Abstract: The present invention provides novel polynucleotides encoding Drosophila DmTNF polypeptides, fragments and homologs thereof. The present invention also is directed to novel polynucleotides encoding two Drosophila DmTNF variants, DmTNFv1 and DmTNFv2 polypeptides, fragments and homologs thereof. Also provided are vectors, host cells, antibodies, and recombinant and synthetic methods for producing said polypeptides. The invention further relates to screening methods for identifying agonists and antagonists of the polynucleotides and polypeptides of the present invention, in addition to methods of genetically modifying Drosophila or cultured cells to express or mis-express DmTNF, DmTNFv1, or DmTNFv2. The invention also relates to the use of such modified insects or cells to characterize DmTNF activity, identify TNF-like genes and/or genes implicated in modulating TNF, characterize TNF signaling pathways, and/or to identify modulators of DmTNF activity.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel polynucleotides encoding Drosophila DmTNF polypeptides, fragments and homologs thereof. The present invention also is directed to novel polynucleotides encoding two Drosophila DmTNF variants, DmTNFv1 and DmTNFv2 polypeptides, fragments and homologs thereof. Also provided are vectors, host cells, antibodies, and recombinant and synthetic methods for producing said polypeptides. The invention further relates to screening methods for identifying agonists and antagonists of the polynucleotides and polypeptides of the present invention, in addition to methods of genetically modifying Drosophila or cultured cells to express or mis-express DmTNF, DmTNFv1, or DmTNFv2. The invention also relates to the use of such modified insects or cells to characterize DmTNF activity, identify TNF-like genes and/or genes implicated in modulating TNF, characterize TNF signaling pathways, and/or to identify modulators of DmTNF activity.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for inducing apoptosis in a cell, the methods generally involving contacting the cell with an agent that reduces the level and/or activity of RabGGT. The present invention further provides methods for treating a disorder related to unwanted cell proliferation in an individual, the methods generally involving administering to the individual an agent that reduces the level and/or activity of RabGGT. The present invention further provides methods for reducing apoptosis in a cell, the methods generally involving increasing the level and/or activity of RabGGT in the cell. The present invention further provides methods for treating disorders associated with excessive apoptosis. The present invention further provides methods for identifying a cell that is amenable to treatment with the methods of the present invention. The present invention further provides methods for modulating a binding event between RabGGT and a RabGGT interacting protein.

Abstract: The present invention describes a newly discovered ubiquitin conjugating enzyme homologue, called RATL1d6 herein, and its encoding polynucleotide, isolated and identified from activated T lymphocytes. Also described are expression vectors, host cells, agonists, antagonists, antisense molecules, and antibodies associated with the activity and use of the newly-discovered polynucleotide and/or polypeptide of the present invention. Methods for treating, diagnosing, preventing and screening for disorders related to the expression of the RATL1d6 ubiquitin conjugating enzyme polypeptide are described.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel polynucleotides encoding K+betaM3 polypeptides, fragments and homologues thereof. Also provided are vectors, host cells, antibodies, and recombinant and synthetic methods for producing said polypeptides. The invention further relates to diagnostic and therapeutic methods for applying these novel K+betaM3 polypeptides to the diagnosis, treatment, and/or prevention of various diseases and/or disorders related to these polypeptides. The invention further relates to screening methods for identifying agonists and antagonists of the polynucleotides and polypeptides of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel polynucleotides encoding K+betaM4 or K+betaM5 polypeptides, fragments and homologues thereof. Also provided are vectors, host cells, antibodies, and recombinant and synthetic methods for producing said polypeptides. The invention further relates to diagnostic and therapeutic methods for applying these novel K+betaM4 or K+betaM5 polypeptides to the diagnosis, treatment, and/or prevention of various diseases and/or disorders related to these polypeptides. The invention further relates to screening methods for identifying agonists and antagonists of the polynucleotides and polypeptides of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel polynucleotides encoding K+betaM2 polypeptides, fragments and homologues thereof. Also provided are vectors, host cells, antibodies, and recombinant and synthetic methods for producing said polypeptides. The invention further relates to diagnostic and therapeutic methods for applying these novel K+betaM2 polypeptides to the diagnosis, treatment, and/or prevention of various diseases and/or disorders related to these polypeptides. The invention further relates to screening methods for identifying agonists and antagonists of the polynucleotides and polypeptides of the present invention.