C12N15/38

Identification of mutations in herpes simplex virus envelope glycoproteins that enable or enhance vector retargeting to novel non-HSV receptors

In one embodiment, the invention provides an HSV vector comprising a mutant gB and/or a mutant gH glycoprotein, where the viral envelope further comprises a non-native ligand specific for a protein present on the surface of a predetermined cell type. In another embodiment, the invention provides an HSV vector comprising (a) a mutant gC and/or gD envelope glycoprotein which comprises a non-native ligand specific for a protein present on the surface of a predetermined cell type; and (b) a mutant envelope glycoprotein other than gD.

Factor involved in latent infection with herpesvirus, and use thereof

Disclosed are a protein and a gene each of which is a factor involved in latent infection with a herpesvirus. An antibody against the factor was detected in approximately 50% of patients suffering from mental disorders, whereas the antibody was hardly detected in healthy persons. Further, a mouse having SITH-1 introduced therein developed a mental disorder such as a manic-depressive illness or depression-like disorder. Based on these findings, it is possible to provide a method for objectively determining a mental disorder and an animal model of a mental disorder.