Inventors:
Jack D. Keene - Durham NC
Peter H. King - Birmingham AL
Assignee:
Duke University - Durham NC
International Classification:
C07K 1400
Abstract:
A peptide, Hel-N1 (SEQ ID NO: 2), which can bind to a 3'-untranslated mRNA sequence (which encompasses the "instability sequence") that is uniquely present in the messenger RNAs that encode oncoproteins and lymphokines, and mediates the specific destruction of the messenger RNAs, is described. Full-length Hel-N1 is capable of suppressing cell growth and causing cellular differentiation. Hel-N1 (SEQ ID NO: 2) possess three RNA recognition motifs. One of these forms an RNA-binding domain which, when transfected alone into cells, causes them to undergo rapid growth.