Identification, Characterization, and Regulatory Mechanisms of a Novel EGR1 Splicing Isoform

Int J Mol Sci. 2019 Mar 28;20(7):1548. doi: 10.3390/ijms20071548.

Abstract

EGR1 is a transcription factor expressed in many cell types that regulates genes involved in different biological processes including growth, proliferation, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of EGR1 expression has been associated with many pathological conditions such as tumors and brain diseases. Known molecular mechanisms underlying the control of EGR1 function include regulation of transcription, mRNA and protein stability, and post-translational modifications. Here we describe the identification of a splicing isoform for the human EGR1 gene. The newly identified splicing transcript encodes a shorter protein compared to the canonical EGR1. This isoform lacks a region belonging to the N-terminal activation domain and although it is capable of entering the nucleus, it is unable to activate transcription fully relative to the canonical isoform.

Keywords: EGR1; alternative splicing; exitron; gene expression regulation; immediate early genes.

MeSH terms

  • Alternative Splicing
  • Cell Line
  • Early Growth Response Protein 1 / genetics*
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • HEK293 Cells
  • Humans
  • Protein Isoforms / genetics
  • RNA, Messenger / genetics

Substances

  • EGR1 protein, human
  • Early Growth Response Protein 1
  • Protein Isoforms
  • RNA, Messenger