| abstract |
A novel protein having inhibitory activity on the protease activity of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) activator was purified and isolated, and its molecular weight (ca. 40,000 daltons) and its N-terminal and partial amino acid sequences were determined. A gene coding for the protein was cloned, and the gene DNA was incorporated into a vector, for transforming host cells. Cultivation of the transformant gave the desired protein. The protein can be used as an in vivo or in vitro control factor for HGF or HGF activator. It is also useful as an antigen to be used in producing an antibody to be used as means for kinetic studies of the protein, or as a standard in assay systems therefor. |