Alternative Splicing (also known as Alternative Splicings, Splicings, Alternative): A process whereby multiple RNA transcripts are generated from a single gene. Alternative splicing involves the splicing together of other possible sets of EXONS during the processing of some, but not all, transcripts of the gene. Thus a
NIH MeSH · D017398Phenomena and Processes
Alternative Splicing
Also known asAlternative Splicings · Splicings, Alternative · Splicing, Alternative · RNA Splicing, Alternative · Alternative RNA Splicing · Alternative RNA Splicings · RNA Splicings, Alternative · Splicing, Alternative RNA · Splicings, Alternative RNA · Alternate Splicing · Alternate Splicings · Splicing, Alternate
Definition
A process whereby multiple RNA transcripts are generated from a single gene. Alternative splicing involves the splicing together of other possible sets of EXONS during the processing of some, but not all, transcripts of the gene. Thus a particular exon may be connected to any one of several alternative exons to form a mature RNA. The alternative forms of mature MESSENGER RNA produce PROTEIN ISOFORMS in which one part of the isoforms is common while the other parts are different.
MeSH classification
G02.111.760.700.100
G03.839.700.100
G05.308.700.700.100
Need clinical context, treatments, or patient-language explanation?
A process whereby multiple RNA transcripts are generated from a single gene. Alternative splicing involves the splicing together of other possible sets of EXONS during the processing of some, but not all, transcripts of the gene. Thus a particular exon may be connected to any one of several alternative exons to form a mature RNA. The alternative forms of mature MESSENGER RNA produce PROTEIN ISOFORMS in which one part of the isoforms is common while the other parts are different. This definition is taken from the National Library of Medicine's MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) 2026 release, which is the standard vocabulary used to index PubMed and most medical literature.
Is Alternative Splicing known by any other names?
Yes. Alternative Splicing is also referred to as Alternative Splicings, Splicings, Alternative, Splicing, Alternative, RNA Splicing, Alternative in different clinical, research and patient-facing contexts. The MeSH descriptor groups all of these synonyms under a single canonical concept so research and records stay consistent.
Where does Alternative Splicing sit in the medical classification?
Alternative Splicing falls under the broader medical category "Phenomena and Processes" in the MeSH hierarchy (tree numbers: G02.111.760.700.100, G03.839.700.100, G05.308.700.700.100). Browsing the related concepts on this page takes you to neighbouring topics in the same branch of medicine.
Where can I get a plain-language explanation of Alternative Splicing?
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