The Sox-13 gene: Structure, promoter characterization, and chromosomal localization

We have recently identified the HMG box transcription factor Sox-13 and des cribed its expression during murine embryogenesis. Here we describe the str ucture of the murine Sox-IS gene. This gene spans approximately 12 kb and c onsists of 13 exons. The HMG domain is encoded by exons XI and XII, separat ed by an intron that is conserved among Sox-5, Sox-IS, and Sox-17. A single major transcription initiation site was identified. Deletion analysis of t he 3-kb promoter region revealed a 400-bp fragment driving transcription of a luciferase reporter in a Sox-IS-expressing cell line. To determine the c hromosomal localization of the human gene, a human SOX13 cDNA was isolated with 75% homology to the mouse Sox-IS. FISH analysis mapped the human SOX13 gene to chromosome 1 band q32. (C) 1999 Academic Press.