Non-coding RNA in the aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A pathway (NRAD1)

NRAD1 (Non-coding RNA in the aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A pathway; also known as LINC00284) is a long non-coding RNA enriched in cancer stem cell populations, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer, and is associated with poor prognosis[1][2][4]. Its expression is regulated by the enzyme **ALDH1A3** and retinoic acid, and it acts primarily in the nucleus where it regulates gene expression, including those involved in differentiation and catabolism[4]. NRAD1 contributes to the maintenance and survival of cancer stem cells, and targeting NRAD1 with antisense oligonucleotides reduces tumorigenicity and CSC characteristics[4]. NRAD1 is considered a therapeutic target in oncology research settings, especially for challenging cancer types such as triple-negative breast cancer and ovarian cancer[2][4]. The lncRNA has also been used as a biomarker for CSC enrichment and prognosis[4]. It does not encode a protein and does not fall into classical target classes such as receptor, enzyme, or transporter, but it is functionally classified as a gene regulatory lncRNA with cancer relevance.

Other names

LINC00284

Downregulation of NRAD1 by antisense oligonucleotides leads to reduced cell survival, tumor growth, and CSC characteristics[4]. siRNA-mediated knockdown reduces cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and promotes apoptosis[2].