Question

Which of the following correctly describes the concept of alternative splicing?

1) Eukaryotic gene and protein sequences are precisely colinear.
2) With the rare exception of RNA editing, every nucleotide contained in a processed mRNA molecule is derived from exon sequences.
3) Every other intron is removed in alternate manner to generate functional mRNA transcript.
4) Only a subset the same mRNA transcripts are specifically selected for splicing in the nucleus.
5) Multiple protein products are often produced from single eukaryotic genes.

Answer 1

Alternative splicing allows a single gene to produce multiple protein products by combining different sets of exons to form various mRNA transcripts. In this highly regulated process, introns are removed and different exon combinations are joined together, thus enhancing protein diversity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Alternative splicing is a mechanism in eukaryotic gene expression that allows for different protein products to be produced from a single gene. During this process, which takes place within the nucleus, various combinations of exons are joined together, while introns are always removed, to create diverse mRNA transcripts. This facet of gene regulation enables cells to generate a multitude of proteins from the same gene code, enhancing the complexity of the proteome without the need for additional genes. The process is usually precise and regulated, contrary to the random removal of every other intron suggested in option 3. Furthermore, option 5 correctly describes that multiple protein products can be often produced from a single eukaryotic gene due to alternative splicing.