Patent Evaluation: cDNA Encoding human type 2 interleukin-8 receptor and its potential in treatment of inflammatory diseases

Summary

Novelty: The isolation of a cDNA clone from HL60 cells which encodes a 7-transmembrane domain receptor is described. Transfection into oocytes reveals this as an IL-8 receptor protein. It is potentialy useful in the design of IL-8 antagonists.

Biology: Xenopus oocytes were transfected with the mRNA for the cloned receptor and were shown to specifically bind ¹²⁵I-IL8 in the nM range. Such concentrations of IL-8 could also release ⁴⁵Ca²¹ from appropriately labelled cells. The EC₅₀ for mobilisation of ⁴⁵Ca₂₁ was 20 nM.

Chemistry: The p² cDNA clone was obtained using libraries constructed from HL60 neutrophils. Details of the methodology employed in constructing the cRNA are provided. The full 355 amino acid sequence and corresponding mRNA sequence are given. Both are claimed in addition to the recombinant methods and transfection into both CHO cells and oocytes.