Distal-less homeobox 4 opposite strand (Dlx4os)

Dlx4os is a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) transcribed from the opposite strand of the Dlx4 gene, playing a critical role in the regulation of phenotypic plasticity in cutaneous melanoma. High expression of Dlx4os is characteristic of undifferentiated, mesenchymal-like melanoma cells, which are associated with increased tumor aggressiveness, metastasis, and therapy resistance. It functions primarily by regulating neighboring genes, such as Dlx4, in a cis-regulatory manner to drive the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Experimental studies have demonstrated that silencing Dlx4os using siRNA or antisense oligonucleotides can redirect tumor cells toward a more differentiated, less malignant phenotype and significantly reduce their invasive and migratory potential. Furthermore, knockdown of Dlx4os has been shown to delay tumor progression in vivo, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target. A human orthologue, HSALNT0242265, has been identified and is also expressed in human melanoma cell lines, suggesting a conserved role in cancer biology. As a result, Dlx4os is being investigated as both a prognostic biomarker for patient stratification and a target for novel RNA-based therapeutic interventions.

Other names

Dlx4 opposite strandDlx4-asDlx4 antisense RNAHSALNT0242265DLX4-AS1

Modulation of melanoma phenotypic plasticity by regulating the expression of genes associated with the mesenchymal-like state and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).