Novel genes dramatically alter regulatory network topology in amphioxus.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Regulation in protein networks often utilizes specialized domains that 'join' (or 'connect') the network through specific protein-protein interactions. The innate immune system, which provides a first and, in many species, the only line of defense against microbial and viral pathogens, is regulated in this way. Amphioxus (Branchiostoma floridae), whose genome was recently sequenced, occupies a unique position in the evolution of innate immunity, having diverged within the chordate lineage prior to the emergence of the adaptive immune system in vertebrates.

Results

The repertoire of several families of innate immunity proteins is expanded in amphioxus compared to both vertebrates and protostome invertebrates. Part of this expansion consists of genes encoding protei

SUBMITTER: Zhang Q 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2575513 | biostudies-literature | 2008

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature