Methods for modulating T cell survival by modulating bcl-X.sub.L protein level
OwnerCarl H. June, Craig B. Thompsoninventors
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Abstract
Methods for protecting a T cell from cell death are described. The methods involve contacting the T cell with an agent which augments the bcl-X.sub.L protein level in the T cell such that it is protected from cell death. The invention further pertains to methods for increasing the susceptibility of a T cell to cell death, comprising contacting the T cell with at least one agent which decreases bcl-X.sub.L protein level in the T cell. Both in vivo and in vitro methods are described.
Claims5
A method for inhibiting cell death in a virally infected T-cell by increasing the level of bcl-X.sub.L protein in the T-cell, comprising introducing into the T-cell in vitro a nucleic acid molecule comprising a gene encoding a human bcl-X.sub.L protein operably linked to at least one regulatory sequence, wherein the at least one regulatory sequence allows for inducible expression of the bcl-X.sub.L protein in the T-cell, such that T-cell death is inhibited in the virally infected T-cell.
A method for inhibiting cell death in a T-cell in a subject by increasing the level of bcl-X.sub.L protein in the T-cell, wherein the T-cell in the subject is infected with a virus, comprising obtaining the T cell from the subject, introducing into the T-cell in vitro a nucleic acid molecule comprising a gene encoding a bcl-X.sub.L protein operably linked to at least one regulatory sequence which allows for inducible expression of the bcl-X.sub.L protein in the T-cell, and reintroducing the T-cell into the subject, such that T-cell death is inhibited in the T-cell of the subject.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.