Inventors:
Randall W. Moreadith - Chapel Hill NC
Andrew R. Zinn - Dallas TX
Mark L. Watson - Dallas TX
Norimitsu Inoue - Yao, JP
Karl D. Hess - McDade TX
George M. Albright - Irving TX
Assignee:
Board of Regents, The University of Texas System - Austin TX
International Classification:
C07H 2104
Abstract:
Disclosed are compositions and methods comprising a novel mammalian gene, designated MORC, that is expressed in male germ cells. Also disclosed are polynucleotide compositions comprising a MORC gene from human and murine sources, and polypeptides encoded by these nucleic acid sequences. Methods for preparing MORC polypeptides, transformed host cells, and antibodies reactive with MORC polypeptides are also provided. In certain embodiments, the invention describes methods for diagnosing and treating infertility or testicular cancer, as well as methods for identifying MORC-related polynucleotide and polypeptide compositions.