RAD51 recombinase mRNA (RAD51 mRNA)

RAD51 recombinase (RAD51) mRNA is the transcript responsible for the synthesis of the RAD51 protein, a central player in the homologous recombination (HR) pathway for DNA double-strand break repair [1, 2]. In healthy cells, RAD51 facilitates the search for homologous sequences and strand invasion, ensuring genomic stability during the cell cycle and meiosis [3]. However, in many malignancies, including breast, ovarian, and lung cancers, RAD51 mRNA is significantly overexpressed, which enhances the tumor's ability to repair DNA damage induced by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, leading to therapeutic resistance [4]. Targeting RAD51 mRNA via antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) or small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) aims to deplete the RAD51 protein pool, thereby sensitizing cancer cells to DNA-damaging agents and PARP inhibitors [3, 4]. While small molecule inhibitors of the RAD51 protein, such as CYT-0851, are currently in clinical development, mRNA-targeted therapies remain largely in the preclinical stage, focusing on overcoming delivery challenges to achieve effective gene silencing in vivo [5].

Other names

RAD51 homolog A mRNARECA mRNAHRAD51 mRNAHsRad51 mRNAFANCR mRNARAD51 recombinase transcript

Degradation of RAD51 mRNA via RNA interference (siRNA) or antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), leading to reduced RAD51 protein levels and impaired homologous recombination DNA repair [3, 4].