Neuropilin-2 messenger RNA (NRP2 mRNA)

Neuropilin-2 (NRP2) mRNA is the transcript encoding the Neuropilin-2 protein, a transmembrane glycoprotein that acts as a co-receptor for vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and class 3 semaphorins (UniProt P19235). It is essential for the development of the lymphatic system and the guidance of axons during neural development (PubMed: 10520994). In various malignancies, including lung, breast, and prostate cancers, NRP2 mRNA is significantly upregulated, where it facilitates tumor growth, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and lymphangiogenic metastasis (PubMed: 31481488). Therapeutic strategies targeting NRP2 mRNA, such as small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), are designed to induce the degradation of the transcript, thereby preventing the synthesis of the NRP2 protein and inhibiting its pro-tumorigenic signaling (PubMed: 22431104). While clinical development has historically prioritized monoclonal antibodies against the protein, mRNA-targeted approaches offer the advantage of silencing all splice variants of the receptor. This target is particularly relevant in the context of preventing lymphatic spread of cancer cells, which is a major route for metastasis. Challenges in targeting NRP2 mRNA include ensuring efficient delivery to target tissues and minimizing off-target effects associated with nucleic acid therapeutics. Monitoring NRP2 mRNA levels can serve as a biomarker for disease progression and therapeutic response in patients undergoing treatment with NRP2-directed therapies.

Other names

Neuropilin 2 mRNANP2 mRNAVEGF165R2 mRNANPN2 mRNANRP2 transcript

RNA interference or antisense-mediated degradation of the mRNA transcript to prevent protein translation.