Stem Cell Related Patent Number US7112653

Composition and method for preserving progenitor cells

Moore, Jeffrey G.; Kennebunkport, ME, United States of America

This invention introduces a novel pharmaceutical composition comprised of a carrier and a mannose-binding protein, such that the pylartin protein material is effective in preserving progenitor cells such as hematopoietic progenitor cells. The protein itself is described as having an amino acid sequence comprising AQSLSFSFTKFD (SEQ ID NO:1) and a molecular weight of approximately 12-20 kD, or alternately an amino acid sequence comprising VVAVEFD (SEQ ID NO:3) and a molecular weight of approximately 15-20 kD. Further described are heterodimers and multimers of the protein, as are methods of preserving progenitor cells in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo. Methods are included such as myeloablation therapies for cancer treatment wherein myeloid reconstitution is facilitated via the specified protein. Other therapeutic utilities are also enabled such as the expansion of progenitor cell populations ex vivo which increase the success of engraftation, transportation and storage of progenitor cells. Further detailed are the properties of a mannose-binding protein which is a lectin comprising a heterodimer of a first polypeptide and a second polypeptide, wherein the lectin can be obtained from a legume selected from the group consisting of Phaseolus vulgaris, Dolichos lab lab, and Vigna senensis. Therapeutic applications are provided such as in the facilitation of gene therapy in the treatment and cure of a broad range of life-threatening hematologic diseases, such as in hematopoietic therapies in cancer treatment.

Application Number: US2003000737180

Date Filed: 12/15/03

Dated Published: 09/26/06

Assignee: Inclone Systems, Incorporated, New York, NY, United States of America