Methods of identifying anti-viral agents

Abstract

The invention provides methods to identify specific inhibitors of HPV E7 binding to CDK2 complex and methods to identify specific inhibitors of E7-induced CDK2 kinase activity. Specific inhibitors identified by the methods, compositions comprising the specific inhibitors, and methods of treatment using the compounds are also provided.

1 - 8 . (canceled)  
     
     
         9 . A method for reducing human papillomavirus (HPV) E7-induced CDK2 kinase activity comprising the step of contacting an HPV infected cell with an inhibitor of E7-induced CDK2 phosphorylation.  
     
     
         10 . A method for reducing human papillomavirus (HPV) E7-induced CDK2 kinase activity comprising the step of contacting an HPV infected cell with an inhibitor of E7 binding to CDK2 kinase complex.  
     
     
         11 . A method for ameliorating human papillomavirus (HPV) proliferation comprising the step of administering to an individual in need thereof an effective amount of an inhibitor of HPV E7-induced CDK2 kinase activity.  
     
     
         12 . A method for ameliorating human papillomavirus (HPV) proliferation comprising the step of administering to an individual in need thereof an effective amount of an inhibitor of HPV E7 binding to CDK2 kinase complex.  
     
     
         13 . The method of any of claims  10  and  12  wherein binding of E7 to CDK2 kinase complex is effected through interaction with a cyclin component of the activity.  
     
     
         14 . A kit for identifying an inhibitor of E7-induced CDK2 kinase activity comprised of 
 a) a CDK2 substrate; packaged with    b) human papillomavirus (HPV) E7, or a CDK2 complex-binding fragment thereof.    
     
     
         15 . The kit of  claim 14 , further comprising a cyclin, selected from the group consisting of cyclin A and cyclin E.