Cloning and characterization of the gene encoding bovine mitochondrial adenylate kinase isozyme 3

The structure of the gene (AK3) encoding bovine mitochondrial (mt) adenylate kinase isozyme 3 (AK3) has been determined. The gene spans about 46 kb and splits into five exons. The 5'-flanking region of the gene lacks typical transcriptional regulatory elements such as TATA and CAAT boxes. The G + C content of this region is high (71%), and seven GC boxes are recognized. Possible sequences responsive to transcription factors, AP-1, AP-2, Myf-6 and MyoD1, are present in this region. In the 5'-flanking region, there are sequences (mt sequence) which were found in the genes encoding other mt proteins. Transcriptional mapping analyses revealed one major mRNA start point. The promoter activity measurement in Chinese hamster ovary cells by transient expression of the cat gene connected with the 5'-flanking region, showed presence of a functional promoter.