University of Arkansas

Kazushi Shigemasa

Timothy J O'Brien

Lowell J Underwood

John Beard

Alessandro D Santin

Martin J Cannon

Hirotoshi Tanimoto

The present invention provides a DNA encoding a novel extracellular serine protease termed Tumor Antigen Derived Gene-14 (TADG-14) which is overexpressed in ovarian, breast and colon carcinoma samples. Also provided are vector and host cells capable of expressing the DNA of the present invention, as well as the uses of the DNA and protein of the present invention. Also provided is a TADG-14 protein variant that has a potential role for detecting and targeting of ovarian carcinomas.

Extracellular serine protease

The present invention discloses the protease hepsin is specifically over-expressed in ovarian and other malignancies. A number of hepsin peptides can induce immune responses to hepsin, thereby demonstrating the potential of these peptides in monitoring and the development of immunotherapies for ovarian and other malignancies. There is also provided a hepsin protein variant that is useful as a marker for ovarian cancer cells, prostate cancer cells or kidney cancer cells.

Methods for the early diagnosis of ovarian cancer

The present invention provides a method of detecting/monitoring tumor growth and progression in a tissue by measuring the level of antileukoprotease. Also provided is a method of treating an individual having a tumor by administering antileukoprotease to inhibit the activity of stratum corneum chymotryptic enzyme. Specifically, the tumor is an ovarian carcinoma.

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Hiroshima, Japan

Kazushi Shigemasa