Diagnostic and Therapeutic Use of a Novel Growth Factor, Neublasmin

摘要

The present invention relates to the field of diagnostic and therapeutic use of proteins and genes, in particular to the diagnostic and therapeutic use of a secreted human hormone/growth factor, Neublasmin, and use or the gene coding for Neublasmin in the diagnosis and treatment of testicular disorders, in particular diagnosis and treatment of germ cell tumours and infertility. The invention also relates to use of Neublasmin in the treatment of CNS disorders. Neublasmin is expressed at high levels in human adult testicles and in developing mouse testicles from pn 22 and onwards. Expression or Neublasmin is strongly up-regulated in carcinoma in situ. Expression is also seen in foetal and adult brain.