Related Experiment Videos
Human histamine H2 receptor gene: multiple transcription initiation and tissue-specific expression
H Murakami1, G H Sun-Wada, M Matsumoto
1Division of Biological Sciences, The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, CREST of the Japan Science and Technology Corporation, Ibaradi, Japan.
FEBS Letters
|June 17, 1999
Summary
Researchers mapped the human histamine H2 receptor gene, identifying a key promoter region. Differential expression of histamine H2 receptor gene transcripts was observed across various human tissues.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
- Gene Expression
Background:
- The human histamine H2 receptor plays a crucial role in various physiological processes.
- Understanding its gene regulation is vital for comprehending its function and potential therapeutic targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the genomic structure of the 5'-flanking region of the human histamine H2 receptor gene.
- To identify regulatory elements and understand the transcriptional control of this gene.
Main Methods:
- Mapping of transcription initiation sites using 5'-end cap structure of mRNA.
- Analysis of promoter activity using reporter assays in gastric adenocarcinoma cells (MNK45).
- Transcriptional profiling using Northern blotting and 3'-rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE).
Main Results:
- Identified multiple transcription initiation sites for the human histamine H2 receptor gene.
- A specific 85 bp segment (-610 to -525 bp) upstream of the initiation site demonstrated strong promoter activity.
- Detected a 4.8 kb transcript in various tissues (placenta, spinal cord, lymph node, bone marrow) and a 1.8 kb transcript in most tissues examined.
- Characterized the 3'-untranslated region, suggesting its role in differential gene expression.
Conclusions:
- The 5'-flanking region contains a potent promoter element crucial for histamine H2 receptor gene expression.
- Differential expression of histamine H2 receptor gene transcripts, potentially mediated by the 3'-untranslated region, occurs across human tissues.