Human spermidine synthase gene: structure and chromosomal localization

The human spermidine synthase (EC 2.5.1.16) gene was isolated from a genomic library constructed with DNA obtained from a human immunoglobulin G (IgG) myeloma cell line. Subsequent sequence analyses revealed that the gene comprised of 5,818 nucleotides from the cap site to the last A of the putative polyadenylation signal with 8 exons and 7 intervening sequences. The 5'-flanking region of the gene was extremely GC rich, lacking any TATA box but containing CCAAT consensus sequences. No perfect consensus sequence for the cAMP-responsive element for the AP-1 binding site was found, yet the gene contained seven AP-2 binding site consensus sequences. The putative polyadenylation signal was an unusual AATACA instead of AATAAA. Polymerase chain reaction analysis with DNA obtained from human x hamster somatic cell hybrids indicated that human spermidine synthase genomic sequences segregate with human chromosome 1. Transfection of the genomic clone into Chinese hamster ovary cells displaying a low endogenous spermidine synthase activity revealed that the gene was transiently expressed and hence in all likelihood represents a functional gene.