C21orf62-AS1
c21orf62-as1: A Long Non-Coding RNA with Emerging Roles in Health and Disease
Introduction
c21orf62-as1 is a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) that has attracted significant attention in recent years due to its involvement in various biological processes and its association with numerous diseases. LncRNAs are RNA molecules that do not code for proteins, but instead play regulatory roles by interacting with other molecules within the cell.
Description
c21orf62-as1 is located on chromosome 21 and spans approximately 1,800 nucleotides. It is a highly conserved lncRNA, indicating its importance in maintaining cellular functions. c21orf62-as1 is involved in a wide range of cellular processes, including transcription, translation, and epigenetic regulation.
Associated Diseases
Research has linked c21orf62-as1 to several diseases, including:
- Alzheimer's disease: Studies have shown that c21orf62-as1 levels are decreased in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. This suggests that c21orf62-as1 may play a protective role against neurodegeneration.
- Cardiovascular disease: c21orf62-as1 has been associated with the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart failure and atherosclerosis.
- Cancer: Aberrant expression of c21orf62-as1 has been observed in various types of cancer, including breast, lung, and liver cancer. It has been found to promote tumor growth and metastasis.
Did you Know ?
A study found that individuals with high levels of c21orf62-as1 in their blood had a significantly reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The researchers suggest that c21orf62-as1 could potentially serve as a biomarker for early detection of cognitive decline.