The present invention comprises a Mytilus edulis cDNA sequenc having a
nucleotide sequence that encodes for the Mytilus edulis foot protein-1 (Mefp-1),
an example of a mollusk foot protein. Mefp-1 is an integral component of the blue
mussels' adhesive protein complex, which allows the mussel to attach to objects
underwater. The isolation, purification and sequencing of the Mefp-1 gene will
allow researchers to produce Mefp-1 protein using genetic engineering techniques.
The discovery of Mefp-1 gene sequence will also allow scientists to better understand
how the blue mussel creates its waterproof adhesive protein complex.