Inventors:
Martin A. Cheever - Mercer Island WA
Mary L. Disis - Renton WA
Assignee:
University of Washington - Seattle WA
International Classification:
C07K 708
US Classification:
530328, 530326, 530300, 530350, 530403, 530402, 4241841, 4241851, 4242771, 514 2, 514 14, 514 15, 930 10
Abstract:
Methods for the detection, monitoring and treatment of malignancies in which the HER-2/neu oncogene is associated are disclosed. Detection of specific T cell activation (e. g. , by measuring the proliferation of T cells) in response to in vitro exposure to the HER-2/neu protein, or detection of immunocomplexes formed between the HER-2/neu protein and antibodies in body fluid, allows the diagnosis of the presence of a malignancy in which the HER-2/neu oncogene is associated. The present invention also discloses methods and compositions, including peptides, for treating such malignancies.