DIAGNOSING AND TREATING CANCER CELLS USING MUTANT VIRUSES

摘要

The invention provides methods for the identification of genes and their encoded proteins involved in the susceptibility to proliferative disorders, including cancer, using a tumor host range mutant virus (T-HR mutant). In addition, the invention provides methods for the diagnosis of abnormally proliferating cells in a subject, using a T-HR mutant. The invention also features, T-HR mutants that can be used to kill cancer cells such as ones carrying a Sal2 alteration. Furthermore, the invention features the analysis of Sal2 nucleic acids and proteins for diagnosing and treating patients having proliferative disorders, including cancer, involving mutations in a Sal2 gene and encoded protein. Also encompassed by the invention are transgenic and knockout mice including Sal2 nucleic acids or proteins and mutants thereof.