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Human tRNAGlu genes: their copy number and organisation
1Department of Biochemistry, University of Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
FEBS Letters
|December 10, 1990
Summary
Human placental DNA contains approximately thirteen transfer RNA for glutamate (tRNAGlu) genes. Most of these genes are located within highly similar DNA sequences, suggesting gene family organization.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Human Genomics
Background:
- Transfer RNA (tRNA) genes are essential for protein synthesis.
- The glutamate tRNA (tRNAGlu) gene family in humans has not been fully characterized.
- Understanding gene copy number and flanking sequences is crucial for studying gene regulation and evolution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the copy number of tRNAGlu genes in human placental DNA.
- To investigate the sequence similarity of DNA flanking the tRNAGlu genes.
- To analyze the genomic organization of the tRNAGlu gene family.
Main Methods:
- Genomic blot analysis using human placental DNA.
- Hybridization with various tRNAGlu-specific probes.
- Restriction enzyme digestion and analysis of DNA fragments.
- Construction and characterization of lambda Charon-4A genomic DNA recombinants.
Main Results:
- The estimated copy number of tRNAGlu genes in human DNA is approximately thirteen.
- Most tRNAGlu genes are found within regions of highly similar DNA sequences extending at least 5 kilobases.
- Restriction mapping of two distinct tRNAGlu-containing genomic recombinants revealed significant sequence similarity.
Conclusions:
- The human genome contains a family of approximately thirteen tRNAGlu genes.
- These genes are predominantly located in highly conserved genomic environments.
- The findings suggest a potential for coordinated regulation or common evolutionary origin of these tRNAGlu genes.