Description of Invention:
This invention describes a gene that codes for a human topoisomerase that exclusively acts on mitochondrial DNA, and is the first described mitochondrial topoisomerase. Since a number of diseases are caused by mitochondrial malfunction, this gene could form the basis of a number of different therapies. For instance, mitochondrial malfunctions could lead to disturbances in energy metabolism and programmed cell death (apoptosis). This mitochondrial gene product could thus lead to new diagnoses and therapies centered on apoptosis, which is a critical event in cancer and autoimmune disorders.
In addition to the gene sequence, the patent application covers the encoded protein, protein fragments, monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies, and methods to alter the level of this gene's expression. Also included in the claims are methods to identify activators or inhibitors of the topoisomerase enzyme. NIH invites commercial partners to apply for either an exclusive or non-exclusive license to this technology. We also invite companies who may be interested in commercializing the topoisomerase or the antibodies for research reagent use.
Inventors:
Yves Pommier and Hong-Liang Zhang (NCI)
Patent Status:
DHHS Reference No. E-099-01/0 filed 16 Feb 2001
Portfolios: Internal Medicine Infectious Diseases Cancer
Cancer -Therapeutics Cancer -Research Materials Infectious Diseases -Therapeutics Internal Medicine-Research Materials
For Additional Information Please Contact: Mojdeh Bahar J.D.
NIH Office of Technology Transfer
6011 Executive Blvd, Suite 325
Rockville, MD 20852-3804
Phone: (301)435-2950
Email: baharm@mail.nih.gov
Fax: (301) 402-0220
