Sequence of a cDNA clone encoding mouse glial fibrillary acidic protein: structural conservation of intermediate filaments.

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Abstract
A clone encoding mouse gial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was isolated from a [complementary] DNA library constructed so as to express the cloned sequences. The library was screened using a GFAP-specific polyclonal antiserum; a single bacterial colony expressing GFAP was identified. The complete sequence of the cDNA insert in this clone is presented, encompassing 2.5 kilobases and specifying > 97% of the GFAP amino acid sequence. The clone includes a long (1.4-kilobase) 3'' untranslated region. Within the coding region, extensive homology with other intermediate filament proteins, particularly in those regions predicted to be .alpha.-helical was shown. RNA blot transfer experiments using the cloned GFAP cDNA probe revealed a single GFAP mRNA species of 2.7 kilobases in mouse brain. Southern blot analysis indicates the existence of at most 2 genes encoding GFAP in the mouse genome. The mouse GFAP probe cross-hybridizes weakly at high stringency with genomic DNA from diverse eukaryotic species.