A NOVEL RECEPTOR TREM (TRIGGERING RECEPTOR EXPRESSED ON MYELOID CELLS) AND USES THEREOF

摘要

Novel activating receptors of the Ig super-family expressed on human myeloid cells, called TREM(s) (triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells) are provided. Specifically, two (2) members of TREMs, TREM-4 (alpha and beta) and TREM-5 are disclosed. TREM-4 is a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed selectively in the endothelium of capillaries, in the heart and in the testis. Use of TREM-4 in treatment and diagnosis of various inflammatory diseases and heart diseases and male infertility are also provided. TREM-5 is also a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed selectively in bone marrow-derived population of leukocytes, in particular dendritic cells, and may be upregulated in certain conditions, such as cell activation, inflammation or aberrant dendritic cell function. Blockade of TREM-5 with monoclonal antibodies or soluble TREM-5-HuIgG fusion protein may reduce or block skin diseases or dendritic cell associated disorders.