Ribonuclease 7 (RNase 7)

Ribonuclease 7 (RNase 7) is a secreted protein that belongs to the RNase A superfamily and is highly expressed by epithelial cells, especially in the skin, urinary tract, and kidney[1][3][5]. It exhibits strong, broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as fungi[1][3][5]. RNase 7 disrupts microbial membranes through electrostatic interactions, and this antimicrobial effect does not require its ribonuclease enzymatic function[1][3][5]. RNase 7 can act as an immunomodulator, promoting chemokine release and antiviral responses upon recognition of self-DNA released during tissue damage, acting as an alarmin[1]. Its activity is regulated by an endogenous ribonuclease inhibitor, which controls its location and potency in tissues[1][3]. Induction of RNase 7 is observed in various infectious and inflammatory conditions, prompting interest in its therapeutic potential as a naturally derived antimicrobial agent[3][5].

Other names

RNASE7Ribonuclease 7Skin-derived antimicrobial protein 2SAP-2RAE1ribonuclease A family member 7UNQ2516/PRO6006

RNase 7 acts through membrane disruption and destabilization via electrostatic interaction with microbial cell membranes, leading to lysis. It also performs RNA degradation through endonucleolytic cleavage, although its antimicrobial activity is independent of this function. It interacts with microbial surface proteins (e.g., OprI in *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*, Lpp in *Escherichia coli*) and induces host immune signaling (e.g., release of CXCL10 in keratinocytes).