Non-coding functions of alternative pre-mRNA splicing in development

Semin Cell Dev Biol. 2015 Dec:47-48:32-9. doi: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2015.10.018. Epub 2015 Oct 19.

Abstract

A majority of messenger RNA precursors (pre-mRNAs) in the higher eukaryotes undergo alternative splicing to generate more than one mature product. By targeting the open reading frame region this process increases diversity of protein isoforms beyond the nominal coding capacity of the genome. However, alternative splicing also frequently controls output levels and spatiotemporal features of cellular and organismal gene expression programs. Here we discuss how these non-coding functions of alternative splicing contribute to development through regulation of mRNA stability, translational efficiency and cellular localization.

Keywords: Alternative pre-mRNA splicing; Development; Translational regulation; mRNA localization; mRNA stability.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alternative Splicing*
  • Animals
  • Evolution, Molecular
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental*
  • Humans
  • Models, Genetic
  • Morphogenesis / genetics*
  • Protein Biosynthesis / genetics
  • RNA Precursors / genetics*
  • RNA Precursors / metabolism
  • RNA Stability / genetics

Substances

  • RNA Precursors