Antibodies specific for sclerostin and methods for increasing bone mineralization
Compositions and methods relating to antibodies that specifically bind to TGF-beta binding proteins are provided. These methods and compositions relate to altering bone mineral density by interfering with the interaction between a TGF-beta binding protein sclerostin and a TGF-beta superfamily member, particularly a bone morphogenic protein. Increasing bone mineral density has uses in diseases and conditions in which low bone mineral density typifies the condition, such as osteopenia, osteoporosis, and bone fractures.
1. A method for identifying an antibody that modulates a TGF-beta signaling pathway comprising:
(a) contacting an antibody that specifically binds to a sclerostin (SOST) polypeptide which consists of an amino acid sequence set forth in any one of SEQ ID NOS: 1, 20, 58, 60, 62, and 68 with at least one SOST peptide consisting of an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2-19, and 21-54, under conditions and for a time sufficient to permit formation of an antibody/SOST peptide complex; and
(b) detecting a level of antibody/SOST peptide complex, and thereby detecting the presence of an antibody that modulates a TGF-beta signaling pathway.
2. The method according to claim 1 wherein the antibody is selected from the group consisting of an antibody that is present in a biological sample and a purified antibody.