Alternatively spliced transcripts of the flp-1 gene encode distinct FMRFamide-like peptides in Caenorhabditis elegans

We have isolated and characterized several cDNAs and the corresponding genomic region of a gene encoding multiple FMRFamide-like neuropeptides from the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. The gene, named flp-1, consists of six exons of which four encode FMRFamide-like peptides. The cDNA and genomic sequences revealed that two distinct transcripts are generated by the use of an alternative 3' splice acceptor site between exons 3 and 4. This alternative splice results in the substitution of AGSDPNFLRFG for one of the copies of SADPNFLRFG found in the other translation product. Based on PCR analysis of RNA from mixed-stage animals, both transcripts are expressed. This gene is the first example of a distinct FMRFamide-like peptide being derived from alternative splicing, suggesting a unique role for the substituted peptide in the animal.