Chromosome 20
Chromosome 20
Length of DNA
64'444'167 bp
i.e. 2.1 cm
Estimated number of genes
546
Sequenced
in the UK
Link
on the benefits of disorder
YTHDF1: gene coding for a protein which contains disordered regions, i.e. regions which adopt no particular 3D structure. These regions are involved in the formation of stress granules – consisting of protein and mRNA – when a cell is under some kind of pressure. It is thought that the granules either protect or degrade the mRNA.
External links
Protein Spotlight: On the benefits of disorder
Corresponding protein in UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot
Prions: two-faced proteins
There is one protein which is capable of transmitting a disease: the prion protein.
Versatile
TGM2: gene coding for a protein that changes its conformation according to the environment (e.g. presence of calcium). It is involved in many different biological processes, such as bone development, wound healing, cell differentiation, chromatin modification and apoptosis. Its multiplicity continues to confound researchers.
crooked
ZBP1: Key innate cellular sensor that recognizes and binds to particular RNA structures called Z-RNA structures, which are produced by a number of viruses as they replicate. Binding of ZBP1 triggers off different forms of cell death.
Role change
PCK1 : gene coding for a protein involved in the production of glucose, an important source of energy. In cancer cells, this activity can be modified to produce lipids that are also a source of energy besides being an essential component of cell membranes. Tumour cells that divide rapidly are particularly in need of lipids!
an obstacle to sperm
SEMG1/SEMG2: These genes code for the most abundant proteins in sperm.
a friend
CPNE1: This gene codes for copine (meaning ‘friend’ in French), a protein which binds to cell membranes.
External links
Corresponding protein in UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot
about water
AVP: This gene is involved in regulating the volume of urine.
on contractions and social networks
OXT: This gene codes for oxytocin, a protein involved in uterine contraction during labour and breastfeeding. Oxytocin may also be involved in mother-infant bonding.