Methods of modulating immune responses using BCMA polypeptide
A novel receptor in the TNF family is provided: BAFF-R. Chimeric molecules and antibodies to BAFF-R and methods of use thereof are also provided.
1. A method of treating a B-cell lympho-proliferate disorder in a mammal, the method comprising the step of administering to the mammal an effective amount of a BCMA (B-Cell Maturation Antigen) polypeptide, wherein the BCMA polypeptide comprises an amino acid sequence that binds to BAFF (B-Cell Activating Factor of the TNF family; SEQ ID NO:9) and is:
a) at least 95% identical to amino acids 1-51 of SEQ ID NO:1; or
b) at least 95% identical to amino acids 8-41 of SEQ ID NO:1.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the BCMA polypeptide comprises an Fc domain of an immunoglobulin.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the mammal is human.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the BCMA polypeptide comprises the sequence of amino acids 1-51 of SEQ ID NO:1.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the BCMA polypeptide comprises the sequence of amino acids 8-41 of SEQ ID NO:1.
6. The method of claim 2 , wherein the immunoglobulin is IgG.
7. The method of claim 2 , wherein the immunoglobulin is human.