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Repetitive extragenic palindromic sequences, mRNA stability and gene expression: evolution by gene conversion? A
C F Higgins1, R S McLaren, S F Newbury
1Department of Biochemistry, University of Dundee, U.K.
Gene
|December 10, 1988
Summary
Repetitive extragenic palindromic (REP) sequences in E. coli stabilize mRNA, controlling gene expression. However, their high conservation suggests a "selfish DNA" role, potentially maintained by gene conversion.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Microbiology
Background:
- Repetitive extragenic palindromic (REP) sequences are conserved inverted repeats in Escherichia coli.
- These sequences are found in high copy numbers on the bacterial chromosome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of REP sequences in mRNA stability and gene expression control.
- To explore potential reasons for the high conservation of REP sequences beyond their role in gene regulation.
Main Methods:
- In vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted.
- Studies focused on the interaction of REP sequences with 3'----5' exonucleases and their effect on mRNA.
Main Results:
- REP sequences were shown to stabilize upstream mRNA by inhibiting 3'----5' exonuclease activity.
- Differential mRNA stability mediated by REP sequences contributes to gene expression variation within polycistronic operons.
Conclusions:
- REP sequences play a significant role in regulating gene expression through mRNA stabilization.
- The exceptional conservation of REP sequences may indicate a 'selfish DNA' function, possibly involving gene conversion for maintenance and evolution.