Identification of a sister gene to P-glycoprotein

The P-glycoproteins (Pgps) are a small family of transport proteins associated with the multidrug resistance phenotype of cell lines selected for growth in cytotoxic drugs. Utilizing low stringency screening, we have identified a novel gene closely related to the Pgps expressed in the pig and other mammalian liver which we have called Sister of P-glycoprotein (spgp). Sequence of this gene shows it to be a member of the ATP-binding cassette family of transporters and the gene most closely related to Pgp identified to date. The function of spgp is not known, but it can be recognized by at least one Pgp mAb, C219. This cross-reactivity has implications for expression studies in tissues and tumors utilizing this and other Pgp antibodies.