Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1999
Title: The Innovations of Toshitaka Akatsuka
Introduction
Toshitaka Akatsuka is a notable inventor based in Chevy Chase, MD (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of medical research, particularly in the study of hepatitis C virus. His work has implications for understanding immune responses and developing potential therapies.
Latest Patents
Toshitaka Akatsuka holds a patent for the identification of peptides that stimulate the hepatitis C virus-specific cytotoxic T cell response. This patent details the use of 28 peptides from the NS5 region of the hepatitis C virus, selected through an amphipathicity algorithm as candidates for T cell epitopes. In experiments conducted on BALB/c mice, a single conserved epitope represented by a 16-residue synthetic peptide was presented by D.sup.d class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules to conventional CD4.sup.- CD8.sup.+ CTL. An exemplary peptide, which corresponds to amino acid residues 2422-2437 of the polyprotein of the Chiron HCV1 isolate, has the amino acid sequence MSYSWTGALVTPCAAE [SEQ ID NO: 1]. This research demonstrates that CTL can recognize the product of the HCV NS5 gene, likely the RNA polymerase, in association with class I MHC molecules on model target cells.
Career Highlights
Toshitaka Akatsuka is affiliated with the United States of America as represented by the Department of Health. His work has been pivotal in advancing the understanding of hepatitis C and the immune response to it. His research has the potential to inform future vaccine development and therapeutic strategies.
Collaborations
Toshitaka Akatsuka has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Jay A Berzofsky and Mutsunori Shirai. These collaborations have contributed to the depth and breadth of his research in the field of virology and immunology.
Conclusion
Toshitaka Akatsuka's innovative work in identifying peptides related to hepatitis C virus has significant implications for medical research and potential treatments. His contributions continue to influence the field and pave the way for future advancements.