Thomas L James

Title: Innovations by Thomas L James in Prion Research

Introduction

Thomas L James is a notable inventor based in Nicasio, California. He has made significant contributions to the field of prion research, focusing on the mechanisms of prion formation and replication. With a total of 2 patents, his work has implications for understanding and potentially treating prion diseases.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents involves inhibitors of prion formation. The patent discloses molecules that interact with cellular components involved in the conversion of PrP to PrP. These molecules can be small molecules, peptides, or protein analogs, which interfere with prion formation and replication. They achieve this by preventing interactions of proteins involved in a prion complex or by interfering with β-sheet formation. Another embodiment of this invention promotes the conversion of PrP by binding to PrP and facilitating a conformational change.

His second patent focuses on a protein designated as Prion Protein Modulator Factor (PPMF). This protein acts as an auxiliary factor in prion replication, primarily characterized by its ability to bind to PrP.C and facilitate a conformational change from PrP.C to PrP.Sc. The patent details a discontinuous epitope on PrP.C that binds PPMF, which is encoded by a nucleotide sequence derived from various organisms, including cow, sheep, mouse, hamster, and human. The PPMF forms a complex with PrP.C and PrP.Sc, serving as a rate-limiting compound in the formation of that complex. Additionally, the patent discusses molecules, including antibodies, that bind PPMF or its epitope on PrP.C, which are useful in treating prion diseases.

Career Highlights

Thomas L James is affiliated with the University of California, where he conducts his research. His work has garnered attention in the scientific community for its innovative approach to understanding prion diseases.

Collaborations

He has collaborated with notable scientists such as Stanley B Prusiner and Fred Ehrenkranz Cohen, contributing to advancements in prion research.

Conclusion

Thomas L James's contributions to prion research through his patents highlight the potential for innovative treatments for prion diseases. His work continues to influence the scientific community and offers hope for future advancements in this critical area of study.