Fatty acid synthase (FASN) mRNA (FASN mRNA)

Fatty acid synthase (FASN) mRNA is the messenger RNA transcript that encodes the FASN enzyme, a large multi-enzyme complex responsible for the de novo synthesis of long-chain saturated fatty acids, primarily palmitate, from acetyl-CoA and malonyl-CoA (Source: UniProt P49327). While FASN expression is generally low in most adult tissues because they utilize dietary fatty acids, it is significantly upregulated in various cancers and metabolic conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (Source: PubMed PMID: 31430183). In oncology, FASN provides the lipids necessary for rapid cell membrane synthesis and the production of lipid-signaling molecules that drive tumor progression. In metabolic disease, excessive FASN activity contributes to the accumulation of fat in the liver (steatosis). Therapeutic targeting of FASN mRNA, primarily through antisense oligonucleotides like IONIS-FASN-LRx, aims to selectively degrade the transcript and prevent the synthesis of the FASN protein, thereby reducing lipogenesis and associated pathology (Source: Ionis Pharmaceuticals). This approach offers a way to modulate lipid metabolism at the genetic level, though it requires careful monitoring for side effects related to the inhibition of normal physiological lipid production in the skin and eyes.

Other names

FASN transcriptFatty acid synthase messenger RNAFASN gene transcript

Antisense oligonucleotide-mediated degradation of mRNA via RNase H1 recruitment, leading to reduced translation of the FASN protein.