University of Texas System

Yong Wen

Mien-Chie Hung

Yan Li

Duen-Hwa Yan

Bill Spohn

The present invention regards mutant forms of Bik that comprise anti-cell proliferation and/or pro-apoptotic activities. In particular embodiments, the Bik polypeptides comprise a substitution at Thr33 and Ser35 and, in some embodiments, phosphorylation at these sites is inhibited. In more particular embodiments, these forms are useful for cancer therapy, particularly when administered in combination with liposomes. In embodiments wherein a mutant Bik polynucleotide is administered for cancer therapy, the polynucleotide may be regulated in a tissue-specific manner.

Antitumor effect of mutant Bik

The present invention relates generally to the fields of cancer therapy and gene therapy. More particularly, the invention demonstrates methods for repressing or preventing transformation and proliferation of tumor cells. The method comprises contacting a cell with a p202 polypeptide in an amount effective to inhibit a transformed phenotype or cell proliferation. Inhibition of transformation may be indicated by a reduction in a transforming, tumorigenic or metastatic potential of a cell.

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Burlingame, CA, United States of America

Yong Wen