cDNA cloning and immunological characterization of rabbit p53

We have cloned and sequenced the p53-encoding rabbit cDNA (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The encoded product is 86% and 80% homologous to human and mouse p53, respectively. It features many characteristics found in all p53 proteins: (i) the five domains highly conserved during evolution, (ii) an acidic N terminus, (iii) a hydrophilic C terminus and (iv) a penultimate serine residue. Immunoprecipitation of the cDNA-encoded protein by monoclonal antibodies specific for mammalian p53 has confirmed the identity of the protein.