Signal Recognition Particle 68kDa (SRP68)

SRP68 encodes the 68kDa component of the SRP. Alternatively spliced transcript variants have been identified, but their biological validity has not been determined. Three related pseudogenes are located within the Smith-Magenis syndrome region on chromosome 17. The cDNA encodes a 627-amino acid protein with significant sequence homology to the canine 68-kD subunit of the signal recognition particle that is involved in the transport of secreted and membrane proteins to the endoplasmic reticulum for proper processing. Northern blot analysis detected an approximately 2.8-kb transcript that was ubiquitously expressed, but most highly in skeletal muscle and preferentially in heart, kidney, and placenta. By radiation hybrid mapping and fluorescence in situ hybridization, they confirmed the location of this gene at 17q25.1.