Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1982-2006
Title: Mark S. Ptashne: A Pioneer in Transcriptional Activation and Antibody Engineering
Introduction
Mark S. Ptashne is a distinguished inventor based in Cambridge, MA (US), known for his significant contributions to the fields of molecular biology and biotechnology. With a total of 5 patents, he has made remarkable advancements in transcriptional activation systems and chimeric antibodies.
Latest Patents
Among his latest patents, one notable invention is the "Transcriptional activator comprising a short hydrophobic activation peptide." This invention describes novel transcriptional activators and activation systems that include a DNA binding moiety linked to a short peptide of unique sequence. The peptide is designed to be substantially hydrophobic, with preferred peptides containing at least one aromatic amino acid. This invention also provides improved transcriptional activation systems that are useful for identifying and characterizing protein-protein interactions. Additionally, it describes the production and use of certain TBP mutants that enhance transcriptional activation by some activators.
Another significant patent is related to "Chimeric antibodies." This patent discloses chimeric antibodies that consist of the variable region of an antibody chain contiguous with a polypeptide other than the constant region of that antibody chain. These chimeric antibodies can include the variable region of a chain of an immunoglobulin of selected specificity and an extrinsic polypeptide. Furthermore, they may also include at least a portion of the constant region of an immunoglobulin.
Career Highlights
Mark S. Ptashne has had a notable career, working with prestigious institutions such as Harvard College and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His work has significantly impacted the understanding of gene regulation and antibody engineering.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Ptashne has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Gail D. Lauer and Thomas M. Roberts. These collaborations have further enriched his research and contributions to the scientific community.
Conclusion
Mark S. Ptashne's innovative work in transcriptional activation and antibody engineering has established him as a leading figure in biotechnology. His patents continue to influence research and development in molecular biology, showcasing his lasting impact on the field.