Novel human gene functionally related to dyslexia

Abstract

The present invention describes a novel human gene, DYXC1, which is functionally related to dyslexia. DYXC1 gene encodes a 420-amino acid residue protein. DYXC1 is expressed in several tissues, including the brain, and is localized in the nucleus. In addition, four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in DYXC1 mRNA have been characterized in this invention. The invention provides diagnostic methods and materials for analysing allelic variation in DYSC1 gene. This invention also provides polypeptides encoded by DYXC1 gene and antibodies binding to said polypeptides.

1 - 8 . (canceled) 
     
     
         9 . A method of producing an antibody comprising:
 immunising a mammal with an isolated and purified DYXC1 protein having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:3 or an antigenic fragment thereof.   
     
     
         10 . (canceled) 
     
     
         11 . The isolated antibody produced by the method of  claim 9 . 
     
     
         12 . The antibody of  claim 11  which is labeled with a detectable label. 
     
     
         13 . A kit for use in the diagnostics of dyslexia or in assessing the predisposition of an individual to dyslexia, comprising a container; and in said container:
 an antibody, that specifically binds to SEQ ID No:3.   
     
     
         14 - 21 . (canceled) 
     
     
         22 . An isolated antibody that specifically binds to SEQ ID NO:3. 
     
     
         23 . The antibody of  claim 22  which is a monoclonal antibody. 
     
     
         24 . The antibody of  claim 22  which is labelled with a detectable label.