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The bovine protamine 2 gene: evidence for alternative splicing
H Kremling1, N Reinhart, M Schlösser
1Institut für Humangenetik der Universität, Göttingen, Germany.
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta
|September 24, 1992
Summary
The bull Protamine 2 (PRM2) gene exhibits alternative splicing, producing two protein isoforms. This alternative splicing may explain the absence of detectable PRM2 protein in bulls, impacting sperm function.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Molecular Genetics
- Protein Chemistry
Background:
- Protamine 2 (PRM2) is an arginine-rich protein crucial for sperm development in humans and mice.
- The bull PRM2 gene is transcribed but the protein is undetectable, suggesting post-transcriptional regulation or protein instability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the structure and expression of the bovine PRM2 gene.
- To identify the molecular basis for the lack of detectable PRM2 protein in bulls.
Main Methods:
- Gene isolation from a cosmid library.
- Analysis of gene structure, including exons and introns.
- Primer extension experiments on bull PRM2 mRNA.
- mRNA sequencing and PCR amplification of cDNA.
Main Results:
- The bovine PRM2 gene consists of two exons and one intron.
- A conserved sequence coding for RLHRIH is absent in the bovine gene.
- Alternative splicing of PRM2 mRNA generates two isoforms, with one having a 63 bp deletion.
- A longer mRNA isoform, potentially encoding an additional 21 amino acids, was identified via PCR.
Conclusions:
- Alternative splicing is a key feature of bovine PRM2 gene expression.
- The identified PRM2 isoforms may lead to altered protein conformation and function.
- Alternative splicing could be responsible for the lack of detectable PRM2 protein in bulls, potentially affecting sperm viability.