Use of TAK1 protein, or nucleic acid encoding it, for identifying compounds useful in treatment or prevention of bone atrophy, particularly osteoporosis

摘要

Use of a TAK1 (= transforming growth factor beta -activated kinase) protein (I), or its functional fragments or derivatives, or of nucleic acid (II) encoding them, for identifying a compound (X) effective for prevention or treatment of bone atrophy. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) high throughput screens to identify (X); and (2) inhibitors of (I) for preparing compositions for (a) treating bone atrophy and (b) treating or preventing pain associated with such atrophy. ACTIVITY : Osteopathic; Analgesic. No details of tests for these activities are given. MECHANISM OF ACTION : Antisense Therapy; RNAi; RNA Interference; Antibody Therapy; Inhibiting expression or activity of TAK1, resulting in (i) inhibition of the interleukin 1-signaling pathway and thus suppression of formation of proinflammatory substances such as collagenase 3, tumor necrosis factor and cyclooxygenase and (ii) increased activity of osteoblasts.