Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for diagnosing renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in a subject comprising the steps of: i) measuring the expression level of soluble SEMA7A in a fluid sample; ii) comparing the expression measured at step i) with its predetermined reference value, and iii) concluding that the subject suffers from RCC when the expression level of SEMA7A is higher than its predetermined reference value. Inventors found that SEMA7A was detected in all patients despite the disease ontogeny. SEMA7A levels were significantly reduced in patients one month after nephrectomy, and almost inexistent in healthy donors. This reinforces the specific correlation of SEMA7A to renal cell carcinoma. More importantly, SEMA7A was detected in all grades IV of RCC at similar levels, suggesting that it could be an early stage biomarker. Taken altogether, these data define SEMA7A as an early circulating biomarker of renal cell carcinoma, allowing early diagnosis in a non-invasive manner.

Abstract: The invention provides peptides of about 9-12 amino acids having a sequence derived from the interferon binding site of the IFNAR1 chain of the Type 1-interferon (Type 1-IFN) receptor for use as a Type 1-IFN antagonist. In particular, the invention provides peptides having the 9 mer sequence FSSLKLNVY (SEQ ID no. 1) and analogues thereof for use as Type 1-IFN antagonists. Particularly preferred for this purpose is the peptide of SEQ ID no. 1 and analogues thereof including SEQ ID no. 1 having an additional asparagine residue (N) at the C-terminus and/or additional glutamic acid residue (E) at the N-terminus.

Abstract: The invention provides peptides of about 9-12 amino acids having a sequence derived from the interferon binding site of the IFNAR1 chain of the Type 1-interfereon (Type 1-IFN) receptor for use as a Type 1-IFN antagonist. In particular, the invention provides peptides having the 9 mer sequence FSSLKLNVY (Sequence ID no. 1) and analogues thereof for use as Type 1-IFN antagonists. Particularly preferred for this purpose is the peptide of Sequence ID no. 1 and analogues thereof including Sequence ID no. 1 having an additional asparagine residue (N) at the C-terminus and/or additional glutamic acid residue (E) at the N-terminus.

Abstract: Water-soluble polypeptides having high affinity for interferons &agr; and &bgr;; DNA sequences and expression cells; a preparation method therefor; drugs; compositions containing same; and uses thereof as a diagnostic agent or for producing antibodies.