Notch

Abstract

The present invention relates to the use of therapeutic compounds in the modification of T-cell, T-cell antigen presenting cell (APC) interactions and the interactions between pathogenic organisms and immunocompetent cells of a host. In particular it relates to the use of these compounds in the modulation of the interaction between Notch proteins and their ligand and to the use of such compounds in the therapy of conditions such as graft rejection, autoimmunity, allergy, and asthma and infectious diseases.

1 - 26 . (canceled)  
     
     
         27 . A method of reducing T-cell activation comprising administering a composition comprising an isolated polynucleotide encoding a Notch ligand comprising a DSL domain to a cell of a patient in need thereof, wherein the Notch ligand is expressed and interacts with a Notch receptor, thereby reducing T-cell activation.  
     
     
         28 . The method of  claim 27  wherein the Notch ligand comprises Serrate.  
     
     
         29 . The method of  claim 27  wherein the Notch ligand comprises Delta.  
     
     
         30 . The method of any one of claims  27 - 29 , wherein the T-cell activation occurs with allergy, graft rejection, autoimmunity or any of allergy, graft rejection and autoimmunity in combination.  
     
     
         31 . The method of claim of  claim 30 , wherein the T-cell activation occurs with allergy.  
     
     
         32 . The method of  claim 30 , wherein the T-cell activation occurs with graft rejection.  
     
     
         33 . The method of claims  30 , wherein the T-cell activation occurs with autoimmunity.  
     
     
         34 . The method of  claim 30 , wherein the method comprises administering the composition to the patient.