Related Experiment Videos
Nucleotide sequence and molecular evolution of mouse retrovirus-like IAP elements
S Aota1, T Gojobori, K Shigesada
1National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan.
Gene
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Murine intracisternal type A particle (IAP) elements, repetitive sequences in rodent genomes, were sequenced. Conserved gene regions suggest recent functional constraints, with substitution rates higher than cellular genes.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
- Virology
Background:
- Intracisternal type A particle (IAP) elements are retrovirus-like repetitive sequences found in rodent genomes.
- Understanding their genetic structure and evolutionary dynamics is crucial for insights into endogenous retroviruses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the nucleotide sequences of murine IAP elements.
- To identify conserved gene regions and estimate nucleotide substitution rates.
- To explore sequence homology with other genes.
Main Methods:
- Sequencing of cDNA and genomic clones of murine IAP elements.
- Sequence comparison with reported rodent IAP elements.
- Analysis of synonymous and non-synonymous nucleotide substitutions.
Main Results:
- Nucleotide sequences of IAP elements were determined, revealing similarities to retrovirus RNA genomes.
- Probable gag, pol, and env gene regions were located and found to be conserved.
- Nucleotide substitution rates were estimated at 6-10 X 10(-9) nt/site/year, higher than cellular genes, indicating recent functional constraints.
Conclusions:
- The conserved regions and substitution patterns suggest functional constraints on IAP elements until recently.
- The estimated substitution rates provide insights into the evolutionary dynamics of endogenous retroviruses.
- Sequence homology with the IgE-binding factor gene warrants further investigation.