The present invention provides a polynucleotide (hjak2) which identifies
and encodes a novel human Jak2 kinase (HJAK2) which was expressed in the
placenta. The present invention also provides for antisense molecules and
oligomers designed from the nucleotide sequence or its antisense. The
invention further provides genetically engineered expression vectors and
host cells for the production of purified HJAK2 peptide, antibodies
capable of binding to HJAK2, inhibitors which bind to HJAK2 and
pharmaceutical compositions based on HJAK2 specific antibodies or
inhibitors. The invention specifically provides for diagnostic assays
based on altered hjak2 expression and which allow identification of such
a condition. These assays utilize probes which comprise oligomers,
fragments, or portions of hjak2 or its regulatory elements or antibodies
specifically binding HJAK2.