Cloning of hibernation-related genes of bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) by cDNA subtraction.

Seven genes specifically expressed during hibernation in the bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) were cloned from a subtracted cDNA library constructed from livers of winter bullfrogs. Those genes were fibrinogen alpha-subunit, fibrinogen gamma-subunit, complement component C3, alpha-1-microglobulin/bikunin precursor (AMBP), transferrin, apoferritin middle subunit and one novel gene. Northern hybridization has indicated that these seven genes were specifically induced or enhanced in winter.