Probable inactive ribonuclease-like protein 13 (RNASE13)

Probable inactive ribonuclease-like protein 13 (RNASE13) is a member of the ribonuclease A superfamily, specifically categorized among the non-canonical or non-enzymatically active homologs (RNases 9–13) of this group[1][3][5]. Unlike the canonical RNase A enzymes (RNases 1–8), RNASE13 lacks key sequence elements required for ribonucleolytic (RNA-degrading) activity, and experimental data indicate it is catalytically inactive[1][5][6]. It is expressed primarily in the testes and epididymis and has been hypothesized to play a role in the male reproductive system, possibly linked to sperm maturation or function, but its precise biological function remains unknown[1][3][6]. While some annotation sources assign predicted nucleic acid binding and a possible role in defense against Gram-positive bacteria, there is no direct experimental evidence confirming these roles[6]. RNASE13 has not been validated as a therapeutic target, and no drugs are known to act on it[1][3][6][7]. There are no established biomarker, disease, or safety associations for this protein.

Other names

RNASE13RAL1HEL-S-86pepididymis secretory sperm binding protein Li 86pribonuclease 13ribonuclease A L1ribonuclease, RNase A family, 13 (non-active)ribonuclease-like protein 13