Description of Invention:
The protein known as macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) was one of the first cytokines to be discovered. Thirty-years ago it was described as a T-cell-derived factor that inhibited the random migration of macrophages in vitro. Today, MIF is known to be a mediator of the function of macrophages in host defense and its expression correlates with delayed hypersensitivity and cellular immunity. It plays an important role in the inflammatory response and is associated with cell differentiation. As with other lymphokines, MIF could have therapeutic values in stimulating the immune system and other cells. Hardly abundant from other sources, the high concentration of the protein that has been found in the eye lens could be a useful source for research. The present invention provides the DNA that encodes MIF. A related invention provides a method for isolating MIF from the ocular lens.
Potential Area of Application:
research reagent
therapeutic for inflammatory conditions
stimulation of the immune system
Main Advantage of Invention:
abundant source
purified MIF
Inventors:
GJ Wistow (NEI)
Patent Status:
DHHS Reference No. E-090-1991/0 --
U.S. Patent 5,656,737 issued on 12 Aug 1997, entitled "DNA Encoding Macrophage Migration Inhibition Factor from Ocular Lens"
No foreign rights
Related Technologies: DHHS Reference No. E-090-1991/0 --
U.S. Patent 5,328,990 issued 12 Jul 1994, entitled "Isolation of Macrophage Migration Inhibition Factor from Ocular Lens"
Relevant Publication: V Paralkar, G Wistow, "Cloning the human gene for macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF)," Genomics 19(1):48-51, 1994.
Licensing Status: Available for exclusive or non-exclusive licensing.
