Rho-related GTP-binding protein RhoC messenger RNA (RHOC mRNA)

Rho-related GTP-binding protein RhoC (RHOC) mRNA encodes a small GTPase that plays a pivotal role in regulating the actin cytoskeleton and promoting cell motility. While closely related to RhoA, RhoC is specifically recognized as a key driver of the metastatic process in various malignancies, including breast cancer and melanoma. High levels of RHOC mRNA and its protein product are frequently associated with advanced tumor stage and poor prognosis, as they facilitate the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the invasion of cancer cells into surrounding tissues. Therapeutic targeting of RHOC mRNA is an active area of research, utilizing strategies such as RNA interference (siRNA) and antisense oligonucleotides to silence the gene and prevent protein synthesis. Additionally, RHOC mRNA is a target for cancer vaccines, such as IO103, which aim to stimulate the immune system to recognize and destroy tumor cells that overexpress the RhoC protein. By inhibiting the production of RhoC, these interventions seek to suppress the metastatic spread of cancer, which remains the primary cause of cancer-related mortality.

Other names

Rho-related GTP-binding protein RhoC mRNARhoC mRNAARH9 mRNAARHC mRNARHOH9 mRNA

mRNA vaccine (inducing T-cell mediated immune response against RhoC-expressing cells), RNA interference (siRNA), Antisense inhibition