Spec2a

Function

Spec2a is the aboral ectoderm specific gene.
It codes for a calcium-binding protein from the troponin C superfamily (Xiang et al., 1988).
The function of this protein is unknown, its accumulation in the aboral ectoderm cells marks a commitment to a pathway of histospecific differentiation in the embryo (Gan et al.,1993).

Protein

Spec2a is a small calcium-binding protein with the molecular mass of 14,000-17,000 Da (Xiang et al., 1988).
SWISS_PROT: P04110

Subcellular location

Expression Pattern

mRNA level

Temporal accumulation*
Method: RNA blot hybridization
Reference: Hardin et al., 1988

Stage Egg Cleavage Hatching blastula Midgastrula Pluteus

Level - - - + +

* The probe was specific for Spec2a, Spec2c and other Spec2 related transcripts. Significant accumulation of Spec2a, Spec2c and related Spec2 transcripts is not seen until the gastrula stage and by pluteus stage Spec2a/Spec2c messages decreased to about 65% of their peak abundance.

Spatial localization*
Method: in situ hybridization
Reference: Hardin et al., 1988

Stage 18 hr hatching blastula 22 hr mesenchyme blastula 44 hr late gastrula 60 hr prism/pluteus 75 hr pluteus

Tissue - AE AE AE AE

*Spec2a probe hybridizes to both the Spec2a/Spec2c and Spec2d subfamilies, however authors believe that in situ hybridizations with this probe monitor primary the much more abundant Spec2a/Spec2c transcripts.