Gamma-heregulin

摘要

A novel member of the heregulin superfamily has been identified which is designated " gamma -HRG". This molecule, secreted by human breast cancer MDA-MB-175 cells, leads to the formation of a constitutive active receptor complex and stimulates the growth of these cells in an autocrine manner. gamma -HRG polypeptide and nucleic acid are disclosed, together with various uses therefor (e.g. use of gamma -HRG nucleic acid for the recombinant production of gamma -HRG). gamma -HRG antagonists (e.g. neutralizing antibodies and antisense nucleic acid molecules) as well as uses therefor are also described.