The Xenopus IP3 receptor: structure, function, and localization in oocytes and eggs
Article Abstract:
cDNA clones encoding the IP3 receptor (IP3R) expressed in the Xenopus oocytes were isolated to examine the role of the IP3R upon egg activation. Structural and functional analyses indicate that Xenopus IP3R has an IP3-binding domain and a putative Ca2+ channel region. It was also shown to have polarized distribution in the cytoplasm of the animal hemisphere in a well-organized endoplasmic reticulum-like structure, and intensive location in the perinuclear region of stage VI immature oocytes. The results suggest that Xenopus IP3R may play a role in the formation and propagation of Ca2+ waves at fertilization.
Publication Name: Cell
Subject: Biological sciences
ISSN: 0092-8674
Year: 1993
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Nucleotide sequence and gene organization of the starfish Asterina pectinifera mitochondrial genome
Article Abstract:
The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence of the starfish, Asterina pectinifera, reveals that the genes for 13 proteins, two rRNAs and 22 tRNAs are arranged economically, similar to other animal mtDNAs, and the gene sequence is the same as another echinoderm, sea urchin, except for a small portion. Nucleotide sequence studies of animals indicate that the gene organization and genetic code are quite divergent. The genome size and content in sea urchin mitochondria are like those in other animals, while the gene arrangement differs from those of vertebrates and Drosophila.
Publication Name: Genetics
Subject: Biological sciences
ISSN: 0016-6731
Year: 1995
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Recent evidence for evolution of the genetic code
Article Abstract:
The evolution of the universal amino acid code is discussed. Recent findings of mitochondrial and nuclear genomes, using non-universal genetic codes, have led to theories that the universal genetic code is still evolving in some organisms, without disruption in amino acid sequences. The codon-anti codon mechanisms were discussed in light of the discovered non-universal genetic codes.
Publication Name: Microbiological Reviews
Subject: Biological sciences
ISSN: 0146-0749
Year: 1992
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