Abstract: This invention relates to genetic constructs which comprise an enhancer-promoter region which is responsive to radiation, and at least one structural gene whose expression is controlled by the enhancer-promoter. This invention also relates to methods of destroying, altering, or inactivating cells in target tissue by delivering the genetic constructs to the cells of the tissues and inducing expression of the structural gene or genes in the construct by exposing the tissues to ionizing radiation. This invention is useful for treating patients with cancer, clotting disorders, myocardial infarction, and other diseases for which target tissues can be identified and for which gene expression of the construct within the target tissues can alleviate the disease or disorder.

Abstract: Disclosed are DNA sequences encoding novel DNA binding proteins implicated in regulation of early stages of cell growth. Illustratively provided are human and mouse origin DNA sequences encoding early growth regulatory ("Egr") proteins which include "zinc finger" regions of the type involved in DNA binding. Also disclosed are immunological methods and materials for detection of Egr proteins and hybridization methods and materials for detection and quantification of Egr protein related nucleic acids.