Anti-apoptotic compositions comprising the R1 subunit of herpes simplex virus ribonucleotide reductase or its N-terminal portion; and uses thereof

摘要

An anti-apoptotic agent and a composition derived therefrom, and methods to prevent apoptosis in vivo and in vitro are provided. The anti-apoptotic agent comprises R1 subunit of Herpes simplex virus (HSV) ribonucleotide reductase, or its N-terminal portion of about 350 amino acids. HSV-R1 inhibited TNF-alpha induced apoptosis, and blocked caspase 8 activation induced by TNF-alpha and Fas-L expression.