Androgen Receptor Splice Variant (AR-V)

Androgen receptor splice variants (AR-Vs) are alternative forms of the androgen receptor (AR) protein generated through alternative splicing of AR mRNA. These variants often lack the ligand-binding domain (LBD) and can have distinct structural and functional properties compared to canonical AR. Many clinically relevant AR-Vs retain the NTD and DBD but lack all or part of the LBD. Expression of certain splice variants is associated with resistance to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and next-generation antiandrogens used in prostate cancer treatment. The presence of constitutively active forms such as AR-V7 enables continued signaling even under low-androgen conditions typical after ADT.

Other names

AR splice variantAR-V7AR45AR23

Ligand-independent transcriptional activation