Summary of InventionThe BCL8 gene, involved in translocation in Diffuse Large-cell Lymphomas (DLCL), has been cloned. Studies show that the BCL8 gene is not normally expressed in lymphoid tissue, but its expression is activated in a significant proportion of DLCLs. The activation of BCL8 expression, in some cases, is due to 15q11-13 chromosomal translocation. Translocation involving 15q11-13 region has also been noted in nonlymphoid tumors. AdvantagesThis invention provides a diagnostic tool for Diffuse Large-cell Lymphomas and possibly for other nonlymphoid tumors. It also provides a potential therapeutic target for cancers that have ectopic BCL8 expression. Areas of ApplicationDiagnostic, research tool (target). Stage of DevelopmentClinical studies are next. Lead InventorDr. R.S.K. Chaganti Patent InformationUS patent 6,309,860. ReferencesDyomin VG, et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 94:5728-32 (1997). Contact InformationJulia Calonge, PhD Return to Diagnostics Main Page
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