The present invention concerns a family of nucleic acids, polypeptides and
cloning vectors which direct expression of fusion proteins that can mimic
aggregated IgG (AIG) and immune complex function with respect to their
interactions with Fc.gamma.R and which allow for the inclusion and
targeting of a second protein domain to cells expressing Fc.gamma.R. This
was accomplished by expressing multiple linear copies of the hinge and
CH2 domains (HCH2) of human IgG.sub.1 fused to the framework region of
human IgG.sub.1. Convenient restriction sites allow for the facile
introduction of additional amino-terminal domains. Methods for treating
patients using fusion proteins are also disclosed. The HCH2 polymers
described here represent a new strategy in the design of recombinant
proteins for the therapeutic targeting of Fc.gamma.R in autoimmune
disorders.