1. Thymus cDNA library survey uncovers novel features of immune molecules in Chinese giant salamander Andrias davidianus.
- Author
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Zhu, Rong, Chen, Zhong-Yuan, Wang, Jun, Yuan, Jiang-Di, Liao, Xiang-Yong, Gui, Jian-Fang, and Zhang, Qi-Ya
- Subjects
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ANTISENSE DNA , *IMMUNE response , *MOLECULES , *AMPHIBIANS , *T cells - Abstract
A ranavirus-induced thymus cDNA library was constructed from Chinese giant salamander, the largest extant amphibian species. Among the 137 putative immune-related genes derived from this library, these molecules received particular focus: immunoglobulin heavy chains (IgM, IgD, and IgY), IFN-inducible protein 6 (IFI6), and T cell receptor beta chain (TCRβ). Several unusual features were uncovered: IgD displays a structure pattern distinct from those described for other amphibians by having only four constant domains plus a hinge region. A unique IgY form (IgY(ΔFc)), previously undescribed in amphibians, is present in serum. Alternative splicing is observed to generate IgH diversification. IFI6 is newly-identified in amphibians, which occurs in two forms divergent in subcelluar distribution and antiviral activity. TCRβ immunoscope profile follows the typical vertebrate pattern, implying a polyclonal T cell repertoire. Collectively, the pioneering survey of ranavirus-induced thymus cDNA library from Chinese giant salamander reveals immune components and characteristics in this primitive amphibian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2014
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