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The PCNA pseudogenes in the human genome.
Ivaylo Stoimenov1, Anne Lagerqvist
1Department of Genetics, Microbiology, and Toxicology, Stockholm University, S-10691 Stockholm, Sweden. anne.lagerqvist@gmt.su.se.
BMC Research Notes
|February 8, 2012
Summary
This study identifies at least four valid proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) pseudogenes in the human genome. Researchers recommend naming two new pseudogenes, PCNAP3 and PCNAP4, and call for further evaluation of PCNAP.
Area of Science:
- Genomics
- Molecular Biology
- Human Genetics
Background:
- The proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is crucial for eukaryotic DNA replication and cell proliferation.
- Following the cloning of the human PCNA gene, the existence of its pseudogenes became a research question.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize existing information on PCNA pseudogenes.
- To critically assess the status and validity of identified PCNA pseudogenes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing data on PCNA pseudogenes.
- Critical analysis of genomic information to determine pseudogene status.
Main Results:
- Identification of at least four valid PCNA pseudogenes: PCNAP1, PCNAP2, LOC392454, and LOC390102.
- Recommendation for naming LOC392454 as proliferating cell nuclear antigen pseudogene 3 (PCNAP3).
- Recommendation for naming LOC390102 as proliferating cell nuclear antigen pseudogene 4 (PCNAP4).
Conclusions:
- Proposes the existence of at least four valid PCNA pseudogenes.
- Recommends official nomenclature for two newly identified pseudogenes (PCNAP3 and PCNAP4).
- Calls for further critical evaluation regarding the existence of a PCNA pseudogene designated PCNAP.
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