Physiol. Genomics Journal of Applied Physiology
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Physiol. Genomics 30: 213-222, 2007. First published April 24, 2007; doi:10.1152/physiolgenomics.00263.2006
1094-8341/07 $8.00
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00263.2006v1
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Received 30 November 2006; accepted in final form 16 April 2007.
Physiological Genomics 30:213-222 (2007)
1094-8341/07 $8.00 © 2007 American Physiological Society

Call For Papers: Comparative Genomics

Comparative genomic analysis of a mammalian ß-defensin gene cluster

Yashwanth Radhakrishnan1, Mario A. Fares2, Frank S. French1 and Susan H. Hall1

1 Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
2 Evolutionary Genetics and Bioinformatics Laboratory, Department of Genetics, Smurfit Institute, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland

Comparative genomic analyses have yielded valuable insights into conserved and divergent aspects of gene function, regulation, and evolution. Herein, we describe the characterization of a mouse ß-defensin gene cluster locus on chromosome 2F6. In addition, we present the evolutionary analysis of this cluster and its human, rhesus, and rat orthologs. Expression analysis in mouse revealed the occurrence of defensin cluster transcripts in multiple tissues, with the highest abundance in the urogenital tract. Molecular evolutionary analysis suggests that this cluster originated by a series of duplication events, and by positive selection occurring even after the rodent-primate split. In addition, the constraints analysis showed higher positive selection in rodents than in primates, especially distal to the six-cysteine array. Positive selection in the evolution of these defensins may relate not only to the evolving enhancement of ancestral host defense but also to functional innovations in reproduction. The multiplicity of defensins and their preferential overexpression in the urogenital tract indicate that defensins function in the protection and maintenance of fertility.

gene expression; reproduction; immunity; antimicrobial; evolution; gene duplication; positive selection






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