| abstract |
The invention provides specific binding members (e.g., antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof) which bind to RANKL originating from multiple species. An epitope recognized by the specific binding members can be selected from surface exposed loop domains that bind to and activate its cognate receptor, RANK (Receptor Activator of NFkB), on the surface of osteoclast precursors and other cell types. The invention provides peptides for generating such anti-RANKL antibodies, including murine sequences, other non-human sequences and cross-reactive peptides. The specific binding members are useful in the diagnosis and treatment of lytic bone diseases, including osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, bone metastasis and hypercalcemia of malignancy, glucocorticoid-induced bone loss, a periodontal disease or condition, a cancer and Juvenile Paget's Disease. The binding members can also be used in therapy in combination with chemotherapeutics or anti-cancer agents and/or with other antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof. |