abstract |
Substantially pure DNA and plasmids containing the DNA which is comprised of sequences which encode proteins having hormone-binding and/or transcription-activating characteristics of a glucocorticoid receptor, a mineralocorticoid receptor, or a thyroid hormone receptor. The invention further provides receptor proteins and modified functional forms thereof. The invention also provides a bioassay for determining the functionality of a receptor protein and new methods for producing desired proteins in genetically engineered cells. One method involves inducing transcription of a gene whose transcription is activated by hormones complexed with receptors; the second is a method for engineering a cell and increasing and controlling production of a protein encoded by a gene whose transcription is activated by hormones complexed with receptor proteins. |