Clk-2 nucleic acids, polypeptides and uses thereof

• Main Authors: Benard, Claire, Hekimi, Siegfried, Jiang, Ning, Kebir, Hania, McCright, Brenton, Lakowski, Bernard
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 23.10.2003

The present invention relates to nucleotide sequences of clk-2 genes, particularly human clk-2, and amino acid sequences of their encoded proteins, as well as derivatives and analogs thereof. The present invention also relates to methods and compositions designed for the treatment, management, or prevention of disorders associated with abnormal expression and/or activity of clk-2 nucleic acids and/or proteins. In one embodiment, the invention encompasses a method of treating or preventing a disorder associated with decreased apoptosis (e.g., cancer, autoimmune disorders) or decreased telomere length (e.g., rapid aging or advanced age) by administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of an agent that promotes clk-2 activity. In another embodiment, invention encompasses a method of treating or preventing a disorder associated with increased apoptosis (e.g., neurodegenerative disorders) and increased telomere length (e.g., cancer) such as by administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of an agent that decreases clk-2 function. Diagnostic methods and methods for screening for therapeutically useful agents are also provided.