A novel 45 kDa secretory protein from rat olfactory epithelium: primary structure and localisation

cDNA clones encoding the 45 kDa protein were isolated from a rat olfactory epithelium cDNA library and their inserts were sequenced. The reconstructed protein sequence comprises 400 amino acids with a calculated molecular mas s of 46026 Da, A homology mas revealed between the amino acid sequence of t he 45 kDa protein and the proteins involved in the transfer of hydrophobic ligands. Using in situ hybridisation, the 45 kDa protein mRNA expression ma s detected in the layer of supportive cells of olfactory epithelium, apical region of trachea, surface layer of the ciliated bronchial epithelium in l ung and in skin epidermis. (C) 1999 Federation of European Biochemical Soci eties.