US Patent:
20050202401, Sep 15, 2005
Inventors:
Alan Christensen - Lincoln NE, US
Douglas Dorer - Nashville TN, US
International Classification:
A01N063/00
C12Q001/00
Abstract:
Within the unique Triplo-lethal region (Tpl) of the genome we have found a cluster of 20 genes encoding a novel family of proteins. This family is also present in the genome and displays remarkable synteny and sequence conservation with the cluster. The family is also present in the sequenced genome of , and homologs have been found in mosquitoes and the honeybee (), but it is not present in the sequenced genome of any non-insect species. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that the cluster evolved prior to the divergence of and (250MYA) and has been highly conserved since. The ratio of synonymous to nonsynonymous substitutions and the high codon bias suggest that there has been selection on this family both for expression level and function. We suggest that this gene family is Tpl, name it the Osiris family, and suggest possible functions. We also suggest that this family of proteins, due to the unique dosage sensitivity, and the lack of homologs in non-insect species, would be a good target for genetic engineering or novel insecticides. The proteins also present an excellent means to test compounds for use as possible insecticides.