ISSN:
1432-1432
Keywords:
Actin genes
;
Evolution
;
5′ and 3′ untranslated regions
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Summary We have sequenced the coding and leader regions, as well as part of the 3′ untranslated region, of aXenopus borealis type 1 cytoskeletal actin gene [defined according to the arrangement of acidic residues at the N-terminus; Vandekerckhove et al. (1981) J Mol Biol 152:413–426]. The encoded amino acid sequence is the same as the avian and mammalian β (type 1) cytoskeletal actins, except for an isoleucine at position 10 (as found in the mammalian γ cytoskeletal actins), and an extra amino acid, alanine, after the N-terminal methionine. Five introns were found, in the same positions as those of the rat and chicken β-actin genes. The 5′ and 3′ untranslated regions resemble those of the human γ (type 8) cytoskeletal actin gene more closely than the mammalian β genes. Primer extension showed that this type 1 gene is transcribed in ovary and tadpole. Sequencing of primer extension products demonstrated two additional mRNA species inX. borealis, encoding type 7 and 8 isoforms. This contrasts with the closely related speciesXenopus laevis, where type 4, 5, and 8 isoforms have been found. The type 7 isoform has not previously been found in any other species. The mRNAs of theX. borealis type 1 and 8 andX. laevis type 5 and 8 isoforms contain highly homologous leaders. TheX. borealis type 7 mRNA has no leader homology with the other mRNA species and, unlike them, has no extra N-terminal alanine codon. The evolutionary implications of these data are discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF02099726
Permalink