Establish an in Vitro Model for the Study of NF2 Gene Function

Abstract

Mutation analyses of the NF2 gene from NF2 patients suggest that the inactivation of the NF2 gene, and the consequent lack of gene product (protein known as Merlin/Schwannomin) is the primary cause of this disease. Within the three years period, we plan to develop a laboratory protocol to establish Schwann cell culture using surgical specimens from NF2 patients, and compare the tumor cells from patients with different NF2 gene mutations. In addition, we want to extend the life span of primary culture cells by immortalizing them using a retrovirus which we engineered. This will not only ensure the reproducibility of results within the NF2 community, but also provide scientists greater access to certain materials for the study of biologic function of Schwann cell and also important for testing therapeutic approaches. During the pass 12 months period, PI., Dr. Gene Hung has relocated himself from House Ear Institute to Arena Pharmaceuticals on March, 2002. An application for grant sponsorship transfer and additional request for a no cost extension (12 months) to this grant have been submitted.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2002
Accession Number
ADA416133

Entities

People

  • Gene Hung

Organizations

  • House Ear Institute

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Animals
  • Biomedical Research
  • California
  • Cell Biology
  • Cell Line
  • Cells
  • Culture Techniques
  • Gene Therapy
  • Genes
  • Laboratory Animals
  • Materials
  • Mutations
  • Neoplasms
  • Peripheral Nervous System
  • Recombinant Dna
  • Sciatic Nerve

Fields of Study

  • Biology

Readers

  • Molecular and Cellular Biology
  • Neurological Diseases/Conditions/Disorders
  • Research Science/Academic Research