| The IL-12 family of cytokines (IL-12, IL-23, and IL-27) has an important role in inflammation and autoimmune diseases. IL-12 is produced by macrophages and dendritic cells in response to certain bacterial and parasitic infections and is a powerful inducer of IFN-gamma production. IL-23 is proposed to stimulate a subset of T cells to produce IL-17, which in turn induce the production of proinflammatory cytokines that lead to a protective response during infection. IL-27 appears to have duel functions as an initiator of TH1-type (cellular immunity) immune responses and as an attenuator of immune/inflammatory responses. The present inventions provide methods for improved expression of multimeric proteins by engineering different ratios of the subunit expression units in a cell or upon expression from a multi-promoter plasmid having different strength promoters. The inventors have improved the levels and efficiency of expression of the IL-12 family of cytokines, which includes IL-12, IL-23, and IL-27, by adjusting the transcription and translation of the alpha and beta subunits that comprise the heterodimeric proteins. Optimal ratios of expression for the two (2) subunits were determined for IL-12, IL-23, and IL-27. Advantages: Increased expression and stability of in vitro expressed IL-12, IL-23 and IL-27 cytokines Development Status: In vitro data and data in animal models can be provided upon request Market: Infectious Diseases; Cancer; Inflammatory Diseases |
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Available for licensing. Collaborative Research Opportunity: The Center for Cancer Research, Human Retrovirus Section, is seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate, or commercialize delivery of cytokines of the IL-12 family in cancer and other indications. Please contact John D. Hewes, Ph.D. at 301-435-3121 or hewesj@mail.nih.gov for more information. |
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