Agonist antibodies

Abstract

Various forms of c-mpl agonist antibodies are shown to influence the replication, differentiation or maturation of blood cells, especially megakaryocytes and megakaryocyte progenitor cells. Accordingly, these compounds may be used for treatment of thrombocytopenia.

1 - 42 . (canceled)  
     
     
         43 . An isolated agonist antibody, fragment or variant thereof which binds to a MuSK receptor.  
     
     
         44 . The antibody of  claim 43 , which is selected from the group consisting of scFr, Fab, F(ab′) 2  and IgG.  
     
     
         45 . The antibody of  claim 43 , which is a human antibody.  
     
     
         46 . The antibody of  claim 43 , which is a non-naturally occurring antibody.  
     
     
         47 . The antibody of  claim 43 , having a detectable label.  
     
     
         48 . The antibody of  claim 43 , which is a monoclonal antibody.  
     
     
         49 . The antibody of  claim 43 , which is a single chain antibody.  
     
     
         50 . An isolated antibody immobilized on an insoluble matrix, wherein the antibody is the antibody of  claim 43 .  
     
     
         51 . A composition, comprising the isolated antibody or fragment thereof of  claim 43 , and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.  
     
     
         52 . The composition of  claim 51 , which is sterile.  
     
     
         53 . The composition of  claim 51 , which is lyophilized.  
     
     
         54 . A method of improving neuromuscular function in a patient in need thereof and expressing MuSK receptor, comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of the antibody of  claim 43.