RECOMBINANT INHIBIN

摘要

DNA coding for the polypeptide inhibin has been identified and characterised and this, as well as methods used in identification thereof, form part of the invention. Also claimed are probes useful in identifying such DNA. Recombinant DNA including cloning vectors are claimed which include DNA coding for all, part, analogues, homologues or precursors of inhibin as well as a protein having similiar immunological or biological activity, as well as cells transformed with the vectors and capable of expressing a polypeptide which includes all or part, analogues, homologues or precursors of inhibin or similar polypeptides. Methods for producing the vectors and transformed cells are also part of the invention. Inhibin or part, analogues, homologues or precursors thereof when produced by such recombinant techniques are also claimed, as well as pharmaceutical compositions thereof. A further aspect of the invention resides in fragments of inhibin produced by recombinant techniques such as the method disclosed as well as synthetic peptides having sequences corresponding or similar to such fragments. Pharmaceutical compositions containing such fragments are also claimed. In a further aspect of the invention uses of the recombinant and synthetic polypeptides are claimed which reside primarily in affecting gonadal function in vertebrates. Antibodies to these polypeptides are also disclosed and these are also useful in affecting gonadal function in vertebrates and thus form part of the invention.