Human accelerated region 1, forward (non-coding RNA) (HAR1F)

Human accelerated region 1, forward (HAR1F, also called HAR1A) is a long non-coding RNA gene identified as part of the human accelerated regions (HARs)—genomic segments that have evolved much faster in humans compared to other vertebrates[1][2][3]. HAR1F is specifically expressed in the developing human neocortex, a brain region associated with higher cognitive function in humans. Its transcript adopts a secondary structure that differs dramatically between humans and chimpanzees due to multiple human-specific nucleotide substitutions, suggesting possible human-specific function in brain development[1][2]. HAR1F is not protein-coding and lacks homology to other known RNA genes. To date, its precise biological function remains uncertain; it is not a defined therapeutic target, nor are there any drugs or biomarkers linked to it. Its discovery is notable for the potential role in the evolutionary development of the human brain, especially the neocortex[1][2].

Other names

HAR1ANCRNA00064LINC00064human accelerated region 1non-protein coding RNA 64long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 64