SRp20

SRp20 is a protein that plays a role in RNA splicing. It is a member of the SR protein family, which are characterized by the presence of an N-terminal RNA recognition motif (RRM) and a C-terminal RS domain. SRp20 is involved in the recognition and binding of specific RNA sequences within pre-mRNA molecules, facilitating the assembly of the spliceosome, the cellular machinery responsible for removing introns and joining exons. This process is crucial for the production of mature messenger RNA (mRNA), which then serves as a template for protein synthesis.

The precise function of SRp20 in splicing can vary depending on the specific pre-mRNA being processed and the cellular context. It can act as an enhancer or a repressor of splicing, influencing which splice sites are recognized and utilized. This regulatory capacity is important for generating diverse protein isoforms from a single gene through alternative splicing. Research has indicated that SRp20 can interact with other splicing factors, forming dynamic complexes that fine-tune splice site selection. Dysregulation of SRp20 function has been implicated in various human diseases, highlighting its importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis.