Prolactin is a key hormone in the normal breast development and plays a role in the growth and development of other major organs such as the prostate.  The biologic function of prolactin is mediated by specific receptors on the cell surface, with breast cancer cells containing more receptors than normal tissue.  The prolactin receptor, a member of the large class-1 cytokine receptor superfamily, has three major isoforms that are cell associated.  The specific isoform concentration and distribution determines biological activity and may determine susceptibility to antiprolactin drugs.

This technology describes several antibodies, both polyclonal and monoclonal, to the prolactin receptor.  These include antibodies to the three major isoforms: the long isoform (LF), two short isoforms (SF1a and SF1b), and the secreted form, prolactin receptor delta7-11.  These antibodies can be used for the diagnosis of prolactin sensitive tumors.  Furthermore, the presence of the secreted prolactin receptor delta7-11 may provide a blood test for prolactin responsive tumors.

Applications:

• Diagnostic tool for the detection of prolactin sensitive tumors.
• Antibodies as a serum diagnostic in high-throughput assays.
• Conjugated antibodies used in targeted therapy of cancer.

HHS Reference No. E-232-2008/0 – Research Material.  Patent protection is not being pursued for this technology.

Inventors:

Barbara Vonderhaar, Erika Ginsburg, Paul Goldsmith (NCI)

Licensees Sought:

Available for licensing.

Collaborative Research Opportunity:

The National Cancer Institute, Mammary Biology and Tumorigenesis Laboratory, is seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate, or commercialize isoform specific antibodies to the human prolactin receptor.  Please contact John D. Hewes, Ph.D. at 301-435-3121 or hewesj@mail.nih.gov for more information.