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NCAM-180, the large isoform of the neural cell adhesion molecule of the mouse, is encoded by an alternatively spliced
D Barthels1, G Vopper, W Wille
1Institut für Genetik, Universität zu Köln, FRG.
Abstract:
The three different isoforms (NCAM-180, -140 and -120) of the murine neural cell adhesion molecule are encoded by a single gene. The two smaller isoforms, NCAM-120 and -140 are generated by alternative RNA splicing of the primary transcript. We here report sequence data of a mouse cDNA clone reverse transcribed from NCAM mRNA containing an extra fragment of 801 nt. This cytoplasmic domain of NCAM-140 and codes for additional 267 amino acids. We conclude that the sequence presented represents the 3' portion of the 7.4 kb NCAM transcript, which is also generated by alternative splicing. Thus, this sequence probably encodes NCAM-180, a polypeptide with a Mr of 117,181.
Insights
Researchers identified a new sequence in mouse neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) mRNA. This finding suggests an alternative splicing mechanism generates the NCAM-180 isoform, expanding our understanding of NCAM diversity.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
Background:
- The neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) exists in three isoforms: NCAM-180, -140, and -120.
- NCAM-120 and -140 are produced through alternative RNA splicing of the primary transcript.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report sequence data of a novel mouse cDNA clone derived from NCAM mRNA.
- To investigate the molecular basis for the NCAM-180 isoform.
Main Methods:
- cDNA cloning
- RNA sequencing
- Sequence analysis
Main Results:
- A mouse cDNA clone was isolated from NCAM mRNA, containing an additional 801 nucleotides.
- This sequence encodes an extra 267 amino acids in the cytoplasmic domain of NCAM-140.
- The identified sequence represents the 3' portion of the 7.4 kb NCAM transcript.
Conclusions:
- The novel sequence likely encodes the NCAM-180 isoform.
- Alternative RNA splicing is implicated in the generation of NCAM-180.
- This discovery contributes to understanding the molecular mechanisms generating NCAM diversity.