Ultraviolet radiation, from sunlight causes DNA damage, which can lead to mutations that can develop into skin cancer in humans. Interestingly, viruses that infect bacteria, bacteriophage, contain an enzyme, T4 endonuclease V, which can repair DNA damage induced by ultraviolet light. This enzyme is routinely used in laboratories as a research tool however until recently it has not been shown to have specific activity in human cells, do to its loss of activity in low salt concentrations. Vanderbilt researchers have modified this enzyme such that its specific activity is increased in low salt concentrations. Thus this modified T4 endonuclease V enzyme may be used ideal as an additive to skin care products.

Inventors
Mary Lou Augustine
Steven Lloyd


CONTACT
Janis Elsner
(615) 343-2430
janis.elsner@vanderbilt.edu

File Number: MKT8903