HADHs as modifiers of the p21 pathway and methods of use

Abstract

Human HADH genes are identified as modulators of the p21 pathway, and thus are therapeutic targets for disorders associated with defective p21 function. Methods for identifying modulators of p21, comprising screening for agents that modulate the activity of HADH are provided.

1 - 12 . (canceled)  
     
     
         13 . A method for modulating a p21 pathway of a cell comprising contacting a cell defective in p21 function with a candidate modulating agent that specifically binds to a purified or recombinant HADH polypeptide comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO:4 3, whereby p21 function is restored, wherein the defective p21 function is selected form the group consisting of complete loss of p21 and overexpression of p21.  
     
     
         14 . The method of  claim 13  wherein the candidate modulating agent is administered to a vertebrate animal predetermined to have a disease or disorder resulting from a said defect in p21 function.  
     
     
         15 . The method of  claim 13  wherein the candidate modulating agent is selected from the group consisting of an antibody and an organic, non-peptide molecule, having a molecular weight less than 1000.  
     
     
         16 - 19 . (canceled)  
     
     
         20 . A method of modulating p21 pathway in a mammalian cell comprising contacting the cell with an agent that specifically binds a purified or recombinant HADH polypeptide comprising an amino acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO:3 or a purified or recombinant HADH nucleic acid encoding said polypeptide.  
     
     
         21 . The method of  claim 20  wherein the agent is administered to a mammalian animal predetermined to have a pathology associated with the p21 pathway.  
     
     
         22 . The method of  claim 20  wherein the agent is a nucleic acid modulator, an antibody, or an organic, non-peptide molecule, having a molecular weight less than 1000.  
     
     
         23 - 25 . (canceled)