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High homology is present in the primary structures between murine senile amyloid protein (ASSAM) and human

FEBS Letters
|July 28, 1986
PubMed

Insights

Researchers determined the primary structure of a murine senile amyloid protein (ASSAM), finding it homologous to human apolipoprotein A-II. This suggests apolipoprotein A-II is the precursor for ASSAM in mice.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Gerontology

Background:

  • Senile amyloid protein (ASSAM) is a key component in age-related amyloid deposits.
  • Understanding the molecular basis of ASSAM is crucial for studying aging and associated diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the primary amino acid sequence of murine senile amyloid protein (ASSAM).
  • To identify the precursor protein of ASSAM in mice.

Main Methods:

  • Amino acid sequencing of the purified ASSAM protein.
  • Bioinformatic analysis for sequence homology comparison.

Main Results:

  • The primary structure of ASSAM was elucidated, revealing a 78-amino acid polypeptide chain.
  • The amino-terminus of ASSAM is blocked by pyrrolidone-carboxylic acid.
  • ASSAM sequence shows significant homology to human apolipoprotein (apo) A-II, differing from murine amyloid A protein.

Conclusions:

  • Murine senile amyloid protein (ASSAM) is structurally related to apolipoprotein A-II.
  • Apolipoprotein A-II is identified as the likely precursor of ASSAM in mice, providing insights into amyloid formation in aging.

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