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Novel class of specific RNAs may explain increased depression susceptibility in females

Researchers at Mount Sinai have identified a novel class of genes, specifically LINC00473, that regulate mood and drive sex-specific susceptibility versus resilience to depression. These findings provide evidence for an important new family of molecular targets that could help scientists develop more effective pharmacotherapies.

Phantom genes keep diabetes at bay

A recent study published in Nature Communications discovered that a specific Long noncoding RNA called LincIRS2 is essential for maintaining healthy metabolism. Mice lacking this gene developed metabolic complications, while those with activated LincIRS2 maintained normal blood sugar levels even in obesity.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2020

New angle of attack drives cellular HIV-reservoirs to self-destruction

A new study from Cornell University has identified a genetic regulator called SAF that helps HIV-infected macrophages avoid cell death. By blocking SAF, researchers found that infected cells self-destructed while healthy cells remained untouched, presenting a novel angle for potential therapies to selectively eradicate reservoir cells.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 25, 2019

Newly discovered long noncoding RNA plays critical role in brain growth and signaling

A new study found that GM12371, a specific long non-coding RNA, controls expression of multiple genes involved in nervous system development and functioning. It affects the developing neurons' shape and ability to signal, highlighting the importance of long noncoding RNAs in brain cell growth and signaling.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 8, 2018

Identified RNA molecules that regulate action of male hormone in prostate cancer

A study has identified 600 novel long noncoding RNA molecules that regulate the effects of androgens and androgen receptors on gene expression in prostate tumors. These lncRNAs are powerful regulators of gene expression and interact with and magnify the effect of regulatory proteins, suggesting a new target for treatment.

Linking RNA structure and function

Researchers at MIT deciphered the structure of a long noncoding RNA and found that it interacts with a protein to control heart muscle cell development. The study reveals the importance of RNA structure in understanding its function, which could lead to new therapeutic approaches for cardiovascular disease.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 8, 2016

A long-noncoding RNA regulates repair of DNA breaks in triple-negative breast cancer cells

A new study has identified a long non-coding RNA that plays a crucial role in the repair of DNA breaks in triple-negative breast cancer cells. The research found that blocking this RNA significantly increases sensitivity to radiation therapy, providing new insight into the biology of this tough-to-treat breast cancer subtype.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateApr 28, 2016

X-citing X chromosome discovery could aid research on many sex-linked disorders

A team of scientists from the University of Michigan Medical School has discovered a new way for RNA to regulate genetic activity on the X chromosome in females. The finding, which could lead to better treatment for sex-linked disorders, shows that female cells produce a special type of RNA called XistAR to silence one of their two X c...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 19, 2015

Fat finding

Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School have discovered a long non-coding RNA that regulates brown fat development in mice. This finding holds promise for developing new therapeutic strategies to prevent and treat obesity.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 23, 2015

Long noncoding RNAs: A novel prognostic marker in older patients with acute leukemia

Researchers at Ohio State University found that patterns of molecules called long noncoding RNAs can predict response to chemotherapy and overall survival in older patients with acute myeloid leukemia. The study identified a group of 48 lncRNAs associated with survival, allowing for personalized treatment approaches.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2014

A noncoding RNA promotes pediatric bone cancer

A new study identifies Ewing sarcoma-associated transcript 1 (EWSAT1) as a critical target of the EWS-FLI1 fusion protein, contributing to cancer cell growth and repression of key genes. This finding supports the notion that long noncoding RNAs can drive cancer development and highlights an important mediator in Ewing Sarcoma.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 17, 2014

Researchers find RNA molecules in urine and tissue that detect prostate cancer

A new study identifies a set of RNA molecules in urine and tissue samples that can detect prostate cancer with high sensitivity and specificity. These long noncoding RNAs have the potential to serve as biomarkers for early detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, offering a promising approach to reduce overtreatment and morbidity.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateOct 9, 2014