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Rat corticotropin-releasing hormone gene: sequence and tissue-specific expression
R C Thompson1, A F Seasholtz, E Herbert
1Vollum Institute for Advanced Biomedical Research, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201.
Molecular Endocrinology (Baltimore, Md.)
|May 1, 1987
Summary
Researchers isolated and characterized the rat corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) gene. Its structure and conserved sequences suggest a shared evolutionary past with the human CRH gene.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Neuroendocrinology
Background:
- Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is a key regulator of the stress response.
- Understanding the genetic basis of CRH is crucial for studying stress-related disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize the rat corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) gene.
- To compare the structure and sequence homology of the rat CRH gene with its human counterpart.
Main Methods:
- DNA sequencing and analysis
- RNA blot analysis
Main Results:
- The rat CRH gene was isolated and sequenced, revealing a structure similar to the human CRH gene.
- The CRH precursor sequence is encoded on the second exon, with exon I encoding the 5'-untranslated region.
- Highly conserved regions were identified between human and rat CRH genes, including the CRH peptide-encoding sequence and 5'-flanking sequence.
- CRH mRNA was detected in various rat tissues, including the brain, spinal cord, adrenal gland, pituitary, and testis.
Conclusions:
- The rat CRH gene shares significant structural and sequence similarities with the human CRH gene.
- These findings provide insights into the evolutionary conservation of the CRH gene.
- The widespread distribution of CRH mRNA suggests its diverse roles in the rat's physiology.