|
Novel Variants of p53 Tumor
Suppressor Protein
Inventor:
Thanos
Halazonetis
Tech ID:
HT-9500, HT-98001, HT-9436
Description:
Inactivation of the p53 tumor suppressor protein, by mutation or
by viruses, has been identified in over one-half of all human tumors.
The inactivated protein usually has reduced DNA-binding capacity,
which renders it ineffective in regulating cell division and cell
growth. Delivery of the p53 gene to tumor cells has led to the elimination
of the tumor in both animal models and some early clinical studies.
One limitation of p53 gene therapy is that many tumors express high
levels of the inactive mutant p53 protein, which can form complexes
with and inactivate the normal protein that is introduced during
therapy.
Wistar researchers have developed several
p53 variants that have increased potency relative to the normal
protein. One variant protein has high affinity for the DNA-binding
site, which increases the potency 5-7 fold versus the normal p53.
Another variant will not complex with mutant p53 proteins and is
thus resistant to inactivation by the mutants. A third variant is
more stable than wild-type p53 at physiological temperatures. These
p53 variants can be useful as gene therapy agents or as tools for
the screening and identification of compounds that enhance p53 binding
to DNA.
Key Words:
Therapeutic, screening, cancer, target, gene therapy, DNA probe
Applications
and Advantages: Wistar's p53 variants are useful for screening
assays to identify potential cancer therapeutics; these variants
may also be useful in gene therapy as replacements for mutant p53
in cancer cells.
Intellectual
Property Status: This technology is protected by U.S. patents:
5,573,925; 5,721,340; 5,847,083; 6,169,073; 6,245,886; 6,388,062;
6,420,118; 6,784,157 and corresponding International patent applications.
Licensing
Opportunity:This technology is available
for exclusive or non-exclusive licensing.
As appropriate, sponsored research support
will be considered to further develop
the technology.
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
Last Updated: Aug.
02
|
