Protein synthesis in the newt regenerating limb. Comparative two-dimensional PAGE, computer analysis and protein sequencing.

Protein synthesis has been studied by two-dimensional PAGE during the early limb regeneration in the adult newt. Quantitative and statistical analyses have provided unique information on overall patterns of protein synthesis as well as on specific protein synthesis during formation of the blastema. Furthermore, from the patterns in the two-dimensional gels and their quantification, a particular protein has been selected and sequenced. Partial sequencing revealed sequence similarities to Xenopus type I keratin B2. Expression of this keratin is 10-fold greater in the blastema than in the intact limb. The implications of keratin expression by the blastema cells are discussed.