METHOD FOR THE IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF NUCLEAR RECEPTOR LIGANDS

摘要

The present invention is directed to a methodology to study the effect of ligands that can modulate functions of nuclear receptors, and specifically, their interaction with specific DNA or other transcription factors. These receptors play a major role in the cascade of inter and intracellular physiological and biochemical events. They generally have a modular construction which enables them to recognize and bind to certain DNA sequences, or binding elements, such as hormone response elements. Various ligands, such as hormones, affect this interaction. In accordance with the methodology presented herein, measurements of such interactions are taken in real time and kinetic pattern. This allows the user to identify and to characterize ligands that are able to affect a receptor's interaction with its binding element. Hence, the present invention provides a useful tool for the elucidation, and development of ligands that affect transcription of target genes, either directly or indirectly.