NOVEL VEGF-LIKE FACTORS

摘要

A novel human gene having a significant homology with a VEGF-C gene which has been isolated by the PCR method with the use of primers designed on the basis of the sequence of EST assumed to be homologous with the C terminal part of VEGF-C which falls within the VEGF family; mouse and rat genes which have been isolated on the basis of the human gene isolated above; a protein encoded by the above-mentioned human gene which has been isolated by transfering the gene into Escherichia coli and expressing it therein. It is expected that the isolated protein and genes are applicable to, for example, gene therapy for VEGF-D gene coloboma, wound healing and the promotion of collateral vessel formation. Moreover, it is expected that VEGF-D protein inhibitors are usable as novel anticancer drugs, etc.