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The multispecific cell adhesion molecule CD44 is represented in reticulocyte cDNA
H J Harn1, N Isola, D L Cooper
1Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710.
Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications
|August 15, 1991
Summary
Researchers identified the red cell CD44 glycoprotein, also known as erythrocyte p80. This study details the isolation and sequencing of a novel reticulocyte CD44 cDNA clone, revealing unique RNA processing events.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Hematology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The In(Lu) related-p80 glycoprotein is the red cell isoform of the human CD44 molecule.
- Its expression is regulated by the Lutheran inhibitor gene (In[Lu]).
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize the CD44 transcript in reticulocytes.
- To investigate the RNA processing events involved in generating this red cell isoform.
Main Methods:
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) amplification using CD44 cDNA primers.
- Screening of a reticulocyte cDNA library to isolate a full-length clone (RETIC CD44).
- DNA sequencing of the isolated clone using the dideoxy chain termination method.
Main Results:
- A full-length reticulocyte CD44 cDNA clone (RETIC CD44) of 1809 base pairs was isolated.
- The CD44 transcript exhibits 3' mRNA heterogeneity due to multiple poly(A) site usage.
- The 3' untranslated region is shared with a previously identified epithelial CD44 isoform.
Conclusions:
- This is the first isolation of a reticulocyte CD44 cDNA.
- The findings suggest complex RNA processing generates the hematopoietic CD44 isoform.
- The shared 3'UT region implies potential cross-talk or alternative splicing mechanisms between isoforms.