University of Leicester

Omeros Corporation

Teizo Fujita

Hans-Wilhelm Schwaeble

Cordula Margaret Stover

Clark E Tedford

James Brian Parent

Cordula M Stover

Genetically modified mammals are described which lack the mannan binding lectin associated serine protease MASP-2, together with methods and constructs for their production. Such mammals are useful as models for disorders of the complement system, and in the identification of treatments for such disorders. Also described are mammals which lack the associated protein MAp19; such mammals may also lack MASP-2.

Genetically modified non-human mammals and cells

In one aspect, the invention provides methods of inhibiting the effects of MASP-2-dependent complement activation in a living subject. The methods comprise the step of administering, to a subject in need thereof, an amount of a MASP-2 inhibitory agent effective to inhibit MASP-2-dependent complement activation. In some embodiments, the MASP-2 inhibitory agent inhibits cellular injury associated with MASP-2-mediated alternative complement pathway activation, while leaving the classical (C1q-dependent) pathway component of the immune system intact. In another aspect, the invention provides compositions for inhibiting the effects of lectin-dependent complement activation, comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a MASP-2 inhibitory agent and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

Methods for treating conditions associated with MASP-2 dependent complement activation

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Fukushima, Japan

Teizo Fujita