abstract |
The present invention provides compositions and methods for treating a tissue disorder associated with a response-to-injury process or proliferating cells. They are associated with a novel cellular phenotype (designated “transition cells”) which is characterized in having an activated erk kinase signaling activity; a stimulated AP-1 binding activity; and increased podosome formation, increased flux of intracellular or extracellular hyaluronans or hyaladherins, increased expression of a hyaladherin, an inability to form focal adhesions, and/or increased metalloproteinase activity. A novel cell culture comprising transition cells is provided, as well as compositions and methods using particular peptides, polypeptides, and antibodies that affect the transitional phenotype. |