The joining of V and J gene segments creates antibody diversity

Abstract

The variable regions of mouse kappa (kappa) chains are coded for by multiple variable (V) gene segments and multiple joining (J) gene segments. The V kappa gene segments code for residues 1 to 95; the J kappa gene segments code for residues 96 to 108 (refs 1-3). This gene organisation is similar to that encoding the V lambda regions. Diversity in V kappa regions arises from several sources: (1) there are multiple germ-line V kappa gene segments and J kappa gene segments; (2) combinatorial joining of V kappa gene segments with different germline J kappa gene segments; and possibly, (3) somatic point mutation, as postulated for V lambda gene segments. Also, from a comparison of the number of germ-line J kappa gene segments and amino acid sequences, it has been suggested that J kappa region sequences may be determined by the way V kappa and J kappa gene segments are joined. This report supports this model by directly associating various J kappa sequences with given J kappa gene segments.