Molecular cloning of Quek 1 and 2, two quail vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor-like molecules

Gene. 1996 Sep 26;174(1):3-8. doi: 10.1016/0378-1119(96)00159-x.

Abstract

We have previously reported the cloning of two partial cDNAs corresponding to two quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), named Quek 1 and Quek 2, and their expression in endothelial cells of the early avian embryo. We here report the cloning of the full-size cDNAs for both molecules. Sequence comparison shows that Quek 1 and 2 share an overall amino acid (aa) identity of 49%. They both comprise seven extracellular immunoglobulin-like (Ig-like) domains, a single transmembrane domain, and an intracellular kinase domain split into two by a 70 aa insertion. These structural characteristics are shared by the members of the recently discovered VEGF receptor (VEGFR) family. We have compared the sequences of Quek 1 and 2 to the other VEGFRs. At the aa level, Quek 1 is most closely related to KDR/flk-1 (VEGFR 2) (aa identity of 69% and 71%, respectively). Quek 2 shows a similar degree of aa identity to fit-4 (VEGFR 3). Quek 1 and 2 display a lower homology to fit-1 (VEGFR 1) (about 45% aa identity). These data suggest that Quek 1 and 2 are the avian homologues of VEGFRs 2 and 3, respectively.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Animals
  • Cloning, Molecular*
  • Coturnix / genetics
  • Endothelial Growth Factors / genetics*
  • Lymphokines / genetics*
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases / genetics*
  • Restriction Mapping
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors

Substances

  • Endothelial Growth Factors
  • Lymphokines
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors
  • Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases

Associated data

  • GENBANK/X83287
  • GENBANK/X83288