Asp2

Abstract

ASP2 polypeptides and polynucleotides and methods for producing such polypeptides by recombinant techniques are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods for utilizing ASP2 polypeptides and polynucleotides in the design of protocols for the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease, cancer, and prohormone processing, among others, and diagnostic assays for such conditions.

1 . An isolated polynucleotide comprising a nucleotide sequence which is at least 90% identical to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 over its entire length.  
     
     
         2 - 19 . (canceled)  
     
     
         20 . An expression vector comprising an isolated polynucleotide, wherein said expression vector produces an ASP2 polypeptide comprising an amino acid sequence which is at least 90% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:2 when said expression vector is present in a compatible host cell.  
     
     
         21 . A recombinant host cell comprising the expression vector of  claim 20 .  
     
     
         22 . A process for producing an ASP2 polypeptide comprising culturing the recombinant host cell of  claim 21  under conditions sufficient for the production of said polypeptide and recovering the polypeptide from the culture.  
     
     
         23 . A process for producing a cell which produces an ASP2 polypeptide thereof comprising transforming or transfecting a host cell with the expression vector of  claim 20  such that the host cell, under appropriate culture conditions, produces an ASP2 polypeptide.  
     
     
         24 . The isolated polynucleotide of  claim 1  which is DNA.  
     
     
         25 . The isolated polynucleotide of  claim 1  which is RNA.