HeLa cancer cells dramatically increased in size
and morphology when human BVR is introduced.
Biochemistry and Biophysics Professor Mahin Maines has been issued two patents for identification and
development of a novel cell proliferation and differentiation factor (US patent 6, 969,610), and for Identification
of Biliverdin Reductase as a Leucine Zipper-Like DNA Binding/Transcription Factor. (US, Canada, Europe and Australia
2002360742).
Striking increase in BVR in a human
kidney tumor compared to normal kidney tissue.
The Maines laboratory has identified Biliverdin Reductase (BVR) in human cells as a
novel regulator of cell proliferation and differentiation. Her research shows that HeLa cancer cells dramatically
increase in size and morphology when human BVR levels are elevated within the cells by artificial means. Her lab
also discovered a striking increase in BVR levels in a human kidney tumor compared to normal tissue (see images,
above and below). They found that BVR regulates and/or modulates activity of protein kinases downstream of the
insulin/IGF-1 signaling cascade, including MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling, and that BVR is essential for activation of the
ERK1/2 kinases that control cell proliferation and growth. The work has implications for the treatment of cancer and
has resulted in a patent issued in US, Canada, Europe and Australia for Identification of Biliverdin Reductase as
a Leucine Zipper-Like DNA Binding/Transcription Factor
. (US patent 6, 969,610).
Maines is a leading expert in BVR research and has uncovered many applications for this enzyme, including diabetes
and a US patent was recently issued for this discovery. She also discovered two enzymes, HO-1 and HO-2 that are part
of the same metabolic pathway as BVR. Her research in this area has opened up possible new therapeutic approaches to
cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other disorders.