The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Apr. 28, 2009
Filed:
Apr. 22, 2005
Gillian D. Bryant-greenwood, Honolulu, HI (US);
Lily S. Tashima, Honolulu, HI (US);
Simona Ognjanovic, Aiea, HI (US);
Elizabeta Nemeth, Los Angeles, CA (US);
Lynnae K. Millar, Kaneohe, HI (US);
Gillian D. Bryant-Greenwood, Honolulu, HI (US);
Lily S. Tashima, Honolulu, HI (US);
Simona Ognjanovic, Aiea, HI (US);
Elizabeta Nemeth, Los Angeles, CA (US);
Lynnae K. Millar, Kaneohe, HI (US);
University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI (US);
Abstract
In accordance with the present invention, recombinant human PBEF has been produced in order to study its ability to stimulate the transcription of the key cytokine mediators of labor induction, using the amnion-like epithelial (WISH) cell line and fetal membrane explants. As a result of these studies, it has been determined that PBEF is a good indicator of initiation of labor. This makes PBEF a useful marker, especially for the identification of subjects who have initiated preterm labor. Accordingly, methods for the identification of subjects who have commenced labor are provided. In addition, methods are also provided for blocking labor, as well as compositions useful therefor. This is accomplished by blocking the production of PBEF or by blocking the action of PBEF.