Characterization of the dead ringer Gene Identifies a Novel, Highly Conserved Family of Sequence-Specific DNA-Binding Proteins

• DOI: 10.1128/mcb.16.3.792
• Publication Date: 2015-10-09T00:22:49Z
• Authors: Stephen L. Gregory; R. Daniel Kortschak; Bill Kalionis; Robert Saint
• Keywords: HMG-box; DNA binding site; Conserved sequence; Sequence motif; LIM domain

We reported the identification of a new family DNA-binding proteins from our characterization dead ringer (dri) gene Drosophila melanogaster. show that dri encodes nuclear protein contains sequence-specific domain bears no similarity to known domains. A number were found contain sequences homologous this domain. Other containing conserved motif include yeast SWI1, two human retinoblastoma binding proteins, and other mammalian regulatory proteins. mouse B-cell-specific regulator exhibits 75% identity with DRI over 137-amino-acid domains these indicating high degree conservation Gel retardation optimal site screens revealed in vitro sequence specificity is strikingly similar many homeodomain although predicted secondary structure do not resemble homeodomain. The early general expression compound problem understanding vivo action Maternally derived product throughout embryo until germ band extension, when expressed developmentally regulated set tissues, including salivary gland ducts, parts gut, subset neural cells. discovery new, offers an explanation for activity several important members class predicts significant roles others.