Chromosomal location of the genes encoding complement components C5 and factor H in the mouse

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Immunology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• The complement system is crucial for innate immunity.
• Understanding the genetic basis of complement components aids in disease research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the chromosomal localization of the genes encoding mouse complement factor H (Cfh) and C5 (C5).
• To investigate the genetic organization of these complement components.

Main Methods:

• Utilized complementary DNA probes for factor H and C5.
• Performed Southern blot analysis on mouse genomic DNA.
• Analyzed DNA fragment distribution in somatic cell hybrids.
• Examined DNA restriction fragment-length polymorphisms in recombinant inbred mouse strains.
• Conducted three-point crosses for precise gene mapping.

Main Results:

• Factor H-associated fragments were localized to chromosome 1 or 3.
• C5-associated fragments were localized to proximal chromosome 2.
• Factor H fragments mapped to Sas-1 on chromosome 1.
• C5 fragments mapped to Hc on chromosome 2, 19 cM distal to Sd.
• Designated the loci as Cfh and C5, respectively.

Conclusions:

• Established the chromosomal locations for mouse Cfh and C5 genes.
• The findings suggest that C5 and factor H may be encoded by complex loci.
• This complexity could involve distinct structural and regulatory genes.