Characterization and expression analysis of two human septin genes, PNUTL1and PNUTL2

The presence and role of septin proteins in yeast is well documented, but t here is a growing appreciation for this family of proteins beyond yeast and extending to human cells. In this report we present the characterization a nd comparison of two highly similar human septin genes, PNUTL1 and PNUTL2. We compare the exon/intron structure of both genes, the steady-state mRNA l evels in tumor cell lines and adult organs, the conceptual translation prod ucts from alternatively processed mRNAs and the development of specific imm unologic reagents distinguishing either PNUTL1 or PNUTL2. The results illus trate a remarkable similarity between the two genes and their protein produ cts while identifying specific differences in mRNA expression patterns. A s ummary of the described functional roles for mammalian septins is discussed along with an attempt to assimilate the alternative nomenclature existing for the same human septins, such as references to PNUTL1 and PNUTL2 as hCDC rel-1 and hCDCrel-2, respectively. The characterization of PNUTL1 and PNUTL 2 represents a fundamental step in completing the characterization of the e ntire family of human septin genes. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All righ ts reserved.