Expansion of the Rhox Gene Cluster in Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Jackson Melany, Watt Alistair J, Gautier Philippe, Gilchrist Derek, Driehaus Johanna, Graham Gerard J, Keebler Jon, Prugnolle Franck, Awadalla Philip, Forrester Lesley M
Primary Institution: John Hughes Bennett Laboratory, University of Edinburgh
Hypothesis
The duplications of the Rhox gene cluster in mice are under natural selection and play a role in embryonic stem cell biology.
Conclusion
The Rhox gene cluster in mice is significantly expanded and may contribute to species differences in embryonic stem cell behavior.
Supporting Evidence
- The Rhox cluster contains 32 genes, making it the most gene-rich homeobox cluster identified.
- Molecular evolutionary analysis indicates that Rhox2 and Rhox4 are under diversifying selection.
- Functional studies show that Rhox2 and Rhox4 are important for embryonic stem cell differentiation.
Takeaway
Mice have a special group of genes that help them grow and develop, and these genes are different from those in other animals like rats and humans.
Methodology
The study involved genomic analysis, Southern blotting, and functional studies in embryonic stem cells.
Limitations
The study does not explore the functional implications of all Rhox paralogues in detail.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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