METHODS FOR INHIBITING PROLIFERATION OF ASTROCYTES AND ASTROCYTIC TUMOR CELLS AND FOR ENHANCING SURVIVAL OF NEURONS AND USES THEREOF

摘要

The present invention provides methods for inhibiting proliferation of astrocytes and astrocytic tumor cells. The present invention further provide s methods for treating a condition associated with a defect in astrocyte proliferation in a subject, and methods for treating a condition associated with astrocytic tumor cell proliferation in a subject. Additionally, the present invention discloses methods for enhancing survival of neurons. The present invention still further provides methods for treating neural degeneration in a subject. The present invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions, comprising NrS1 protein or nucleic acid and a pharmaceutically-acceptable carrier. Finally, the present invention provides a purified NrS1 protein, an agent that binds to the NrS1 protein, a kit comprising an agent that binds to the NrS1 protein, and a composition comprising the NrS1 protein and a carrier.