abstract |
The antibody binding to IPC can be obtained by using animal cells co-expressing cell membrane proteins that bind ILT7 as an immunogen. The antibodies of the invention have a high specificity that allows for immunological discrimination between other ILT family molecules and ILT7. The anti-ILT7 antibody of the present invention binds to IPC and inhibits its activity. In combination with the anti-ILT7 antibody of the present invention, IPC activity is inhibited, and interferon-associated diseases can be treated or prevented. ILT7 expression is maintained even when IFN [alpha] is present on IPC. Therefore, the inhibitory activity of IPC by anti-ILT7 antibody can also be described in patients with autoimmune diseases due to increased production of IFNa. |