Localization and characterization of the Wilms' tumor gene

Abstract

The Wilms' tumor gene associated with 11p3 locus on the human chromosome, as well as a method of analyzing cells for the gene is described and characterized. The gene encodes a transcription unit approximately 50 kb in size and a mRNA of approximately 3 kb, which is expressed in predominantly in kidney and gonadal tissue. The gene is alternative spliced producing four very similar mRNA transcripts. The polypeptides encoded by the Wilms' tumor DNA includes four “zinc fingers” and a region rich in proline and glutamine, suggesting that the polypeptide has a role in transcription regulation.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A pharmaceutical composition comprising an isolated polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO.: 5 in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.  
     
     
         2 . A method for treating a cancer or precancerous condition associated with the Wilms' tumor gene in an individual comprising administering to said individual a therapeutically effective amount of a composition according to  claim 1 .  
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 2  wherein the cancer or precancerous condition is selected from the group consisting of: Wilms' tumor, leukemia, testicular cancer and ovarian cancer.  
     
     
         4 . A composition comprising an isolated polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO.: 5, wherein said composition is suitable for use in inducing an immune response.  
     
     
         5 . A composition comprising an isolated polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO.: 5, wherein said composition is suitable for use in inducing an antibody response.  
     
     
         6 . A method for inducing an immune response in a mammal comprising administering to said mammal an effective amount of a composition comprising an isolated polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO.: 5.  
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 6  wherein the immune response result s in inducing antibody production.  
     
     
         8 . A method for inducing an antibody response in a mammal comprising administering to said mammal an effective amount of a composition comprising an isolated polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO.: 5.