Nuclear gene introgressions in hybrid populations of water frog Pelophylax esculentus complex: geographical analysis of the phenomenon and its interpretation

Reproduction of water frog hybrids Pelophylax esculentus (Pelophylax ridibundus x Pelophylax lessonae) is associated with hemiclonal reproduction and backcrossing. The hemiclonal mode of reproduction occurs within P. esculentus allodiploids. In this case, the unrecombined genome of one parental species is transmitted to the offspring after premeiotic elimination of the chromosome set of the second parental species. Usually, the chromosome set of P. lessonae is eliminated, and the altered genome of P. ridibundus is passed on to the progeny. The hemiclonal inheritance within diploid Pelophylax esculentus hybrids may be accompanied by certain aberrations of premeiotic elimination. As a result, the formation of P. ridibundus specimens with introgressions of the P. lessonae genetic material, or the formation of recombinant hybrids occurs, depending on which of the parental species backcrossing takes place. The aim of our study is to describe the aberration of premeiotic elimination within the water frog P. esculentus complex detected by the nuclear gene Ldh-B inheritance, with an attempt to find out the causes of this phenomenon. It has been established that aberrations of premeiotic elimination are widespread, but only within populations of water frog from the river system of Upper Dnieper within Ukraine. The highest level of introgression takes place in the water frog populations within Kiev metropolis under conditions of expressed anthropogenization, while the maximum frequency of recombinants was detected within populations from the basin of Desna River, that has preserved native ecosystems. It was demonstrated that the frequency of premeiotic aberrations does not correlate with the intensity of interspecific water frog hybridization. Populations with introgressions are more common than populations with recombinants, however, within the latter, the frequency of recombination events is higher. The primary factor of gametogenesis aberrations, most likely, is the genetic characteristics of the local populations of parental species, since unambiguous explanations of this phenomenon based on the action of environmental stress (pollution of water systems) are not obvious.

Karyotypes of water frogs from the Pelophylax esculentus complex: results of cross-species chromosomal painting

Amphibian species have the largest genome size enriched with repetitive sequences and relatively similar karyotypes. Moreover, many amphibian species frequently hybridize causing nuclear and mitochondrial genome introgressions. In addition, hybridization in some amphibian species may lead to clonality and polyploidization. All such events were found in water frogs from the genus Pelophylax. Among the species within the genus Pelophylax, P. esculentus complex is the most widely distributed and well-studied. This complex includes two parental species, P. ridibundus and P. lessonae, and their hybrids, P. esculentus, reproducing hemiclonally. Parental species and their hybrids have similar but slightly polymorphic karyotypes, so their precise identification is still required. Here, we have developed a complete set of 13 chromosome painting probes for two parental species allowing the precise identification of all chromosomes. Applying chromosomal painting, we identified homologous chromosomes in both parental species and orthologous chromosomes in their diploid hemiclonal hybrids. Comparative painting did not reveal interchromosomal exchanges between the studied water frog species and their hybrids. Using cross-specific chromosome painting, we detected unequal distribution of the signals along chromosomes suggesting the presence of species-specific tandem repeats. Application of chromosomal paints to the karyotypes of hybrids revealed differences in the intensity of staining for P. ridibundus and P. lessonae chromosomes. Thus, both parental genomes have a divergence in unique sequences. Obtained chromosome probes may serve as a powerful tool to unravel chromosomal evolution in phylogenetically related species, identify individual chromosomes in different cell types, and investigate the elimination of chromosomes in hybrid water frogs.

Hybridogenesis in the Water Frogs from Western Russian Territory: Intrapopulation Variation in Genome Elimination

Hybridogenesis in an interspecific hybrid frog is a coupling mechanism in the gametogenic cell line that eliminates the genome of one parental species with endoduplication of the remaining genome of the other parental species. It has been intensively investigated in the edible frog Pelophylax kl. esculentus (RL), a natural hybrid between the marsh frog P. ridibundus (RR) and the pool frog P. lessonae (LL). However, the genetic mechanisms involved remain unclear. Here, we investigated the water frogs in the western Russian territory. In three of the four populations, we genetically identified 16 RL frogs living sympatrically with the parental LL species, or with both parental species. In addition, two populations contained genome introgression with another species, P. bedriagae (BB) (a close relative of RR). In the gonads of 13 RL frogs, the L genome was eliminated, producing gametes of R (or R combined with the B genome). In sharp contrast, one RL male eliminated the L or R genome, producing both R and L sperm. We detected a variation in genome elimination within a population. Based on the genetic backgrounds of RL frogs, we hypothesize that the introgression of the B genome resulted in the change in choosing a genome to be eliminated.

Low Temperature and Polyploidy Result in Larger Cell and Body Size in an Ectothermic Vertebrate

Previous studies reported that low temperatures result in increases in both cell size and body size in ectotherms that may explain patterns of geographic variation of their body size across latitudinal ranges. Also, polyploidy showed the same effect on body size in invertebrates. In vertebrates, despite their having larger cells, no clear effect of polyploidy on body size has been found. This article presents the relationship between temperature, cell size, growth rate, and body size in diploid and polyploid hybridogenetic frog Pelophylax esculentus reared as tadpoles at 19° and 24°C. The size of cells was larger in both diploid and triploid tadpoles at 19°C, and triploids had larger cells at both temperatures. In diploid and triploid froglets, the temperature in which they developed as tadpoles did not affect the size of their cells, but triploids still had larger cells. Triploid tadpoles grew faster than diploids at 19°C and had larger body mass; there was no clear difference between ploidies in growth rate at 24°C. This indicates better adaptation of triploid tadpoles to cold environment. This is the first report on the increase of body mass of a polyploid vertebrate caused by low temperature, and we showed relationship between increase in cell size and increased body mass. The large body mass of triploids may provide a selective advantage, especially in colder environments, and this may explain the prevalence of triploids in the northern parts of the geographic range of P. esculentus.

Kisspeptin drives germ cell progression in the anuran amphibian Pelophylax esculentus: a study carried out in ex vivo testes

Kisspeptin, via Gpr54 receptor, regulates puberty onset in most vertebrates. Thus, the direct involvement of kisspeptin activity in testis physiology was investigated in the anuran amphibian, Pelophylax esculentus. In this vertebrate gpr54 mRNA has been localized in both interstitial compartment and spermatogonia (SPG), whereas SPG proliferation requires the cooperation between estradiol and testicular Gonadotropin releasing hormone (Gnrh). In the pre-reproductive period, dose response curve to assess the effects of Kisspeptin-10 (Kp-10) was carried out in vitro (dose range: 10(-9)-10(-6)M; incubation times: 1 and 4h); proliferative activity and germ cell progression were evaluated by expression analysis of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (pcna), estrogen receptor beta (erβ), Gnrh system (gnrh1, gnrh2, gnrhr1, r2, r3) and by the count of empty, mitotic and meiotic tubules. All selected markers were up regulated at 4h Kp-10 incubation. Histological analysis also proved the increase of mitotic activity and the progression of spermatogenesis. Besides Kp-10 modulation of testicular Gnrh system, in vitro treatment with 17β-estradiol (10(-6)M) ± the antagonist ICI182-780 (10(-5)M) revealed gnrh2 and gnrhr3 estrogen dependent expression. In the reproductive period, testes were incubated for 1 and 4h with Kp-10 (10(-7)M) or Kp-10 (10(-7)M)+kisspeptin antagonist [Kp-234 (10(-6)M)]. Results obtained in the pre-reproductive period were confirmed and Kp-234 completely counteracted Kp-10 effects. In conclusion, Kp-10 modulated the expression of pcna, erβ, gnrhs and gnrhrs, inducing the progression of the spermatogenesis.

Genomic effects on advertisement call structure in diploid and triploid hybrid waterfrogs (Anura, Pelophylax esculentus)

BACKGROUND

In anurans, differences in male mating calls have intensively been studied with respect to taxonomic classification, phylogeographic comparisons among different populations and sexual selection. Although overall successful, there is often much unexplained variation in these studies. Potential causes for such variation include differences among genotypes and breeding systems, as well as differences between populations. We investigated how these three factors affect call properties in male water frogs of Pelophylax lessonae (genotype LL), P. ridibundus (RR) and their interspecific hybrid P. esculentus which comes in diploid (LR) and triploid types (LLR, LRR).

RESULTS

We investigated five call parameters that all showed a genomic dosage effect, i.e. they either decreased or increased with the L/R ratio in the order LL-LLR-LR-LRR-RR. Not all parameters differentiated equally well between the five genotypes, but combined they provided a good separation. Two of the five call parameters were also affected by the breeding system. Calls of diploid LR males varied, depending on whether these males mated with one or both of the parental species (diploid systems) or triploid hybrids (mixed ploidy systems). With the exception of the northernmost mixed-ploidy population, call differences were not related to the geographic location of the population and they were not correlated with genetic distances in the R and L genomes.

CONCLUSIONS

We found an influence of all three tested factors on call parameters, with the effect size decreasing from genotype through breeding system to geographic location of the population. Overall, results were in line with predictions from a dosage effect in L/R ratios, but in three call parameters all three hybrid types were more similar to one or the other parental species. Also calls of diploid hybrids varied between breeding systems in agreement with the sexual host required for successful reproduction. The lack of hybrid call differences in a mixed-ploidy population at the northern edge of the water frog distribution is likely to be associated with genetic particularities, including a) low genetic variability and/or b) a local loss of genes coding for genotype-dependent call differentiation under conditions where female discrimination between diploid and triploid males is not beneficial.

LC-MS/MS with 2D mass mapping of skin secretions' peptides as a reliable tool for interspecies identification inside Rana esculenta complex

Identification of species constituting Rana esculenta complex represents a certain problem as two parental species Rana ridibunda and Rana lessonae form their hybrid R. esculenta, while external signs and sizes of the members of this complex are intersected. However the composition of skin secretion consisting mainly of peptides is different for the species of the complex. LC-MS/MS is an ideal analytical tool for the quantitative and qualitative analysis of these peptides. The results covering elemental composition of these peptides, their levels in the secretion, as well as their belonging to a certain family of peptides may be visualized by means of 2D mass maps. The proposed approach proved itself to be a perspective tool for the reliable identification of all 3 species constituting R. esculenta complex. Easy distinguishing between the species may be achieved using 2D maps as fingerprints. Besides this approach may be used to study hybridogenesis and mechanisms of hemiclonal transfer of genetic information, when rapid and reliable identification of species involved in the process is required.

Anandamide modulates the expression of GnRH-II and GnRHRs in frog, Rana esculenta, diencephalon

In the hypothalamus, endocannabinoids affect neuroendocrine activity by means of Gonadotropin-Releasing-Hormone-I (GnRH-I) inhibition. Since most vertebrates, human included, possess at least two GnRH molecular forms, the aim of this work was to investigate the effect of endocannabinoids on GnRH molecular forms other than GnRH-I and on GnRHRs. Thus, we cloned GnRH precursors as well as GnRH receptors (GnRHR-I, GnRHR-II, GnRHR-III) from the diencephalons of the anuran amphibian, Rana esculenta. GnRH-II expression was evaluated in pituitary, whole brain, spinal cord, hindbrain, midbrain and forebrain during the annual sexual cycle. Then, in post-reproductive period (May), GnRH-I, GnRH-II and GnRHRs expression was evaluated by quantitative real time (qPCR) after incubation of diencephalons with the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA). AEA significantly decreased GnRH-I and GnRH-II expression, up regulated GnRHR-I and GnRHR-II mRNA and it had no effect upon GnRHR-III expression. These effects were counteracted by SR141716A (Rimonabant), a selective antagonist of type I cannabinoid receptor (CB1). In conclusion our results demonstrate a CB1 receptor dependent modulation of GnRH system expression rate (both ligands and receptors) in frog diencephalons. In particular, we show that AEA, besides GnRH-I, also acts on GnRH-II expression.

[Ploidy and genetic structure of hybrid populations of water frogs Pelophylax esculentus (L., 1758) complex (Amphibia, Ranidae) of Ukraine]

The present study of green frog hybrid populations of Ukraine, including analysis of allozyme variability and planimetric analysis oferythrocytes size has confirmed that the unique region in this area is the Severski Donets basin The allopolyploid individuals there are met very frequently (5.7% of all investigated frogs). In other areas of Ukraine only two polyploid hybrids have been recorded. Beside that, one frog was defined as triploid Rana ridibundus. According to our investigations, all triploid hybrids from the Severski Donets basin are identified as P. esculentu (=lessonae)--2 ridibundus males.

[Inheritance of parental genomes by a hybrid form Rana "esculenta" (Amphibia, Ranidae)]

In this study, quantitative analysis of paternal genome inheritance by a hybrid form Rana "esculenta" (= Rana esculenta L., 1758 x Rana ridibunda Pall., 1881) (Amphibia, Ranidae) was examined. The hybrid form examined was characterized by a polymodal mode of inheritance (genome of any of the parental species can be inherited). The absence of correlation between the proportion of normal gametes and either sex or ploidity of the producer was demonstrated. The gametes produced could be both haploid and diploid (hybrid or homozygous). The mechanism of alloploid reproduction is discussed.

Two germ cell lineages with genomes of different species in one and the same animal

Cytological evidence for two germ cell lineages, each with the DNA-content of one of the parental species only, was obtained for certain males of the hybridogenic water frog Rana esculenta (R. ridibunda x R. lessonae) by means of DNA flow cytometry. The approach was based on the 16 +/- 2% difference in the DNA-content of genomes of the parental species. Two types of germ cells were observed in six out of 39 males studied from populations where such males did exist. The term 'hybrid amphispermy' is proposed for the phenomenon. Occurrence of the 'hybrid amphispermy' suggests that the direction of elimination (i.e., which genome being eliminated) is determined in R. esculenta by the relative activity of putative elimination-inducing factor(s) in each of the parental genomes, which can alternate from cell to cell.

Ontogeny of PAC1-R and VPAC1-R in the frog, Rana esculenta

The distribution of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and PACAP receptors in the brain of amphibians has been previously described. In the present study, we have investigated the ontogeny of the selective PACAP receptor, PAC1-R, and the PACAP-vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) mutual receptor, VPAC1-R, in frog embryos by whole-mount in situ hybridization histochemistry. At stage 20, expression of PAC1-R and/or VPAC1-R mRNAs was detected in the brain, the auditory vesicles, the external gills, the buds of the lateral lines and the coelomatic cavity. At stage 25, PAC1-R and/or VPAC1-R mRNAs were observed in the buds of the orbital lateral line, the pancreas and heart. At stage 30, PAC1-R and VPAC1-R mRNAs were widely distributed in the telencephalon and diencephalon as well as in the bud of the lateral line, the heart and the pancreas. The anatomical distribution of PAC1-R and VPAC1-R mRNAs, although similar, did not totally overlap, indicating that PACAP and VIP may exert differential effects in frog during development.

Gametogenesis of intergroup hybrids of hemiclonal frogs

European water frog hybrids Rana esculenta (R. ridibundaxR. lessonae) reproduce hemiclonally, by hybridogenesis: in the germ line they exclude the genome of one parental species and produce haploid gametes with an unrecombined genome of the other parental species. In the widespread L-E population system, both sexes of hybrids (E) coexist with R. lessonae (L). They exclude the lessonae genome and produce ridibunda gametes. In the R-E system, hybrid males coexist with R. ridibunda (R); they exclude either their ridibunda or their lessonae genome and produce sperm with a lessonae or with a ridibunda genome or a mixture of both kinds of sperm. We examined 13 male offspring, 12 of which were from crosses between L-E system and R-E system frogs. All were somatically hybrid. With one exception, they excluded the lessonae genome in the germ line and subsequently endoreduplicated the ridibunda genome. Spermatogonial metaphases contained a haploid or a diploid number of ridibunda chromosomes, identified through in situ hybridization to a satellite DNA marker, and by spermatocyte I metaphases containing a haploid number of ridibunda bivalents. The exception, an F1 hybrid between L-E system R. lessonae and R-E system R. ridibunda, was not hybridogenetic, showed no genome exclusion, and evidenced a disturbed gametogenesis resulting from the combination of two heterospecific genomes. None of the hybridogenetic hybrids showed any cell lines excluding the ridibunda genome, the pattern most frequent in hybrids of the R-E system, unique to that system, and essential for its persistence. A particular combination of R-E system lessonae and R-E system ridibunda genomes seems necessary to induce the R-E system type of hemiclonal gametogenesis.

Absence of KCNQ1-dependent K+ fluxes in proximal tubular cells of frog kidney

The present study was designed to investigate the functional significance of KCNQ1-mediated K+ secretory fluxes in proximal tubular cells of the frog kidney. To this end, we investigated the effects on rapid depolarization and slow repolarization of the peritubular membrane potential after luminal addition of L-phenylalanine or L-alanine plus/minus KCNQ1 channel blockers. Perfusing the lumen with 10 mmol/L L-phenylalanine plus/minus luminal 293B, a specific blocker of KCNQ1, did not modify the rapid depolarization and the rate of slow repolarization. Perfusing the lumen with 10 mmol/L L-alanine plus/minus luminal HMR-1556, a more potent KCNQ1 channel blocker, did not also alter the rapid depolarization and the rate of slow repolarization. Pretreatment (1 h) of the lumen with HMR-1556 also failed to modify rapid depolarization and rate of slow repolarization upon luminal 10 mmol/L L-alanine. Perfusing the lumen with 1 mmol/L L-alanine plus/minus luminal HMR-1556 did not change the rapid depolarization and the rate of slow repolarization. The pretreatment (1 h) with luminal HMR-1556 did not modify the rapid depolarization and the rate of slow repolarization upon luminal 1 mmol/L L-alanine. The pretreatment (1 h) of the lumen with HMR-1556 did not change transference number for K+ of peritubular cell membrane. Finally, luminal barium blunted the rapid depolarization upon application of luminal 1 mmol/L L-alanine. RT-PCR showed that KCNQ1 mRNA was not expressed in frog kidney. In conclusion, the KCNQ1-dependent K+ secretory fluxes are absent in proximal tubule of frog kidney.

Hemiclonal reproduction slows down the speed of Muller's ratchet in the hybridogenetic frog Rana esculenta

Rare recombination in otherwise asexually reproducing organisms is known to beneficially influence the fitness in small populations. In most of the investigated organisms, asexual and rare sexual generations with recombination follow each other sequentially. Here we present a case where clonal reproduction and rare recombination occur simultaneously in the same population. The hybridogenetic water frog Rana esculenta (E), a hybrid between R. lessonae (L) and R. ridibunda (R) produces gametes that only contain the unaltered maternal R part of their genome. New generations of R. esculenta usually arise from E x L matings. Intraspecific E x E matings produce mostly inviable offspring, but in rare cases, female R. ridibunda arise from such matings which are capable of recombination. In the absence of conspecific males, these R females have to mate with E males, which results in further R females, or with L males, which produces new E lineages. This indirect mechanism reintroduces recombination into the otherwise clonally transmitted R genomes in R. esculenta populations. In this study, we show through Monte Carlo simulations that, in most cases, it is sufficient that only between 1 % and 10 % of mixed water frog populations consist of R females to prevent or significantly reduce the fixation and accumulation of deleterious mutations.

[Heat resistance of the skeletal muscle in western palearctic green frogs (Rana esculenta complex)]

Heat resistance of the gastrocnemius muscle was studied in five species of the Rana esculenta complex. It was similar in R. bedriagae, R. lessonae, and in the European form of R. ridibunda; while North African R. saharica demonstrated a lower heat resistance. No heterosis was expressed in R. esculenta, a clonal hybrid of R. lessonae and R. ridibunda, for the heat resistance of the muscle. Moreover, this species demonstrated low heat resistance at the highest test temperatures (42 degrees C). Comparison of diploid and triploid R. esculenta syntopically occurring in the same water bodies demonstrated no heat resistances between them, thus, suggesting that polyploidy has no effect on this parameter at least in this case.

The expression level of frog relaxin mRNA (fRLX), in the testis of Rana esculenta, is influenced by testosterone

Frog relaxin (fRLX) belongs to the relaxin/insulin gene family present in the testis of Rana esculenta and is specifically expressed by Leydig cells. Since the expression of fRLX transcript changes during the reproductive cycle and is more abundant when circulating levels of androgens are relatively high, we investigated the effect(s) of testosterone and its antagonist (cyproterone acetate, CPA) on its expression pattern, in the testis of the frog Rana esculenta. Results from in vivoand in vitro experiments demonstrate that testosterone strongly induces a significant increase of fRLX mRNA expression in frog testes and, this effect is counteracted by CPA, supporting the existence of intratesticular (autocrine/paracrine) mechanisms of action. Interestingly, in both the control and testosterone-treated testes, fRLX mRNA expression was markedly decreased 24 h post-treatment, as compared to that measured at 2 h and 8 h post-treatment, suggesting that factor(s), other than testosterone, may act(s) in controlling its expression. In addition, RT-PCR analysis and in situ hybridization performed on frog testis injected with CPA for 15 days, on alternate days, showed a strong decrease of fRLX expression, suggesting that CPA counteracts the effect of testosterone on fRLX expression. Taken together our results strongly indicate that changes in the production, by the Leydig cells, of both testosterone and fRLX may represent a marker for the study of Leydig cell activity in the testis of the frog Rana esculenta.

[The genetic asymmetry of the hybrid green frogs Rana esculenta (Amphibia: Ranidae) complex of Ukraine]

Research of the alleles of the species-specific genes in the gametal cells of Rana kl. esculenta hybrids proved the existence of three local populations within the territory of Ukraine. Their hybrids reject either the genome of lake frog (Danube lowland), either the previous one or another one genome (basin of Severskiy Donets river), either the genome of pond frog (the residuary territory of the areal). The research of skin transplants rejection of hybrids' parental species has shown that despite the orientation of genome elimination of this population the graft of lake frog always starts identifying and rejecting earlier. That is why the genetic skewness of hybrids becomes apparent at the skin level and corresponds to its manifestations at the organism level.

Reproduction and hybrid load in all-hybrid populations of Rana esculenta water frogs in Denmark

All-hybrid populations of the water frog, Rana esculenta, are exceptional in consisting of independently and to some extent sexually reproducing interspecific hybrids. In most of its range R. esculenta reproduces hemiclonally with one of the parental species, R. lessonae or R. ridibunda, but viable populations of diploid and triploid hybrids, in which no individuals of the parental species have been found, exist in the northern part of the range. We test the hypothesis that nonhybrids arise every year in these all-hybrid populations, but die during larval development. Microsatellite markers were used to determine the genotypes of adults and abnormal and healthy offspring in three all-hybrid populations of R. esculenta in Denmark. Of all eggs and larvae, 63% developed abnormally or died, with some being nonhybrid (genomes matching one of the parental species), many being aneuploid (with noninteger chromosome sets), a few being tetraploid, and many eggs possibly being unfertilized. The 37% surviving and apparently healthy froglets were all diploid or triploid hybrids. In all three populations, gametogenesis matched the pattern previously described for all-hybrid R. esculenta populations in which most triploid adults have two R. lessonae genomes. This pattern was surprising for the one population in which triploid adults had two R. ridibunda genomes, because here it leads to a deficiency of gametes with an R. lessonae genome and should compromise the stability of this population. We conclude that faulty gametogenesis and mating between frogs with incompatible gametes induce a significant hybrid load in all-hybrid populations of R. esculenta, and we discuss compensating advantages and potential evolutionary trajectories to reduce this hybrid load.

Expression of Proopiomelanocortin and Its Cleavage Enzyme Genes inRana esculentaandXenopus laevisGonads

Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) is the precursor protein of different hormones and neuropeptides, and the POMC-derived peptides are produced through proteolytic cleavage. Prohormone convertase PC1 and PC2 are enzymes responsible for the cleavage of the POMC prohormone. The coexpression of POMC, PC1, and PC2 genes was previously described in the brain and the pituitary gland of Rana esculenta and Xenopus laevis, but no data are available for the gonad. The present work demonstrates a gonadal POMC convertase gene expression in Rana esculenta and Xenopus laevis.

[Meiotic chromosomes of green frogs (Rana esculenta complex) of the Ukraine territory]

In this work meiotic chromosomes of R. ridibunda, R. lessonae and their hybrid form R. esculenta of the Ukraine territory are described for the first time. These chromosomes are connected in diakinesis more often by two chiasma, rarely by one or three chiasma in 13 bivalents. Bivalents with one chiasma in R. ridibunda are typical only for large bivalents, in R. lessonae only for small ones. Three chiasma in parental species are typical only for small bivalents. In the hybrid form R. esculenta chromosomes with two, one and three chiasma are typical both for large bivalents, and for small ones. In the hybrid form (R. esculenta) chiasma frequency noticeably decreases, comparatively with parental species that, possibly, specifies the aberration of normal meiosis realization. The chiasma frequencies of the hybrid form of the eastern and the southern parts of Ukraine are almost the same, but the types of chromosomes are different in such regions. In the eastern region chromosomes of the hybrid form are represented by two or one chiasma, in the southern region by two, one or three chiasma.

Structure-activity relationships of antimicrobial peptides from the skin of Rana esculenta inhabiting in Korea

The anuran (frogs and toads) skin is a rich source of antimicrobial peptides that can be developed therapeutically. We searched the skin secretions of Korean Rana esculenta for antimicrobial peptides, and isolated two cationic peptides with antimicrobial activity and little hemolytic activity: a 46-residue peptide of the esculentin-1 family and a 24-residue peptide of the brevinin-1 family. Their sequences showed some differences from the esculentins-1 and brevinins-1 of European Rana esculenta, indicating that sequence diversification of anuran skin antimicrobial peptides can arise from differences in habitat as well as from species differences. The 46-residue peptide named esculentin-1c had broad antimicrobial activity, while the 24-residue peptide named brevinin-1Ed exhibited limited activity. The solution structure of brevinin-1Ed was in good agreement with that of other brevinin-1-like peptides, with an amphipathic alpha-helix spanning residues 3-20, stabilized in membrane-mimetic environments. The weak bioactivity of brevinin-1Ed was attributable to the unusual presence of an anionic amino acid in the middle of the helical hydrophilic face. This report contributes to world-wide investigations of the structure-activity relationships and evolutional diversification of anuran-skin antimicrobial peptides.

Molecular characterization of the cDNA and localization of the mRNA encoding the prohormone convertase PC5-A in the European green frog

The structure and distribution of PC5-A, a prohormone convertase that is thought to be involved in post-translational processing of peptide hormone and neuropeptide precursors, have not been investigated in submammalian vertebrates. In the present study, we characterized the cDNA encoding PC5-A in the European green frog Rana esculenta. The frog PC5-A cDNA encodes a 913-amino acid protein that encompasses a 28-amino acid signal peptide, the Asp/His/Ser catalytic triad found in all serine proteinases of the subtilisin family, and two potential N-linked glycosylation sites located in a C-terminal cysteine-rich domain. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction amplification showed that PC5-A mRNA is expressed in various organs including the brain, spinal cord, pituitary, lung, liver, intestine, and testis, but not in the stomach and pancreas. The distribution of PC5-A mRNA in the frog brain was studied by in situ hybridization histochemistry. Intense expression was observed in the mitral cellular layer of the olfactory bulb, the nucleus of the diagonal band of Broca, the anterior preoptic area, and the suprachiasmatic and ventral hypothalamic nuclei. The expression pattern of PC5-A mRNA in the central nervous system of anuran amphibians was consistent with the implication of this prohormone convertase in the processing of various neuropeptide precursors.

[Genetic structure of unisex hybrid population of frogs Rana esculenta complex in lowland Transcarpathian region]

The biochemical genetic marking and analysis of the ploidy and sexual structure of the green frog populations from the Transcarpathian lowlands have demonstrated that this region is inhabited by the unisexual populations composed of the allodiploid females only. Their genome includes a small portion of the marsh frog genic diversity. This phenomenon is discussed in relation to the unisexual population reproduction problem. The assumption is proposed that in the Transcarpathian hybrid populations the hybrids are spawned by the parthenogenesis.

Temporal and spatial localization of prothymosin alpha transcript in the Harderian gland of the frog, Rana esculenta

The Harderian gland (hg) is the only orbital gland of the frog Rana esculenta, and it has the essential function of lubricating the eyes. The hg secretory activity is seasonal, showing the highest value in summer. There is, at present, no data on gene expression of the frog hg. This study reports, for the first time, on the temporal and spatial expression of a cDNA clone encoding for the prothymosin alpha (Prot-alpha), a highly acidic nuclear protein present in virtually all mammalian cells. Northern blot analysis revealed a single 1.7 kb transcript detected in the frog hg throughout the year, with a lowest expression in September in concomitance with the minimum secretory activity. In situ hybridization indicated that hg secretory cells express Prot-alpha transcript, and the hybridization signal was less intense in the September gland. The constant expression of the frog Prot-alpha mRNA during the whole year suggests a constitutive role for this molecule in the hg. In addition, taking into account that, in mammals, many immunomodulatory functions have been attributed to this protein, it is suggested that frog Prot-alpha might contribute to the hg immunity processes, probably acting as a protective agent against infections of the eyeball. Interestingly, although the presence of Prot-alpha gene in animals other than mammals has been considered to be highly unlikely, the present paper confirms the presence of Prot-alpha transcript in a nonmammalian vertebrate, the frog R. esculenta.

First evidence of prothymosin alpha in a non-mammalian vertebrate and its involvement in the spermatogenesis of the frog Rana esculenta

A cDNA clone encoding for a Prothymosin alpha (Prot-alpha) has been isolated and characterized from the testis of the frog Rana esculenta. Frog Prothymosin alpha (fProt-alpha) predicted a 109 amino acid protein with a high homology to the mammalian Prot-alpha. fProt-alpha contains 28 aspartic and 25 glutamic acid residues and presents the typical basic KKQK amino acid sequence in the close carboxyl terminal region. Northern blot analysis revealed that fProt-alpha is highly expressed in the testis. A different expression of fProt-alpha transcript was found during the frog reproductive cycle with a peak in September/October in concomitance with germ cell maturation, strongly suggesting a role for this protein in the testicular activity. In situ hybridization evidenced that the only germ cells expressing fProt-alpha are the primary and secondary spermatocytes; in addition, the hybridization signal was stronger in the October testis. Taken together, our findings indicate that fProt-alpha might contribute to the efficiency of frog spermatogenesis with a role during the meiosis. This study is the first report on the isolation and characterization of a Prot-alpha in a non-mammalian vertebrate. In addition, our results indicate that the testis of the frog R. esculenta may be a useful model to increase the knowledge concerning the physiological role of Prot-alpha in vertebrates.

Fixation of deleterious mutations in clonal lineages: evidence from hybridogenetic frogs

The hemiclonal waterfrog Rana esculenta (RL genotype), a bisexual hybrid between R. ridibunda (RR) and R. lessonae (LL), eliminates the L genome from its germline and clonally transmits the R genome (hybridogenesis). Matings between hybrids produce R. ridibunda offspring, but they generally die at an early larval stage. Mortality may be due to fixed recessive deleterious mutations in the clonally inherited R genomes that were either acquired through the advance of Muller's ratchet or else frozen in these genomes at hemiclone formation. From this hypothesis results a straightforward prediction: Matings between different hemiclones, that is, between R. esculenta possessing different R genomes of independent origin, should produce viable R. ridibunda offspring because it is unlikely that different clonal lineages have become fixed for the same mutations. I tested this prediction by comparing survival and larval performance of tadpoles from within- and between-population crossings using R. esculenta from Seseglio (Se) in southern, Alpnach (Al) in central, and Elliker Auen (El) in northern Switzerland, respectively. Se is isolated from the other populations by the Alps. Enzyme electrophoresis revealed that parents from Se belonged to a single hemiclone that was different from all hemiclones found north of the Alps. Parents from Al also belonged to one hemiclone, but parents from El belonged to three hemiclones, one of which was indistinguishable from the one in Al. Rana esculenta from Se produced inviable tadpoles when crossed with other hybrids of their own population, but when crossed with R. esculenta from Al and El, tadpoles successfully completed metamorphosis, supporting the hypothesis I tested. Within-population crosses from Al were also inviable, but some within-population crosses from El, where three hemiclones were present, produced viable offspring. Only part of the crosses between Al and El were viable, but there was no consistent relationship between hemiclone combination and tadpole survival. When backcrossed with the parental species R. ridibunda, hybrids from all source populations produced viable offspring. Performance of these tadpoles with a sexual and a clonal genome was comparable to that of normal, sexually produced R. ridibunda tadpoles. Thus, in the heterozygous state, the deleterious mutations on the clonal R genomes did not appear to reduce tadpole fitness.

[Evaluation of developmental stability and cytogenetic homeostasis in populations of European green frogs (Rana esculenta-complex) under natural and anthropogenic conditions]

The status of amphibians in populations subjected to anthropogenic influence of various natures has been evaluated. We studied the effect of complex anthropogenic influences as well as chemical and radiation pollution. The status of the specimens in populations was evaluated by morphological (developmental stability as the level of fluctuating asymmetry) and cytogenetic (micronucleus test) methods. Disturbed developmental stability and cytogenetic homeostasis have been observed in populations affected by anthropogenic factors, which indicates the changed status of the organism.

Isolation and characterization of a novel member of the relaxin/insulin family from the testis of the frog Rana esculenta

A complementary DNA (cDNA) encoding a frog relaxin/insulin member family (fRLX) from testis cDNA library was isolated and characterized. The fRLX cDNA predicted a 155-amino acid protein with a low homology to mammalian RLF and relaxin. Northern blot analysis revealed a single transcript expressed in the interstitial compartment, RT-PCR, evidenced that fRLX is expressed at low levels in the oviduct and ovary too. The predicted mature fRLX protein, composed of the signal peptide, B, C, and A domains, has conserved amino acid sequences in the characteristic functional domains. A different expression of the transcript was found during the frog reproductive cycle, with a peak in Spring. After administration of ethane dimethane sulfonate, by in situ hybridization, fRLX messenger RNA disappeared from the interstitial compartment and reappeared again at the time of generating of a new population of Leydig cells (LC), strongly indicating that LC are the interstitial cell type expressing fRLX. Preliminary results obtained by in situ hybridization, performed on testis of hypophysectomized frogs evidenced a pituitary control of fRLX expression. This study is the first cloning of a relaxin/insulin family member in a nonmammalian vertebrate. In addition, because fRLX expression changes during the annual cycle suggesting its involvement in spermatogenesis, fRLX may be considered a new marker for the study of spermatogenesis in the Rana esculenta.

A novel repeated sequence DNA originated from a Tc1-like transposon in water green frog Rana esculenta

We have identified and characterized a highly repetitive family, called R.e./Tc1 in the genome of the green water frog Rana esculenta. This family consists of tandemly repeated sequences, localized at the centromeric regions of chromosomes as shown by Southern blot and 'in situ' hybridization. The repeat unit contains a residue of a Tc1-like transposon by Haematobia irritans fly, bordered by two short direct repeats of 9 bp. Tc1 remnant lays near a sequence identical to Homo sapiens Werner syndrome gene stretch. These sequence data suggest that R.e./Tc1 element was probably originated from a transposition event and a duplication via DNA mechanism of the R.e./Tc1 unit that could give rise to the observed tandem array.

Rana/Pol III: a family of SINE-like sequences in the genomes of western Palearctic water frogs

The highly repetitive Rana/Pol III family consists of short, tandemly arrayed sequences, scattered throughout the genomes of Palearctic green water frogs. The repeat unit is about 250 bp in length and is a composite element: it contains a SINE-like retroposon with a tRNA structure, flanked by two short direct repeats, and the occurrence of two internal repeats gives evidence that an additional transposition event may have inserted a segment within the already transposed element. Rana/Pol III family is present in the genomes of Rana lessonae, R. ridibunda, and their hybrid form R. esculenta, as well as in R. shqiperica. R. epeirotica, R. cretensis, and the Italian taxon. These sequences are also present in the Iberian R. perezi, although less abundant, but appear to be lacking in the north African species R. saharica. The distribution of Rana/Pol III in the genomes of Palearctic green frogs is in agreement with the phyletic history based on genetic data. The evolutionary pattern proposed for the genus Rana enables us to suppose that the hybridogenetic mechanism is one of the factors accounting for the possible horizontal transfer of Rana/Pol III elements from the central-north Europe species to R. perezi.

Spontaneous heterosis in larval life-history traits of hemiclonal frog hybrids

European water frog hybrids Rana esculenta (Rana ridibunda x Rana lessonae) reproduce hemiclonally, transmitting only their ridibunda genome to gametes. We compared fitness-related larval life-history traits of natural R. esculenta from Poland with those of the two sympatric parental species and of newly generated F1 hybrids. Compared with either parental species, F1 hybrid offspring had higher survival, higher early growth rates, a more advanced developmental stage by day 49, and earlier metamorphosis, but similar mass at metamorphosis. R. esculenta from natural lineages had trait values intermediate between those of F1 offspring and of the two parental species. The data support earlier observations on natural R. esculenta that had faster larval growth, earlier metamorphosis, and higher resistance to hypoxic conditions compared with either parental species. Observing larval heterosis in F1 hybrids in survival, growth rate, and time to metamorphosis, however, at an even higher degree than in hybrids from natural lineages, demonstrates that heterosis is spontaneous and results from hybridity per se rather than from subsequent interclonal selection; in natural lineages the effects of hybridity and of clonal history are confounded. This is compelling evidence for spontaneous heterosis in hybrid clonals. Results on hemiclonal fish hybrids (Poeciliopsis) showed no spontaneous heterosis; thus, our frog data are not applicable to all hybrid clonals. Our data do show, however, that heterosis is an important potential source for the extensively observed ecological success of hybrid clonals. We suggest that heterosis and interclonal selection together shape fitness of natural R. esculenta lineages.

Genome reduction in a hemiclonal frog Rana esculenta from radioactively contaminated areas

A decrease in genome size was found in the hemiclonal hybridogenetic frog Rana esculenta (R. ridibunda x R. lessonae) from areas of radioactive contamination that resulted from the Chernobyl fallout. This genome reduction was of up to 4% and correlated with the background level of gamma-radiation (linear regression corresponded on average to -0.4% per doubling of radiation level). No change in genome size was observed in the coexisting parental species R. lessonae. There was no correlation between genome size and body mass in R. esculenta froglets, which have metamorphosed in the year of the study. The hemiclonal forms may become a suitable object for study on biological significance of individual DNA sequences (and of genome size as a whole) because mutant animals with deletions in a specified genome can arise after a low radiation dose. The proneness to genetic damage makes such forms also a prospective bioindicator of radioactive (and possibly other mutagenic) pollution with the effects of genetic damage conveniently and rapidly monitored by DNA flow cytometry.

Taxon composition and genetic variation of water frogs in the Mid-Rhône floodplain

Natural hemiclonal hybrid lineages of water frogs reproduce by hybridogenesis, excluding one parental genome in the germ line and mating with the coexisting same parental species. Two such sexual host-hybridogen systems occur in the Rhône valley: the L-E system in the north, the P-G system in the south. Although these hybridogenetic complexes may overlap along the Rhône river, there is no evidence for a contact zone in our samples: only Rana ridibunda and R. esculenta were identified using protein electrophoresis. Whether the absence of R. perezi reflects a more southern distribution or its exclusive occurrence in other habitats, remains to be tested. Comparison of somatic and gonadal tissues reveals that gametogenesis of R. esculenta is of the L-E type: gametes carry ridibunda genomes. R. ridibunda apparently is not native, but was introduced by humans, and the R. esculenta in our samples is probably an immigrant from nearby L-E systems.

[Gene diffusion in hybrid populations of green frogs Rana esculenta L., 1758 complex (Amphibia, Ranidae) from the Dnepr Basin]

Population-genetic analysis of hybrid populations of green frogs from the Dnepr basin demonstrated limited gene introgression in diploid hybrids in addition to semiclonal reproduction, which is typical for Rana esculenta hybrids. Introgression is largely confined to the Ldh-B locus: the gene of R. lessonae is introduced into the R. ridibunda genome. This phenomenon is unstable as it is geographically restricted and absent in populations of the E-L type.

[A genetic analysis of the structure of hybrid populations of the green frog Rana esculenta L. complex (Amphibia, Ranidae) in Volhynia]

Analysis of the genetic structure of two green frog Rana esculenta complex populations from Volyn' was performed for 7 diagnostical loci. Populations of R- and REL-type were detected in which the introgression of Ldh-B allelic gene locus from R. lessonae into genome of R. ridibunda, characteristic for hybrid populations of Dnieper basin, was absent. This may be associated with alterations in gene pools of parental species.

Molecular characterization of a centromeric satellite DNA in the hemiclonal hybrid frog Rana esculenta and its parental species

Hybrid water frogs Rana esculenta reproduce by hybridogenesis: one parental genome (of Rana lessonae) is excluded in the germ line, the other (of Rana ridibunda) is clonally transmitted to haploid gametes. The two parental species differ in that the amount of centromeric heterochromatin revealed by differential staining is much higher in Rana ridibunda. An abundant, tandemly arrayed, centromeric satellite DNA, designated RrS1, is revealed in Rana ridibunda genomes by the restriction endonuclease Stul, which generates a major repetitive sequence fragment of 300 and a minor one of 200 bp. This AT-rich (68%) satellite family is located at the centromeres of the five largest chromosomes (1-5) and of a medium to small heterobrachial one (8 or 9); it thus constitutes only part of the centromeric heterochromatin that characterizes all Rana ridibunda chromosomes. RrS1 represents about 2.5% of the genome of Rana ridibunda; it may represent as little as 0.2% of the genome of Rana lessonae, and cannot be detected in Xenopus laevis frogs or Salamandra salamandra and Triturus carnifex salamanders. Segments of the satellite sequence are similar to sequences of yeast centromeric DNA element CDEIII and of the mammalian CENP-B box. A role for RrS1 and other centromeric satellite DNAs in the germ line genome exclusion of the hybridogenetic frog hybrids, although suggested, has not yet been demonstrated.

Changes in proto-oncogene activity in the testis of the frog, Rana esculenta, during the annual reproductive cycle

Proto-oncogenes are said to influence the regulation of cellular growth and differentiation. Myc, Fos, Jun, and Mos protein localization has been studied by immunocytochemistry in the testis of the frog, Rana esculenta, during the annual reproductive cycle. Oncoproteins have been localized in the primary and secondary (I and II) spermatogonia (SPG). Myc and Mos also appear in I and II spermatocytes (SPC) while Jun appears in II SPC. Myc, Fos, and Jun in SPG translocate in the nucleus during the periods of active spermatogenesis. Myc, Fos, and Jun are also localized in Sertoli cells. Fos is present in interstitial cells during the period characterized by the androgen peak which precedes the sharp increase of estradiol. It is suggested that proto-oncogene activity exerts a regulatory role in steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis.

[An analysis of the genetic structure of a hybrid population of green frogs, Rana esculenta complex, from the flats of the Danube]

Analysis of genetic structure of geographically isolated population of hybrid complex Rana esculenta L. from Danube delta according to a complex of biochemical gene markers was conducted. A parental species of Rana ridibunda and hybrids ridibunda-lessonae of the first generation only were found in the population. The complete absence of genetic recombination and introgression of genes from the locus Ldh-B, which was found in Dnieper populations, is characteristic of the population. The differences observed may be explained by genetic nonuniformity of geographical forms of R. lessonae. This forms may have taxonomic differences.

Invertebrate and vertebrate immune cells express pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) mRNA

We show here that hemocytes and leukocytes with phagocytic activity from both invertebrates (Planorbarius corneus, Viviparus ater) and vertebrates (Carassius auratus, Rana esculenta) express pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) mRNA, as assessed by in situ hybridization with a digoxigenin-labeled human DNA probe. These data are in accord with previous observations from our laboratories on the presence in these cells of POMC-derived peptides and strongly suggest that these molecules--highly conserved throughout evolution--play an important role in cell locomotion and phagocytosis. POMC mRNA was also detected in lymphocytes of R. esculenta, but not of C. auratus, suggesting that from anuran amphibians onwards lymphocytes also express this gene. This phenomenon could be related to the appearance of more than one immunoglobulin isotype in anurans.

The androgen receptor mRNA is up-regulated by testosterone in both the Harderian gland and thumb pad of the frog, Rana esculenta

Alpha 32P-labelled cDNA probe from plasmid containing rat androgen receptor (rAR) has been tested in hybridization experiments using RNAs from the Harderian gland and thumb pad of the edible frog, Rana esculenta. Northern blot analysis has shown a high degree of homology between the rAR cDNA and the frog androgen receptor mRNA (fAR mRNA); this has been supported by both the hybridization conditions (high stringency) and the molecular size of fAR mRNA which is quite similar to those described in mammals (9.4 kb). The role of androgens has been further investigated with respect to the kinetics of expression of fAR mRNA in in vivo experiments. In both the Harderian gland and thumb pad, testosterone has increased the levels of fAR mRNA as compared with the untreated groups. The use of cyproterone acetate (CPA) in combination with testosterone has resulted in a loss of the increase in fAR mRNA as compared to testosterone-treated groups, while CPA alone has resembled the control group. In primary cultures of frog Harderian gland and thumb pad cells, the steady-state levels of fAR mRNA have been increased in the cells exposed to testosterone as compared to those not exposed. These findings confirm that, in these androgen target tissues, testosterone exerts an up-regulation on its own receptors, increasing the accumulation of fAR mRNA in the same way as oestrogens up-regulate the expression of their own receptors in Xenopus liver and oviduct cells.

[Genetic defects in inheritance and the variability of locus Ldh-B in hybrid populations of Rana esculenta complex (Amphibia, Ranidae)]

The directed ingression of Lhd-B gene from R. lessonae to R. ridibunda observed during hybridization between these species was confirmed in the present study. The ingression was accompanied by decreased of the initial allele activity, segregative disturbances in heterozygotes and changes in electrophoretic mobility. The population genetic analysis has shown stable preservation of abnormal alleles in hybrid populations. The results are discussed with reference to the concept of genetic instability, its application to speciation models, and the neutralist vs. adaptationist controversy. Our data supports the neutral concept of allozyme variation.

Phylogenetic aspects of the occurrence and distribution of secretogranin II immunoreactivity in lower vertebrate gut

A novel monoclonal antibody raised against bovine secretogranin II (Sg II) was used in immunohistochemical studies on amphibian (Rana esculenta), reptilian (Podarcis sicula) and avian (Gallus gallus) gut. Sg II immunoreactivity was detected in epithelial and nervous elements. Cells immunoreactive for Sg II were examined by double immunostainings to determine whether they might also co-store certain previously known bioactive amine/peptide substances. Almost all the endocrine cells immunoreactive for bombesin, substance P, neurotensin, gastrin/cholecystokinin, neuropeptide tyrosine (NPY) and calcitonin gene-related peptide as well as some of those immunostained for serotonin, histamine, and polypeptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY) also contained Sg II. Sg II-immunoreactive cells varied in number and distribution according to regions of the gut and animal species. The number of Sg II immunoreactive granules notably varied not only according to cell type, but also within the same cell population. Many histamine-, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-, substance P-, PYY-, and neurotensin-immunoreactive neurons also contained Sg II. These were mostly situated in the myenteric plexus; their distribution pattern varied among the three species. These findings show that, despite being well conserved during phylogeny, Sg II has a heterogeneous distribution.

[A population genetics analysis of the structure of hybrid populations of Rana esculenta L. complex (Amphibia, Ranidae)]

Population-genetic analysis conducted in hybrid populations of Rana esculenta complex from neighbourhood of Kiev has shown a high portion of recombinant frogs within Rana esculenta specimens and limitation of gene flows from one species to the other. The mechanisms of limitations are connected with assortative crossings within R. ridibunda and R. lessonae and low viability of frogs with a recombined genotype.

Mitochondrial DNA reveals formation of nonhybrid frogs by natural matings between hemiclonal hybrids

The European water frog Rana esculenta (RL), a natural hybrid between R. ridibunda (RR) and R. lessonae (LL), reproduces by hybridogenesis: haploid gametes usually contain an intact chromosome set of R. ridibunda (R); the lessonae nuclear genome (L) is lost from the germ line. Hybridity is restored in the next generation, via fertilization by syntopic R. lessonae. Matings between two hybrids (RL x RL) usually give inviable R. ridibunda (RR) progeny. The adult R. ridibunda subpopulation of Trubeschloo, a gravel pit in northern Switzerland, consists only of females. Fragment patterns for mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) of these R. ridibunda were identical with those of syntopic R. esculenta and of local populations of R. lessonae; they differed from the patterns in eastern European populations of R. lessonae and of R. ridibunda mtDNAs (3.7% and 9.3% estimated sequence divergence, respectively). In contrast, mtDNAs of two R. ridibunda from an introduced Swiss population with both sexes, although different (2.7% divergence) from each other, were typical R. ridibunda rather than R. lessonae mtDNAs. These data, together with unisexuality, demonstrate conclusively that the all-female R. ridibunda population at Trubeschloo originated from matings between two R. esculenta. The formation of independently reproducing R. ridibunda populations via such hybrid x hybrid matings is precluded because progeny of these matings are unisexual. Recombination in the regenerated fertile R. ridibunda females, followed by matings with R. lessonae, nevertheless provides a mechanism for meiotic reshuffling of genetic material in ridibunda haplotypes that is not typically available in hemiclonal lineages.

Molecular cloning, functional expression and tissue distribution of the cDNA encoding frog skeletal muscle calsequestrin

We have cloned, sequenced and expressed the cDNA encoding frog skeletal muscle calsequestrin. The processed frog calsequestrin is 398 residues long, with an Mr of 45941 (unglycosylated form), and exhibits 77% sequence similarity with its rabbit counterpart. Consensus sequences for glycosylation and phosphorylation of the protein were conserved. Compared with rabbit calsequestrin, the mature amphibian protein has peculiar structural properties, which include (i) a higher content of negatively charged residues (142 versus 109), and (ii) a striking repeat sequence at the C-terminal region of 44 aspartic acid residues. Furthermore, this is the first report on the expression of calsequestrin cDNA in COS-1 cells; the expressed protein exhibited an Mr and antigenic properties which were indistinguishable from those of the native protein. In addition, it was capable of binding 45Ca in a ligand overlay. Northern blot analysis of frog skeletal muscle, liver, heart and brain RNA showed that the protein is mainly expressed in skeletal muscle. The high density of negative charges at the C-terminus might constitute high-capacity low-affinity Ca(2+)-binding sites, which may account for the higher Ca(2+)-binding capacity of frog calsequestrin compared with other members of the calsequestrin family (56 mol/mol versus 40-44 mol/mol of protein).

Genome elimination in diploid and triploid Rana esculenta males: cytological evidence from DNA flow cytometry

Cytological aspects of hemiclonal (meroclonal) inheritance in diploid and triploid males of the hybridogenetic frog Rana esculenta (Rana ridibunda x Rana lessonae) have been studied by DNA flow cytometry. The fact that the R. ridibunda genome contains 16% more DNA than the R. lessonae genome provides the ability to discern cells containing genomes of any species from the water-frog complex under study. Data are presented showing that elimination of the R. ridibunda genome occurs in hybridogenetic males from certain populations. In triploid males, the cytogenetic mechanism of hemiclonal inheritance is simpler than in diploids: after the elimination of a genome (always the genome in the minority in the triploid set; "homogenizing elimination"), no compensatory duplication of the remaining genetic material is necessary, as it is in diploids. The process of elimination can be visualized in triploid males by using DNA flow cytometry to identify cells in the special phase of the spermatogonial cell cycle that we termed the E phase.