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At least 217 records · Page 12Linked to original sources
PubMed1995

Chi recombination activity in phage lambda decays as a function of genetic distance.

In Escherichia coli, chi is a recombination hotspot that stimulates RecBCD-dependent exchange at and to one side of itself. chi activity is highest at chi and decreases with distance from chi. The decrease in chi activity may be a simple property of the physical distance over which chi can stimulate recombination. Alternatively, the decay in chi activity with distance may reflect the high likelihood that chi-stimulated recombination occurs in a single chi-proximal act, to the exclusion of additional chi-stimulated exchanges more distal to chi. To test the models, we determined if chi activity decreases as a function of physical distance (i.e., DNA base pairs) or genetic distance (homologous DNA base pairs). Our results indicate that chi activity decays as a function of genetic distance. In addition, we found that the sbcB gene product (exonuclease I, a 3'-->5' ssDNA exonuclease) modulates the distance over which chi can act. In contrast, the recJ gene product (a 5'-->3' ssDNA exonuclease) does not alter the decay of chi activity.

Bacterial Proteins↗
PubMed2004

Quantitative genetics of functional characters in Drosophila melanogaster populations subjected to laboratory selection.

What are the genetics of phenotypes other than fitness, in outbred populations? To answer this question, the quantitative-genetic basis of divergence was characterized for outbred Drosophila melanogaster populations that had previously undergone selection to enhance characters related to fitness. Line-cross analysis using first-generation and second-generation hybrids from reciprocal crosses was conducted for two types of cross, each replicated fivefold. One type of cross was between representatives of the ancestral population, a set of five populations maintained for several hundred generations on a two-week discrete-generation life cycle and a set of five populations adapted to starvation stress. The other type of cross was between the same set of ancestral-representative populations and another set of five populations selected for accelerated development from egg to egg. Developmental time from egg to eclosion, starvation resistance, dry body weight and fecundity at day 14 from egg were fit to regression models estimating single-locus additive and dominant effects, maternal and paternal effects, and digenic additive and dominance epistatic effects. Additive genetic variation explained most of the differences between populations, with additive maternal and cytoplasmic effects also commonly found. Both within-locus and between-locus dominance effects were inferred in some cases, as well as one instance of additive epistasis. Some of these effects may have been caused by linkage disequilibrium. We conclude with a brief discussion concerning the relationship of the genetics of population differentiation to adaptation.

Animals↗
PubMed1993

Genetic and functional characterization of the gene cluster specifying expression of Pseudomonas aeruginosa pili.

The genetic organization of the gene cluster containing pilA, the structural gene for type IV pilin of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as well as the accessory genes pilB, pilC, and pilD, has been studied. DNA sequences capable of initiating transcription when fused to a promoterless lacZ gene have been identified in the pilA-pilB and pilB-pilC intergenic regions. Unlike pilA, which requires rpoN (encoding the sigma 54 subunit of RNA polymerase) and products of two regulatory genes, pilS and pilR, expression of pilB, pilC, or pilD did not depend on any of these transcriptional regulators. Moreover, transcription of pilA from the tac promoter in an rpoN mutant background resulted in piliated bacteria, suggesting that the RpoN-based regulatory network is specific for pilA and does not control expression of any other genes necessary for formation of pili. Insertion of the omega fragment containing strong transcriptional terminators into pilB, pilC, and pilD failed to have a polar effect on expression of downstream genes, as determined by the ability of each cloned gene to complement, in trans, the corresponding insertionally inactivated chromosomal copy. Insertions into pilC, however, resulted in decreased synthesis of PilD as determined by quantitation of PilD enzymatic activity in processing prepilin in vitro and by immunoassay. This finding suggests that PilD may require PilC for its optimal stability or correct membrane localization.

Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins↗
PubMed1990

F1C fimbriae of a uropathogenic Escherichia coli strain: genetic and functional organization of the foc gene cluster and identification of minor subunits.

The genetic organization of the foc gene cluster has been studied; six genes involved in the biogenesis of F1C fimbriae were identified. focA encodes the major fimbrial subunit, focC encodes a product that is indispensable for fimbria formation, focG and focH encode minor fimbrial subunits, and focI encodes a protein which shows similarities to the subunit protein FocA. Apart from the FocA major subunits, purified F1C fimbriae contain at least two minor subunits, FocG and FocH. Minor proteins of similar size were observed in purified S fimbriae. Remarkably, some mutations in the foc gene cluster result in an altered fimbrial morphology, i.e., rigid stubs or long, curly fimbriae.

Bacterial Proteins↗
PubMed2004

The evolution, maintenance and adaptive function of genetic colour polymorphism in birds.

The hypothesis that ornaments can honestly signal quality only if their expression is condition-dependent has dominated the study of the evolution and function of colour traits. Much less interest has been devoted to the adaptive function of colour traits for which the expression is not, or is to a low extent, sensitive to body condition and the environment in which individuals live. The aim of the present paper is to review the current theoretical and empirical knowledge of the evolution, maintenance and adaptive function of colour plumage traits for which the expression is mainly under genetic control. The finding that in many bird species the inheritance of colour morphs follows the laws of Mendel indicates that genetic colour polymorphism is frequent. Polymorphism may have evolved or be maintained because each colour morph facilitates the exploitation of alternative ecological niches as suggested by the observation that individuals are not randomly distributed among habitats with respect to coloration. Consistent with the hypothesis that different colour morphs are linked to alternative strategies is the finding that in a majority of species polymorphism is associated with reproductive parameters, and behavioural, life-history and physiological traits. Experimental studies showed that such covariations can have a genetic basis. These observations suggest that colour polymorphism has an adaptive function. Aviary and field experiments demonstrated that colour polymorphism is used as a criterion in mate-choice decisions and dominance interactions confirming the claim that conspecifics assess each other's colour morphs. The factors favouring the evolution and maintenance of genetic variation in coloration are reviewed, but empirical data are virtually lacking to assess their importance. Although current theory predicts that only condition-dependent traits can signal quality, the present review shows that genetically inherited morphs can reveal the same qualities. The study of genetic colour polymorphism will provide important and original insights on the adaptive function of conspicuous traits.

Adaptation, Physiological↗
PubMed1987

Genetic and functional analysis of the otosclerosis-like condition of the LP/J mouse.

The LP/J mouse is the only available genetic model for otosclerosis. The otosclerosis-like condition of the LP/J mouse resembles the human condition in several ways, although there are differences in the two species in the most common locus of the dysplastic otic lesions. The mouse model would be more useful if its auditory dysfunction and genetic inheritance could also be compared with the human disease. Matings of the otosclerosis-like LP/J and the normal CBA/J inbred mice were used to generate F1 and backcross generations. The F1 showed neither functional (electrocochleographic) nor anatomical abnormalities, indicating a recessive nature of the mouse genetic disease. This is in contrast to some reports of dominance (with incomplete penetrance) of otosclerosis in humans. No evidence of X-chromosome-linked genetic influence was found in the mouse, in agreement with the human condition. These interpretations were confirmed in tests of the backcross of the F1 to the CBA/J parental genotype (BC). The anatomical and functional abnormalities were present in some of the backcrosses of the F1 to the LP/J parental genotype (BL). A comparison of bone-conducted and air-conducted electrocochleographic responses provided evidence for both conductive and sensorineural losses in the LP/J and BL mice.

Action Potentials↗
PubMed1998

Functional and genetic analysis of regulatory regions of coliphage H-19B: location of shiga-like toxin and lysis genes suggest a role for phage functions in toxin release.

Analysis of the DNA sequence of a 17 kb region of the coli lambdoid phage H-19B genome located the genes encoding shiga-like toxin I (Stx-I) downstream of the gene encoding the analogue of the phage lambda Q transcription activator with its site of action, qut at the associated pR' late promoter, and upstream of the analogues of lambda genes encoding lysis functions. Functional studies, including measurement of the effect of H-19B Q action on levels of Stx expressed from an H-19B prophage, show that the H-19B Q acts as a transcription activator with its associated pR'(qut) by promoting readthrough of transcription terminators. Another toxin-producing phage, 933W, has the identical Q gene and pR'(qut) upstream of the stx-II genes. The H-19B Q also activates Stx-II expression from a 933W prophage. An ORF in H-19B corresponding to the holin lysis genes of other lambdoid phages differs by having only one instead of the usual two closely spaced translation initiation signals that are thought to contribute to the time of lysis. These observations suggest that stx-I expression can be enhanced by transcription from pR' as well as a model for toxin release through cell lysis mediated by action of phage-encoded lysis functions. Functional studies show that open reading frames (ORFs) and sites in H-19B that resemble components of the N transcription antitermination systems controlling early operons of other lambdoid phages similarly promote antitermination. However, this N-like system differs significantly from those of other lambdoid phages.

Amino Acid Sequence↗
PubMed2001

Genetic and functional analysis of the tbc operons for catabolism of alkyl- and chloroaromatic compounds in Burkholderia sp. strain JS150.

Burkholderia sp. strain JS150 is able to metabolize a wide range of alkyl-and chloroaromatic hydrocarbons through multiple, apparently redundant catabolic pathways. Previous research has shown that strain JS150 is able to synthesize enzymes for multiple upper pathways as well as multiple lower pathways to accommodate variously substituted catechols that result from degradation of complex mixtures of monoaromatic compounds. We report here the genetic organization and functional characterization of a gene cluster, designated tbc (for toluene, benzene, and chlorobenzene utilization), which has been cloned as a 14.3-kb DNA fragment from strain JS150 into vector pRO1727. The cloned DNA fragment expressed in Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1c allowed the recombinant to grow on toluene or benzene and to transform chlorobenzene, trichloroethylene, phenol, and cresols. The tbc genes are organized into two divergently transcribed operons, tbc1 and tbc2, each comprised of six open reading frames. Similarity searches of databases revealed that the tbc1 and tbc2 genes showed significant homology to multicomponent cresol and phenol hydroxylases and to toluene and benzene monooxygenases, respectively. Deletion mutagenesis and product analysis were used to demonstrate that tbc2 plays a role in the initial catabolism of the unactivated alkyl- or chloroaromatic substrate and that the tbc1 gene products play a role in the catabolism of the first metabolite that results from transformation of the initial substrate. Phylogenetic analysis was used to compare individual components of these tbc monooxygenases with similar sequences in the databases. These results provide further evidence for the existence of multiple, functionally redundant alkyl- and chloroaromatic monooxygenases in strain JS150.

Benzene↗
PubMed1998

Hirschsprung's disease: genetic and functional associations of Down's and Waardenburg syndromes.

Despite significant advances in understanding the genetic background in Hirschsprung's disease (HD), the majority of cases are believed to be multigenic and multifactorial. Conditions associated with an increased risk of HD suggest some common inherited factor and include Down's syndrome, Waardenburg syndrome (WS), dominant sensorineural deafness, neurofibromatosis, neuroblastoma, phaechromocytoma, the MEN type 2B syndrome, and other abnormalities. The reported incidence of Down's syndrome in HD is approximately 2%, but the range varies from 2% to 15%. WS, on the other hand, is one of a number of uncommon human conditions in which pigmentary disturbances are associated with sensorineural deafness. HD mutations have been mapped to a number of genes, i.e., RET proto-oncogene, at 10q11.2; the recessive EDNRB gene, located at 13q22; its ligand endothelin 3 (EDN3); and the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in humans. Mutations of known genes appear to account for only a relatively small number of HD cases (20% in the case of RET). GDNF may modulate the disease phenotype by interacting with other susceptibility loci (e.g., RET). The genetic aspects of HD occurring in association with trisomy 21 and WS are reviewed. Clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and long-term outcome in this patient group are evaluated. Additional data are presented on 12 children with Down's syndrome out of 408 surgically treated HD patients. The role of associated anomalies is evaluated, and an increased susceptibility to severe enterocolitis associated with a high mortality rate is reported. Surgical correction can be achieved, but patients may require some form of ongoing help to facilitate acceptable bowel function. The decision as to the nature and timing of the surgical correction must be individualized.

Down Syndrome↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Functional and genetic analysis of annexin VI.

This study is concerned with the determination of the function of the 68kDa calcium-binding protein, annexin VI. Studies on the structure and regulation of the gene include a detailed analysis of annexin VI expressed heterologously in human A431 carcinoma cells. We have recently discovered that annexin VI is subject to a novel growth dependent post-translational modification. Interestingly, the protein exerts a negative effect on A431 cells. This effect was manifested as a partial reversal of the transformed phenotype. We are currently exploring the hypothesis that the post-translational modification of annexin VI is required for sub-cellular targeting, and that correct localisation within the cell is essential for function.

Alternative Splicing↗
PubMed2006

Genetic and functional interaction between Ryh1 and Ypt3: two Rab GTPases that function in S. pombe secretory pathway.

We have previously isolated ypt3-i5 mutant and showed that Ypt3 GTPase functions in the fission yeast secretory pathway. Here, the same genetic screen led to the isolation of ryh1-i6, a mutant allele of the ryh1+ gene encoding a homolog of Rab6. The ryh1-i6 mutant showed phenotypes that support its role in retrograde traffic from endosome to the Golgi. Interestingly, ryh1+ gene deletion was synthetically lethal with ypt3-i5 mutation. Consistently, the over-expression of the GDP-conformational mutant, Ryh1T25 N, inhibited the growth of ypt3-i5 mutant but had no effect on that of wild-type cells. Furthermore, the over-expression of the Ryh1T25N mutant inhibited the acid phosphatase glycosylation and exacerbated the cell wall integrity of ypt3-i5 mutant, but had no effect on those of wild-type cells. GFP-Ryh1 and GFP-Ypt3 both localized at the Golgi/endosome, but showed distinct subcellular localizations. The localization of GFP-Ryh1 in ypt3-i5 mutant and that of GFP-Ypt3 in ryh1-i6 mutant were distinct from those in wild-type cells. In addition, Ryh1 as well as Ypt3 were shown to be involved in acid phosphatase secretion. These results suggest that Ryh1 is involved in the secretory pathway and may have a potential overlapping function with Ypt3 in addition to its role in recycling.

Acid Phosphatase↗
PubMed2006

An improved in vitro model to characterize invasive growing cancer cells simultaneously by function and genetic aberrations.

Invasion into the surrounding tissue and bone metastasis is a common feature of advanced prostate cancer. Chromosomal and other genetic or epigenetic abnormalities were aligned to this behaviour mostly by using permanent cell lines, paraffin embedded tissue or primary tumour samples. Both attempts fail to reflect either the original situation or functional information in the patient's tissue. Thus, we developed an improved in vitro assay to follow invasion of prostate cancer cells derived from fresh samples of radical prostatectomy specimens. Fresh tumour samples were applied onto Matrigeltrade mark-coated invasion chambers using a cocultivation model. Invasive growing cells were harvested from the bottom of the membrane or from the underlying gel and further characterized using comparative genomic hybridization. Prostate cancer cells have the capability to invasively grow through the barrier of a Matrigeltrade mark and could easily be sampled in a pad of Matrigeltrade mark. Comparative genomic hybridization revealed characteristic chromosomal aberrations of the invasive growing cells. Noteworthy is their ability to spheroid formation, which allows for further cell propagation by standard cell culture methods. Thus, our improved invasion model is a tool for the sampling of invasive growing cancer cells from fresh human tumour material allowing for functional as well as genetic studies.

Cell Line, Tumor↗
PubMed2000

Rapid restoration of normal endothelial functions in genetically hyperlipidemic mice by a synthetic mediator of reverse lipid transport.

Endothelial dysfunction is a major pathophysiological consequence of hypercholesterolemia and other conditions. We examined whether a synthetic mediator of lipid transport from peripheral tissues to the liver (ie, the "reverse" pathway) could restore normal endothelial function in vivo. Using assays of macrovascular and microvascular function, we found that genetically hypercholesterolemic apolipoprotein E knockout mice exhibited key endothelial impairments. Treatment of the mice for 1 week with daily intravenous bolus injections of large "empty" phospholipid vesicles, which accelerate the reverse pathway in vivo, restored endothelium-dependent relaxation, leukocyte adherence, and endothelial expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 to normal or nearly normal levels. These changes occurred despite the long-standing hyperlipidemia of the animals and the persistence of high serum concentrations of cholesterol-rich atherogenic lipoproteins during the treatment. Our results indicate that dysfunctional macrovascular and microvascular endothelium in apolipoprotein E knockout mice can recover relatively quickly in vivo and that accelerated reverse lipid transport may be a useful therapy.

Animals↗
PubMed2005

High-speed screening of human ATP-binding cassette transporter function and genetic polymorphisms: new strategies in pharmacogenomics.

Drug transporters represent an important mechanism in cellular uptake and efflux of drugs and their metabolites. Hitherto a variety of drug transporter genes have been cloned and classified into either solute carriers or ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. Such drug transporters are expressed in various tissues such as the intestine, brain, liver, kidney, and, importantly, cancer cells, where they play critical roles in the absorption, distribution, and excretion of drugs. We developed high-speed functional screening and quantitative structure-activity relationship analysis methods to study the substrate specificity of ABC transporters and to evaluate the effect of genetic polymorphisms on their function. These methods would provide powerful and practical tools for screening synthetic and natural compounds, and the deduced data can be applied to the molecular design of new drugs. Furthermore, we demonstrate a new "SNP array" method to detect genetic polymorphisms of ABC transporters in human samples.

ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily G, Mem↗
PubMed1991

Characterization of a Trypanosoma cruzi C3 binding protein with functional and genetic similarities to the human complement regulatory protein, decay-accelerating factor.

Evasion of the complement system by microorganisms is an essential event in the establishment of infection. In the case of Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, resistance to complement-mediated lysis is a developmentally regulated characteristic. Infectious trypomastigotes are resistant to complement-mediated lysis in the absence of immune antibodies, whereas the insect forms (epimastigotes) are sensitive to lysis via the alternative complement pathway. We have purified a developmentally regulated, trypomastigote glycoprotein, gp160, and shown that it has complement regulatory activity. The T. cruzi gp160 restricts complement activation by binding the complement component C3b and inhibiting C3 convertase formation. The protein is anchored in the parasite membrane via a glycosyl phosphatidylinositol linkage, similar to the human complement regulatory protein, decay-accelerating factor. Using anti-gp160 antibodies we have isolated a bacteriophage lgt11 clone expressing a portion of the gp160 gene that shares significant DNA sequence homology with the human DAF gene. These results provide functional, biochemical, and genetic evidence that the T. cruzi gp160 is a member of the C3/C4 binding family of complement regulatory proteins, and that gp160 may provide the infectious trypomastigotes with a means of evading the destructive effects of complement.

Animals↗
PubMed1999

Application of temperature-sensitive mutations to oncogene studies in Drosophila.

Recessive oncogenes are genetic functions important in the regulation of tissue growth and differentiation. These genetic functions are defined on the basis of the phenotype expressed by homozygotes. Defining the role of these genes in normal developmental and physiological processes is important to the development of accurate models of the normal regulation of growth and differentiation. Drosophila can be a good system to investigate the neoplastic mechanism of oncogenes and provide a greater understanding in the developmental progression of both invertebrates and vertebrates. The lethal (2) giant larvae gene is a recessive oncogene of Drosophila and temperature sensitive mutations of this gene have been isolated. Here, the application of temperature-sensitive mutations in Drosophila oncogene studies is discussed.

Animals↗