Caspase-7 messenger RNA (CASP7 mRNA)

Caspase-7 messenger RNA (CASP7 mRNA) is the genetic template for the synthesis of Caspase-7, a key executioner protease in the apoptotic cascade and a mediator of inflammatory signaling (UniProt, 2024; NIH, 2026). While Caspase-7 shares structural and functional similarities with Caspase-3, it possesses unique roles in non-apoptotic processes, including the activation of acid sphingomyelinase (SMPD1) for plasma membrane repair and the regulation of pyroptosis during bacterial infection (UniProt, 2024; ResearchGate, 2024). In the context of disease, CASP7 mRNA expression is frequently dysregulated; for instance, it is upregulated in certain breast and pancreatic cancers to promote cell survival and proliferation, and in neurodegenerative conditions where it contributes to neuronal loss (Atlas of Genetics and Cytogenetics in Oncology and Haematology, 2014; NIH, 2025). Consequently, CASP7 mRNA has emerged as a therapeutic target for RNA-based interventions, such as small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), and microRNA mimics (e.g., miR-17-5p and miR-132-3p), which aim to downregulate its expression to treat cancer or inflammatory disorders (MDPI, 2023; NIH, 2004). Furthermore, the quantification of CASP7 mRNA serves as a valuable biomarker for assessing the efficacy of pro-apoptotic therapies and monitoring potential off-target neurotoxicity in drug development (NIH, 2026; NIH, 2025).

Other names

CASP7 mRNACaspase-7 transcriptMCH3 mRNACMH-1 mRNAICE-LAP3 mRNA

RNA interference (RNAi), Antisense inhibition, mRNA degradation, and Translational repression