Regulation of Alternative Splicing during Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition

Cells Tissues Organs. 2022;211(2):238-251. doi: 10.1159/000518249. Epub 2021 Jul 8.

Abstract

Alternative splicing is an essential mechanism of gene regulation, giving rise to remarkable protein diversity in higher eukaryotes. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a developmental process that plays an essential role in metazoan embryogenesis. Recent studies have revealed that alternative splicing serves as a fundamental layer of regulation that governs cells to undergo EMT. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the functional impact of alternative splicing in EMT and EMT-associated activities. We then discuss the regulatory mechanisms that control alternative splicing changes during EMT.

Keywords: Alternative splicing; Epithelial-mesenchymal transition; RNA binding proteins; Tumor metastasis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alternative Splicing* / genetics
  • Animals
  • Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition* / genetics
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • RNA-Binding Proteins / genetics
  • RNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism

Substances

  • RNA-Binding Proteins