uORF
Upstream open reading frame (uORF) is a regulatory element in the 5' untranslated region of many eukaryotic mRNAs. A uORF begins at a start codon within the 5' leader and ends at a stop codon upstream of the main coding sequence. uORFs are typically translated by ribosomes that scan from the 5' cap and can modulate translation of the downstream primary open reading frame (ORF).
The impact of a uORF on downstream translation depends on several factors. If ribosomes initiate at the
Examples and significance: In yeast, GCN4 is regulated by multiple uORFs that tune translation in response
Clinical and research relevance: Mutations creating, removing, or modifying uORFs can change protein output and have