US 6,288,034 B1Grant

Recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein as an immunosuppressive agent

Issue Date:2001-09-11

•13 Claims

•7 Drawing Sheets

Abstract

Disclosed are methods of inhibiting autoreactive immune cell proliferation in a mammal, involving administering to the mammal a therapeutically effective amount of recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein or an immune cell anti-proliferative fragment or analog thereof.

Metadata

Assignee

Martinex R & D Inc.

Inventor

Robert A. Murgita

Application Information

Application Number:US 09/186,723

Filing Date:1998-11-05

Priority Date:1995-01-24

Art Unit:7

Classifications

IPC:

A61K 3800C07K 1447

Field of Search:

514 11514 12435 691424 88

Patent Drawings (7 sheets)

Description

[0002] This application is a continuation of, and claims priority from, U.S. application Ser. No. 08/377,309, filed Jan. 24, 1995, U.S. Pat. No. 5,965,528.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] This invention relates to methods for treating autoimmune diseases.

[0004] Responses of the immune system initiate the destruction and elimination of invading organisms and toxic molecules produced by them. Because these immune reactions are destructive, it is essential that they be made in response only to molecules that are foreign to the host and not to those of the host itself. The ability to distinguish foreign molecules from self molecules is a fundamental feature of the immune system. Occasionally the immune system fails to make this distinction and reacts destructively against the host's own molecules; such autoimmune diseases can be fatal. Thus, tolerance to self antigens breaks down, causing the components of the immune system such as T or B cells (or both) to react against their own tissue antigens. Multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, myasthenia gravis, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, and systemic lupus erythematosus are a few examples of such autoimmune diseases.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] I have discovered that unglycosylated recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein made in a prokaryote (e.g., E. coli) is useful for inhibiting autoreactive immune cells derived from a mammal. Accordingly, the invention features a method of inhibiting autoreactive immune cell proliferation in a mammal (e.g., a human patient), involving administering to the mammal a therapeutically effective amount of recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein or an immune cell anti-proliferative fragment or analog thereof. Preferably, such immune cells include T cells or B cells; and the recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein used in such methods is produced in a prokaryotic cell (e.g., E. coli) and is unglycosylated.

[0006] In another aspect, the invention features a method of treating an autoimmune disease in a mammal (e.g., a human patient), involving administering to the mammal a therapeutically effective amount of recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein or an immune cell anti-proliferative fragment or analog thereof. Such an autoimmune disease is multiple sclerosis; is rheumatoid arthritis; is myasthenia gravis; is insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus; or is systemic lupus erythematosus. In yet other preferred embodiments the autoimmune disease is acquired immune deficiency syndrome or is a rejection of a transplanted organ, tissue or cell. Preferably, the recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein used in such methods is produced in a prokaryotic cell (e.g., E. coli) and is unglycosylated. In other preferred embodiments, such methods further involve administering to the mammal an immunosuppressive agent in an effective dose which is lower than the standard dose when the immunosuppressive agent is used by itself. Preferably, such an immunosuppressive agent is cyclosporine; is a steroid; is azathioprine; is FK-506; or is 15-deoxyspergualin. In yet another preferred embodiment, such a method involves administering to the mammal a tolerizing agent. Preferably, the recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein used in such methods is produced in a prokaryotic cell (e.g., E. coli) and is unglycosylated.

[0007] By “immune cell anti-proliferative” is meant capable of inhibiting the growth of an undesirable immune cell e.g., an autoreactive T cell as measured using the assays described herein).

[0008] By “therapeutically effective amount” is meant a dose of unglycosylated recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein (or a fragment or analog thereof) capable of inhibiting autoreactive immune cell proliferation.

[0009] By “recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein” is meant a polypeptide having substantially the same amino acid sequence as the protein encoded by the human alpha-fetoprotein gene as described by Morinaga et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., USA80: 4604 (1983). The method of producing recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein in a prokaryotic cell is described in U.S. Ser. No. 08/133,773 issuing as U.S. Pat. No. 5,384,250.

[0010] According to the invention, administration of recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein (“rHuAFP”) (or a fragment or analog thereof) can be an effective means of preventing or treating or ameliorating autoimmune diseases in a mammal. To illustrate this, I have shown that recombinant HuAFP produced in a prokaryotic expression system is effective in suppressing T cell proliferation in response to self antigens, despite the fact that such rHuAFP is not modified in the same fashion as naturally occurring HuAFP. The use of natural HuAFP has heretofore been limited by its unavailability, natural HuAFP is obtained by laborious purification from limited supplies of umbilical cords and umbilical cord serum. Because biologically rHuAPP can now be prepared in large quantities using the techniques of recombinant DNA, the use of rHuAFP for treating autoimmune diseases is now possible. The use of rHuAFP is especially advantageous since there are no known adverse side effects related to human alpha-fetoprotein and it is believed that relatively high doses can be safely administered.

[0011] Other features ahd advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description, and from the claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] The drawings will first be described.

[0013] Drawings

[0014] FIG. 1 is a series of panels (FIGS. 1A-1D) showing the purity and biochemical characteristics of rHuAFP using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and column chromatography. FIGS. 1A is a 10% non-denaturing alkaline polyacrylamide gel showing the purity of rHuAFP produced in E. coli. Mouse amniotic fluid proteins (transferrin, AFP and albumin) are shown in lane 1, natural HuAFP and rHuAFP are shown in lane 2 and lane 3, respectively. FIG. 1B is a 10% sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel showing the purity of rHuAFP produced in E. coli. Molecular weight markers are shown in lane 1, natural HuAFP and rHuAFP are shown in lane 2 and lane 3, respectively. FIG. 1C is a series of FPLC chromatograms of natural HuAFP and rHuAFP eluted on a MonoQ anion exchange column. The superimposed chromatograms identify natural HuAFP (Chromatogram 1) and rHuAFP (Chromatogram 2). FIG. 1D is a series of HPLC chromatograms obtained by passing 50 μg of natural and rHuAFP by passing through a reverse phase Delta Pak C18 column (Waters) and eluting with a gradient of 0-100% acetonitrile in 0.1% TFA. The superimposed chromatograms identify natural HuAFP (Chromatogram 1) and rHuAFP (Chromatogram 2).

[0015] FIG. 2 is a series of graphs showing the inhibitory effects of the rHuAFP on kinetics of T cell activation (FIG. 2A) and the dose-response relationship of rHuAFP on autoproliferating T cells (FIG. 2B). FIG. 2A is a graph showing proliferative responses over a 4 day time course of cells cultured in the absence (∇) and in the presence of 100 μg/ml (▴) rHuAFP. (●) denotes the background proliferation of the responder cell population cultured separately. Recombinant HuAFP-mediated suppression on the AMLR over the time course was significant (p<0.01). FIG. 2B is a graph showing the inhibition of autoproliferating T cells at 144 hours with amounts of rHuAFP ranging from 6-100 μg/ml (▴). (∇) denotes the control response of the reaction in the absence of protein. Inhibition of autoreactive T cells by rHuAFP in the range of 12.5-100 μg/ml is significant (p<0.005).

[0016] FIG. 3 is a bar graph showing that monoclonal anti-natural HuAFP antibodies block immunosuppression of the AMLR by rHuAFP. Immunosuppression by rHuAFP was significant (p<0.002) and blocking of rAFP-mediated immunosuppression by the AMLR by monoclonal anti-natural HuAFP antibodies was also significant (p<0.03).

[0017] FIG. 4 is the nucleotide sequence (SEQ ID NO: 1) and deduced amino acid sequence (SEQ ID NO: 2) of the cDNA encoding human alpha-fetoprotein.

[0018] FIG. 5 is the 10% SDS-PAGE analysis of rHuAFP Fragment I or alpha-fetoprotein (Lane A, MW marker; Lane B, natural human alpha-fetoprotein, Lane C, unpurified rHuAFP and rHuAFP Fragment I, Lane D, purified rHuAFP Fragment I, and Lane E, purified full-length rHuAFP).

PRODUCTION OF RECOMBINANT HUMAN ALPHA-FETOPROTEIN

[0019] As summarized above, the invention includes therapies for the prevention and treatment of autoimmune diseases involving recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein (“rHuAFP”) or fragments or analogs thereof. Methods for producing such rHuAFP in a prokaryotic cell are described in U.S. Ser. No. 08/133,773 and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,384,250, issued Jan. 24, 1995.

[0020] Fragments and Analogs

[0021] The invention includes biologically active fragments of rHuAFP. A biologically active fragment of rHuAFP is one that possesses at least one of the following activities: (a) directs a specific interaction with a target cell, e.g., binds to a cell expressing a receptor which is recognized by rHuAFP (e.g., the membrane of an autoreactive immune cell); or (b) halts, reduces, or inhibits the growth of an autoreactive immune cell (e.g., binds to a cell surface receptor and imparts an anti-proliferative signal); or (c) blocks, inhibits, or prevents an immunopathologic antibody reaction. The ability of rHuAFP fragments or analogs to bind to a receptor which is recognized by rHuAFP can be tested using any standard binding assay known in the art. Methods for assaying the biological activity or rHuAFP fragments and analogs are also known in the art, e.g., those described herein. Accordingly, a rHuAFP fragment, like the full-length rHuAFP molecule, can be used inhibit autoreactive immune cell proliferation.

[0022] In general, fragments of rHuAFP are produced according to the techniques of polypeptide expression and purification described in U.S. Ser. No. 08/133,773 (U.S. Pat. No. 5,384,250). For example, suitable fragments of rHuAFP can be produced by transformation of a suitable host bacterial cell with part of an HuAFP-encoding cDNA fragment (e.g., the cDNA described above) in a suitable expression vehicle. Alternatively, such fragments can be generated by standard techniques of PCR and cloned into the expression vectors (supra). Accordingly, once a fragment of rHuAFP is expressed, it may be isolated by various chromatographic and/or immunological methods known in the art. Lysis and fractionation of rHuAFP-containing cells prior to affinity chromatography may be performed by standard methods. Once isolated, the recombinant protein can, if desired, be further purified, e.g., by high performance liquid chromatography (see, e.g., Fisher, Laboratory Techniques In Biochemistry And Molecular Biology, Work and Burdon, eds., Elsevier, 1980).

[0023] A rHuAFP fragment may also be expressed as a fusion protein with maltose binding protein produced in E. coli. Using the maltose binding protein fusion and purification system (New England Biolabs), the cloned human cDNA sequence can be inserted downstream and in frame of the gene encoding maltose binding protein (malE), and the malE fusion protein can then be overexpressed. In the absence of convenient restriction sites in the human cDNA sequence, PCR can be used to introduce restriction sites compatible with the vector at the 5′ and 3′ end of the cDNA fragment to facilitate insertion of the cDNA fragment into the vector.

[0024] Following expression of the fusion protein, it can be purified by affinity chromatography. For example, the fusion protein can be purified by virtue of the ability of the maltose binding protein portion of the fusion protein to bind to amylose immobilized on a column.

[0025] To facilitate protein purification, the pMalE plasmid contains a factor Xa cleavage site upstream of the site into which the cDNA is inserted into the vector. Thus, the fusion protein purified as described above can then be cleaved with factor Xa to separate the maltose binding protein from a fragment of the recombinant human cDNA gene product. The cleavage products can be subjected to further chromatography to purify rHuAFP from the maltose binding protein. Alternatively, a fragment of rHuAFP may be expressed as a fusion protein containing a polyhistidine tag can be produced. Such an alpha-fetoprotein fusion protein may then be isolated by binding of the polyhistidine tag to an affinity column having a nickel moiety which binds the polyhistidine region with high affinity. The fusion protein may then be eluted by shifting the pH within the affinity column. The rHuAFP can be released from the polyhistidine sequences present in the resultant fusion protein by cleavage of the fusion protein with specific proteases.

[0026] Recombinant HuAFP fragment expression products (e.g., produced by any of the prokaryotic systems described in U.S. Ser. No. 08/133,773) may be assayed by immunological procedures, such as Western blot, immunoprecipitation analysis of recombinant cell extracts, or immunofluorescence (using, e.g., the methods described in Ausubel et al., Current Protocols In Molecular Biology, Greene Publishing Associates and Wiley Interscience (John Wiley & Sons), New York, 1994).

[0027] Once a fragment of rHuAFP is expressed, it is isolated using the methods described supra. Once isolated, the fragment of rHuAFP can, if desired, be further purified by using the techniques described supra. Fragments can also be produced by chemical synthesis (e.g., by the methods described in Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis, 2nd ed., 1984, The Pierce Chemical Co., Rockford, Ill.). The ability of a candidate rHuAFP fragment to exhibit a biological activity of alpha-fetoprotein is assessed by methods known to those skilled in the art (e.g., those described herein).

[0028] The purified recombinant gene product or fragment thereof can then be used to raise polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies against the human recombinant alpha-fetoprotein using well-known methods (see Coligan et al., eds., Current Protocols in Immunology, 1992, Greene Publishing Associates and Wiley-Interscience). To generate monoclonal antibodies, a mouse can be immunized with the recombinant protein, and antibody-secreting B cells isolated and immortalized with a non-secretory myeloma cell fusion partner. Hybridomas are then screened for production of recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein (or a fragment or analog thereof)-specific antibodies and cloned to obtain a homogenous cell population which produces monoclonal antibodies.

[0029] As used herein, the term “fragment,” as applied to a rHuAFP polypeptide, is preferably at least 20 contiguous amino acids, preferably at least 50 contiguous amino acids, more preferably at least 100 contiguous amino acids, and most preferably at least 200 to 400 or more contiguous amino acids in length. Fragments of rHuAFP molecules can be generated by methods known to those skilled in the art, e.g., proteolytic cleavage or expression of recombinant peptides, or may result from normal protein processing (e.g., removal of amino acids from nascent polypeptide that are not required for biological activity).

[0030] Recombinant HuAFP fragments of interest include, but are not limited to, Domain I (amino acids 1 (Thr)-197 (Ser), see FIG. 4, SEQ ID NO: 3), Domain II (amino acids 198 (Ser)-389 (Ser), see FIG. 4, SEQ ID NO: 4), Domain III (amino acids 390 (Gln)-590 (Val), see FIG. 4, SEQ ID NO: 5), Domain I+II (amino acids 1 (Thr)-389 (Ser), see FIG. 4, SEQ ID NO: 6), Domain II+III (amino acids 198 (Ser)-590 (Val), see FIG. 4, SEQ ID NO: 7), and rHuAFP Fragment I (amino acids 266 (Met)-590 (Val), see FIG. 4, SEQ ID NO: 8). Activity of a fragment is evaluated experimentally using conventional techniques and assays, e.g., the assays described herein.

[0031] The invention further includes analogs of full-length rHuAFP or fragments thereof. Analogs can differ from rHuAFP by amino acid sequence differences, or by modifications (e.g., post-translational modifications) which do not affect sequence, or by both. Analogs of the invention will generally exhibit at least 80%, more preferably 85%, and most preferably 90% or even 99% amino acid identity with all or part of a rHuAFP amino acid sequence. Modifications (which do not normally alter primary sequence) include in vivo, or in vitro chemical derivatization of polypeptides, e.g., acetylation, or carboxylation; such modifications may occur during polypeptide synthesis or processing or following treatment with isolated modifying enzymes. Analogs can also differ from the naturally occurring rHuAFP by alterations in primary sequence, for example, substitution of one amino acid for another with similar characteristics (e.g., valine for glycine, arginine for lysine, etc.) or by one or more non-conservative amino acid substitutions, deletions, or insertions which do not abolish the polypeptide's biological activity. These include genetic variants, both natural and induced (for example, resulting from random mutagenesis by irradiation or exposure to ethanemethylsulfate or by site-specific mutagenesis as described in Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, 2nd ed., Cold Spring Harbor Press, 1989, or Ausubel et al., supra)). Also included are cyclized peptide molecules and analogs which contain residues other than L-amino acids, e.g., D-amino acids or non-naturally occurring or synthetic amino acids, e.g., β or γ amino acids, or L-amino acids with non-natural side chains (see e.g., Noren et al., Science244:182, 1989). Methods for site-specific incorporation of non-natural amino acids into the protein backbone of proteins is described, e.g., in Ellman et al., Science255:197, 1992. Also included are chemically synthesized polypeptides or peptides with modified peptide bonds (e.g., non-peptide bonds as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,897,445 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,059,653) or modified side chains to obtain the desired pharmaceutical properties as described herein. Useful mutants and analogs are identified using conventional methods, e.g., those described herein.

[0032] The cloning, expression, isolation and characterization of exemplary rHuAFP fragments now follows. These examples are provided to illustrate, not limit, the invention.

EXPERIMENTAL

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) rHuAFP Fraqments

[0033] Plasmid constructs encoding fragments of human alpha-fetoprotein were prepared using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques known to those skilled in the art of molecular biology, using oligonucleotide primers designed to amplify specific portions of the human alpha-fetoprotein gene (see e.g., PCR Technology, H. A. Erlich, ed., Stockton Press, New York, 1989; PCR Protocols: A Guide to Methods and Applications, M. A. Innis, David H. Gelfand, John J. Sninsky, and Thomas J. White, eds., Academic Press, Inc., New York, 1990, and Ausubel et. al., supra).

[0034] The following six rHuAFP fragments were prepared to evaluate their biological activity (e.g., according to the methods disclosed herein):

[0035] Amino acid sequences were deduced from those for human alpha-fetoprotein (1 (Thr)-590 (Val); SEQ ID NO: 2) shown in FIG. 4. Fragments of rHuAFP designated Domain I, Domain II, Domain III, Domain I+II, Domain II+III and rHuAFP Fragment I were synthesized using standard PCR reaction conditions in 100 μL reactions containing 34 μL H₂O, 10 μL 1X reaction buffer, 20 μL 1 mM dNTP, 2 μL DNA template (HuAFP cloned in pI18), appropriate 5′ and 3′ oligonucleotide primers (10 μL 10 pmol/μL 5′ primer, 10 μL 10 pmol/μL 3′ primer), 1 μL glycerol, 10 μL DMSO, and 1 μL Pfu polymerase (Stratagene, LaJolla, Calif.). Primers used for PCR amplifications were:

[0036] Accordingly, primer pairs DomI25 and DomI3, DomII5 and DomII3, DomIII5 and DomIII3, 5′rHuAFP Fragment I and DomIII3, DomI25 and DomII3, and DomII5 and DomIII3 were used to isolate cDNA sequences of Domain I, Domain II, Domain III, rHuAFP Fragment I, Domain I+II, and Domain II+III, respectively, of rHuAFP. Annealing, extension, and denaturation temperatures were 50° C., 72° C., and 94° C., respectively, for 30 cycles. PCR products were purified according to standard methods. Purified PCR products encoding Domain I and Domain I+II were digested individually with KpnI and BamHI and cloned separately into KpnI/BamHI-treated pTrp4. Purified PCR products encoding Domain II, Domain III, Domain II+III, and rHuAFP Fragment I were digested individually with Bsp106I and BamHI and were cloned separately into Bsp106I/BamHI-treated pTrp4. Each plasmid construct was subsequently transformed into competent E. colicells. Since the expression product will begin with the amino acid sequence encoded by the translation start signal methionine, it is expected that such signal will be removed, or in any event, not affect the bioactivity of the ultimate expression product.

Autologous Mixed Lymphocyte Reactions (AMLR)

[0037] AMLR assays were performed as described below.

RESULTS

Expression and Purification

[0038] E. colicontaining the expression plasmid encoding rHuAFP Fragment I was cultured and purified. FIG. 5 (lane D) shows the SDS-PAGE profile of the purified rHuAFP Fragment I. N-terminal amino acid sequence analysis showed that rHuAFP Fragment I possessed the amino acid sequence Ser₂₆₇-Tyr-Ile-Cys-Ser-Gln-Gln-Asp-Thr₂₇₅(SEQ ID NO: 16) which corresponds to the expected N-terminal amino acid sequence of rHuAFP Fragment I (see FIG. 4, SEQ ID NO: 2) where the initiating methionine is cleaved intracellularly.

Inhibition of the Autologous Mixed Lymphocyte

[0039] Reactions (AMLR)

[0040] The immunosuppressive activity of 100 μg/ml rHuAFP Fragment I was assessed by its ability to suppress human autologous mixed lymphocyte reactions (AMLR). As shown in Table I, rHuAFP Fragment I inhibited the proliferative response of autoreactive lymphocytes stimulated by autologous non-T cells at 144 hours.

[0041] Recombinant HuAFP As An Immunosuppressive Agent

[0042] Immunosuppressive attributes of rHuAFP (or a fragment or analog thereof) is evaluated by any standard assay for analysis of immunoregulatory activity in vivo or in vitro. As discussed infra, the art provides a number of animal systems for in vivo testing of immunosuppressive characteristics of rHuAFP (or a fragment or analog thereof) on an autoimmune disease, e.g., the nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse. Furthermore, a wide variety of in vitro systems are also available for testing immunosuppressive aspects of rHuAFP e.g., one such in vitro assay evaluates the inhibition of autoantigen-induced proliferation of T cells in an autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction (AMLR).

[0043] The following examples demonstrate that unglycosylated rHuAFP inhibits T cell autoproliferation in response to self antigens. These examples are provided to illustrate, not limit, the invention.

EXPERIMENTAL

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Gel Electrophoresis, Immunoblotting and Purification

[0044] The purity and characterization of rHuAFP was evaluated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and nondenaturing alkaline PAGE (APAGE) according to standard methods. Gels were subsequently analyzed either by staining with Coomassie brilliant blue or by transferring electrophoretically separated polypeptides to Immobilon PVDF membranes (Millipore, Mississauga, ON) for immunoblotting analysis. Recombinant HuAFP-monospecific rabbit anti-natural HuAFP polyclonal antibody complexes were identified by alkaline-phosphatase-conjugated goat anti-rabbit IgG and the immunoreactive bands were detected with the BCIP/NBT color development solution (Bio-Rad-Laboratories, Mississauga, ON) according to the manufacturer's instructions.

[0045] Column chromatography was performed according to standard methods.

Autologous Mixed Lymphocyte Reactions (AMLR)

[0046] Isolation of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), their fractionation into non-T cell populations, and the AMLR, were performed according to standard procedures. Responder T cells were isolated by passing 1.5×10⁸PMBC over a commercial Ig-anti-Ig affinity column (Biotek Laboratories) and 2×10⁵responder cells were subsequently cultured with 2×10⁵autologous ¹³⁷Cs-irradiated (2500 rads) non-T stimulator cells from a single donor. The medium employed consisted of RPMI-1640 supplemented with 20 mM HEPES (Gibco), 5×10⁻⁵M 2-mercaptoethanol (BDH, Montreal, QC), 4 mM L-glutamine (Gibco), 100 U/ml penicillin (Gibco) and 100 μg/ml streptomycin sulfate, with the addition of 10% fresh human serum autologous to the responder T cell donor for the AMLR. Varying concentrations of purified rHuAFP, human serum albumin (HSA), anti-HuAFP monoclonal antibodies clone #164 (125 μg/ml final concentration in culture) (Leinco Technologies, St. Louis, Mo.) were added at the initiation of cultures. AMLR cultures were incubated for 4 to 7 days, at 37° C. in 95% air and 5% CO₂. At the indicated intervals, DNA synthesis was assayed by a 6 hour pulse with 1 μCi of ³H-thymidine (specific activity 56 to 80 Ci/mmole, ICN). The cultures were harvested on a multiple sample harvester (Skatron, Sterling, Va.), and the incorporation of ³H-TdR was measured in a Packard 2500 TR liquid scintillation counter. Results are expressed as mean cpm±the standard error of the mean of triplicate or quadruplicate cultures.

[0047] RESULTS

Expression and Purification

[0048] Purity of isolated rHuAFP expressed in E. coliwas verified as a single band on Coomassie stained APAGE and SDS-PAGE are shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, respectively. Soluble monomeric rHuAFP derived from E. coliwas obtained by eluting a protein fraction containing rHuAFP employing Q-sepharose chromatography. Approximately 1 mg of pure rHuAFP per liter of bacterial culture was recovered as a single homogeneous peak by FPLC Mono-Q anion exchange with 220-230 mM NaCl and migrated at approximately 65 kD on SDS-PAGE (FIG. 1B). Recombinant HuAFP exhibits a lower molecular weight on SDS-PAGE than natural HuAFP, since prokaryotic expression systems lack the enzymatic machinery required for glycosylation of proteins. Rechromatographed samples of pure rHuAFP on FPLC and HPLC yielded a single peak as shown in FIG. 1C and FIG. 1D, confirming the purity of the rHuAFP preparation. In addition, N-terminal sequencing data correspond to the expected amino acid sequence at the N-terminus of rHuAFP.

Inhibition of the Autologous Mixed Lymphocyte Reactions (AMLR)

[0049] The immunosuppressive activity of rHuAFP was assessed by its ability to suppress human autologous mixed lymphocyte reactions (AMLR). As shown in FIG. 2A, rHuAFP inhibited the proliferative response of autoreactive lymphocytes stimulated by autologous non-T cells, throughout the 4 to 7 day time course measuring autoproliferation. Results from dose-response studies performed at the peak of T cell autoproliferation, as shown in FIG. 2B, demonstrate that the addition of rHuAFP at the initiation of cultures suppressed the AMLR in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, parallel viability-studies established that the inhibitory activity of rHuAFP on human autoreactive T cells was not due to non-specific cytotoxic effects.

[0050] To further substantiate that rHuAFP was the agent responsible for the inhibition of autoproliferating T cells, blocking of rHuAFP-mediated suppression of the AMLR was performed using commercial murine anti-human AFP monoclonal antibodies (MAb). As illustrated in FIG. 3, suppression of proliferating autoreactive T cells by 100 μg/ml of rHuAFP was completely blocked by anti-HuAFP NAb. The addition of 100 μg/ml of HSA did not diminish the AMLR response and the presence of MAb alone in the reaction culture was without any effect.

[0051] Recombinant polypeptides produced in prokaryotic expression systems are at risk for contamination with host cell lipopolysaccharide (LPS) during their isolation from bacteria. It has been demonstrated that small amounts of LPS can antagonize the biological activities of cytokines, thereby impairing the immune responsiveness of macrophages. Accordingly, the effect of endotoxin on various rHuAFP preparations was evaluated by performing AMLR experiments with recombinant protein depleted of endotoxin by passage over Detoxi-gel (Pierce) versus that of rHuAFP which was untreated. Results of these experiments showed that both preparations had equivalent levels of immunosuppressive activity.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, the results of this study also demonstrate that rHuAFP suppresses the proliferation of autoreaction T cells with a potency equivalent to glycosylated nHuAFP by eliciting inhibitory effects on autoproliferating T cells throughout the in vitro reactions, with highly significant inhibition being achieved with rHuAFP concentrations ranging from 5 μg/ml to 100 μg/ml.

[0053] Autoimmune Disease

[0054] As is discussed above, autoimmune diseases are characterized by a loss of tolerance to self antigens, causing cells of the immune systems, e.g., T or B cells (or both), to react against self tissue antigens. Autoimmune diseases may involve any organ system, although some are affected more commonly than others. Examples of tissues affected by autoimmune conditions include: the white matter of the brain and spinal cord in multiple sclerosis; the lining of the joints in rheumatoid arthritis; and the insulin secreting β islet cells of the pancreas in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Other forms of autoimmune disease destroy the connections between nerve and muscle in myasthenia gravis or destroy the kidneys and other organs-in systemic lupus erythematosus. Examples of other autoimmune diseases include, without limitation, Addison's disease, Crohn's disease, Graves' disease, psoriasis, scleroderma, and ulcerative colitis.

[0055] The art provides a wide variety of experimental animal systems, transgenic and non-transgenic, for testing therapies for human illness involving autoimmune diseases (see e.g., Paul, W. E., Fundamental Immunology, 2nd ed., Raven Press, New York, 1989; and Kandel et al. Principles of Neural Science, 3rd ed., Appleton and Lange, Norwalk, Conn., 1991; and Current Protocols In Immunology, Coligan, J. E., Kruisbeek, A. M., Margulies, D. H., Shevach, E. M., and Strober, eds., Green Publishing Associates (John Wiley & Sons), New York, 1992). Based on the above-described experimental results showing immunosuppressive activity of unglycosylated rHuAFP, it is reasonable to believe that other autoimmune diseases can be treated by administration of such rHuAFP (or fragment or analog thereof) produced in a prokaryotic system. Accordingly, the invention provides the use of rHuAFP (or a fragment or analog thereof) for treatment (i.e., prevention or suppression or amelioration or promotion of remission) of any autoimmune disease.

[0056] There now follow examples of animal systems useful for evaluating the efficacy of recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein or an immune cell anti-proliferative fragment or analog thereof in treating autoimmune diseases. These examples are provided for the purpose of illustrating, not limiting, the invention.

[0057] Multiple Sclerosis

[0058] Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disease involving scattered areas of the white matter of the central nervous system. In MS, myelin basic protein and proteolipid protein are the major targets of an autoimmune response involving T lymphocytes, among other immune system components. Loss of the myelin sheath of nerve cells (demyelination) occurs, resulting in neurological symptoms that culminate in coma or paralysis.

[0059] Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a primary model used in the art to examine and assess the effectiveness of therapeutic agents for treating MS. EAE is an inflammatory autoimmune demyelinating disease induced in laboratory animals by immunization with central nervous system tissue. When animals (e.g., mice, rats, guinea pigs, rabbits, monkeys, etc.) are injected with adjuvant, e.g., complete Freund's adjuvant, plus myelin basic protein or proteolipid protein, EAE is induced, which is similar, pathologically to MS (see e.g., Alvord et al., Experimental Allergic Encephalomyelitis-A Useful Model for Multiple Sclerosis, Liss, New York, 1984; Swanborg, Meth. Enzymol. 162:413, 1988; and McCarron et al., J. Immunol., 147: 3296, 1991.)

[0060] To evaluate rHuAFP or a fragment or analog thereof, EAE is induced in an appropriate laboratory animal, e.g., a mouse or rabbit, according to methods known in the art. To evaluate the compound's immunosuppressive effect on EAE, i.e., its ability to prevent or ameliorate EAE, the compound is administered according to standard methods, e.g., intravenously or intraperitoneal, at an appropriate dosage on a daily basis. Generally, administration is initiated prior to inducing EAE and/or after the clinical appearance of EAE. Control animals receive a placebo, e.g., human serum albumin, similarly administered as for rHuAFP or related molecules. The effect of the test molecules on EAE is monitored according to any standard method. For example, weight loss and muscle paralysis in EAE-induced animals is monitored on a daily basis. If desired, histological inspection (e.g., by using any standard histochemical or immunohistochemical procedure, see e.g., Ausubel et al., Current Protocols In Molecular Biology, Greene Publishing Associates (John Wiley & Son), New York, 1994; Bancroft and Stevens, Theory and Practice of Histochemical Techniques, Churchill Livingstone, 1982) of brain and spinal cord tissues is performed and tissue samples examined microscopically for evidence of EAE, e.g., evidence of perivascular cellular infiltrates. Comparative studies between treated and control animals are used to determine the relative efficacy of the test molecules in preventing or ameliorating EAE. A molecule which prevents or ameliorates (decreases or suppresses or relieves or promotes remission of) the symptoms of EAE is considered useful in the invention.

[0061] Rheumatoid Arthritis

[0062] Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common chronic illness in which the synovial membrane of multiple joints becomes inflamed, causing damage to cartilage and bone. RA is associated with human lymphocyte antigen (HLA)-DR4 and considered to be an autoimmune disorder involving T cells, see e.g., Sewell et al., Lancet341: 283, 1993. RA results from a complex interaction of synovial cells with various cellular elements (and their soluble products) that infiltrate from the circulation into the synovial lining of joints. A series of biological events occur which ultimately lead to a lesion which invades and erodes collagen and the cartilage matrix of the joint.

[0063] A number of animal models of RA, e.g., the MRL-lpr/lpr mouse, are known in the art which develop a form of arthritis resembling the human disease (see e.g., Fundamental Immunology, supra). Alternatively, autoimmune collagen arthritis (ACA) and adjuvant arthritis (AA) can be induced in an appropriate animal according to standard methods.

[0064] To evaluate rHuAFP or a fragment or analog thereof on immunosuppressive on RA, i.e., the compound's ability to prevent or ameliorate RA, the test molecule is administered to a MRL-lpr/lpr mouse according to standard methods, e.g., intravenously or intraperitoneally, at an appropriate dosage on a daily basis. Generally, administration is initiated prior to the onset of RA and/or after the clinical appearance of RA. Control animals receive a placebo, e.g., human serum albumin, similarly administered as for rHuAFP or related molecules. The effect of the test molecule on RA is monitored according to standard methods. For example, analysis of the cellular component(s) of a synovial joint are monitored on a daily basis. If desired, histological inspection (e.g., by using any standard histochemical or immunohistochemical procedure, see e.g., Ausubel et al., supra; Bancroft and Stevens, supra) of the synovial joint is performed and tissue samples examined microscopically for evidence of RA, e.g., evidence of erosion of collagen and cartilage matrix in a joint. Comparative studies between treated and control animals are used to determine the relative efficacy of the test molecule in preventing or ameliorating RA. A test molecule which prevents or ameliorates (decreases or suppresses or relieves or promotes remission of) the symptoms of RA is considered useful in the invention.

[0065] Myasthenia Gravis

[0066] Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a disorder of neuromuscular transmission in which there are autoantibodies against acetylcholine receptors of neuromuscular junctions. Antibodies attack the junction, causing weakness and paralysis. Females are afflicted twice as often as males, typically during the third decade of life. Muscular weakness is the predominant feature of the disease. Clinical signs include drooping of the eyelids and double vision. There is an association between MG and hyperthyroidism.

[0067] Experimental autoimmune MG (EAMG) has been studied in a variety of animals including rabbits, monkeys, Lewis rats and inbred strains of mice (see e.g., Principles of Neural Science, supra), the symptoms of EAMG resemble the essential characteristics of the human disease. A single injection of acetylcholine receptor, e.g., purified from the electric organs of the eel Torpedo californica, along with adjuvants, causes an acute phase of weakness within 8 to 12 days and then chronic weakness after about 30 days. The response to the eel receptor is T cell dependent. The C57BL/6 strain (H-2B) is a high responder to Torpedo receptor and highly susceptible to EAMG.

[0068] To evaluate rHuAFP or a fragment or analog thereof, EAMG is induced in an appropriate laboratory animal, e.g., the C57BL/6 strain (H-2B) mouse, according to methods known in the art. To evaluate the compound's immunosuppressive effect on EAMG, i.e., its ability to prevent or ameliorate EAMG, the compound is administered according to standard methods, e.g., intravenously or intraperitoneally, at an appropriate dosage on a daily basis. Generally, administration is initiated prior to inducing EAMG and/or after the clinical appearance of EAMG. Control animals receive a placebo, e.g., human serum albumin, similarly administered as for rHuAFP or related molecules. The effect of the test molecules on EAMG is monitored according to standard methods. For example, nerve stimulation in an electromyographic muscle assay (e.g., according to the methods of Pachner et al., Ann. Neurol. 11:48, 1982) in EAMG-induced animals can be assayed. If desired, histological inspection (e.g., by using any standard histochemical or immunohistochemical procedure, see e.g., Ausubel et al., supra; Bancroft and Stevens, supra) of tissue samples is performed and tissue samples examined microscopically for evidence of EAMG, e.g., evidence of monocyte infiltration and/or autoantibody localization at acetylcholine receptors of neuromuscular junctions. Comparative studies between treated and control animals are used to determine the relative efficacy of the test molecules in preventing or ameliorating EAMG. A molecule which prevents or ameliorates (decreases or suppresses or relieves or promotes remission of) the symptoms of EAMG is considered useful in the invention.

[0069] Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus

[0070] Diabetes is a disorder of glucose metabolism. Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), also known as Type I diabetes, is an autoimmune disease characterized by T-cell mediated destruction of pancreatic β cells in the islets of Langerhans, accompanied by an immune response to a diversity of self peptides leading to hyperglycemia, among other pathological events. IDDM patients depend on exogenous insulin to maintain normal glucose metabolism. Humans at risk for developing IDDM can be identified prior to onset of hyperglycemia by the abnormal occurrence of autoantibodies to insulin, islet cells, glutamic acid carboxylase, as well as other autologous proteins (see e.g., Baekkeskov et al., J. Clin. Invest. 79:926, 1987; Dean et al., Diabetologia29: 339, 1986; Rossini et al., Annu. Rev. Immunol. 3:289, 1985; Srikanta et al., N. Enal. J. Med. 308:322, 1983). Autoantibody patterns, in general, are predictive for the eventual disease progression and/or risk for developing the disease (see e.g., Keller et al., Lancet341:927, 1993).

[0071] Examples of animal models which spontaneously develop IDDM resembling the human disease include the Bio-Breeding (BB) rat and nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse. Diabetes is also experimentally induced by streptozotocin.

[0072] The BB rat spontaneously develops a disease similar to IDDM, with insulitis (infiltration of mononuclear cells into the pancreatic islets) and autoantibodies against self cells and insulin (see e.g., Baekkeskov et al., J. Clin. Invest. 79:926, 1987; Rossini et al, supra; Nakhooda et al., Diabetes26: 100, 1977; Dean et al., Clin. Exp. Immunol. 69: 308, 1987).

[0073] NOD mice typically develop insulitis between 5 and 8 weeks of age, and by 7 months 70% of the females and 40% of the males become diabetic. T cells transferred from diabetic mice to young nondiabetic NOD mice induce diabetes within 2 to 3 weeks (see e.g., Bendelac et al., J. Exp. Med. 166:823, 1987). NOD mice usually die within 1 to 2 months after the onset of diabetes unless they receive insulin therapy.

[0074] Chemically induced diabetes is accomplished using multiple injections of small doses of streptozotocin, a drug toxic for pancreatic β cells, which causes severe insulitis and diabetes (see e.g., Kikutani et al., Adv. Immunol. 51:285, 1992).

[0075] Accordingly, the art provides a variety animal models resembling human IDDM which can be used to examine and assess approaches for the prevention or amelioration of diabetes involving rHuAFP (or a fragment or analog thereof).

[0076] To evaluate the immunosuppressive effect of rHuAFP or a fragment or analog thereof on the development of diabetes mouse, i.e., the compound's ability to treat or prevent insulitis and diabetes, the test compound is administered to an appropriate test animal, e.g, a NOD mouse, according to standard methods, e.g., intravenously or intraperitoneally, at an appropriate dosage on a daily basis. Generally, administration is initiated prior to the onset of insulitis and diabetes and/or after the clinical appearance of diabetic characteristics. control animals receive a placebo, e.g., human serum albumin, similarly administered as for rHuAFP or related molecules. The effect of test molecules on insulitis and diabetes is monitored according to standard methods. For example, weight loss, ketone body formation, and blood glucose concentration is monitored on a daily basis. If desired, histological inspection (e.g., by using any standard histochemical or immunohistochemical procedure, see e.g., Ausubel et al., supra; Bancroft and Stevens, supra) of pancreatic islet cells is performed and tissue samples examined microscopically for evidence of insulitis and β cell destruction. Comparative studies between treated and control animals are used to determine the relative efficacy of the test molecules in preventing or ameliorating the diabetic condition. A molecule which prevents or ameliorates (decreases or suppresses or relieves or promotes remission of) the symptoms of diabetes, e.g., IDDM, is considered useful in the invention.

[0077] Systemic LuPus Erythematosus

[0078] Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a severe systemic autoimmune disease. About 90% of patients with this disease are young women. This marked preponderance of females is not seen before puberty or after menopause. The illness generally begins in young adulthood when a characteristic skin rash appears over cheekbones and forehead. Hair loss is common, as is severe kidney damage, arthritis, accumulation of fluid around the heart and inflammation of the lining of the lungs. In nearly half of the patients the blood vessels of the brain also become inflamed, leading to paralysis and convulsions. The activity of the disease, like other autoimmune diseases, can fluctuate: long quiescent periods of good health can terminate abruptly and inexplicably with the onset of a new attack. A large number of different autoantibodies are known to occur in SLE, e.g., autoantibodies against DNA, RNA and histones (see, e.g., Fundamental Immunology, supra)

[0079] A number of animal models of human SLE, e.g., inbred mouse strains including NZB mice-and their F₁hybrids, MRL mice, and BXSB mice, are known in the art (see e.g., Bielschowsky et al. Proc. Univ. Otago Med. Sch. 37:9, 1959; Braverman et al., J. Invest. Derm. 50: 483, 1968; Howie et al. Adv. Immunol. 9:215, 1968; Genetic Control of Autoimmune Disease, Rose, M., Bigazzi, P. E., and Warner, N. L. eds., Elsevier, Amsterdam, 1979; and Current Protocols In Immunology, supra). For example, the NZBXNZW F₁mouse is an excellent model of human SLE, female mice develop high levels of anti-double- and single-stranded DNA autoantibodies, other anti-nuclear antibodies, and renal disease; death usually occurs at approximately 8 months (see e.g., Theofilopoulos et al., Adv. Immunol. 37:269, 1985).

[0080] To evaluate the immunosuppressive effect of rHuAFP or a fragment or analog thereof on SLE, i.e., the compound's ability of rHuAFP to prevent or ameliorate SLE, test compounds are administered to an appropriate animal, e.g., the NZBXNZW F₁mouse, according to standard methods, e.g., intravenously or intraperitoneally, at an appropriate dosage on a daily basis. Generally, administration is initiated prior to the onset of SLE and/or after the clinical appearance of SLE. Control animals receive a placebo, e.g., human serum albumin, similarly administered as for rHuAFP or related molecules. The effect of the test compound on SLE is monitored according to standard methods. For example, analysis of autoantibodies, e.g., anti-DNA antibodies can be monitored. If desired, histological inspection (e.g., by using any standard histochemical or immunohistochemical procedure, see e.g., Ausubel et al., supra; Bancroft and Stevens, supra) of kidney tissue is performed and tissue samples examined microscopically for evidence of SLE, e.g., evidence of lupus nephritis. Comparative studies between treated and control animals are used to determine the relative efficacy of the test compounds in preventing or ameliorating SLE. A molecule which prevents or ameliorates (decreases or suppresses or relieves or promotes remission of) the symptoms of SLE is considered useful in the invention.

[0081] Therapeutic Administration

[0082] As demonstrated above, recombinant alpha-fetoprotein, e.g., rHuAFP (or a fragment or analog thereof) is effective in inhibiting proliferation of autoimmune cells and accordingly is useful for the prevention or amelioration of autoimmune diseases including, but not limited to, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus, systemic lupus erythematosus, and myasthenia gravis. Accordingly, recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein (or a fragment or analog thereof) can be formulated according to known methods to prepare pharmaceutically useful compositions.

[0083] Recombinant alpha-fetoprotein, e.g., rHuAFP (or a fragment or analog thereof), is preferably administered to the patient in an amount which is effective in preventing or ameliorating the symptoms of an autoimmune disease. Generally, a dosage of 0.1 ng/kg to 10 g/kg body is adequate. If desired, administration is performed on a daily basis. Because there are no known adverse side effects related to recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein, it is believed that relatively high dosages can be safely administered. For example, treatment of human patients will be carried out using a therapeutically effective amount of rHuAFP (or a fragment or analog thereof) in a physiologically acceptable carrier. Suitable carriers and their formulation are described for example in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciencesby E. W. Martin. The amount of rHuAFP to be administered will-vary depending upon the manner of administration, the age and body weight of the patient, and with the type of disease, and size of the patient predisposed to or suffering from the disease. Preferable routes of administration include, for example, subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular, or intradermal injections which provide continuous, sustained levels of the drug in the patient. In other preferred routes of administration, rHuAFP can be given to a patient by injection or implantation of a slow release preparation, for example, in a slowly dissociating polymeric or crystalline form; this sort of sustained administration can follow an initial delivery of the drug by more conventional routes (for example, those described above). Alternatively, rHuAFP can be administered using an infusion pump (e.g., an external or implantable infusion pump), thus allowing a precise degree of control over the rate of drug release, or through installation of rHuAFP in the nasal passages in a similar fashion to that used to promote absorption of insulin. As an alternative to nasal transmucosal absorption, rHuAFP can be delivered by aerosol deposition of the powder or solution into the lungs.

[0084] Furthermore, the method(s) of the invention can also employ combination therapy in which rHuAFP is administered either simultaneously or sequentially with a therapeutic agent such as a general or specific tolerizing agent (e.g., an anti-idiotypic agent (e.g., a monoclonal) or a therapeutic vaccine or an oral agent (e.g., insulin, collagen or myelin basic protein) or a cytokine (e.g., Il-15) or an interferon (α-interferon) or an immunosuppressive agent. Preferably, an immunosuppressive agent is administered in an effective dose which is lower than the standard dose when the immunosuppressive agent is used by itself. Preferred immunosuppressive agents are cyclosporine, FK-506, steroids, azathioprine, or 15-deoxyspergualin.

[0085] Treatment is started generally with the diagnosis or suspicion of an autoimmune disease and is generally repeated on a daily basis. Protection or prevention from the development (or progression or exacerbation) of an autoimmune disease is also achieved by administration of rHuAFP prior to the onset of the disease. If desired, the efficacy of the treatment or protection regimens is assessed with the methods of monitoring or diagnosing patients for autoimmune disease.

[0086] The method(s) of the invention can also be used to treat non-human mammals, for example, domestic pets, or livestock.

Other Embodiments

[0087] In other embodiments, the invention includes the use of rHuAFP (or fragment or analog thereof) for the prevention or treatment of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). To evaluate the immunosuppressive effect of rHuAFP or a fragment or analog thereof on AIDS, i.e., the compound's ability to prevent or ameliorate an autoimmune component of AIDS, test compounds are administered to an appropriate animal (e.g., a human patient), according to standard methods, e.g., intravenously or intraperitoneally, at an appropriate dosage on a daily basis as is discussed above. Generally, administration is initiated prior to the onset of AIDS and/or after the clinical appearance of AIDS. Control animals receive a placebo, e.g., human serum albumin, similarly administered as for rHuAFP or related molecules. The effect of the test compound on AIDS is monitored according to standard methods. For example, analysis of the ability of the test compound to inhibit or prevent or ameliorate the destruction of helper T cells can be monitored. Comparative studies between treated and control animals are used to determine the relative efficacy of the test compounds in preventing or ameliorating AIDS. A molecule which prevents or ameliorates (decreases or suppresses or relieves or promotes remission of) the symptoms of AIDS is considered useful in the invention.

[0088] In the invention also includes the use of a therapeutically effective amount rHuAFP (or fragment or analog thereof) for inhibiting the rejection of a transplanted organ (e.g., the heart, the liver, the lung, the pancreas, and the kidney), tissue (e.g., skin, bone marrow, dura mater, bone, implanted collagen, an implanted bioreactor), or cell (e.g., β islet cells of the pancreas, stem cells, hematopoietic cells, lymph cells, neuroendocrine or adrenal cells) in a mammal. Such transplanted organs, tissues, or cells may be derived from any source, e.g., such biological material can be allogenic, phenogenic, autologous, synthetic, artificial or genetically-engineered. For example, the method can also be used when the patient is the recipient of an allograft such a heart or kidney from another species.

[0089] In one working example, the immunosuppressive effect of rHuAFP on clinical transplantation, i.e., the ability of rHuAFP to prevent or ameliorate transplant rejection (e.g., hyperacute rejection, acute rejection and chronic rejection), is evaluated by administering rHuAFP to an NIH minipig according to standard methods, e.g., intravenously or intraperitoneally, at an appropriate dosage on a daily basis. Generally, administration of rHuAFP is initiated prior to the transplant, e.g., transplantation of a kidney and/or after the transplant procedure. Control animals receive a placebo, e.g., human serum albumin, similarly administered as for rHuAFP. The effect of rHuAFP on transplant rejection is monitored according to standard methods. One manifestation of the rejection process is diminished function of the transplanted organ, for example, analysis of urine output can be monitored. If desired, histological inspection (e.g., by using any standard histochemical or immunohistochemical procedure, see e.g., Ausubel et al., supra; Bancroft and Stevens, supra) of kidney tissue is performed and tissue samples obtained by biopsy are examined microscopically for evidence of transplant rejection, e.g., chronic interstitial fibrosis, vascular thrombosis, or the presence of abnormal lymphocytic infiltrates. Comparative studies between treated and control animals are used to determine the relative efficacy of rHuAFP in preventing or ameliorating transplant rejection. Recombinant HuAFP (a fragment or analog thereof) which prevents or ameliorates (decreases or suppresses or relieves or promotes remission of) the symptoms of transplant rejection is considered useful in the invention.

[0090] All publications, manufacturer's instructions, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

Claims

Certificate of Correction present

The claims shown below may not include correction changes. Use the corrected PDF for authoritative text.

What is claimed is:

1. A method of inhibiting autoreactive immune cell proliferation in a mammal, said method comprising administering to said mammal a therapeutically effective amount of recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein or a fragment thereof comprising Domain I, Domain II, Domain III, Domain I+II, Domain II+III, or Fragment I.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein said immune cells include T cells.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein said mammal is a human patient.

4. A method of treating an autoimmune disease in a mammal, said method comprising administering to said mammal a therapeutically effective amount of recombinant human alpha-fetoprotein or a fragment thereof comprising Domain I, Domain II, Domain III, Domain I+II, Domain II+III, or Fragment I.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein said autoimmune disease is multiple sclerosis.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein said autoimmune disease is rheumatoid arthritis.

7. The method of claim 4, wherein said autoimmune disease is myasthenia gravis.

8. The method of claim 4, wherein said autoimmune disease is insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.

9. The method of claim 4, wherein said autoimmune disease is systemic lupus erythematosus.

10. The method of claim 1, further comprising administering to said mammal an immunosuppressive agent in an effective dose which is lower than the standard dose when said immunosuppressive agent is used by itself.

11. The method of claim 1, further comprising administering to said mammal a tolerizing agent.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein said immunosuppressive agent is cyclosporine.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein said immunosuppresive agent is a steroid, azathioprine, FK-506, or 15-deoxyspergualin.

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