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A LINE 1 sequence interrupts the rat alpha 2u globulin gene.
M Yamamoto1, F Gao, M Furuichi
1Department of Biochemistry, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta
|August 14, 1989
Summary
Researchers studied the rat alpha 2u globulin gene family, finding a LINE 1 sequence inserted into an active gene. This insertion may lead to chimeric RNA production in male rats.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Gene Expression
Background:
- The rat alpha 2u globulin gene family comprises approximately 25 closely related genes.
- Several of these genes are actively transcribed in the liver of adult male rats.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the structure and potential function of genes within the rat alpha 2u globulin family.
- To analyze genomic clones for structural variations that might affect gene activity.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and sequencing of approximately 50 independent genomic clones from a rat library.
- Determination of the complete nucleotide sequences of two selected clones.
- Bioinformatic analysis to identify sequence features and potential regulatory elements.
Main Results:
- Two highly similar genomic clones were sequenced, both exhibiting features of active genes.
- One clone contained a LINE 1 sequence insertion within the 6th intron.
- The inserted LINE 1 sequence showed characteristics of a functional element, including a splicing acceptor site and polyadenylation signals.
Conclusions:
- The structural abnormality in one alpha 2u globulin gene suggests a potential mechanism for generating aberrant transcripts.
- The presence of LINE 1 elements within introns can lead to the production of chimeric RNA, where gene exons are replaced by parts of the LINE 1 sequence.
- This finding has implications for understanding gene regulation and evolution within the alpha 2u globulin gene family.