P15 and tyrosinase melanoma antigens and their use in diagnostic and therapeutic methods

摘要

The present invention provides a nucleic acid sequence encoding a melanoma antigen recognized by T lymphocytes, designated p15. This invention further relates to bioassays using the nucleic acid sequence, protein or antibodies of this invention to diagnose, assess or prognoses a mammal afflicted with melanoma or metastata melanoma. This invention also provides immunogenic peptides derived from the p15 melanoma antigen and a second melanoma antigen designated tyrosinase. The proteins and peptides provided can serve as an immunogen or vaccine to prevent or treat melanoma.