University of California

Yoko Takada

Yoshikazu Takada

Masaaki Fujita

Seiji Mori

The present invention resides in the discovery that the specific interaction between Myeloid Differentiation factor 2 (MD2) and integrin, especially integrin αvβ3, is involved in cellular signaling mediated by MD2-integrin, such as inflammatory response including sepsis. Thus, this invention provides for a novel method for inhibiting integrin signaling by using an inhibitor of MD2-integrin binding, such as a dominant negative mutant of MD2 without integrin-binding capability. A method for identifying inhibitors of MD2-integrin binding is also described. Further disclosed are polypeptides, nucleic acids, host cells, and corresponding compositions for inhibiting MD2-integrin signaling.

Myeloid differentiation factor 2 (MD2) signaling and modulation

The present invention provides dominant negative mutants of FGF2 for suppressing FGF-mediated cellular signaling. Related compositions, methods, and kits are disclosed.

Dominant-negative FGF2 antagonists

The present invention relates to the discovery that a secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2-IIA) plays an active role in mediating cellular signaling leading to an inflammatory response or cell proliferation by way of its specific binding with integrin &#x3b2; at site 2 of integrin &#x3b2;. More specifically, the invention provides a method for identifying inhibitors of inflammatory or proliferative signaling by screening for compounds that interrupt the specific binding of sPLA2 and integrin &#x3b2; at site 2. The invention also provides the novel use of a substance that suppresses the specific binding between sPLA2 and site 2 of integrin&#x3b2; for the purpose of treating or preventing a condition involving an undesired inflammatory response or cell proliferation.

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Sacramento, CA, United States of America

Yoko Takada