| BRAF35:
The DNA-Binding Component of The BRCA2
Complex
Inventors:
Ramin
Shiekhattar
Tech
ID: SR-00002
Description:
Mutations of the human BRCA2 gene are
associated with a very high risk of breast
cancer, yet the majority of breast cancer
patients do not carry any BRCA2 or BRCA1
mutations. Additionally the function of
BRCA2 and its exact role in cell growth
regulation have not yet been determined.
Wistar
researches have determined that BRCA2
is part of a multiprotein complex and
have identified a new protein, BRAF35
(BRCA2-Associated-Factor 35) that is the
DNA-binding component of this complex.
Similar to BRCA2, the expression of BRAF35
RNA is up-regulated in proliferating tissues.
The BRCA2/BRAF35 complex is found associated
with chromatin at the early stages of
chromosome condensation. These findings
suggest that the BRCA2/BRAF35 complex
may have a key role in both DNA repair
and cell cycle regulation. Thus BRAF35
and the BRCA2/BRAF35 complex may be useful
targets for development of novel cancer
therapeutics.
Key
Words: Target, research tool, screening,
therapeutic, cancer, antibody, pharmacogenomics,
BRCA2
Applications
and Advantages: Identification
of BRAF35 mutations may be useful for
identifying individuals at risk for breast
cancer. The BRCA2/BRAF35 complex may be
useful for the design or identification
(via screen) of new cancer therapeutics.
Antibodies to BRAF35 developed at Wistar
may be useful tools for research and for
diagnostic applications.
Intellectual
Property Status: A provisional
patent application has been filed.
Licensing
Opportunity: This technology is
available for exclusive or non-exclusive
license. Sponsored research support to
develop the technology will also be considered.
Contact:
Meryle
J. Melnicoff
Director, Business Development
The Wistar Institute
3601 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: (215) 898-0049
Fax: (215) 573-2456
melnicoff@wistar.org
Lat
Updated: Jan. 01 |
