Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026
09:12
MISSION LentiPlex Pooled shRNA Library Screening in Mammalian Cells
Published on: December 21, 2011
Rat alpha 2u globulin is encoded by a multigene family
Journal of Molecular and Applied Genetics
|January 1, 1981
Summary
Researchers identified 18-20 alpha 2u globulin genes in rats, primarily clustered on chromosome 5. These genes show variations, particularly in the 3' untranslated region, impacting hormonal regulation.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Alpha 2u globulin is a hormonally responsive rat liver protein.
- This protein is encoded by a multigene family, suggesting complex regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the number and genomic organization of alpha 2u globulin genes.
- To investigate potential variations within these genes and their implications for hormonal control.
Main Methods:
- Southern blot and solution hybridization using alpha 2u globulin cDNA.
- In situ hybridization to rat metaphase chromosomes.
- Isolation and characterization of alpha 2u globulin genes from a rat genomic library.
Main Results:
- The rat genome contains 18-20 alpha 2u globulin genes per haploid genome.
- Most alpha 2u globulin genes are clustered on chromosome 5.
- Six isolated genes contained the full mRNA coding region, with distinct flanking sequences and variations in the 3' untranslated region.
Conclusions:
- The alpha 2u globulin gene family is extensively organized and present in multiple copies.
- Gene divergence, especially in the 3' untranslated region, may play a role in the differential hormonal control of alpha 2u globulin synthesis.
Related Concept Videos
01:49Multiple Allele Traits
The Concept of Multiple Allelism
02:16Transcription Factors
Tissue-specific transcription factors contribute to diverse cellular functions in mammals. For example, the gene for beta globin, a major component of hemoglobin, is present in all cells of the body. However, it is only expressed in red blood cells because the transcription factors that can bind to the promoter sequences of the beta globin gene are only expressed in these cells. Tissue-specific transcription factors also ensure that mutations in these factors may impair only the function of...
01:57Gene Families
Gene families consist of groups of genes proposed to have originated from a common ancestor. Typically these arise through events in which a gene or genes are mistakenly duplicated during cell division. Unlike their parent genes (which are subject to selection pressure to maintain function), these gene copies do not need to preserve their sequences and may evolve at a relatively faster rate.
Occasionally these regions can be adapted to take on new roles within the organism, becoming novel genes...
Occasionally these regions can be adapted to take on new roles within the organism, becoming novel genes...
02:47Protein Families
Protein families are groups of homologous proteins; that is, they have similarities in amino acid sequences and three-dimensional structures. Protein families usually occur because of gene duplication, where an additional copy of a gene is inserted into the genome of an organism. Mutations that change the amino acids but still allow the protein to be properly synthesized, will lead to new protein family members. If these new proteins contain similar amino acids in key locations, protein...
02:32Exon Recombination
The evolution of new genes is critical for speciation. Exon recombination, also known as exon shuffling or domain shuffling, is an important means of new gene formation. It is observed across vertebrates, invertebrates, and in some plants such as potatoes and sunflowers. During exon recombination, exons from the same or different genes recombine and produce new exon-intron combinations, which might evolve into new genes.
Exon shuffling follows “splice frame rules.” Each exon has three reading...
Exon shuffling follows “splice frame rules.” Each exon has three reading...
01:30General Transcription Factors
Tissue-specific transcription factors contribute to diverse cellular functions in mammals. For example, the gene for beta globin, a major component of hemoglobin, is present in all cells of the body. However, it is only expressed in red blood cells because the transcription factors that can bind to the promoter sequences of the beta globin gene are only expressed in these cells. Tissue-specific transcription factors also ensure that mutations in these factors may impair only the function of...