Related Experiment Videos
Isolation and initial characterization of the mouse Dnmt3l gene.
1Institute of Medical Technology, University of Tampere, and Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland. ulla.aapola@uta.fi
Cytogenetics and Cell Genetics
|April 18, 2001
Summary
Researchers identified the mouse DNA cytosine-5-methyltransferase 3-like (Dnmt3l) gene, crucial for DNA methylation. Dnmt3l is expressed in various tissues and embryonic stages, suggesting its importance in development.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- DNA methylation is a critical epigenetic mechanism regulating gene expression.
- The DNA methyltransferase 3 (DNMT3) family plays a key role in establishing de novo DNA methylation patterns.
- Understanding novel DNA methyltransferase-like genes is essential for elucidating epigenetic regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize the mouse zinc finger gene Dnmt3l (DNA cytosine-5-methyltransferase 3-like).
- To investigate the structural similarities and expression patterns of Dnmt3l.
Main Methods:
- Gene isolation and sequencing of mouse Dnmt3l.
- Bioinformatic analysis to identify protein domains and similarities.
- Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for expression analysis.
Main Results:
- The mouse Dnmt3l gene was isolated and sequenced on chromosome 10.
- Dnmt3l protein shares an ADD zinc finger domain with DNMT3 family members and Atrx.
- Dnmt3l expression was detected in adult mouse tissues (testis, thymus, ovary, heart) and during embryonic development (7, 15, and 17 days).
Conclusions:
- Dnmt3l is a novel gene related to the DNMT3 family with a conserved ADD zinc finger domain.
- Its expression in reproductive organs and embryos suggests a role in epigenetic regulation during development and reproduction.