The unc-52 gene encodes the nematode homologue of mammalian perlecan, the major heparan sulphate proteoglycan of the extracellular matrix. This is a large complex protein with regions similar to low-density lipoprotein receptors, laminin and neural cell-adhesion molecules. Three major classes of UNC-52/perlecan isoforms are produced through alternative splicing, and these distinct proteins exhibit complex spatial and temporal expression patterns throughout development. The unc-52 gene plays an essential role in myofilament assembly in body-wall muscle during embryonic development.

Keywords:
LDL, low-density lipoprotein, NCAM, neural cell-adhesion molecule, ECM, extracellular matrix, Pat, paralysed, arrested elongation at two-fold, S, short, M, medium, L, long, adhesion complex, alternative splicing, integrin
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© 2001 Biochemical Society
2001
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