Alternative splicing of mRNA as a mode of endocrine regulation.
Alternative splicing of messenger RNA (mRNA) is a means of regulating gene expression and occurs in many genes of the endocrine system. This review covers an introduction into mRNA splicing and the mechanisms and regulation of alternative splicing. Some examples are discussed in which alternatively spliced genes encode functionally distinct proteins. Evidence that hormones and other metabolic signals may regulate alternative splicing events is reviewed, and potential mechanisms are considered.
Chew
S L
SL
Department of Endocrinology, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, United Kingdom.