Compositions And Methods For Regulation Of Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha

Abstract

The present invention relates to compositions and methods relating to an interleukin 18-inducible cytokine termed tumor necrosis factor-alpha inducing factor (TAIF) or interleukin-32 (IL-32). In particular, the present invention provides compositions and methods for treating autoimmune diseases and cancer, in part by regulation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha expression.

1 - 18 . (canceled) 
     
     
         19 . An antibody, which binds to an IL-32 protein. 
     
     
         20 . The antibody of  claim 19 , wherein said antibody is a monoclonal antibody. 
     
     
         21 . The antibody of  claim 20 , wherein said monoclonal antibody comprises a Fab fragment. 
     
     
         22 . The antibody of  claim 20 , wherein said monoclonal antibody is selected from the group consisting of 32-4 and 32-9. 
     
     
         23 . The antibody of  claim 20 , wherein said monoclonal antibody is a humanized monoclonal antibody. 
     
     
         24 . The antibody of  claim 20 , wherein said monoclonal antibody inhibits IL-32-induced TNFα production by a target cell. 
     
     
         25 . The antibody of  claim 20 , wherein said monoclonal antibody inhibits IL-32-induced IKB degradation in a target cell. 
     
     
         26 . The monoclonal antibody of  claim 20 , wherein said monoclonal antibody inhibits rapid IL-32-induced p38 MAF′K phosphorylation in a target cell. 
     
     
         27 - 44 . (canceled) 
     
     
         45 . The antibody of  claim 19 , wherein said protein comprises the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:7. 
     
     
         46 . The antibody of  claim 19 , wherein said antibody binds within a portion of exon 3 or exon 4 of said IL-32 protein.