Actin alpha 2, smooth muscle (ACTA2) mRNA (ACTA2)

ACTA2 mRNA encodes the alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) protein, which is a major constituent of the contractile apparatus in vascular smooth muscle cells [UniProt P62736]. It is widely recognized as a definitive marker for the activation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, a key step in the progression of tissue fibrosis [PubMed: 28253463]. In healthy individuals, ACTA2 is essential for maintaining vascular tone and blood pressure regulation [NCBI Gene: 59]. However, its pathological upregulation drives excessive extracellular matrix production in diseases such as pulmonary, hepatic, and renal fibrosis [PubMed: 31431590]. Mutations in the ACTA2 gene are also linked to serious cardiovascular conditions, including thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections (TAAD) and Moyamoya disease [PubMed: 17994018]. As a therapeutic target, ACTA2 mRNA is being investigated using RNA-based technologies like small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to silence its expression and reduce fibrotic scarring [PubMed: 25605330]. The primary challenge in targeting ACTA2 mRNA lies in achieving tissue-specific delivery to avoid compromising the essential functions of vascular smooth muscle cells throughout the body [PubMed: 29138249].

Other names

Alpha-smooth muscle actin mRNAalpha-SMA mRNAACTSA mRNAMYOS mRNAAAT6 mRNA

RNA interference (RNAi) and antisense inhibition of translation to downregulate alpha-smooth muscle actin protein expression.