Grant: Operating Grant

Alternative splicing (AS) is an essential step in the regulation of gene expression and allows a single gene to specify multiple genetic messages (mRNAs) and corresponding protein products encoded by these mRNAs. Approximately 90% of human genes produce multiple mRNAs by AS and it is estimated that this process can result in generation of orders of magnitude more proteins than there are genes. Alternative splicing is therefore one of the main processes responsible for the generation of protein diversity required for the development of complex metazoan organisms. In the last funding period we discovered and characterized a new protein (nSR100) that regulates the splicing process, specifically in the nervous system. In the present proposal, we describe experiments directed at developing a more detailed understanding of the role of nSR100 in the regulation of genes required for the formation of neurons and the fully developed adult nervous system. These studies will pave the way for a more detailed understanding the molecular basis of complex neurological diseases.