Patent ID: 7247438
Filing Date: 2007-07-24
Classification: A61K,C12N

Abstract:
1. A method of identifying an agent which enhances the activity of a caspase or procaspase, wherein said caspase or procaspase is expressed in immature thymocytes as a result of T cell receptor stimulation with SEQ ID NO: 9, and wherein said caspase mediates immature thymocyte susceptibility to cell death, comprising the steps of: (a) contacting a caspase or procaspase expressed in immature thymocytes as a result of T cell receptor stimulation with SEQ ID NO: 9, with a caspase substrate in the presence of the agent; and (b) comparing the activity of said caspase or procaspase in the presence of the agent with the activity of said caspase or procaspase in the absence of the agent, wherein enhancement of the activity of said caspase or procaspase in the presence of the agent is indicative that the agent is one which enhances the activity of said caspase or procaspase.