Identification of the gene causing the mouse scurfy phenotype and its human ortholog

Abstract

Isolated nucleic acid molecules are provided which encode Fkh sf , as well as mutant forms thereof. Also provided are expression vectors suitable for expressing such nucleic acid molecules, and host cells containing such expression vectors. Utilizing assays based upon the nucleic acid sequences disclosed herein (as well as mutant forms thereof), numerous molecules may be identified which modulate the immune system.

1 - 25 . (canceled) 
     
     
         26 . A method of introducing a Fkh sf  nucleic acid molecule to an animal, comprising the step of administering a Fkh sf  nucleic acid molecule which encodes Fkh sf  to an animal. 
     
     
         27 . The method according to  claim 26  wherein said nucleic acid molecule is expressed by a viral vector. 
     
     
         28 . The method according to  claim 26  wherein said nucleic acid molecule is expressed by a plasmid vector. 
     
     
         29 . The method according to  claim 26  wherein said nucleic acid molecule is administered to an animal in vivo. 
     
     
         30 . The method according to  claim 26  wherein said nucleic acid molecule is administered to cells ex vivo, and said cells are then administered to said animal. 
     
     
         31 . The method according to  claim 26  wherein said cells are hematopoietic cells. 
     
     
         32 . The method according to  claim 26  wherein said hematopoietic cells are T cells. 
     
     
         33 . The method according to  claim 26  wherein said animal is selected from the group consisting of humans, monkeys, dogs, cats, rats and mice. 
     
     
         34 . (canceled)