Method and Probes for the Identification of Microbial Genes specifically induced during Host Infection

BACKGROUND: Pathogenic microbes express certain virulence properties only during the infection of a host. Attempts to identify these virulence factors and to develop methods to control infections by these pathogens have been limited by the inability of researchers to accurately mimic the in vivo conditions of the host cell in vitro. A new method, IVET (in vivo expression technology), has recently provided researchers with the means for discovering the genetic source of such virulence factors in vivo. However, until now, this method was limited by its low selectivity for these genes.

DESCRIPTION: Researchers at the University of California have developed a powerful new IVET method to identify genes that are expressed by microbial pathogens during the infection of a host. In addition, a vast library of virulence DNA has been sequenced and is available for use to discover virulence genes in vivo, in vitro, or in DNA databases. US and foreign patent applications are currently pending on this technology.

APPLICATIONS: This new IVET technology can be used to:

* Develop assay kits to identify and distinguish pathogenic strains;
* Identify new targets for antimicrobial drug development;
* Assist in the rational development of live vaccines based on attenuation of virulence genes;
* Discover and identify virulence genes in many clinically relevant pathogens.

ADVANTAGES: This new technology exhibits greatly enhanced selectivity for discovering virulence genes over the previous IVET method. Also, a series of genetic sequences is now available for detection of a wide range of virulence genes in a variety of applications.

REFERENCE: 1996-073

Patents:
US 6,548,246   [MORE INFO]
US 6,365,401   [MORE INFO]

Type of Offer: Licensing



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