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Clones from the human gene complex coding for salivary proline-rich proteins
Summary
Researchers identified human proline-rich protein (PRP) gene family members using a rat probe. These genes contain repeated DNA sequences and exhibit polymorphisms, suggesting variations in salivary protein composition.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The human salivary protein gene complex encodes proline-rich proteins (PRPs), crucial for saliva composition.
- PRPs are characterized by repetitive amino acid sequences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize human genes belonging to the proline-rich protein (PRP) family.
- To investigate the structural organization and potential for genetic variation within the PRP gene family.
Main Methods:
- Screening a human genomic DNA library using a rat PRP cDNA probe.
- Nucleotide sequencing of positive clones (PRP1 and PRP2).
- Analyzing DNA polymorphisms using Southern blotting with a PRP1-derived fragment.
Main Results:
- Two related but distinct human PRP gene clones (PRP1 and PRP2) were identified.
- Both clones contain tandemly repeated DNA sequences homologous to human PRP repeating units.
- DNA polymorphisms were observed in human genomic DNA, indicating size variations in PRP genes.
Conclusions:
- The identified clones represent members of the human PRP gene family.
- Tandem repeats within PRP genes are a conserved feature.
- Observed DNA polymorphisms likely result from unequal crossing-over between repeat units, contributing to genetic diversity in PRPs.