Identification of a novel platelet-derived growth factor-like gene, fallotein, in the human reproductive tract

We isolated the cDNA of a novel platelet-derived growth factor-like gene fr om human endometrium. The gene was named fallotein; it was 3007 bases in le ngth, and encoded a protein of 345 amino acids. Antiserum against the fallo tein protein can recognize a specific protein in the fallopian tube, with a molecular size in accordance with the anticipated size of fallotein. Fallo tein mRNA is expressed in two molecular sizes, 3.8 and 2.9 kb, with the for mer being more abundant. High expression of the gene was found in the prost ate, testis, and uterus. A weaker expression signal was found in the spleen , thymus, and small intestine, but expression of fallotein in the colon and peripheral blood leukocytes was negligible. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.