cDNA sequence of a new chicken embryonic rho-globin

In order to use specific DNA probes for the study of developmentally regulated gene expression, we have prepared cDNA clones corresponding to chicken embryonic globins by inserting cDNA.mRNA hybrids into the Pst I site of the plasmid pBR322 by using poly(dG) and poly(dC) linkers. The nucleotide sequence of the insert of one clone, representing a nearly full-length copy of an embryonic beta-like globin cDNA, has been determined. The amino acid sequence of the globin encoded by this insert is identical to the sequence of embryonic rho-globin, except for four amino acid residues near the carboxy terminus. Comparison of mRNA sequences of the embryonic and adult chicken beta-globins indicates the presence of extensive deletions in the 3' untranslated region of the embryonic gene.