Histone Gene Expression in C. elegans
Author Information
Author(s): Rebecca Keall, Sandra Whitelaw, Jonathan Pettitt, Berndt Müller
Primary Institution: Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen
Hypothesis
How does histone mRNA 3' end structure and histone gene expression vary during C. elegans development?
Conclusion
C. elegans histone gene expression is regulated similarly to other animals, with levels increasing during active cell division.
Supporting Evidence
- C. elegans histone mRNAs lack a poly(A) tail and end three to six nucleotides after the hairpin structure.
- Histone gene expression is reduced in L3 animals compared to L1 animals and adults.
- Histone gene expression in C. elegans correlates with the presence of actively dividing cells.
Takeaway
This study shows that the way C. elegans makes histone proteins is similar to how other animals do it, especially when cells are dividing.
Methodology
The study used sequence analysis, poly(A) selection, RNAse protection, and sequencing to investigate histone mRNA 3' end structure and gene expression.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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