RNA Binding Protein, Fox-1 Homolog (c. Elegans) 3

RNA Binding Protein, Fox-1 Homolog (C. elegans) 3 (RBFOX3), also known as NeuN, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the RBFOX3 gene. This protein is a member of the RNA-binding protein family and plays a crucial role in the regulation of alternative splicing, a process by which pre-mRNA is edited before being translated into protein. RBFOX3 is highly expressed in neurons and is often used as a neuronal marker in various studies of the nervous system.

Function

RBFOX3/NeuN is involved in the development and maturation of neurons. It regulates the splicing of pre-mRNA for numerous genes that are critical for neuronal development and function. By influencing the alternative splicing of these genes, RBFOX3 plays a vital role in the maintenance of the nervous system's complexity and plasticity. The protein's presence in most post-mitotic neurons across different species highlights its importance in the nervous system's development and function.

Expression and Localization

RBFOX3 is predominantly expressed in the nuclei of neurons within the central and peripheral nervous systems. Its expression is often used as a definitive marker for neurons in both research and clinical settings. The protein's widespread expression across different neuronal types makes it an essential tool for identifying neurons in histological studies.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the expression or function of RBFOX3 have been implicated in various neurological disorders. For example, changes in RBFOX3 expression levels have been observed in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and schizophrenia. These findings suggest that RBFOX3 may play a role in the pathogenesis of these disorders, although the exact mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated.

Research Applications

Due to its specific expression in neurons, RBFOX3/NeuN is widely used as a marker in neuroscience research. It is employed in various techniques, including immunohistochemistry and western blotting, to identify and quantify neurons in tissue samples. This has facilitated research into the structure and function of the nervous system, as well as the investigation of neurological diseases.

See Also

• RNA-binding protein
• Alternative splicing
• Neuroscience
• Neuronal marker