title: Identification of DNA sequences required for transcription of the human alpha 1-globin gene in a new SV40 host-vector system.
abstract: We have developed a rapid and simple method for studying the transcription of cloned eucaryotic genes, which involves transfecting SV40-transformed monkey cell lines (COS cells) with derivatives of the plasmid pBR322 that contain the SV40 viral replication origin but lack regions necessary for viral transcription (SV-ORI vectors). Because COS cells produce SV40 T antigen and are permissive for SV40 viral replication, transfected SV-ORI plasmids replicate to a high copy number. SV-ORI plasmids carrying a human alpha-globin gene are also replicated in COS cells. Moreover, the alpha-globin gene is faithfully transcribed to produce high levels of RNA, which is accurately processed to produce authentic alpha-globin mRNA. We have used this transcription system to demonstrate that a sequence located between 55 and 87 base pairs upstream from the mRNA capping site is required for efficient transcription of the alpha-globin gene in COS cells.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001483:Base Sequence; D002460:Cell Line; D002522:Chlorocebus aethiops; D004274:DNA, Recombinant; D005822:Genetic Vectors; D005914:Globins / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D007668:Kidney; D009876:Operon; D013539:Simian virus 40 / Q000235:genetics; D014158:Transcription, Genetic; D014162:Transfection
chemical_list: D004274:DNA, Recombinant; D005914:Globins