Long-acting hormone and growth factor compositions and uses thereof

Abstract

This invention provides VEGF-FSH compounds having increased serum half-lives relative to either native VEGF or FSH, in which both VEGF and FSH are biologically active. This invention also provides related compositions and methods for increasing fertility, egg production and spermatogenesis in a subject, as well as methods for increasing vascularization in a tissue, particularly in ovarian tissue.

1 . A composition of matter comprising (a) at least one subunit of a hormone or growth factor and (b) a half-life-increasing moiety, wherein the hormone or growth factor subunit and half-life-increasing moiety are covalently bound. 
   
   
       2 - 19 . (canceled) 
   
   
       20 . A composition of matter comprising (a) at least one subunit of a hormone or growth factor, (b) a half-life-increasing moiety, and (c) a moiety that specifically binds to cells of a predetermined tissue. 
   
   
       21 . A composition of matter comprising (a) at least one subunit of a hormone or growth factor, (b) a β-FSH subunit of a hormone or growth, (c) an α-FSH subunit and (d) a half-life-increasing moiety, wherein the hormone or growth factor, the β-FSH subunit, the α-FSH subunit and the half-life-increasing moiety are covalently bound. 
   
   
       22 - 66 . (canceled)