Caspase-3 mRNA (CASP3 mRNA) (CASP3 mRNA)

Caspase-3 mRNA is the messenger RNA transcript that encodes the Caspase-3 protein, a key executioner enzyme in the apoptotic (programmed cell death) pathway (UniProt P42574). Caspase-3 is activated by both intrinsic and extrinsic death signals and is responsible for the proteolytic cleavage of many essential cellular proteins, such as PARP, which ultimately leads to cell death (PubMed: 10648461). In clinical contexts, Caspase-3 mRNA is targeted to prevent excessive apoptosis in conditions like acute kidney injury (AKI) and delayed graft function following organ transplantation. Therapeutic strategies involve the use of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), such as Teprasiran (QPI-1002), which bind to the Caspase-3 mRNA and trigger its degradation via the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02610283). This mechanism effectively reduces the production of the pro-apoptotic protein, providing a transient cytoprotective effect during periods of acute cellular stress or ischemia-reperfusion injury. Beyond kidney injury, Caspase-3 mRNA has been explored as a target in neurodegenerative diseases where neuronal loss is driven by apoptotic pathways. The specificity of targeting the mRNA allows for a temporary knockdown of the protein, which is often preferable to permanent inhibition in tissues that require normal apoptotic turnover. However, challenges remain regarding the efficient delivery of RNA-based therapeutics to target tissues and the potential for off-target effects.

Other names

Cysteine-aspartic acid protease 3 mRNACPP32 mRNASCA-1 mRNAApopain mRNAYama mRNA

RNA interference (RNAi) mediated degradation of the mRNA transcript to prevent translation into the Caspase-3 protein.