Beta-amyloid peptide-binding proteins and polynucleotides encoding the same

Abstract

Novel proteins which bind human β-amyloid peptide, polynucleotides which encode these proteins, and methods for producing these proteins are provided. Diagnostic, therapeutic, and screening methods employing the polynucleotides and polypeptides of the present invention are also provided. Transgenic animals and knockout animals are also provided.

1 - 20 . (canceled)  
     
     
         21 . An antibody or fragment thereof that binds specifically to the polypeptide of SEQ ID NO: 2.  
     
     
         22 . The antibody or fragment thereof of  claim 21 , wherein the antibody or fragment thereof is monoclonal.  
     
     
         23 . The antibody or fragment thereof of  claim 21 , wherein the antibody or fragment thereof is a single chain.  
     
     
         24 . A method of detecting the presence or quantity of β-amyloid peptide-binding protein in a sample, the method comprising the steps of: 
 a) contacting the sample with the antibody of  claim 21 , thereby forming a complex; and    b) determining the presence or quantity of the complex.    
     
     
         25 . A method of inhibiting the polypeptide of SEQ ID NO: 2, the method comprising the step of combining the antibody or fragment thereof of  claim 21  with a sample that contains the polypeptide of SEQ ID NO: 2.  
     
     
         26 . A method of making an antibody or fragment thereof, the method comprising the step of culturing a cell line that expresses the antibody or fragment thereof of  claim 21 .  
     
     
         27 . A method of treating a patient, the method comprising the step of administering to the patient a therapeutically effective quantity of the antibody or fragment thereof of  claim 21 .  
     
     
         28 . The method of  claim 27  wherein the antibody or fragment thereof inhibits the polypeptide of SEQ ID NO: 2.  
     
     
         29 . The method of  claim 27  wherein the antibody or fragment thereof inhibits interaction of the polypeptide of SEQ ID NO: 2 with β-amyloid peptide.