Description:
Princeton Docket # 16-3253-1
Researchers in the Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University have identified an innovative qPCR-based method for accurate and specific detection of immune marker RNAs generated by the action of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and RNase L. These markers provide one-of-a kind diagnostic tools for the dsRNA response and novel biomarkers for autoimmune, inflammatory and infectious diseases.
RNase L is an immune kinase with an RNase domain, which cleaves intracellular RNAs in response to dsRNA. The presence of dsRNA is a mark of inflammation, DNA damage or infections, which is linked to various diseases. All practical uses of RNase L activity readout as a biomarker is limited due to the absence of sensitive and specific assays to detect RNase L activation in cell or tissue samples and in very small quantities of clinical samples. The present invention describes a PCR-based method that enables accurate, specific and sensitive detection of RNase L activity in small quantities of common biological samples, such as blood, saliva and other biological fluids or solid samples. The invention is based on a new composition of matter and the unique discovery of novel RNA molecules released by RNase L in human cells. Detection of these molecules is done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and is ready for reduction to practice.
Applications
• New biomarker for monitoring immune system
• Can also be applied for diagnosis of neoplastic diseases
• Clinical monitoring of therapy success
• Research kit for detection of RNase L products
Advantages
• Accurate and specific detection
• Requires small quantities of clinical sample characteristic of PCR
• Highest possible sensitivity
• Uses precise reagents and protocols
Inventor
Alexei Korennykh, PhD is an Associate Professor of Molecular Biology. The central theme of his research is to understand mechanisms of RNA-dependent signal transduction in the human immune system and during stress responses associated with human diseases. They use X-ray crystallography, biochemistry, biophysics and cell biology to understand structures, functions and regulation of the key human proteins, RNA, intracellular messengers, and their complexes.
Jesse Donovan, PhD is a postdoctoral fellow in Korennykh laboratory. Jesse has expertise in RNA biology, high-throughput sequencing, cell biology and structural biology.
Intellectual Property & Development status
Patent protection is pending.
Princeton is currently seeking commercial partners for the further development and commercialization of this opportunity.
Contact
Laurie Tzodikov
Princeton University Office of Technology Licensing • (609) 258-7256• tzodikov@princeton.edu
Sangeeta Bafna
Princeton University Office of Technology Licensing • (609) 258-5579• sbafna@princeton.edu