Compounds and methods for modulating adhesion molecule function

Abstract

Modulating agents and methods for enhancing or inhibiting cadherin-mediated functions are provided. The modulating agents comprise at least an HAV binding motif, an analogue or peptidomimetic thereof, or an antibody or fragment thereof that specifically binds to such a motif. Modulating agents may additionally comprise one or more cell adhesion recognition sequences recognized by cadherins and/or other adhesion molecules. Such modulating agents may, but need not, be linked to a targeting agent, drug and/or support material.

1 .- 62 . (canceled)  
     
     
         63 . A method for modulating a cadherin-mediated function, comprising contacting a cadherin-expressing cell with a cell adhesion modulating agent comprising at least three amino acid residues of the HAV-BM sequence VFSINSMSGRM (SEQ ID NO:8), wherein the agent is effective for inhibiting a cadherin-mediated function.  
     
     
         64 . A method for modulating a cadherin-mediated function, comprising contacting a cadherin-expressing cell with a cell adhesion modulating agent comprising at least three amino acid residues of the HAV-BM sequence VFSINSMSGRM (SEQ ID NO:8), wherein the agent is a peptide ranging in size from three to seven amino acid residues, and wherein the agent is effective for inhibiting a cadherin-mediated function.  
     
     
         65 . A method for modulating a cadherin-mediated function, comprising contacting a cadherin-expressing cell with a cell adhesion modulating agent comprising at least three amino acid residues of the HAV-BM sequence VFSINSMSGRM (SEQ ID NO:8), wherein the agent is a peptide ranging in size from six to sixteen amino acid residues, and wherein the agent is effective for inhibiting a cadherin-mediated function.  
     
     
         66 . A method for modulating a cadherin-mediated function, comprising contacting a cadherin-expressing cell with a cell adhesion modulating agent comprising an antibody or antigen binding fragment thereof that binds to the HAV-BM sequence VFSINSMSGRM (SEQ ID NO:8), wherein the agent is effective for inhibiting a cadherin-mediated function.  
     
     
         67 . A method according to any one of claims  63 - 65 , wherein the agent comprises an HAV-BM sequence that is present within a linear peptide.  
     
     
         68 . A method according to any one of claims  63 - 65 , wherein the agent comprises an HAV-BM sequence that is present within a cyclic peptide.  
     
     
         69 . A method according to any one of claims  63 - 65 , wherein the HAV-BM sequence is present within a peptide comprising an N-terminal or C-terminal modification.