Microprocessor complex subunit DGCR8 (DGCR8)

Microprocessor complex subunit DGCR8 is a double-stranded RNA-binding protein required for the initial step of microRNA biogenesis in the nucleus[1][2][3]. DGCR8 serves as the non-catalytic, RNA- and heme-binding component of the microprocessor complex, anchoring primary miRNA transcripts (pri-miRNAs) and enabling the ribonuclease Drosha to process them into precursor miRNAs (pre-miRNAs), which are subsequently further processed into mature miRNAs by Dicer[1][2][3][6]. DGCR8 specifically recognizes RNA secondary structures and N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-modified pri-miRNAs, influencing which RNAs can be processed into miRNAs or modulated in their stability and abundance[2][3][4]. It also binds to mRNAs, small nucleolar RNAs, and long non-coding RNAs, extending its functional repertoire beyond miRNA biogenesis to include roles in alternative splicing regulation and DNA damage repair, particularly in recruiting repair proteins to double-strand DNA breaks[2][4][3]. Loss or mutation of DGCR8 is associated with DiGeorge syndrome and other neurodevelopmental disorders[3]. DGCR8 itself is not currently a direct therapeutic target of any approved drugs, nor is it established as a biomarker or associated with notable safety concerns as a drug target[3].

Other names

DiGeorge syndrome critical region 8C22orf12DGCRK6Gy1pashamicroprocessor complex subunit DGCR8DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 8