Gene Sequences of the Chlamydia trachomatis
Major Outer Membrane Protein (MOMP)
Tech ID: 05-84-10
University of Washington researchers, in collaboration with a Chiron
scientist, cloned the major outer membrane protein (MOMP) gene of Chlamydia
trachomatis. The MOMP gene sequence can be used in the development of
nucleic acid- and antibody-based diagnostics as well as recombinant
vaccines.
Background:
C. trachomatis is a human pathogen that causes
chlamydia, the most common bacterial sexually-transmitted disease in the
U.S. Because the symptoms of chlamydia infection can be difficult to
detect, a high number of carriers are unaware of their infection and thus go
untreated. The lack of early diagnosis and treatment leads to the
continued spread of C. trachomatis through the sexually-active
population, particularly among adolescents. Untreated chlamydia can
develop into pelvic inflammatory disease, the major cause of preventable
sterility in women.
C. trachomatis infection of the eye, or trachoma, is the leading cause
of blindness in the developing world. Although trachoma is preventable by
improving sanitation, prevention programs are difficult to sustain and have not
been entirely effective. Trachoma is treatable with antibiotics; however,
treatment depends on access to medical personnel and drugs, both of which are in
short supply in the developing world.
The spread of C. trachomatis infection, and the incidence of
blindness and infertility, could be reduced by an effective vaccine. The
MOMP gene may be useful as the basis for a recombinant vaccine. The MOMP
gene and recombinant protein may also be used in diagnostics.
Applications of this technology:
- Recombinant production of synthetic vaccines against C. trachomatis
- Use of MOMP gene constructs in DNA probe diagnosis of C. trachomatis
- Use of recombinant polypeptides from serotype-specific MOMP variable sequences for rapid seroepidemiological testing
Status:
U.S. Patent Nos. 5,770,714 5,821,055, and 6,030,799 cover
the MOMP sequence and recombinant MOMP polypeptides, as well as methods and
compositions for nucleic acid-based diagnostics and immunoassays. WRF is
seeking qualified potential licensees to develop and market products derived
from this technology. The potential exists for research collaborations
between licensees and researchers.
For additional information, please contact:
Beth G. Etscheid, Ph.D.
Director of Licensing
Washington Research
Foundation
2815 Eastlake Avenue E, Suite 300
Seattle, WA 98102
Tel:
206.336.5600
Fax: 206.336.5615
betschei@wrfseattle.org
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