University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey

Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Pranela Rameshwar

Treena Lynne Arinzeh

Khadidiatou T Guiro

Pedro Gascon

Disclosed is a three-dimensional (3-D) in vitro model for studying and subsequently treating cancer dormancy. The model is specifically useful in studying breast cancer and may be used for drug discovery because it maintains the breast cancer cells in a dormant state, unlike conventional two-dimensional (2-D) tissue culture plastic (TCP). Tumor-forming breast cancers cells were seeded on the 3-D model scaffolds and remained viable without proliferation. They also express stem cell markers typical for dormant cells. Dormant breast cancer cells also maintain their phenotype when seeded on the 3-D model unlike conventional 2-D models. The 3-D model includes a fibrous polycaprolactone with 30 wt. % hydroxyapatite. The 3-D model mimics the structure of bone tissue.

3-D in vitro model for breast cancer dormancy

The present invention discloses the cloning of a new cDNA, HGFIN, from stimulated bone marrow stromal cells that was retrieved with a probe specific for the neurokinin-1 (NK-1) receptor. The novel gene, HGFIN, encodes a protein receptor that is involved in the regulation of hematopoietic proliferation and differentiation. HGFIN is implicated in the treatment of hyperproliferative disorders, particularly bone and breast cancer, because it acts to suppress the proliferating cells.

Method of reversing carboplatin resistance by inhibition of HGFIN

The present invention relates to the production of functional neurons from adult human mesenchymal stem cells using a retinoid. A retinoid, when used in the absence of a growth factor, transdifferentiates mesenchymal stem cells into functional neurons that exhibit synaptic transmission. Moreover, polarization of the functional neurons can be achieved using selected growth factors. Functional neurons produced in accordance with the method of the invention find use in the treatment or amelioration of diseases or conditions associated with neurodegeneration or nerve damage.

Method for producing a functional neuron

Compositions and methods are provided for identifying novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of breast cancer, bone marrow metastasis, pain, arthritis, aggressive behavior, depression, and certain hematopoietic disorders. Disclosed are promoters and 3' regulatory regions of genes whose expression differs in malignant cells as compared with non-malignant cells. These include PPT-I, NK-2 and SP-R.

Human preprotachykinin gene promoter

The present invention establishes the fact that the degradation of SP to SP(1-4) by endogenous NEP in BM stroma can be a mediator of hematopoietic stimulation by stem cell factor (SCF) and induce the production of TGF-&#x3b2; and TNF-&#x3b1; in BM stroma. The present invention establishes that compositions containing the SP(1-4) polypeptide, or NEP genetic elements, can be used to slow and or stop the rapid growth of stem and progenitor cells thus protecting them from the deleterious effects of cancer therapy. Hence, the polynucleotides and proteins of the present invention may be used to protect stem cells from the toxic effects of chemo- and radio-therapy, in those undergoing, or about to undergo such cancer related treatments. Also provided are compositions containing NEP antisense sequences and antibodies used for the increased proliferation and differentiation of stem and/or progenitor cells in those whom have already undergone chemo- and/or radio-therapy.

Amino terminal substance P compositions and methods for using the same

Bone marrow (BM) is the major organ where immune cells are derived. Homeostasis in the BM is maintained by inter- and intra-cellular interactions by the various subsets of BM cells. The present invention discloses the cloning of a new cDNA from stimulated BM stromal cells that was retrieved with a probe specific for the neurokinin-1 (NK-1) receptor. The cloned cDNA was designated 'Hematopoietic Growth Factor Inducible Neurokinin-1 type' (HGFIN) gene based on its expression in differentiated hematopoietic cells. Hence, the present invention provides a novel gene, HGFIN, which encodes a protein receptor that is involved in the regulation of hematopoietic proliferation and differentiation. The protein of the present invention may be involved as a central mediator of white blood cell, progenitor, differentiation, and therefore, may be useful in the prevention and treatment of lymphoproliferative syndromes such as B-cell related maladies, including but not limited to acute and chronic myeloid and lymphocytic leukemia as well as the B-cell subtype of Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas.

Growing community of inventors

Maplewood, NJ, United States of America

Pranela Rameshwar