Abstract
We have recently described in genital skin fibroblasts (GSF) a relatively abundant 56 kDa protein with androgen-binding activity. This protein is missing in GSF of most patients with complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAI). The protein has many characteristics compatible with the androgen receptor; it has in fact been tentatively considered as a precursor or degradation form of the prototypic (~ 100 kDa) human androgen receptor. We have prepared an antiserum to this protein, which allowed us to detect it as a direct product by in vitro translation of mRNA from GSF. It is thus very unlikely to be a degradation product of a larger precursor. Furthermore, covalent photolytic labeling of this protein with the androgen analogue [ 3H]mibolerone revealed a much lower affinity for this protein than is known for the androgen receptor. Finally, the GSF of two exceptional patients with complete androgen insensitivity syndrome due to negligible androgen receptor-binding activity express this protein normally, as determined on two-dimensional gels by Western blot analysis with the antiserum and by photolytic covalent labeling with androgen analogues. These data indicate that the protein is not a precursor or a degradation product of the receptor; nor is it androgen-induced. They are more compatible with the idea that the protein is another member of the steroid/thyroid/retinoic acid receptor supergene family, perhaps as an unorthodox product of the human androgen receptor gene.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.