Detection of mutations in a gene associated with resistance to viral infection, OAS1
A method for detecting a mutation related to the gene encoding OAS1. This and other disclosed mutations correlate with resistance of humans to viral infection including hepatitis C. Also provided is a therapeutic agent consisting of a protein or polypeptide encoded by the mutated gene, or a polynucleotide encoding the protein or polypeptide. Inhibitors of human OAS1, including antisense oligonucleotides, methods, and compositions specific for human OAS1, are also provided.
1. An isolated polypeptide consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:49 covalently attached to a protein transduction domain.
2. The protein of claim 1 wherein the protein transduction domain consists of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:85.
3. The protein of claim 1 wherein the protein transduction domain has at least 80% sequence similarity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:85.
4. An isolated polypeptide consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:49 wherein (a) the polypeptide is covalently attached to polyethylene glycol, (b) the polypeptide is encapsulated in a liposome; (c) the polypeptide is covalently attached to an endosome disrupting agent; or (b) the polypeptide is noncovalently attached to an endosome disrupting agent.
5. The isolated polypeptide of claim 4 wherein the endosome disrupting agent is pH sensitive.
6. An isolated polypeptide consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:49 covalently conjugated to a sugar moiety.
7. The isolated polypeptide of claim 6 wherein the sugar moiety is comprised of galactose or mannose.