Identification and characterization of a novel member of the dystrobrevin gene family.

A new member of the dystrobrevin gene family was identified using a bioinformatics approach. Sequence analysis indicates that this gene, named DTN-B, is highly homologous to the rabbit A0, the previously described dystrobrevin (DTN), Torpedo 87 kDa and to the C-terminus of dystrophin. The coiled-coil domain, shown to be the site of interaction between dystrobrevins and dystrophin, is highly conserved. Immunostaining studies indicate that DTN-B and DTN expression is absent in affected muscle fibers from DMD patients and carriers.