Patent ID: 7989160
Filing Date: 2011-08-02
Classification: A61K,A61P,C07K,C12N,C12Q,G01N

Abstract:
1. A method for identifying an inhibitory compound able to impair the function of a polypeptide comprising SEQ ID NO.: 48, the polypeptide encoded by nucleotides 150-1136 of SEQ ID NO.:1, or an analog having at least 70% sequence similarity with SEQ ID NO.:48, wherein said analog has a sequence of a naturally occurring protein and wherein said polypeptide or analog is capable of inducing differentiation of osteoclasts, the method comprising contacting said polypeptide, analog or a cell expressing said polypeptide or analog with a candidate compound and measuring the function of said polypeptide or analog, whereby a reduction in the ability of the polypeptide or analog to promote osteoclast differentiation positively identifies a suitable inhibitory compound.