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The structure and biosynthesis of epidermal growth factor precursor
Journal of Cell Science. Supplement
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Mouse submaxillary gland epidermal growth factor (EGF) precursor is a large protein with structural similarities to receptors. Its function and processing vary between tissues, suggesting a role in kidney ion transport.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) is a key signaling molecule.
- The structure and function of EGF precursor protein are not fully understood.
- EGF precursor exhibits structural homology to the low-density lipoprotein receptor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the structure of the mouse submaxillary gland EGF precursor.
- To investigate the tissue-specific expression and processing of EGF precursor.
- To explore the potential receptor function of EGF precursor in the kidney.
Main Methods:
- Complementary DNA (cDNA) sequencing to determine protein structure.
- RNA dot-blot analysis and in situ hybridization for mRNA distribution.
- Organ culture and immunoprecipitation to study protein biosynthesis and processing.
Main Results:
- EGF precursor is a 1217-amino acid protein with EGF-like repeats and a membrane-spanning domain.
- EGF mRNA is abundant in submaxillary glands, kidneys, and incisors, with lower levels in other tissues.
- Differential processing of EGF precursor occurs in submaxillary glands (producing mature EGF) and kidneys (where it remains largely unprocessed).
Conclusions:
- The EGF precursor's structure suggests a potential role as a membrane-bound receptor.
- Tissue-specific processing indicates distinct biological functions for EGF precursor.
- In the kidney's distal convoluted tubules, EGF precursor may function as a receptor involved in ion transport.