PCR Array For Detection Of Human Herpes Virus
Background:
The National Cancer Institute's Advanced Technology Program is
seeking statements of capability or interest from parties
interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate,
or commercialize virus-specific quantitative real-time RT-PCR
arrays.
Technology:
This invention describes PCR-based technology that allows for the
simultaneous transcriptional profiling of the human herpes virus
HHV6A genome. The technology may be used to determine the role of
HHV6A in the development of lymphomas, other types of cancer,
chronic fatigue syndrome, or diseases where an infectious agent is
suspected. The primer pairs are tested to ensure specificity to
HHV6A and allow complete discrimination of this virus from the
closely related herpes viruses HHV6B and HHV7.
Recent findings of the association of active viral genes with
cancer cells have led to new proposed targets for cancer vaccines
and therapeutics. The ability to distinguish HHV6A from other
related herpes viruses, and to independently assay viral gene
activity, may lead to the identification of new viral targets for
the treatment of cancers and other diseases where HHV6A
transcription is active.
Potential Commercial Applications/Possible Markets
Identified:
- Clinical diagnoses and disease association
- Identification of new viral targets for the treatment of
cancers and other diseases
- Cancer vaccine development
- Monitoring the effect of therapeutics on HHV6A gene
expression
Main Advantages of
Technology/Invention:
- Ability to analyze whole HHV6A genome expression and its
association with disease states
- Ability to discriminate HHV6A from closely-related viruses
R&D Status: Discovery
Further R&D Needed:
- Development of a validated, finished product for commercial
use
IP Status:
- U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/114,753 filed 14 Nov.
2008
Contact Information:
John D. Hewes, Ph.D.
NCI Technology Transfer Center
Tel.: 301-435-3121
Email: hewesj@mail.nih.gov
Please reference this number: #824
Revised 2/12/2009
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