Splicing

Definition

Splicing is the process by which introns are removed from pre-mRNA and exons are joined together to form mature mRNA. This step is crucial for the proper translation of genetic information into proteins.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 1. Splicing occurs in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells.
2. 2. The spliceosome, a large RNA-protein complex, facilitates splicing.
3. 3. Alternative splicing allows a single gene to produce multiple protein variants.
4. 4. Introns are non-coding regions that are removed during splicing, while exons are coding sequences that remain.
5. 5. Errors in splicing can lead to diseases such as cancer and spinal muscular atrophy.

Review Questions

• 1. What is the role of the spliceosome in the splicing process?
• 2. How does alternative splicing contribute to protein diversity?
• 3. What can be the consequence of errors occurring during splicing?

Related terms

pre-mRNA: The initial form of mRNA that contains both introns and exons before splicing occurs

introns: Non-coding sequences in pre-mRNA that are removed during splicing

exons: Coding sequences in pre-mRNA that are joined together to form mature mRNA