US Patent:
20080200419, Aug 21, 2008
Inventors:
Hans-Willem Snoeck - Brooklyn NY, US
Juhyun Choi - Brooklyn NY, US
Assignee:
Mount Sinai School of Medicine of New York University - New York NY
International Classification:
A61K 48/00
C12N 15/85
C12N 15/867
C12N 5/10
C12N 15/12
C12N 15/861
US Classification:
514 44, 435455, 536 235, 435372
Abstract:
An alternatively spliced form of transforming growth factor-beta2 (TGF-β2), herein denoted Δ6-TGF-β2 is disclosed. Δ6-TGF-β2 differs from TGF-β2 in the sequence of the three C-terminal exons. This novel protein is secreted, induced by cytotoxic stress in hematopoietic stem cells, and specifically blocks the enhancing effects of TGF-β2 on adult stem cells. Δ6-TGF-β2 can be used to protect stem cells from cytotoxic stress, and to enhance maintenance of these cells in vitro during retroviral transduction. In addition, Δ6-TGF-β2 can be used to slow aging and extend longevity.