Inventors:
Peter A. Cohen - Bethesda MD
Brian J. Czerniecki - Haddenfield NJ
Gary K. Koski - Bethesda MD
David E. Weng - Bethesda MD
Charles Carter - Gaithersberg MD
John O. Ojeifo - Washington DC
Gretchen N. Schwartz - Wheaton MD
Assignee:
The United States of America as represented by the Department of Health
& Human Services - Washington DC
International Classification:
C12N 508
Abstract:
The present invention relates to methods of increasing the antigen presenting ability of monocytes by contacting them with an agent which increases the intracellular calcium level. Methods of obtaining the monocytes are also disclosed. In addition, the present invention relates to methods of inducing bone marrow progenitor cells and endothelial cells to express molecules involved in generating immune responses. Methods of modulating the expression of molecules involved in generating immune responses are also disclosed, as are methods of treating cancer and leukemia.