SRSF7

SRSF7, also known as SRSF7, SF2, or PR264, is a protein encoded by the SRSF7 gene. It is a member of the serine/arginine-rich splicing factor (SRSF) family, which are crucial regulators of pre-mRNA splicing. SRSF7 plays a significant role in the alternative splicing of various genes, influencing the generation of different mRNA isoforms from a single pre-mRNA molecule.

This protein contains characteristic RNA-binding domains and a serine/arginine-rich region. These structural features are essential for its interaction with pre-mRNA and other splicing factors. SRSF7 is known to bind to specific sequences on the pre-mRNA, often enhancing or repressing the inclusion or exclusion of certain exons. Its activity is regulated through phosphorylation, which can alter its localization and interaction with other splicing machinery components.

Research has indicated that SRSF7 is involved in a wide array of cellular processes beyond basic splicing, including mRNA export, translation, and regulation of gene expression. Dysregulation of SRSF7 has been linked to various diseases, including certain types of cancer, suggesting its importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Its precise mechanisms of action and involvement in disease pathogenesis are ongoing areas of research.