SMC5-AS1
SMC5-AS1 Gene: Unraveling Its Role in Health and Disease
Description
The SMC5-AS1 gene is located on chromosome 14 in humans and encodes a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) molecule. LncRNAs are regulatory molecules that play crucial roles in various cellular processes, including gene expression, chromatin modification, and cell differentiation.
SMC5-AS1 was initially identified in association with the cohesion complex, a protein complex involved in chromosome segregation during cell division. However, subsequent studies have revealed its involvement in a wide range of biological processes, including:
- Cellular growth and proliferation
- Cell cycle regulation
- DNA damage response
- Immune regulation
Associated Diseases
Dysregulation of SMC5-AS1 expression has been linked to several human diseases, including:
- Cancer: SMC5-AS1 is overexpressed in various types of cancer, including lung cancer, breast cancer, and leukemia. Its overexpression has been associated with increased cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis.
- Autoimmune disorders: SMC5-AS1 has been implicated in the development of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. It may promote the production of inflammatory cytokines and contribute to immune dysregulation.
- Neurodegenerative diseases: Reduced expression of SMC5-AS1 has been observed in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. It may play a role in neuronal survival and synaptic plasticity.
Did you Know ?
A large-scale study of lung cancer patients found that individuals with high SMC5-AS1 expression had a 30% increased risk of developing lung cancer compared to those with low expression.