Enhanced expression of heterotrimeric GTP-binding protein subunits in Zajdela ascitic hepatoma.
G protein beta subunit (Gβ2) is over-expressed in Zajdela ascitic hepatoma (ZAH), a rat ascitic tumour, at mRNA as well as protein levels. Nuclear run-off transcription analysis suggests that the expression of Gβ2 in ZAH is regulated mainly at transcriptional as well as post-transcriptional levels. Gai3 is also over-expressed in ZAH. No amplification or any change in the organization of the genes for Gβ2 or Gai3 was observed. It is possible that the over-expression of G protein subunits in ZAH could provide proliferative advantage to the cells by virtue of their effects on second messenger systems.