The promoter region of the human transferrin receptor gene

Genomic DNA fragments corresponding to the promoter region of the human transferrin receptor were linked to either the full-length receptor cDNA or to the bacterial enzyme chloramphenicol acetyltransferase. These constructs were transfected into mouse and human cells, respectively. Gene expression was monitored 40-48 hours after transfection. Bal31 exonuclease was employed to produce 5' to 3' deletions of the promoter region. Deletion of DNA between -86 and -70 upstream of the receptor's mRNA start site resulted in a greater than 80% reduction in apparent promoter activity. DNA sequencing of the 150 bp upstream of the start site revealed that the promoter region contained several sequence elements more than 90% homologous to the consensus sequence for binding of the transcription factor Sp1. In addition, an 11 bp sequence identical to a segment of the enhancers of polyoma virus and adenovirus was located between -80 and -70. Internal deletions confirmed that this enhancer homologue was critical for full promoter activity. A 66 bp fragment encompassing the -80/-70 element augmented gene expression when the fragment was placed in either orientation upstream of the remainder of the transferrin receptor promoter.