Genetic variability in 5' untranslated region of BMPR1B gene from prolific Avishaan strain of sheep

Untranslated regions (UTRs) of the mRNAs have significant contribution towards gene regulation and expression. FecB gene is a member of transforming growth factor-p superfamily. A mutation in exon 8 of gene gives the FecB phenotype in sheep. In the present study 5′UTR region (992 bp encompassing 5′UTR and upstream sequences) and exon 8 region (712 bp encompassing exon 8 and partial sequences of upstream and downstream introns) of FecB gene were sequenced and characterized in prolific Avishaan sheep and its parental stock i.e. Garole, Malpura and Patanwadi. Sequence analysis of 992 bp fragment revealed 14 SNPs and one non-synonymous mutation (rs402422707) was observed in exon 1. Promoter was located in nucleotide 40 to 90 in amplified 5′ UTR sequence. Transcription factor binding site prediction identified 65 segments in the amplified 5′UTR and 5′ upstream sequence as potential binding sites for different transcription factors (TFs). In all 37 TFs binding sites were located on these sequences and majority of these sites were identified for SP-1 (12 segments), c/EBPalp (9 segments), NF-1 (4 segments), 2 segments each of RAP-1, HNF-1, c-Ets-1, TEC1, and Pit1a. These potential binding sites for TFs would be helpful in identifying site of interaction to control gene expression in Avishaan sheep.