Focus on the intermediate state: immature mRNA of cytochromes P450--methods and insights

Anal Bioanal Chem. 2008 Nov;392(6):1109-22. doi: 10.1007/s00216-008-2352-x. Epub 2008 Sep 3.

Abstract

The scattered and limited data on hnRNAs (pre-mRNAs) of cytochromes P450 (CYP) are compiled and discussed for the first time. The methods for determination and quantification of hnRNAs are compared. In most cases, CYP hnRNA levels were determined as a parameter of transcriptional activity. It is known, however, that some CYPs, in particular CYP2E1, are in addition specifically and extensively regulated by post-transcriptional processes. Obviously, these processes also influence the processing of CYP hnRNAs so that their levels cannot be considered a mere result of transcription. The underlying mechanisms of post-transcriptional CYP hnRNA and mRNA regulation are not well understood. It is our aim therefore to bring together available data on CYP hnRNA and to discuss them in the light of recent advances in knowledge concerning pre-mRNA processing and interactions between RNA and low molecular weight interfering RNAs. By doing this, we hope to drive research in a direction which appears promising in providing some long-awaited answers with respect to mechanisms of post-transcriptional CYP regulation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System / genetics
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Organ Specificity
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • RNA Precursors / genetics
  • RNA Precursors / metabolism*
  • RNA Processing, Post-Transcriptional / genetics
  • RNA Processing, Post-Transcriptional / physiology*
  • RNA, Heterogeneous Nuclear / genetics
  • RNA, Heterogeneous Nuclear / metabolism*
  • RNA, Messenger / genetics
  • RNA, Messenger / metabolism*
  • Transcription, Genetic / genetics
  • Transcription, Genetic / physiology*

Substances

  • RNA Precursors
  • RNA, Heterogeneous Nuclear
  • RNA, Messenger
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System