The POM121 and ZP3 fusion protein, also known as POMZP3, is a unique human recombinant protein that has garnered interest in the field of genetics and molecular biology. This protein is the result of a fusion between two distinct genes: POM121 and ZP3. Understanding the background and significance of this fusion protein requires a closer look at its genetic origins, structure, and potential applications.
The POMZP3 gene is a product of a fusion event involving DNA sequences from two different loci. Specifically, it resulted from the duplication of two internal exons from the POM121 gene and four 3’ exons from the ZP3 gene . This fusion gene combines elements from both parent genes, leading to the creation of a novel protein with unique properties.
The POMZP3 fusion protein retains characteristics from both POM121 and ZP3. The 5’ end of the POMZP3 gene is similar to the 5’ coding region of the POM121 gene, while the 3’ end resembles the last four exons of the ZP3 gene . However, the protein encoded by POMZP3 lacks the nuclear pore localization motif found in POM121, and it retains one zona pellucida domain from ZP3 .
Unlike the true ZP3 locus, which is transcribed exclusively in the ovary, the POMZP3 gene is expressed in a variety of tissues . This broader expression pattern suggests that the POMZP3 protein may have diverse functions beyond its roles in nuclear pore complexes and fertilization.
The unique properties of the POMZP3 fusion protein make it a subject of interest for various research and clinical applications. Some potential areas of exploration include: