GENOMICS: Over 95% of Human Genes Identified

Applied Genetics News,  March 19, 1999  

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Human Genome Sciences (HGS), Inc. (Website: www.hgsi.com ) has been busy. They claim to have discovered 95% of all human genes, sequenced 9,000 out of more than 12,000 novel secreted proteins, filed patents on 3,000 of them describing potential medical uses, and taken three new drugs to clinical trials.

William Haseltine, chair and CEO of HGS, outlined the successes of the companies functional genomics program at the annual BIO CEO and Investor Conference held in New York City. Among the highlights of his presentation: HGS scientists have isolated mRNAs from 95% of all human genes. About 75 to 80% contained the full instructions necessary to make the corresponding protein. Approximately 12,000 novel genes that code for secreted proteins have been identified, most of which are signaling proteins. HGS has sequenced 9,000 genes and 11,000 proteins. Of these 500 are closely related to previously studied proteins. Contained within this set are 35 new interleukin family members, 40 proteins related to growth factors, and 100 new members of the G-protein coupled transmembrane receptor family. A program has been initiated to produce antibodies to many of the newly discovered secreted proteins. HGS has developed a high throughput robotic cloning method to produce small amounts of the newly discovered signaling protein for biological studies. More than 9,000 proteins have been cloned into expression vectors. HGS will soon dedicate a newly constructed 80,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility to support Phase I, II, and III human clinical trials and North American launch of new protein and gene products. Three recombinant drugs are currently undergoing clinical trials: myeloid progenitor inhibitory factor-1, keratinocyte growth factor-2 (KGF-2), and vascular endothelial growth factor-2 (VEGF-2). The first two drugs are proposed as a new approach to cancer treatment; they shield normal tissues from attack by anti-cancer drugs while leaving the tumors vulnerable. KGF-2 is also being considered for use in wound healing therapies. VEGF-2 promotes the growth of new blood and lymph vessels and is being developed in collaboration with Vascular Genetics, Inc. HGS believes that its products are the first resulting from systematic functional genomics methods to enter clinical trials. "Our first three products, now in human clinical trials, are evidence that we have realized our dream to find a new systematic means to identify and develop products to treat and cure human disease." said Haseltine.

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