Modular antigen transporter molecules (mat molecules) for modulating immune reactions, associated constructs, methods and uses

Abstract

It is therefore the object of the invention to provide means for supplying any of a wide variety of antigens in a sufficiently targeted manner to their processing site that even better therapeutic and diagnostic use thereof is possible.

1 - 38 . (canceled) 
     
     
         39 . A method for treating or diagnosing a malignant disease, an allergy, or an infectious disease in an individual, comprising the step of providing said individual with a modular antigen transport (MAT)-molecule or a composition comprising a MAT-molecule, wherein said MAT molecule comprises
 at least one translocation module which brings about transport of the MAT molecule from the extracellular space into an interior of a cell;   at least one targeting module which brings about transport of the MAT molecule intracellularly to organelles which are involved in processing of antigens or loading of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules with antigens, and   at least one antigen, wherein provision of the MAT molecule or the composition comprising the MAT molecule produces an immune response in the individual.   
     
     
         40 . The method of  claim 39 , wherein the method is a method for treating or diagnosing an allergy in the individual. 
     
     
         41 . The method of  claim 39 , wherein the method is a method for treating or diagnosing an infectious disease in the individual. 
     
     
         42 . A method for treatment of a disease in an individual comprising the step of injecting modular antigen transport (MAT)-molecules or a composition comprising MAT-molecules into a lymph node of said individual. 
     
     
         43 . A method of vaccinating an individual to prevent or ameliorate a disease or condition in the individual, comprising the step of
 providing to the individual a modular antigen transport (MAT)-molecule or a composition comprising a MAT-molecule, wherein the MAT molecule comprises   at least one translocation module which brings about transport of the MAT molecule from an extracellular space into an interior of a cell;   at least one targeting module which brings about transport of the MAT molecule intracellularly to organelles which are involved in processing of antigens or loading of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules with antigens; and   at least one antigen;   wherein provision of the MAT-molecule or the composition comprising the MAT-molecule produces an immune response in the individual.   
     
     
         44 . The method of  claim 43 , wherein the immune response is a protective humoral response.