cDNA sequence of the pregnancy-specific beta 1-glycoprotein-11s (PSG-11s)

Area of Science:

• Human genetics
• Molecular biology
• Protein biochemistry

Background:

• The human pregnancy-specific beta 1-glycoprotein (PSG) family comprises several related glycoproteins involved in pregnancy.
• Understanding the genetic variations and protein structures within the PSG family is crucial for comprehending their roles during gestation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize cDNA clones of the human pregnancy-specific beta 1-glycoprotein-11 (PSG-11) gene.
• To identify and analyze splice variants of the PSG-11 gene.
• To investigate the structural features of the encoded protein, including glycosylation sites and domain organization.

Main Methods:

• cDNA cloning and sequencing
• Bioinformatic analysis of gene sequences
• Protein domain structure prediction
• Identification of post-translational modification sites (glycosylation)

Main Results:

• Four cDNA clones of the human PSG-11 gene were characterized.
• All clones encoded a splice variant designated PSG-11s.
• The PSG-11s variant encodes a secreted protein of 426 amino acids.
• The protein features six potential N-linked glycosylation sites and a domain structure (L-N-AI-AII-BII-C).
• A restriction site polymorphism (ApaI) was identified, potentially distinguishing between PSG-11 gene alleles.

Conclusions:

• The characterized cDNA clones represent a specific splice variant (PSG-11s) of the human PSG-11 gene.
• The PSG-11s protein possesses structural features, including glycosylation sites and a defined domain structure, relevant to its function.
• The identified ApaI restriction site polymorphism may serve as a genetic marker for differentiating PSG-11 alleles.