More than a splicing code: integrating the role of RNA, chromatin and non-coding RNA in alternative splicing regulation

Curr Opin Genet Dev. 2011 Aug;21(4):366-72. doi: 10.1016/j.gde.2011.03.004. Epub 2011 Apr 15.

Abstract

Large portions of the genome undergo alternative pre-mRNA splicing in often intricate patterns. Alternative splicing regulation requires extensive control mechanisms since errors can have deleterious consequences and may lead to developmental defects and disease. Recent work has identified a complex network of regulatory RNA elements which guide splicing decisions. In addition, the discovery that transcription and splicing are intimately coupled has opened up new directions into alternative splicing regulation. Work at the interface of chromatin and RNA biology has revealed unexpected molecular links between histone modifications, the transcription machinery, and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in the determination of alternative splicing patterns.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alternative Splicing*
  • Animals
  • Chromatin / genetics*
  • Humans
  • RNA Precursors / genetics
  • RNA Splice Sites / genetics
  • RNA Splicing*
  • RNA, Untranslated / genetics*

Substances

  • Chromatin
  • RNA Precursors
  • RNA Splice Sites
  • RNA, Untranslated