Objective: To investigate the expression of rat protamine (RP) gene in MEL cells and the effect on cell growth.
Methods: Eukaryotic expression plasmid pCR-3.1-RP was constructed and transfected into MEL cells. The changes of cell growth rate, mitotic index and colony-forming rate in semi-solid medium were investigated.
Results: Transfected MEL cells showed lower growth rate, mitotic index and colony-forming rate. Volumes of cells were reduced and reduction of RNA transcription was observed.
Conclusion: These results suggest that expression of RP in MEL cell may inhibit the cell growth and proliferation.