Abstract
A cDNA encoding chicken interferon-gamma (chIFN-${\gamma}$) was amplified from P34, a CD4$^{+}$ T-cell hybridoma by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and cloned into pUC18. THe sequences of cloned PCR products were determined to confirm the correct cloning. Using this cDNA as probe, chicken genomic library from White Leghorn spleen was screened. Phage clones harboring chicken interferon-gamma (chIFN-${\gamma}$) were isolated and their genomic structure elucidated. The chIFN-${\gamma}$ contains 4 exons and 3 introns spanning over 14 kb, and follows the GT/AG rule for correct splicing at the exon/intron boundaries. The four exons encode 41, 26, 57 and 40 amino acids, respectively, suggesting that the overall structure of IFN-${\gamma}$ is evolutionairly conserved in mammalian and avian species. The 5’-untranslated region and signal sequences are located in exon 1. Several AT-rich sequences located in the fourth exon may indicate a role in mRNA turnover. The 5’-flanking region contains sequences homologous to the potential binding sites for the mammalian transcription factors, activator protein-1(AP-1) activator protein-2(AP-2) cAMP-response element binding protein(CREB), activating transcription factor(ATF), GATA-binding fator(GATA), upstream stimulating factor(USF), This suggests that the mechanisms underlying transcriptional regulation of chicken and mammalian IFN-${\gamma}$ genes may be similar.r.