Abstract: A rapid, simple and inexpensive method to screen and classify proteins as partners of dimeric proteins is described. The method utilizes fusion protein constructs containing a DNA binding domain and complementary dimerization domains from a different protein. According to the method of the invention, protein partner heterodimer formation is detected by the ability of the protein partner to displace formation of DNA binding domain homodimers, and thus reveal a phenotypic change in a bacterial host which was dependent upon maintenance of the DNA binding domain homodimer configuration. The method of the invention may further be used to identify compounds of interest which inhibit such heterodimer formation, and especially to identify compounds which prevent heterodimer formation and activation of oncogenic transcriptional regulatory proteins.

Abstract: The present invention relates to Heat Shock Factor, and its derivatives, antagonists, and agonists. The invention also pertains to the production and purification of such compounds from natural and recombinant sources. The invention additionally pertains to diagnostic and therapeutic applications for such compounds.