Consider the CT/CGRP example of alternative splicing shown in Figure 16.9. Which different types of alternative splicing patterns are represented?

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the concept of alternative splicing, which allows a single gene to produce multiple mRNA variants by including or excluding certain exons during RNA processing.

Step 2: Review the CT/CGRP example in Figure 16.9 carefully, noting which exons are included or skipped in the different mRNA transcripts shown.

Step 3: Identify the types of alternative splicing patterns present. Common types include exon skipping (cassette exons), mutually exclusive exons, alternative 5' splice sites, alternative 3' splice sites, and intron retention.

Step 4: Compare the mRNA isoforms in the figure to these patterns. For example, if one isoform includes an exon that the other excludes, that indicates exon skipping. If two isoforms include different exons at the same position, that suggests mutually exclusive exons.

Step 5: Summarize which specific alternative splicing patterns are represented in the CT/CGRP example based on your observations from the figure.

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Alternative Splicing

Alternative splicing is a process during gene expression where a single pre-mRNA transcript can be spliced in multiple ways to produce different mature mRNA variants. This allows one gene to encode multiple protein isoforms, increasing proteomic diversity without increasing gene number.

Types of Alternative Splicing Patterns

There are several common patterns of alternative splicing, including exon skipping, mutually exclusive exons, alternative 5' splice sites, alternative 3' splice sites, and intron retention. Each pattern alters the mRNA sequence differently, affecting the resulting protein structure and function.

CT/CGRP Gene Example

The CT/CGRP gene is a classic example illustrating alternative splicing, where different splicing patterns produce distinct peptides—calcitonin (CT) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). Understanding this example helps clarify how alternative splicing regulates tissue-specific protein expression.