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. 1987 Sep;84(17):6249–6253. doi: 10.1073/pnas.84.17.6249

Conserved major histocompatibility complex class II boxes--X and Y--are transcriptional control elements and specifically bind nuclear proteins.

A Dorn, B Durand, C Marfing, M Le Meur, C Benoist, D Mathis
PMCID: PMC299048  PMID: 3114745

Abstract

A conserved sequence motif exists at the 5' end of all major histocompatibility complex class II genes. This motif consists of the 14-base X and Y boxes separated by a short stretch of variable sequence. In this report, we provide evidence that the X and Y boxes play an important role in controlling transcription of the murine class II gene E kappa alpha. We have developed transgenic mouse lines that carry E alpha genes cleanly deleted for either the X or Y box and have compared the expression of these mutant transgenes with that of a nondeleted control. Both the X and Y segments appear critical for accurate and efficient transcription of E kappa alpha. The most drastic effect is seen with gamma-interferon-treated macrophages, where deletion of the Y box completely abrogates transcription initiated by the normal promoter. In addition, we identify proteins from nuclear extracts that bind specifically to the X or Y box.

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Selected References

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