METHODS FOR DETECTING AND SCREENING DRUG CANDIDATES AGAINST KAPOSI'S SARCOMA-ASSOCIATED HERPESVIRUS

Kaposi's sarcoma is the leading neoplasm of AIDS patients and also occurs at lower frequency in HIV-negative individuals. The DNA of Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus [KSHV or HHV 8]) is regularly associated with both the AIDS-related and HIV-negative forms of the disease. Seroepidemiologic studies suggest that KSHV infection is tightly linked to risk for Kaposi's sarcoma. KSHV also infects B lymphocytes and is associated with several uncommon lymphoproliferative syndromes in AIDS patients.

Scientists at UCSF have isolated a human B cell lymphoma cell line that contains KSHV (and lacks Epstein Barr virus). These cells, which harbor latent virus, can be maintained in vitro and then treated with a lytic growth inducing agent that promotes the production and release of the virus. In addition, these scientists have identified two viral genes that are expressed in latently infected human cells. The cell line, methods for producing virus and the virus gene should be very useful for both the development of diagnostics for KSHV in biological samples, as well as screening drug candidates for the treatment of KSHV.

If you would like to receive further information about this technology and potential licensing opportunities, please contact:

Joel B. Kirschbaum, Ph.D.
Director & Senior Technology Portfolio Manager
(415) 353-4462 phone
(415) 348-1579 fax
Joel Kirschbaum, Ph.D.

Reference: OTM Case #SF97-063, SF97-064