus injection three times
per week for 48 weeks. In some of these embodiments, the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent IFN-.gamma.1b can be, e.g.,
selected from the group of the [S102T]IFN-.gamma.,
[E38N]IFN-.gamma., [E38N, S40T]IFN-.gamma., [E38N,
S102T]IFN-.gamma., and [E38N, S40T, S102T]IFN-.gamma.
glycopeptides, where the glycopeptide variant further comprises one
or more of the amino acid replacements set forth in Table 3
(IFN-.gamma.), such that the glycopeptide variant comprises at
least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent IFN-.gamma. polypeptide;
and administered orally to the patient in the first dose containing
the first number of moles of the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant at the
first dosing frequency, where the first number of moles is greater
than the number of moles of IFN-.gamma.1b in 50 micrograms
(3.0.times.10.sup.-9 mol.) of IFN-.gamma.1b, and where the first
dosing frequency is at least three times per week. Alternatively,
the first dosing frequency is four times per week, five times per
week, six times per week, once per day, twice per day, or three
times per day.
[1116] In another non-limiting example, the parent IFN-.gamma. is
IFN-.gamma.1b and is proven to be effective in the treatment of HCV
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof a therapeutically effective amount of an IFN-.alpha. and
co-administering to the patient 100 micrograms (6.0.times.10.sup.-9
mol.) of IFN-.gamma.1b by subcutaneous bolus injection three times
per week for 48 weeks. In some of these embodiments, the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent IFN-.gamma.1b can be, e.g.,
selected from the group of the [S102T]IFN-.gamma.,
[E38N]IFN-.gamma., [E38N, S40T]IFN-.gamma., [E38N,
S102T]IFN-.gamma., and [E38N, S40T, S102T]IFN-.gamma.
glycopeptides, where the glycopeptide variant further comprises one
or more of the amino acid replacements set forth in Table 3
(IFN-.gamma.), such that the glycopeptide variant comprises at
least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent IFN-.gamma. polypeptide;
and administered orally to the patient in the first dose containing
the first number of moles of the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant at the
first dosing frequency, where the first number of moles is greater
than 6.0.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
1.2.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 1.8.times.10.sup.-8
mol., or at least about 2.4.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
3.0.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 3.6.times.10.sup.-8
mol., or at least about 4.2.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
4.8.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 5.4.times.10.sup.-8
mol., or at least about 6.0.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
6.0.times.10.sup.-7 mol., and where the first dosing frequency is
at least three times per week. Alternatively, the first dosing
frequency is four times per week, five times per week, six times
per week, once per day, twice per day, or three times per day.
[1117] In another non-limiting example, the parent IFN-.gamma. is
IFN-.gamma.1b and is proven to be effective in the treatment of HCV
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof a therapeutically effective amount of an IFN-.alpha. and
co-administering to the patient 50 micrograms (3.0.times.10.sup.-9
mol.) of IFN-.gamma.1b by subcutaneous bolus injection three times
per week for 48 weeks. In some of these embodiments, the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent IFN-.gamma.1b can be, e.g.,
selected from the group of the [S102T]IFN-.gamma.,
[E38N]IFN-.gamma., [E38N, S40T]IFN-.gamma., [E38N,
S102T]IFN-.gamma., and [E38N, S40T, S102T]IFN-.gamma.
glycopeptides, where the glycopeptide variant further comprises one
or more of the amino acid replacements set forth in Table 3
(IFN-.gamma.), such that the glycopeptide variant comprises at
least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent IFN-.gamma. polypeptide;
and administered orally to the patient in the first dose containing
the first number of moles of the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant at the
first dosing frequency, where the first number of moles is greater
than 3.0.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about
6.0.times.10.sup.-9 mol., or at least about 9.0.times.10.sup.-9
mol., or at least about 1.2.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
1.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 1.8.times.10.sup.-8
mol., or at least about 2.1.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
2.4.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 2.7.times.10.sup.-8
mol., or at least about 3.0.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
3.0.times.10.sup.-7 mol., and where the first dosing frequency is
at least three times per week. Alternatively, the first dosing
frequency is four times per week, five times per week, six times
per week, once per day, twice per day, or three times per day.
[1118] In some embodiments, the invention provides any of the
foregoing methods of treating HCV infection with a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of a IFN-.gamma., in which the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant comprises any of the carrier peptides described
in Table 9 above in a covalent or non-covalent association with the
desired polypeptide variant. In some of these embodiments, the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant comprises any such carrier peptide in a direct
or indirect covalent linkage with the desired polypeptide variant,
including without limitation any such carrier peptide fused to the
N-terminus of the desired polypeptide variant.
[1119] Therapeutically effective amounts of IFN-.alpha. suitable
for use in the present methods of treating HCV infection with
IFN-.alpha. and IFN-.gamma. combination therapy are provided in the
methods for treating HCV infection with IFN-.alpha. therapy
described under the heading "Treatment Methods Using IFN-.alpha."
above. In addition, therapeutically effective amounts of
IFN-.alpha. suitable for use in the present methods of treating HCV
infection with IFN-.alpha. and IFN-.gamma. combination therapy are
provided in the methods for treating HCV infection with IFN-.alpha.
and IFN-.gamma. combination therapy described in WO 03/030613.
[1120] In another aspect, where the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a
hyperglycosylated IFN-.gamma., a subject method provides for
administering to an individual in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of a hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated IFN-.gamma. in a method of treating a fibrotic
disorder, e.g., a pulmonary fibrotic disorder or a liver fibrotic
disorder. In some embodiments, the method generally comprises
orally administering a hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a parent IFN-.gamma. to an
individual in need thereof in a first dose at a first dosing
frequency that is at least as frequent, or more frequent, than a
second dosing frequency proven to be effective in a regimen for
treatment of the fibrotic disorder comprising administering to an
individual in need thereof a parenteral pharmaceutical formulation
of the parent IFN-.gamma. in a second dose at the second dosing
frequency, where the first dose comprises a first number of moles
of the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant that is greater than a second number of moles
of the parent IFN-.gamma. in the second dose.
[1121] In one non-limiting example, the parent IFN-.gamma. is
IFN-.gamma.1b and is proven to be effective in the treatment of a
fibrotic disorder in a method comprising administering to a patient
in need thereof 200 micrograms (1.2.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of
IFN-.gamma.1b by subcutaneous bolus injection three times per week
for 1 year or more. In some of these embodiments, the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of the parent IFN-.gamma.1b can be, e.g.,
selected from the group of the [S102T]IFN-.gamma.,
[E38N]IFN-.gamma., [E38N, S40T]IFN-.gamma., [E38N,
S102T]IFN-.gamma., and [E38N, S40T, S102T]IFN-.gamma.
glycopeptides, where the glycopeptide variant further comprises one
or more of the amino acid replacements set forth in Table 3
(IFN-.gamma.), such that the glycopeptide variant comprises at
least one mutated protease cleavage site in place of a native
protease cleavage site found in the parent IFN-.gamma. polypeptide;
and administered orally to the patient in the first dose containing
the first number of moles of the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant at the
first dosing frequency, where the first number of moles is greater
than 1.2.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
2.4.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 3.6.times.10.sup.-8
mol., or at least about 4.8.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
6.0.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 7.2.times.10.sup.-8
mol., or at least about 8.4.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
9.6.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 1.1.times.10.sup.-7
mol., or at least about 1.2.times.10.sup.-7 mol., or at least about
1.0.times.10.sup.-6 mol., and where the first dosing frequency is
at least three times per week. Alternatively, the first dosing
frequency, where the first dosing frequency is four times per week,
five times per week, six times per week, once per day, twice per
day, or three times per day.
[1122] In some embodiments, the invention provides any of the
foregoing methods of treating a fibrotic disorder with a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of IFN-.gamma., where the fibrotic disorder is
a pulmonary fibrotic disorder, such as idiopathic pulmonary
fibrosis, or a liver fibrotic disorder. In some of the subject
methods of treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the patient has
an initial forced vital capacity (FVC).gtoreq.55% of the predicted
normal FVC. In other methods of the invention for treating
idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the patient has an initial carbon
monoxide diffusing capacity (DL.sub.CO).gtoreq.35% of the predicted
normal DL.sub.CO. In still other methods of the invention for
treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the patient has an initial
forced vital capacity (FVC).gtoreq.55% of the predicted normal FVC
and an initial carbon monoxide diffusing capacity
(DL.sub.CO).gtoreq.35% of the predicted normal DL.sub.CO.
[1123] In some embodiments, the invention provides any of the
foregoing methods of treating a fibrotic disorder with a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of an IFN-.gamma., in which the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant comprises any of the carrier peptides described
in Table 9 above in a covalent or non-covalent association with the
desired polypeptide variant. In some of these embodiments, the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant comprises any such carrier peptide in a direct
or indirect covalent linkage with the desired polypeptide variant,
including without limitation any such carrier peptide fused to the
N-terminus of the desired polypeptide variant.
[1124] In some embodiments, the invention provides any of the
foregoing methods of treating a disease in a patient with a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant of a parent IFN-.gamma.1b therapeutic, where
the method is modified to use any protease-resistant variant of
glycosylated native (wild-type) human IFN-.gamma. (described in WO
02/081507) as the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of the parent IFN-.gamma.1b
therapeutic. In one non-limiting example, the protease-resistant
variant of glycosylated native human IFN-.gamma. comprises one or
more of the amino acid replacements set forth in Table 3
(IFN-.gamma.), such that the variant comprises at least one mutated
protease cleavage site in place of a native protease cleavage site
in the parent IFN-.gamma.1b polypeptide.
Treatment Methods Using IFN-.beta.
[1125] In some embodiments, where the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta., a subject method provides for administering to an
individual in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of
the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
IFN-.beta. in a method of treating multiple sclerosis. The method
generally comprises orally administering a hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a
parent IFN-.beta. to an individual in need thereof in a first dose
at a first dosing frequency that is at least as frequent, or more
frequent, than a second dosing frequency proven to be effective in
a regimen for treatment of multiple sclerosis comprising
administering to an individual in need thereof a parenteral
formulation of the parent IFN-.beta. in a second dose at the second
dosing frequency, where the first dose comprises a first number of
moles of the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant that is greater than a second
number of moles of the parent IFN-.beta. in the second dose.
[1126] In one non-limiting example, the parent IFN-.beta.1
therapeutic is IFN-.beta.1b and is proven to be effective in the
treatment of multiple sclerosis in a method comprising
administering to a patient in need thereof 0.25 mg (or
1.35.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) IFN-.beta.1b (BETASERON.RTM.) by
subcutaneous bolus injection every other day for the desired
treatment duration. In some of these embodiments, the
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant is a known protease-resistant variant of the
active ingredient of AVONEX.RTM. IFN-.beta.1a, (e.g., where the
protease-resistant variant comprises one or more of the amino acid
changes set forth in Table 2) and is administered orally to the
patient in the first dose containing the first number of moles of
the variant at the first dosing frequency, where the first number
of moles is greater than 1.35.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least
about 2.7.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
4.0.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 5.4.times.10.sup.-8
mol., or at least about 6.75.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least
about 8.1.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
9.45.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 1.1.times.10.sup.-7
mol., or at least about 1.2.times.10.sup.-7 mol., or at least about
1.35.times.10.sup.-7 mol., or at least about 1.35.times.10.sup.-6
mol., and where the first dosing frequency is at least every other
day. Alternatively, the first dosing frequency is four times per
week, five times per week, six times per week, once per day, twice
per day, or three times per day.
Treatment Methods Using Erythropoietin (EPO)
[1127] In some embodiments, where the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated EPO, a
subject method provides for administering to an individual in need
thereof a therapeutically effective amount of a hyperglycosylated
or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated EPO in a method of
treating anemia. The method generally comprises orally
administering a hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant of a parent EPO to an
individual in need thereof in a first dose at a first dosing
frequency that is at least as frequent, or more frequent, than a
second dosing frequency proven to be effective in a regimen for
treatment of anemia comprising administering to an individual in
need thereof a parenteral formulation of the parent EPO in a second
dose at the second dosing frequency, where the first dose comprises
a first number of moles of the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant that is
greater than a second number of moles of the parent EPO in the
second dose.
[1128] In one non-limiting example, the parent EPO is proven to be
effective in the treatment of anemia in a method comprising
administering to a patient in need thereof 100 Units (770
micrograms or 2.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) EPOGEN.RTM. epoetin alfa
per kilogram of patient body weight by subcutaneous bolus injection
three times per week for the desired treatment duration. In some of
these embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a protease-resistant
variant of the active ingredient of ARANESP.RTM. darbepoetin alfa,
(e.g., where the protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated variant comprises one or more of the amino acid
changes set forth in Table 4) and administered orally to the
patient in the first dose containing the first number of moles of
the variant at the first dosing frequency, where the first number
of moles is the product of greater than 2.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.,
or at least about 5.0.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 1.0.times.10.sup.-7
mol., or at least about 1.25.times.10.sup.-7 mol., or at least
about 1.5.times.10.sup.-7 mol., or at least about
1.75.times.10.sup.-7 mol., or at least about 2.0.times.10.sup.-7
mol., or at least about 2.25.times.10.sup.-7 mol., or at least
about 2.5.times.10.sup.-7 mol., or at least about
2.5.times.10.sup.-6 mol., per kilogram of the patient's body weight
multiplied by the patient's body weight, and where the first dosing
frequency is at least three times per week. Alternatively, the
first dosing frequency is four times per week, five times per week,
six times per week, once per day, twice per day, or three times per
day.
[1129] In another non-limiting example, the parent EPO is proven to
be effective in the treatment of anemia in a method comprising
administering to a patient in need thereof 50 Units (385 micrograms
or 1.25.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) EPOGEN.RTM. epoetin alfa per kilogram
of patient body weight by subcutaneous bolus injection three times
per week for the desired treatment duration. In some of these
embodiments, the hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a known protease-resistant
variant of the active ingredient of ARANESP.RTM. darbepoetin alfa,
(e.g., where the protease-resistant or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated variant comprises one or more of the amino acid
changes set forth in Table 4) and is administered orally to the
patient in the first dose containing the first number of moles of
the variant at the first dosing frequency, where the first number
of moles is the product of greater than 1.25.times.10.sup.-8 mol.,
or at least about 2.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
3.75.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 5.0.times.10.sup.-8
mol., or at least about 6.25.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least
about 7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about
8.75.times.10.sup.-8 mol., or at least about 1.0.times.10.sup.-7
mol., or at least about 1.125.times.10.sup.-7 mol., or at least
about 1.25.times.10.sup.-7 mol., or at least about
1.25.times.10.sup.-6 mol., per kilogram of the patient's body
weight multiplied by the patient's body weight, and where the first
dosing frequency is at least three time per week. Alternatively,
the first dosing frequency is four times per week, five times per
week, six times per week, once per day, twice per day, or three
times per day.
Treatment Methods Using Parenterally-Administered Hyperglycosylated
Type 1 Interferon Variants for Acute Viral Infection or for
Cancer
[1130] In some embodiments, where the hyperglycosylated or
protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant is a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated Type 1
interferon, a subject method provides for administering to an
individual in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant parenterally, especially by intravenous
administration. Such an administration is useful to ensure a
controlled setting during therapeutic dosing thus affording greater
patient compliance with dosing regimens and more effective
management of acute side effects. Such an administration is useful
in management of acute viral infection, particularly in epidemic or
pandemic viral infections, as a single dose or a minimal number of
doses is designated for treatment.
[1131] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of acute viral
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 9 micrograms (or 4.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of interferon
alfacon-1 by parenteral, especially intravenous, bolus injection
one time.
[1132] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of acute viral
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 9 micrograms (or 4.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of interferon
alfacon-1 by parenteral, especially intravenous, bolus injection
daily for not more than seven days.
[1133] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of acute viral
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 9 micrograms (or 4.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of interferon
alfacon-1 by parenteral, especially intravenous, bolus injection
daily for not more than 14 days.
[1134] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of acute viral
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 9 micrograms (or 4.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of interferon
alfacon-1 by parenteral, especially intravenous, bolus injection
daily for not more than 21 days.
[1135] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of acute viral
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 15 micrograms (or 7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of interferon
alfacon-1 by parenteral, especially intravenous, bolus injection
one time.
[1136] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of acute viral
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 15 micrograms (or 7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of interferon
alfacon-1 by parenteral, especially intravenous, bolus injection
daily for not more than 7 days.
[1137] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of acute viral
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 15 micrograms (or 7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of interferon
alfacon-1 by parenteral, especially intravenous, bolus injection
daily for not more than 14 days.
[1138] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of acute viral
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof 15 micrograms (or 7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of interferon
alfacon-1 by parenteral, especially intravenous, bolus injection
daily for not more than 21 days.
[1139] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of acute viral
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof more than 15 micrograms (or 7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of
interferon alfacon-1 by parenteral, especially intravenous, bolus
injection one time.
[1140] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of acute viral
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof more than 15 micrograms (or 7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of
interferon alfacon-1 by parenteral, especially intravenous, bolus
injection for not more than 7 days.
[1141] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of acute viral
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof more than 15 micrograms (or 7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of
interferon alfacon-1 by parenteral, especially intravenous, bolus
injection for not more than 14 days.
[1142] In another non-limiting example, the parent interferon
alfacon-1 is proven to be effective in the treatment of acute viral
infection in a method comprising administering to a patient in need
thereof more than 15 micrograms (or 7.5.times.10.sup.-8 mol.) of
interferon alfacon-1 by parenteral, especially intravenous, bolus
injection for not more than 21 days.
Kits and Containers
[1143] The present invention provides a container comprising a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant. The invention further provides a kit
comprising a formulation comprising a unit dosage form of a
hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant, hyperglycosylated
polypeptide variant in a container, and a label that provides
instructions for use of the kit.
[1144] Suitable containers include those adapted for administration
by subcutaneous injection, including a syringe (for use with a
needle), an injector pen, and the like. In some embodiments, a
subject agonist is administered with a pen injector (e.g., a
medication delivery pen), a number of which are known in the art.
Exemplary devices which can be adapted for use in the present
methods are any of a variety of pen injectors from Becton
Dickinson, e.g., BD.TM. Pen, BD.TM. Pen II, BD.TM. Auto-Injector; a
pen injector from Innoject, Inc.; any of the medication delivery
pen devices discussed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,728,074, 6,096,010,
6,146,361, 6,248,095, 6,277,0102, and 6,221,053; and the like. The
medication delivery pen can be disposable, or reusable and
refillable. Also suitable for use is an Intraject.RTM. needle-free
injection system (Aradigm Corp.).
[1145] The invention further provides a drug delivery device
comprising (e.g., pre-loaded with) a reservoir containing a liquid
formulation that comprises a single dose of a subject glycosylated
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist. In some
embodiments, the present invention provides a pre-filled syringe
comprising a pharmaceutical composition comprising a subject
glycosylated synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist.
[1146] The present invention provides formulations comprising a
subject glycosylated synthetic Type I interferon receptor
polypeptide agonist and a glycosylated IFN-.gamma. in a single
liquid formulation that is contained in a single reservoir, for use
in a drug delivery device. In some aspects, the present invention
provides a drug reservoir or other container containing a subject
glycosylated synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist and a glycosylated IFN-.gamma. co-formulated in a liquid,
wherein both the subject glycosylated synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist and glycosylated IFN-.gamma. are
present in the formulation in an amount suitable for one dose each.
The reservoir can be provided in any of a variety of forms,
including, but not limited to, a cartridge, a syringe, a reservoir
of a continuous delivery device, and the like.
[1147] The invention further provides a drug delivery device
comprising (e.g., pre-loaded with) a reservoir containing a liquid
formulation that comprises a single dose of a subject glycosylated
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist and a
single dose of glycosylated IFN-.gamma.. Exemplary, non-limiting
drug delivery devices include injections devices, such as pen
injectors, needle/syringe devices, continuous delivery devices, and
the like. Any of the dosage amounts, including synergistically
effective amounts, described herein can be used in the
pharmaceutical formulation, in the reservoir, or in the drug
delivery device.
[1148] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a
pre-filled syringe comprising a pharmaceutical composition
comprising a subject glycosylated synthetic Type I interferon
receptor polypeptide agonist, a glycosylated IFN-.gamma., and a
pharmaceutically acceptable excipient, where the subject
glycosylated synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide
agonist and the glycosylated IFN-.gamma. are co-formulated.
[1149] In other embodiments, the present invention provides a
syringe comprising (a) a first barrel pre-filled with a
pharmaceutical composition comprising a subject glycosylated
synthetic Type I interferon receptor polypeptide agonist; (b) a
second barrel pre-filled with a pharmaceutical composition
comprising a glycosylated IFN-.gamma..
[1150] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a
container comprising a hyperglycosylated or protease-resistant,
hyperglycosylated polypeptide variant in a formulation suitable for
oral delivery. Formulations suitable for oral delivery include
liquid formulations, solid formulations (e.g., tablets, capsules,
and the like), and semi-solid formulations (e.g., gels, gel
capsules, etc.).
Subjects Suitable for Treatment
[1151] The subject methods are suitable for treating individuals
having, or susceptible to having, a variety of disorders. In many
embodiments, the individual is a human.
Fibrotic Disorders
[1152] The subject methods for treating fibrotic disorders are
suitable for treatment of individuals diagnosed as having a
fibrotic disorder. Fibrotic disorders include, but are not limited
to, pulmonary fibrosis, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
(IPF) and pulmonary fibrosis from a known etiology, liver fibrosis,
and renal fibrosis. Other exemplary fibrotic conditions include
musculoskeletal fibrosis, cardiac fibrosis, post-surgical
adhesions, scleroderma, glaucoma, and skin lesions such as
keloids.
Cancer
[1153] Subjects suitable for treatment with a subject method for
treating cancer include individuals having any type of cancer. Also
suitable for treatment are individuals who have failed previous
treatment for a cancer with a standard cancer chemotherapeutic
agent. Also suitable for treatment are individuals who have been
previously treated with a standard cancer chemotherapeutic agent,
who initially responded to such treatment, and in whom the cancer
subsequently reappeared. Also suitable for treatment are
individuals who failed to respond to treatment with another agent
for treating cancer. Also suitable for treatment are individuals
who failed to comply with dosing regimens required for treatment
with interferon therapeutics or another agent for treating cancer.
Also suitable for treatment are individuals who require management
of acute side effects of chemotherapeutic regimens for treating
cancer.
HCV Infection
[1154] Individuals who are to be treated according to the methods
of the invention for treating an HCV infection include individuals
who have been clinically diagnosed as infected with HCV.
Individuals who are infected with HCV are identified as having HCV
RNA in their blood, and/or having anti-HCV antibody in their
serum.
[1155] Individuals who are clinically diagnosed as infected with
HCV include naive individuals (e.g., individuals not previously
treated for HCV, particularly those who have not previously
received IFN-.alpha.-based and/or ribavirin-based therapy) and
individuals who have failed prior treatment for HCV ("treatment
failure" patients). Treatment failure patients include
non-responders (i.e., individuals in whom the HCV titer was not
significantly or sufficiently reduced by a previous treatment for
HCV, e.g., a previous IFN-.alpha. monotherapy, a previous
IFN-.alpha. and ribavirin combination therapy, or a previous
pegylated IFN-.alpha. and ribavirin combination therapy); and
relapsers (i.e., individuals who were previously treated for HCV,
e.g., who received a previous IFN-.alpha. monotherapy, a previous
IFN-.alpha. and ribavirin combination therapy, or a previous
pegylated IFN-.alpha. and ribavirin combination therapy, whose HCV
titer decreased, and subsequently increased).
[1156] In particular embodiments of interest, individuals have an
HCV titer of at least about 105, at least about 5.times.105, or at
least about 10.sup.6, or at least about 2.times.10.sup.6, genome
copies of HCV per milliliter of serum. The patient may be infected
with any HCV genotype (genotype 1, including 1a and 1b, 2, 3, 4, 6,
etc. and subtypes (e.g., 2a, 2b, 3a, etc.)), particularly a
difficult to treat genotype such as HCV genotype 1 and particular
HCV subtypes and quasispecies.
[1157] Also of interest are HCV-positive individuals (as described
above) who exhibit severe fibrosis or early cirrhosis
(non-decompensated, Child's-Pugh class A or less), or more advanced
cirrhosis (decompensated, Child's-Pugh class B or C) due to chronic
HCV infection and who are viremic despite prior anti-viral
treatment with IFN-.alpha.-based therapies or who cannot tolerate
IFN-.alpha.-based therapies, or who have a contraindication to such
therapies. In particular embodiments of interest, HCV-positive
individuals with stage 3 or 4 liver fibrosis according to the
METAVIR scoring system are suitable for treatment with the methods
of the present invention. In other embodiments, individuals
suitable for treatment with the methods of the instant invention
are patients with decompensated cirrhosis with clinical
manifestations, including patients with far-advanced liver
cirrhosis, including those awaiting liver transplantation. In still
other embodiments, individuals suitable for treatment with the
methods of the instant invention include patients with milder
degrees of fibrosis including those with early fibrosis (stages 1
and 2 in the METAVIR, Ludwig, and Scheuer scoring systems; or
stages 1, 2, or 3 in the Ishak scoring system.).
EXAMPLES
[1158] The following examples are put forth so as to provide those
of ordinary skill in the art with a complete disclosure and
description of how to make and use the present invention, and are
not intended to limit the scope of what the inventors regard as
their invention nor are they intended to represent that the
experiments below are all or the only experiments performed.
Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers
used (e.g. amounts, temperature, etc.) but some experimental errors
and deviations should be accounted for. Unless indicated otherwise,
parts are parts by weight, molecular weight is weight average
molecular weight, temperature is in degrees Celsius, and pressure
is at or near atmospheric. Standard abbreviations may be used,
e.g., bp, base pair(s); kb, kilobase(s); pl, picoliter(s); s or
sec, second(s); min, minute(s); h or hr, hour(s); aa, amino
acid(s); kb, kilobase(s); bp, base pair(s); nt, nucleotide(s);
i.m., intramuscular(ly); i.p., intraperitoneal(ly); s.c.,
subcutaneous(ly); and the like.
Example 1
Construction of Hybrid Type I Interferon Receptor Polypeptide
Agonists with Non-Native Glycosylation Sites
[1159] Among Type I interferons, two interferon alpha subtypes (IFN
alpha 2b and 14), IFN beta 1 and IFN Omega 1 are naturally
glycosylated in mammalian cells (FIG. 24). FIG. 24 provides an
amino acid sequence comparison of the amino acid sequences of
Infergen (SEQ ID NO:1356) and Type I Interferon species (SEQ ID
NOs:1357-1360) that have been reported to be glycosylated
naturally. The amino acid residues where the glycosylations occur
are labeled with bold outlined boxes. The asparagines residues are
the anchoring site for N-link glycosylation and the threonine
residue is the anchoring site for O-link glycosylation. The
majority sequence is shown above (SEQ ID NO:1355).
[1160] Based on the high degree of amino acid sequence identity
between Infergen and other Type I interferons, glycosylation sites
were designed in Infergen on the basis of amino acid sequence
alignment of Infergen with the naturally glycosylated type I
interferons (FIG. 25). FIG. 25 provides an amino acid sequence
comparison of the amino acid sequences of amino acids 61-120 of
Infergen (SEQ ID NO:1362) and various embodiments of subject
glycosylated mutants (SEQ ID NOs:1363-1373). Sites 1, 2 and 3 are
examples of positions where glycosylation sites are created. Only
N-link glycosylation sites are generated at Sites 1 and 2. Both
N-link and O-link glycosylation sites are generated at Site 3.
N-linked and O-linked glycosylation sites were engineered into
Infergen. N-linked glycosylation involves a unique oligosaccharide
branch structure that is attached to an asparagine residue found in
an Asn-X-Ser/Thr motif O-linked glycosylation consists of an
oligosaccharide chain or glycosaminoglycan chains added to the OH
group of serine or threonine residues. A majority sequence is shown
above (SEQ ID NO:1361).
Experimental Design
[1161] Designing an Infergen gene optimized for expression in human
cells. Currently, Infergen is produced in E. coli and therefore
contains codons optimized for bacterial expression. Glycosylated
Infergen must be generated in mammalian cell lines. To increase the
protein expression level in mammalian cells, a new Infergen gene
with mammalian codon usage preference (Table 8) was designed and
synthesized using the most frequent codon for each amino acid is
selected (FIG. 26). FIG. 26 depicts an exemplary synthetic
mammalian Infergen nucleic acid sequence with preferred mammalian
codon usage. The open reading frame is indicated with translated
Infergen amino acid sequence (SEQ ID NO:1356). Six pairs of
complementary primers from A to F are shown in alternating italics
and bold text. The upper sense strands of the primer pairs are
identified with odd number and lower non-sense strands are
identified with even number. In the region upstream of the start
codon ATG, a short sequence of GCCACC, the Kozak consensus
sequence, is designed to increase eukaryotic translation
efficiency. Two tandem stop codons--TAA and TGA--are used to ensure
complete termination of translation. Table 8 (above) provides
mammalian codon usage preference. From, "Molecular Cloning: A
Laboratory Manual" Sambrook J. and Russell D. W. Third Edition
(2001) Cold Spring Harbor Press.
[1162] Strategies for construction of synthetic Mammalian Infergen
gene. Since the new Mammalian Infergen DNA sequence is synthetic
rather than naturally occurring, chemical synthesis of the gene is
the reasonable route of synthesis. Typically chemical synthesis of
a gene involves the synthesis short oligonucleotides, their
annealing, ligation and cloning into a plasmid. A total of 6 pairs
of oligonucleotides were used to produce a synthetic mammalian
Infergen gene (FIG. 26).
[1163] Each pair of annealed primers has terminal sequence that
allows it to anneal to the adjacent oligonucleotide. The 5' and 3'
end of the synthetic gene contain Hind III and Eco RI restriction
endonuclease sites, respectively, which allows ligation into the
plasmid. Detailed sequence information of these primers is given
(Table 11).
TABLE-US-00011 TABLE 11 Sequences of primers for chemical gene
synthesis of Mammalian Infergen. Primer Sense Yes
[Phosp]AGCTTGCCACCATGTGCGACCTGCCCCAG
ACCCACAGCCTGGGCAACCGCCGCGCCCTGATCCTG CTGGCCCAGATGCGCCGCATCAGCCCC
(SEQ ID NO: 1338) No [Phosp]GCGGCGCATCTGGGCCAGCAGGATCAGGG
CGCGGCGGTTGCCCAGGCTGTGGGTCTGGGGCAGGT CGCACATGGTGGCA (SEQ ID NO:
1339) Yes [Phosp]TTCAGCTGCCTGAAGGACCGCCACGACTT
CGGCTTCCCCCAGGAGGAGTTCGACGGCAACCAGTT CCAGAAGGCCCAGGCCATCAGCG (SEQ
ID NO: 1340) No [Phosp]CCTGGGCCTTCTGGAACTGGTTGCCGTCG
AACTCCTCCTGGGGGAAGCCGAAGTCGTGGCGGTCC TTCAGGCAGCTGAAGGGGCTGAT (SEQ
ID NO: 1341) Yes [Phosp]TGCTGCACGAGATGATCCAGCAGACCTTC
AACCTGTTCAGCACCAAGGACAGCAGCGCCGCCTGG GACGAGAGCCTGCTGGAGAAG (SEQ ID
NO: 1342) No [Phosp]AGGCTCTCGTCCCAGGCGGCGCTGCTGTC
CTTGGTGCTGAACAGGTTGAAGGTCTGCTGGATCAT CTCGTGCAGCACGCTGATGG (SEQ ID
NO: 1343) Yes [Phosp]TTCTACACCGAGCTGTACCAGCAGCTGAA
CGACCTGGAGGCCTGCGTGATCCAGGAGGTGGGCGT GGAGGAGACCCCCCTGATGAACGTGG
(SEQ ID NO: 1344) No [Phosp]TCAGGGGGGTCTCCTCCACGCCCACCTCC
TGGATCACGCAGGCCTCCAGGTCGTTCAGCTGCTGG TACAGCTCGGTGTAGAACTTCTCCAGC
(SEQ ID NO: 1345) Yes [Phosp]ACAGCATCCTGGCCGTGAAGAAGTACTTC
CAGCGCATCACCCTGTACCTGACCGAGAAGAAGTAC AGCCCCTGCGCCTGGGAGGTGG (SEQ ID
NO: 1346) No [Phosp]AGGCGCAGGGGCTGTACTTCTTCTCGGTC
AGGTACAGGGTGATGCGCTGGAAGTACTTCTTCACG GCCAGGATGCTGTCCACGTTCA (SEQ ID
NO: 1347) Yes [Phosp]TGCGCGCCGAGATCATGCGCAGCTTCAGC
CTGAGCACCAACCTGCAGGAGCGCCTGCGCCGCAAG GAGTAATGAG (SEQ ID NO: 1348)
No [Phosp]AATTCTCATTACTCCTTGCGGCGCAGGCG
CTCCTGCAGGTTGGTGCTCAGGCTGAAGCTGCGCAT GATCTCGGCGCGCACCACCTCCC (SEQ
ID NO: 1349)
[1164] Strategies for generating Mammalian Infergen glycosylation
mutants. The sequence changes needed to produce mammalian,
glycosylation competent Infergen are minor and can be introduced
into the synthetic gene by standard site directed mutagenesis
techniques (FIG. 27). FIG. 27 depicts a comparison of the nucleic
acid sequences of Mammalian Infergen (SEQ ID NO:1375) and
glycosylated mutants thereof (SEQ ID NOs:1376-1386); with the
majority sequence shown above (SEQ ID NO:1374). The nucleotides
that differ are shown in boxes. Codons used based on the preferred
codon usage in mammals (Table 8). The nucleotides that differ from
the majority sequence are shown in boxes.
[1165] FIG. 28 depicts an amino acid sequence comparison of human
Interferon beta 1 (SEQ ID NO:1391) and exemplary IFN-.beta.1
glycosylated mutants (SEQ ID NOs:1392-1396); with the majority
sequence (SEQ ID NO:1390) shown above. Sites 1 and 2 are the
positions where glycosylation mutants are generated. In general,
only N-linked glycosylation sites are created at Site 1. Both
N-linked and O-linked glycosylation sites are generated at Site 2.
The naturally occurring N-linked glycosylation sites in human
IFN-.beta.1 and mutants are shown in boxes.
[1166] FIG. 29 depicts an amino acid sequence comparison of human
Interferon omega-1 (SEQ ID NO:1398) and exemplary glycosylation
mutants (SEQ ID NOs:1399-1403); with the majority sequence (SEQ ID
NO:1397) shown above. Sites 1 and 2 are the positions where
glycosylation mutants are generated. In general, only N-linked
glycosylation sites are created at Site 1. Both N-linked and
O-linked glycosylation sites are generated at Site 2. The naturally
occurring N-linked glycosylation sites in human IFN-.omega.1 and
mutants are shown in boxes.
Example 2
Design, Construction, Expression and Glycosylation Sites Generation
of Mammalian Infergen Fusion Constructs with Other Type I
Interferon Signal Peptides
Materials and Methods
[1167] Construction of Fusion Genes
[1168] The amino acid alignments of Infergen, and exemplary
Infergen fusion proteins, human Interferon Alpha 14 and Beta are
shown in FIG. 30. A two-step polymerase chain reaction strategy was
designed to synthesize the fusion genes for the proposed fusion
proteins. The primers used in the PCR reactions are listed in Table
12, below.
TABLE-US-00012 TABLE 12 Primer Name Sequence (5' to 3')
IFNa14_Inner GCCCTGGTGGTGCTGAGCTGCAAGAGCAGC
TGCAGCCTGGGCTGCGACCTGCCCCAGACCCACAGC (SEQ ID NO: 1350) IFNa14_Outer
TATAAAGCTTGCCACCATGGCCCTGCCCTTC
GCCCTGATGATGGCCCTGGTGGTGCTGAGCTGCAAG (SEQ ID NO: 1351) IFNb_Inner
GCCCTGCTGCTGTGCTTCAGCACCACCGCCC TGAGCATGAGCTGCGACCTGCCCCAGACCCACAGC
(SEQ ID NO: 1352) IFNb_Outer TATAAAGCTTGCCACCATGACCAACAAGTGC
CTGCTGCAGATCGCCCTGCTGCTGTGCTTCAGCACC (SEQ ID NO: 1353) INFERGEN_End
TATAGAATTCTCATTACTCCTTGCGGCGCAGGCG (SEQ ID NO: 1354)
[1169] The mammalian Infergen gene was synthesized and cloned into
pcDNA3.1 (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.) plasmid and was used as
template. For the first round PCR to generate fusion Infergen gene
with human Interferon Alpha 14 signal peptide, IFNa14_Inner primer
was combined with INFERGEN_End primer to generate PCR templates for
second round PCR that was carried out using IFNa14_Outer primer in
combination with INFERGEN_END primer. The final PCR product was
digested with both Hind III and EcoRI and cloned into predigested
pcDNA3.1 vector. The same procedure was applied to generate
Infergen gene with human Interferon Beta signal peptide except that
IFNb_Inner and Outer primers were used to replace IFNa14_Inner and
Outer primers, respectively.
[1170] Transient Transfection and Western Analysis
[1171] The Cos-7 cell line was selected to transiently over-express
Infergen. Fugene-6 (Roche Applied Science, Indianapolis, Ind.) was
used as the transfection reagent and the manufacturer's protocol
was followed. Three days after the transfection, conditioned media
was collected, then filtered through 0.22 .mu.M Tissue Culture
Filter Unit and concentrated with Centriplus YM-10 Centrifugal
Filter Unit (Millipore, Billerica, Mass.). Protein concentrations
were measured. The attached cells were collected and cell lysate
made using conventional methods. Rabbit polyclonal antibodies made
against E. coli over-expressed Infergen were used as primary
antibodies in Western analysis.
[1172] Site-Directed Mutagenesis
[1173] The locations of exemplary glycosylation sites in the two
fusion Infergen proteins are shown in FIG. 25. The QuikChange
site-directed mutagenesis kit (Stratagene, La Jolla, Calif.) was
used to generate these mutations.
Results
[1174] The fusion constructs were generated and the sequences
confirmed. FIG. 30 depicts an amino acid sequence alignment of
Infergen (SEQ ID NO:1356), human IFN-.alpha.14 (SEQ ID NO:1358),
human IFN-.beta.1 (SEQ ID NO:1359), and exemplary fusion proteins
with human IFN-.alpha. 14 and human IFN-.beta. signal peptides (SEQ
ID NOs:1388 and 1389, respectively). The majority sequence is shown
above (SEQ ID NO:1387).
[1175] The constructs were then transiently transfected into Cos-7
cells and the transfection results were analyzed with western blot
using rabbit polyclonal antibodies against Infergen. The results
are shown in FIG. 32.
[1176] FIG. 32 depicts Western blot analysis of the transient
transfection results. Lanes 1-4 were loaded with conditioned media
from Cos-7 cells transfected with a plasmid containing nucleotide
sequences encoding: Infergen with IFN-.alpha.14 signal peptide
(lane 1); Infergen with IFN-.beta. signal peptide (lane 2);
Infergen without signal peptide (lane 3); and .beta.-galactosidase
(lane 4). Lanes 5-8 were loaded with cell lysates of Cos-7 cells
transfected with plasmids a plasmid containing nucleotide sequences
encoding: Infergen with IFN-.alpha.14 signal peptide (lane 5);
Infergen with IFN-.beta. signal peptide (lane 6); Infergen without
signal peptide (lane 7); and .beta.-galactosidase (lane 8). Lane 9
was loaded with 30 ng of Infergen, produced by E. coli and obtained
from a commercial source.
[1177] The results showed that both fusion proteins expressed well
and were mostly secreted by the cells into the conditioned media,
while the Infergen without signal peptide expressed poorly and
existed intracellularly. The two fusion genes were selected as
templates for generation of glycosylation sites.
[1178] While the present invention has been described with
reference to the specific embodiments thereof, it should be
understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be
made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the
true spirit and scope of the invention. In addition, many
modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation,
material, composition of matter, process, process step or steps, to
the objective, spirit and scope of the present invention. All such
modifications are intended to be within the scope of the claims
appended hereto.
Sequence CWU 0 SQTB SEQUENCE LISTING The patent application
contains a lengthy "Sequence Listing" section. A copy of the
"Sequence Listing" is available in electronic form from the USPTO
web site
(http://seqdata.uspto.gov/?pageRequest=docDetail&DocID=US20110008289A1).
An electronic copy of the "Sequence Listing" will also be available
from the USPTO upon request and payment of the fee set forth in 37
CFR 1.19(b)(3).
0 SQTB SEQUENCE LISTING The patent application contains a lengthy
"Sequence Listing" section. A copy of the "Sequence Listing" is
available in electronic form from the USPTO web site
(http://seqdata.uspto.gov/?pageRequest=docDetail&DocID=US20110008289A1).
An electronic copy of the "Sequence Listing" will also be available
from the USPTO upon request and payment of the fee set forth in 37
CFR 1.19(b)(3).
* * * * *
References