Ras homolog family member B messenger RNA (RHOB mRNA) (RHOB mRNA)

Ras homolog family member B (RhoB) messenger RNA encodes a small GTPase that is a member of the Rho family, which is essential for regulating intracellular membrane trafficking and cell survival (UniProt P62745). Unlike other Rho family members, RhoB is an immediate-early gene that is rapidly induced by stimuli such as DNA damage, growth factors, and inflammatory cytokines (NCBI Gene ID: 388). In oncology, RhoB is frequently characterized as a tumor suppressor, and its expression is often downregulated during the progression of various cancers, including lung and breast cancer (PubMed: 12855643). However, RhoB also plays a complex role in promoting cell survival and resistance to DNA-damaging therapies like ionizing radiation, making it a target for sensitization strategies (PubMed: 16477011). Targeting RhoB mRNA using RNA interference (RNAi) or antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) allows for the modulation of these pathways, potentially overcoming drug resistance or inhibiting pathological angiogenesis (PubMed: 21636681). This approach is particularly relevant in cancers where RhoB promotes survival or in fibrotic diseases where it influences cell migration. Therapeutic challenges include the dual nature of RhoB and the need for precise delivery to target tissues. Despite its therapeutic potential, the dual role of RhoB as both a suppressor and a promoter of survival in different contexts presents a significant challenge for drug development.

Other names

RHOBARHBRas homolog gene family, member B mRNARho-related GTP-binding protein RhoB mRNA

RNA interference (RNAi) or antisense-mediated degradation of the RHOB transcript, which prevents the translation of the RhoB protein and subsequently modulates downstream signaling pathways involved in cell survival and trafficking (PubMed: 16477011).