| abstract |
The invention relates to discoveries with particular aspects of genetic engineering relating to recombinant DNA which can be successfully used to produce a previously unknown type of platelet-derived growth factor receptor protein (PDGF) (see genetic scheme, Figure 2), free of other PDGF receptors. These proteins can be produced from DNA segments in cells in various functional forms. These forms allow various biochemical and functional studies of these new receptors, as well as the production of antibodies. Means have been developed for determining the level of gene expression for specific types of PDGF receptor proteins, for example by measuring mRNA in a cell using DNA probes specific to a type of PDGF receptor, or by measuring an antigen found in biological samples using type-specific antibodies. |