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Analysis of the genes encoding the mast cell function-associated antigen and its alternatively spliced transcripts
P Bocek1, M D Guthmann, I Pecht
1Department of Immunology, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|April 1, 1997
Summary
Mast cell function-associated antigen (MAFA) gene structure and expression were analyzed. Novel MAFA transcripts, including a soluble form, were identified in rat lungs, primarily in mast cells.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Mast cells play a crucial role in immune responses.
- Mast cell function-associated antigen (MAFA) is a C-type lectin that inhibits Fc epsilon RI stimulation-induced mast cell secretion.
- Understanding MAFA's genetic basis and expression is key to elucidating mast cell regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the rat MAFA gene structure.
- To identify novel MAFA transcripts and their functional implications.
- To investigate MAFA expression in rat lungs.
Main Methods:
- Genomic analysis to determine MAFA gene structure.
- 5' flanking region analysis to identify the promoter.
- Alternative splicing analysis to detect novel MAFA transcripts.
- Immunohistochemistry to assess MAFA expression in lung tissue.
Main Results:
- The rat MAFA gene spans 13 kb and comprises five exons.
- A cell type-specific promoter lacking a TATA box was identified.
- Two novel MAFA transcripts were discovered via alternative splicing: a soluble form and one encoding a cytoplasmic domain.
- MAFA gene transcription was detected in rat lungs, with expression localized to mast cells.
Conclusions:
- The MAFA gene exhibits complex regulation and alternative splicing.
- Novel MAFA isoforms, including a soluble form, are generated.
- MAFA is expressed in rat lung mast cells, suggesting a role in their function.