ANTIBODIES TO NON-FUNCTIONAL P2X7RECEPTOR, DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF CANCERS AND OTHER CONDITIONS

摘要

The invention concerns a wide range of diseases and conditions, including cancers. The invention provides a probe for detection of such a disease or condition. The probe is able to distinguish between functional P2X7 receptors and non-functional P2X7 receptors. The probe can do this in various ways, one of which is detecting change in relation to binding of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to the receptors. The invention also provides a method for detecting the disease or condition, using the probe. The invention extends to treatment of the disease or condition, using an antibody, or an epitope capable of generating the antibody, which can distinguish between functional and non-functional P2X7 receptors and bind to the non-functional receptors. Methods of treatment, pharmaceutical compositions and use of the probe and antibody are also included.