Mucin peptide with immunoenhancing properties

Abstract

An isolated peptide or polypeptide containing the sequence VSIGLSFPMLP (SEQ ID NO:1), found in the secreted form of human MUC1, that enhances an immune response when administered to a mammal, compositions containing the peptide, host cells producing the peptide and methods of use. The peptide or polypeptide may be conjugated to a carrier protein and administered as part of a vaccine or immunogenic composition for prevention or treatment of a disease or disorder.

1 . (canceled)  
     
     
         2 . (canceled)  
     
     
         3 . (canceled)  
     
     
         4 . (canceled)  
     
     
         5 . (canceled)  
     
     
         6 . (canceled)  
     
     
         7 . A nucleic acid encoding the peptide or polypeptide of  claim 1 , or a nucleic acid having a sequence that is complementary thereto.  
     
     
         8 . (canceled)  
     
     
         9 . (canceled)  
     
     
         10 . (canceled)  
     
     
         11 . (canceled)  
     
     
         12 . (canceled)  
     
     
         13 . A vector comprising the nucleic acid of  claim 7 .  
     
     
         14 . A host cell comprising the nucleic acid of  claim 7 .  
     
     
         15 . The host cell of  claim 14  that comprises a nucleic acid encoding MUC1/sec.  
     
     
         16 . The host cell of  claim 15  that is a DA-3 cell.  
     
     
         17 . (canceled)  
     
     
         18 . A method for treating or preventing cancer in a mammal comprising administering to the mammal a safe and effective amount of the pharmaceutical composition of  claim 8  or  claim 9 .  
     
     
         19 . A method of inducing or enhancing an immune response in a mammal to an antigen which comprises administering to the mammal a safe and effective amount of the pharmaceutical composition of  claim 8  or  claim 9 .  
     
     
         20 . The method of  claim 19  wherein said antigen is also administered to the mammal.