The invention relates to a family of mammalian genes that are transcribed
in the immediate early phase following exposure to Fibroblast Growth
Factors (FGF) during mesoderm induction, termed Mesoderm Induction
Immediate Early Response (MIER) genes. Defining features of the members of
this family include that these genes are a) transcribed in response to
fibroblast growth factors (FGF); b) are expressed within 40 minutes of FGF
treatment; and c) do not require protein synthesis for transcription.
There are at least eleven members within this family.
The invention relates generally to compositions of and diagnostic methods
relating to the M-MIER gene family, cDNA, nucleotide fragments,
polypeptides coded thereby, recombinant host cells and vectors containing
M-MIER encoding polynucleotide sequences, recombinant M-MIER polypeptides,
and antibodies. By way of example, the invention discloses the cloning and
functional expression of different M-MIER polypeptides. The invention also
includes methods for using the isolated, recombinant polynucleotides,
polypeptides, and antibodies directed thereto in assays designed to select
substances which interact with M-MIER polypeptides for use diagnostic and
therapeutic applications in addition to drug design and DNA vaccination
methodologies.
