A subtractive cDNA library from an identified regenerating neuron is enriched in sequences up-regulated during nerve regeneration

We have constructed a subtractive cDNA library from regenerating Retzius cells of the leech, Hirudo medicinalis. It is highly enriched in sequences up-regulated during nerve regeneration. Sequence analysis of selected recombinants has identified both novel sequences and sequences homologous to molecules characterised in other species. Homologies include alpha-tubulin, a calmodulin-like protein, CAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP), protein 4.1 and synapsin. These types of proteins are exactly those predicted to be associated with axonal growth and their identification confirms the quality of the library. Most interesting, however, is the isolation of 5 previously uncharacterised cDNAs which appear to be up-regulated during regeneration. Their analysis is likely to provide new information on the molecular mechanisms of neuronal regeneration.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Subtractive cDNA library from regenerating Retzius cells of Hirudo medicinalis identified both novel sequences and homologs of known nerve-regeneration molecules from other species — foundational for leech neurogenomics.

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