Dendritic cell co-stimulatory molecules

Abstract

A novel costimulatory protein molecule, B7-DC, which is a member of the B7 family, is described as is DNA coding therefor and expression vectors comprising this DNA. B7-DC protein, fragments, fusion polypeptides/proteins and other functional derivatives, and transformed cells expressing B7-DC are useful in vaccine compositions and methods. Compositions and methods are disclosed for inducing potent T cell mediated responses that can be harnessed for anti-tumor and anti-viral immunity.

1 .- 31 . (canceled) 
     
     
         32 . A polypeptide that is selectively expressed on dendritic cells as compared to activated macrophages and has the following functional properties:
 (a) binds to a binding partner on T cells; and   (b) costimulates T cells to proliferate and/or to produce and secrete cytokines.   
     
     
         33 .- 120 . (canceled)