Hedgehog protein

Abstract

Disclosed are a novel hedgehog protein, i.e., a Desert hedgehog protein of human origin including mature and precursor forms, a DNA encoding the protein, a monoclonal antibody recognizing the protein, a process for producing the protein, and a method for detecting the protein. The hedgehog protein is useful in establishment of hybridomas which produce antibodies recognizing the protein, and the monoclonal antibody is useful in detection and purification of the protein. The hedgehog protein, DNA, and monoclonal antibody of this invention have efficacy in elucidation of hereditary morphological abnormalities in humans to establish their treatments and diagnoses.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A monoclonal antibody which recognizes a desert hedgehog protein of human origin.  
     
     
         2 . The monoclonal antibody of  claim 1 , which additionally recognizes a Sonic hedgehog protein of human origin.  
     
     
         3 . A hybridoma capable of producing a monoclonal antibody which recognizes a desert hedgehog protein of human origin.  
     
     
         4 . A method for detecting a hedgehog protein which comprises bringing a monoclonal antibody which recognizes a desert hedgehog protein of human origin into contact with a sample, and detecting the hedgehog protein based on an immuno reaction.  
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein the monoclonal antibody is labeled with a radioactive substance, enzyme and/or fluorescent substance.