Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1998
Title: Thomas D Chung: Innovator in Nucleic Acid Oligomers
Introduction
Thomas D Chung is a notable inventor based in Lambertville, NJ (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of molecular biology, particularly in the development of capped nucleic acid oligomers. His work focuses on innovative solutions for treating influenza infections.
Latest Patents
Thomas D Chung holds a patent for "Capped nucleic acid oligomers that inhibit cap-dependent transcription." This invention involves novel capped oligonucleotides that are useful in the treatment of influenza infection. The patent describes a synthetically derived 67-nucleotide RNA substrate, which contains a labeled cap-1 structure. This substrate was utilized to analyze the parameters of influenza virus endonuclease activity. The influenza virus polymerase specifically cleaved this substrate to yield a single capped 11-nucleotide fragment capable of directly priming transcription.
An analysis of systematic truncations of this RNA substrate in cleavage, elongation, and binding reactions demonstrated that the minimum chain length required for cleavage was one nucleotide past the cleavage site. In contrast, the minimum chain length required for priming activity was found to be 9 nucleotides, while a chain length of at least 4 nucleotides was required for efficient binding. Based on these chain length requirements, the present inventors show that a pool of capped oligonucleotides—too short to prime transcription but long enough to bind with high affinity to the viral polymerase—are potent inhibitors of cap-dependent in vitro transcription.
Career Highlights
Thomas D Chung is associated with Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, where he continues to contribute to advancements in pharmaceutical research and development. His innovative work has the potential to impact the treatment of viral infections significantly.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Thomas has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Christopher W Cianci and Moira Hagen. These collaborations have further enhanced the research and development of his patented technologies.
Conclusion
Thomas D Chung is a distinguished inventor whose work in nucleic acid oligomers has the potential to revolutionize treatments for influenza infections. His contributions to the field are invaluable and demonstrate the importance of innovation in medical research.