DNA encoding a chimeric polypeptide comprising the extracellular domain of TNF receptor fused to IgG, vectors, and host cells

Abstract

The invention relates generally to DNA sequences encoding chimeric polypeptides comprising extracellular portions of cytokine receptor polypeptides attached to a sequence encoding portions of IgG polypeptides. The invention relates generally, as well, to DNA sequences encoding chimeric polypeptides comprising extracellular portions of cytokine receptor polypeptides attached through oligomers encoding specifically cleavable peptide linkers to a sequence encoding portions of IgG heavy chain polypeptides More specifically, the invention relates to a construction in which a cDNA sequence encoding the extracellular domain of the human 55 kD TNF receptor is attached through an oligomer encoding a thrombin-sensitive peptide linker to a sequence encoding the F.sub.c portion and hinge region of a mouse IgGl heavy chain. The invention relates as well to uses of the chimeric polypeptide, including: use as a reagent for the antagonism and assay of TNF and lymphotoxin from diverse species; use as a means of determining the mechanism by which TNF, or analogs thereof, interacts with the TNF receptor; use as an antitumor reagent, particularly against placental tumors; and, use as a reagent capable of controlling birth.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.