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Cloning and characterization of murine CD6
G Whitney1, M Bowen, M Neubauer
1Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98121.
Molecular Immunology
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Researchers identified the mouse CD6 gene, a crucial lymphocyte antigen. This finding reveals a longer cytoplasmic domain in mouse CD6 and suggests alternative splicing may occur in both human and mouse CD6 protein expression.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- The lymphocyte antigen CD6 is well-characterized in humans but its presence and characteristics in mice were previously unreported.
- Understanding CD6 in mice is crucial for comparative immunology and developing preclinical models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize the murine homologue of the human lymphocyte antigen CD6.
- To compare the structural features of human and murine CD6.
- To investigate potential differences in CD6 expression between species.
Main Methods:
- cDNA cloning and sequencing to identify the murine CD6 gene.
- Bioinformatic analysis to compare amino acid sequences of human and murine CD6.
- Examination of 3' untranslated regions and genomic organization.
Main Results:
- A cDNA clone encoding the murine CD6 homologue was successfully isolated and characterized.
- The cytoplasmic domain of murine CD6 was found to be significantly longer (160 residues) than its human counterpart.
- Analysis suggests the potential for differentially spliced CD6 polypeptides in both human and mouse.
Conclusions:
- The murine CD6 gene has been identified and characterized, providing a valuable tool for immunological research in mice.
- Structural differences, particularly in the cytoplasmic domain, highlight species-specific variations in CD6.
- Evidence points towards alternative splicing as a mechanism regulating CD6 protein expression in both humans and mice.