Characterization and mapping of the Rapsn gene encoding the 43-kDa acetylcholine receptor-associated protein

We have cloned and characterized mouse genomic DNA containing the gene for the 43-kDa acetylcholine receptor-associated protein. The gene extends over 12 kb and consists of 8 exons. RNase protection and sequence analysis have been used to define the intron/exon boundaries including 174 and 214 bp of 5' and 3' untranslated sequence in exons 1 and 8, respectively. Interestingly, the exon/intron organization is consistent with structural domains predicted from amino acid sequence conservation among 3 species of 43K. Finally, the 43K locus, designated Rapsn, has been mapped to the central region of mouse chromosome 2.