Expression of a MHC non-classical class I gene, Q4, is similar to a classical class I gene, Dp.
We have investigated the effects of the cell cycle on expression of Q4 mRNA. Q4, the gene encoding the Qb-1 antigen, is transcribed in a wide variety of tissues, unlike many other non-classical class I genes. We have compared the pattern of Q4 transcription in the cell cycle to classical class I, beta-2-microglobulin and actin. We found that the pattern of Q4 RNA levels resembles that of the classical class I genes, consistent with the similarity of the 5' sequences of Q4 and K/D. Thus, Q4 mRNA accumulates during the cell cycle along with the total RNA, but does not show specific transcriptional enhancement. This is consistent with a function for Q4 similar to the classical K/D gene products.
Badley
J E
JE
Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
Frelinger
J A
JA
D000818:Animals; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000502:physiology; D015152:Blotting, Northern; D005786:Gene Expression Regulation; D005805:Genes, MHC Class I; D015395:Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / Q000235:genetics*; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D051379:Mice; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000235:genetics; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000502:physiology; D014158:Transcription, Genetic
D015395:Histocompatibility Antigens Class I; C032907:Q surface antigens; D012333:RNA, Messenger