The genes for protamine 1 and 2 (PRM1 and PRM2) and transition protein 2 (TNP2) are closely linked in the mammalian genome

Abstract

The genes for two protamines (PRM1 and PRM2) and for two transition proteins (TNP1 and TNP2) have been characterized in several mammalian species. In the human, boar, and bull, the genes for PRM1, PRM2, and TNP2 are closely linked over a stretch of DNA 13–15 kb long. Although similar data are not yet available for the mouse and rat, our results suggest that the three genes are similarly linked in these species. The gene for TNP 1 in all species studied is located on another chromosome.