APFIVE Interpreting mRNA Splicing Experiment Results
In an experiment to study the effects of a specific mutation on mRNA splicing, a researcher introduces the mutation into a cell line and then analyzes the mRNA transcripts. They expect to see an increase in intron retention but observe no change in splicing patterns. What mistake did the researcher make in their experimental design?
A
They used a cell line that lacks the machinery for alternative splicing.
B
They did not consider that compensatory splicing factors might correct the splicing error.
C
They assumed that the mutation would directly affect splicing machinery.
D
They overlooked the presence of alternative splicing pathways.