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cDNA sequence and expression pattern of the putative pheromone carrier aphrodisin
H J Mägert1, T Hadrys, A Cieslak
1Lower Saxony Institute for Peptide Research, Hannover, Germany.
Summary
Researchers sequenced aphrodisin, a hamster pheromone involved in mating behavior. They identified its gene
Area of Science:
- Molecular biology
- Genomics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Aphrodisin is a lipocalin found in hamster vaginal discharge.
- It plays a role in pheromonal activity and reproductive behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the cDNA sequence of aphrodisin.
- To isolate genomic clones and identify the promoter region.
- To analyze gene expression patterns in the female hamster reproductive tract.
Main Methods:
- cDNA sequencing
- Genomic cloning
- Primer extension analysis
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
- Northern blot analysis
Main Results:
- The aphrodisin cDNA sequence (732 bp) was determined, coding for a 151-amino acid mature protein and a 16-amino acid signal peptide.
- The main transcription initiation site was identified 50 bp upstream of the start codon, with evidence for alternative initiation sites.
- Aphrodisin gene expression is highest in vaginal tissue and Bartholin's glands.
- Aphrodisin cDNA shows 45% homology to rat odorant-binding protein cDNA.
- Aphrodisin-related mRNA was detected in rat Bartholin's glands.
Conclusions:
- The aphrodisin gene structure and expression patterns were elucidated.
- Findings support aphrodisin's role as a pheromone and suggest conserved mechanisms in related species.