TNFR-6α and TNFR-6β Polypeptide Characterization

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for the identification and characterization of novel members of the TNF receptor family to understand their biological activity and their role in both normal and disease states, as existing knowledge primarily focuses on a few well-studied members, and there is a lack of information on the functions of newly discovered TNF receptor family members like TNFR-6α and TNFR-6β.

Innovation Solution

The patent provides isolated nucleic acid molecules encoding TNFR-6α and TNFR-6β polypeptides, along with recombinant vectors and host cells for producing these polypeptides, as well as methods for screening agonists and antagonists, diagnostics, and therapeutic applications, including the use of TNFR polypeptides to treat various diseases.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If researchers focus on well-studied TNF receptor family members, then existing knowledge and understanding are maintained, but information on functions of newly discovered members like TNFR-6α and TNFR-6β remains lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexisting knowledgeVSAvoidinformation on new members
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent provides preliminary characterization data for TNFR-6α and TNFR-6β including identification of their ligand binding specificities, tissue distribution patterns, and expression profiles before extensive functional studies are conducted. This preliminary information establishes a foundation for future research on these novel receptors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Loss of information

If comprehensive functional characterization of novel TNF receptor members is pursued, then understanding of their biological activity is improved, but research time and resources are significantly increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveunderstanding of biological activityVSAvoidresearch time
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the functional characterization process into distinct modules: ligand binding assays, expression analysis, signal transduction studies, and disease model applications. This modular approach allows researchers to prioritize and conduct studies in a systematic sequence, reducing overall research time while maintaining comprehensive characterization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary experiments to identify key characteristics of TNFR-6α and TNFR-6β such as their ligand specificities and tissue distributions before conducting extensive functional studies. This preliminary characterization guides subsequent research priorities and reduces unnecessary experimental iterations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If novel TNF receptor members are identified and characterized, then diagnostic and therapeutic tools are expanded, but complexity of the TNF receptor family increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic and therapeutic toolsVSAvoidcomplexity of TNF receptor family
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent demonstrates that TNFR-6α and TNFR-6β, despite being novel members, share functional characteristics with existing TNF receptors including ligand binding capabilities, signal transduction pathways, and therapeutic relevance. This universality allows researchers to apply existing methodologies and frameworks to study and utilize these new receptors without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8003386B1Tumor necrosis factor receptors 6α and 6β
Publication Date: 2011.08.23 HUMAN GENOME SCI INC
  • US8003386B1 patent drawing
  • US8003386B1 patent drawing
  • US8003386B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to novel Tumor Necorsis Factor Receptor proteins. In particular, isolated nucleic acid molecules are provided encoding the human TNFR-6α& -6β proteins. TNFR-6α& -6β polypeptides are also provided as are vectors, host cells and recombinant methods for producing the same. The invention further relates to screening methods for identifying agonists and antagonists of TNFR-6α& -6β activity. Also provided are diagnostic methods for detecting immune system-related disorders and therapeutic methods for treating immune system-related disorders.