CERAMIDASE COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS BASED THEREON

摘要

The present invention relates to ceramidase genes, in particular to human mitochondrial ceramidase genes and their encoded protein products, as well as derivatives and analogs thereof. Production of ceramidase proteins, derivatives, and antibodies are also provided. The present invention relates to methods for treating and preventing hyperproliferative diseases, cardiovascular diseases and inflammation based on the regulation of the level of ceramide. In particular, the invention relates to the regulation of the level of ceramide by inhibiting ceramidase expression or activity. The invention encompasses ceramidase and related nucleic acids, host cell expression systems, mutant ceramidase proteins, ceramidase fusion proteins, ceramidase antibodies, ceramidase antisense nucleic acids, and other compounds that modulate gene expression or ceramidase activity that can be used for prevention and treatment of proliferative disorders, including but not limited to breast cancer; cardiovascular diseases and inflammation.