Compositions and methods for diagnosing or treating psoriasis

Abstract

In one aspect, the present invention provides isolated nucleic acid molecules that encode a CAN-1 polypeptide, or an STG polypeptide. In another aspect, the present invention also provides isolated STG polypeptides, isolated CAN-1 polypeptides, and isolated SEEK-1 polypeptides. In another aspect, the present invention provides isolated antibodies that bind specifically to a CAN-1, SEEK-1 or STG polypeptide. In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of diagnosing or predicting the susceptibility to psoriasis of an individual. In another aspect, the present invention provides methods for ameliorating the symptoms and/or progression of psoriasis.

1 - 50 . (canceled) 
     
     
         51 . A method for ameliorating the symptoms and/or progression of psoriasis, the method comprising the step of administering to an individual suffering from psoriasis an inhibitory amount of a selective inhibitor of a polypeptide chosen from the group consisting of CAN-1, STG and SEEK-1, wherein the inhibitory amount of the selective inhibitor causes a reduction in the amount and/or activity of the polypeptide. 
     
     
         52 - 57 . (canceled) 
     
     
         58 . A method according to  claim 51  wherein said polypeptide inhibits CAN-1 and is encoded by SEQ ID No. 10.