ST3GAL4-AS1
st3gal4-as1 Gene: Unraveling Its Role in Health and Disease
Description
The st3gal4-as1 gene is located on chromosome 16q24.1 and is transcribed to produce a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) molecule approximately 1,000 nucleotides in length. LncRNAs are regulatory molecules that play crucial roles in various cellular processes.
st3gal4-as1 is specifically expressed in the Golgi apparatus of cells and interacts with other RNA molecules and proteins to modulate gene expression. It is particularly involved in regulating the expression of the ST3GAL4 gene, which encodes an enzyme responsible for synthesizing a specific type of sugar chain called sialic acid.
Associated Diseases
Alterations in st3gal4-as1 expression or function have been linked to several diseases, including:
- Cancer: st3gal4-as1 is overexpressed in certain types of cancer, such as breast, lung, and colorectal cancer. Its overexpression promotes cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.
- Neurological disorders: st3gal4-as1 has been implicated in neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Its dysregulation affects neuronal function and contributes to neurodegeneration.
- Metabolic diseases: st3gal4-as1 plays a role in regulating glucose metabolism. Its dysregulation can lead to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Did you Know ?
- Approximately 20% of breast cancer patients have elevated levels of st3gal4-as1, highlighting its significance as a potential biomarker for cancer progression.
