Sequence of the Dβ2-Jβ2 region of the human T-cell receptor β-chain locus

Abstract
We have sequenced the region encompassing a Dβ2 segment and the Jβ2 segments of the human T-cell antigen receptor β-chain genes. The Dβ2 element lies about 650 base pairs upstream of a cluster of seven potentially functional Jβ2 sequences and one Jβ2 pseudogene. Examination of human β-chain cDNA sequences which involve rearranged Dβ2 and Jβ2 elements demonstrates that N-region, as well as junctional, diversity can occur during D-J Joining. Further, we present evidence for possible somatic mutation in active Jβ2 segments.