Function of alternative splicing.
Almost all polymerase II transcripts undergo alternative pre-mRNA splicing. Here, we review the functions of alternative splicing events that have been experimentally determined. The overall function of alternative splicing is to increase the diversity of mRNAs expressed from the genome. Alternative splicing changes proteins encoded by mRNAs, which has profound functional effects. Experimental analysis of these protein isoforms showed that alternative splicing regulates binding between proteins, between proteins and nucleic acids as well as between proteins and membranes. Alternative splicing regulates the localization of proteins, their enzymatic properties and their interaction with ligands. In most cases, changes caused by individual splicing isoforms are small. However, cells typically coordinate numerous changes in 'splicing programs', which can have strong effects on cell proliferation, cell survival and properties of the nervous system. Due to its widespread usage and molecular versatility, alternative splicing emerges as a central element in gene regulation that interferes with almost every biological function analyzed.
Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
Olga
O
Kelemen
Paolo
P
Convertini
Zhaiyi
Z
Zhang
Yuan
Y
Wen
Manli
M
Shen
Marina
M
Falaleeva
Stefan
S
Stamm
D017398:Alternative Splicing; D000818:Animals; D019143:Evolution, Molecular; D005091:Exons; D015870:Gene Expression; D006801:Humans; D008957:Models, Genetic; D020033:Protein Isoforms / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D014157:Transcription Factors / Q000378:metabolism
D020033:Protein Isoforms; D012333:RNA, Messenger; D014157:Transcription Factors