Cloning human fetal gamma globin and mouse alpha-type globin DNA: characterization and partial sequencing

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Globin genes are crucial for oxygen transport.
• Understanding globin gene structure provides insights into gene regulation and evolution.
• Previous studies have characterized adult globin genes, but fetal variants require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To isolate and characterize human and mouse DNA clones related to globin genes.
• To analyze the structure of a human fetal gamma globin gene, including its intervening sequences.
• To compare the structural features of fetal and adult globin genes.

Main Methods:

• Isolation of bacteriophage lambda clones containing Eco RI fragments of human and mouse DNA.
• Characterization of DNA inserts using molecular cloning techniques.
• Sequence analysis to identify gene structures and intervening sequences.

Main Results:

• Two globin-related clones were isolated: Charon3AHs51.1Hbgamma (human) and Charon 3AMm30.5 (mouse).
• The human clone contains a fetal gamma globin chain structural gene (2.7 kbp).
• The human fetal gamma globin gene possesses two intervening sequences (IVS 1 and IVS 2) within its coding region, located at positions analogous to those in adult globin genes.

Conclusions:

• The human fetal gamma globin gene shares structural similarities with adult globin genes, particularly in the location of intervening sequences.
• These findings contribute to the understanding of globin gene evolution and regulation.
• The characterized clones serve as valuable tools for further molecular and genetic studies.