Recombinant multiple domain fusion protein mitogens and use thereof for inducing enhancement or repression of antigen-specific immunity
The invention relates to cell stimulatory fusion proteins and DNA sequences, vectors comprising at least two agonists of TNF/TNFR super family, immunoglobulin super family, cytokine family proteins and optional antigen combination. Instructions for use of these proteins and DNA constructs as immune adjuvants and vaccines for treatment of various chronic diseases such as viral infection are also provided. Additionally, the use of these protein and DNA constructs as immune suppressant for treatment of various chronic diseases, such as autoimmunity and organ transplant rejection, is also illustrated.
1. An immunostimulatory fusion polypeptide comprising in N-terminal to C-terminal direction a polypeptide comprising the receptor binding domain of B7-2, a polypeptide comprising the receptor binding domain of Fas ligand, and a polypeptide comprising the human immunoglobulin Fc domain.
2. The immunostimulatory fusion polypeptide of claim 1 which is substantially pure.
3. A recombinant nucleic acid (cDNA) comprising a polynucleotide sequence that encodes the fusion polypeptide of claim 1 .
4. A cDNA expression vector containing a fusion polynucleotide sequence according to claim 3 .
5. A cDNA expression vector of claim 4 , which is selected from a plasmid, recombinant virus, and episomal vector.
6. A cell line that comprises the cDNA expression vector of claim 4 .