Keratin-7 antisense RNA 1 (KRT7-AS)

Keratin-7 antisense RNA 1 (KRT7-AS) is a long non-coding RNA transcribed from the opposite strand of the KRT7 gene locus. It primarily resides in the nucleus, where it forms an RNA-RNA duplex with KRT7 mRNA, protecting KRT7 mRNA from degradation and increasing KRT7 protein levels. Expression of KRT7-AS is downregulated in several cancers, and its deficiency is correlated with poor prognosis, especially in breast and lung cancer patients. Mechanistically, KRT7-AS has context-dependent tumor-suppressive or oncogenic effects: while it suppresses tumorigenesis and promotes apoptosis in lung and breast cancer, in gastric and colorectal cancers it enhances tumor progression by stabilizing KRT7 mRNA. Its expression is regulated by Retinoid X Receptor Alpha (RXRα), and can be induced by the RXRα agonist berberine. Microbial infection (notably Fusobacterium nucleatum) can also upregulate KRT7-AS through immune signaling pathways. Because of its regulatory role in tumorigenesis, metastasis, and drug sensitivity, KRT7-AS and its downstream effects are under investigation as potential therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers in oncology.

Other names

KRT7-ASkeratin-7 antisensekeratin 7 antisense lncRNARP3-416H24.1

RNA stabilization of KRT7 mRNA, leading to increased KRT7 protein levels when overexpressed. Tumor suppression via increased PTEN expression and promotion of apoptosis. Mediated through RXRα-dependent transcriptional activation. Immune pathway activation by microbial signals (TLR4/MYD88/NF-κB).