Description
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) is a newly discovered human tumor virus causally associated with approximately 70-80% of Merkel cell carcinomas (MCC). Although infection with MCV is near ubiquitous in adult populations, MCC is an uncommon skin cancer. MCCs are highly aggressive and occur at increased rates in the elderly and in immunocompromised AIDs and transplant patients. The MCV genome encodes early T antigen protein isoforms required for viral transformation including the large T (LT), 57k, and small T (sT) antigens. Investigators at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a highly specific and sensitive mouse monoclonal antibody directed against only the sT antigen that can be applied diagnostically to detect protein expression in patient tissue specimens. This antibody can also be used as an immunoassay in experimental studies to follow MCV viral replication and to study MCV viral oncogenesis.IP Status
Research Tool
