Method for regulating neuron development and maintenance

Patent Number: 7,173,001

Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is a member of the IL-6 family of cytokines that was originally identified based on its ability to induce differentiation of myeloid leukemia cells. Its homology ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) has been shown to support the resistance to apoptosis of numerous types of peripheral and central nervous system neurons, as well as induce new neurite formation after axotomy-induced cell death.

In the current patent the use of LIF is claimed for supporting neuron development, neuron regeneration and neuron maintenance. Concentration of therapeutic efficacy are provided, as well as various examples from in vitro and animal models supporting therapeutic effects of LIF on neuronal degenerative conditions.

It is important to not that bone marrow stromal cells constitutively produce LIF. Given that this patent covers neuroregenerative aspects of LIF, it will be interesting to see if people using whole bone marrow therapy for neurodegenerative diseases will need to in-license this patent !

View this patent on the USPTO website.