Ribonuclease A family member 9 (RNASE9)

Ribonuclease A family member 9 (RNASE9) is a human secretory protein classified as a non-canonical, catalytically inactive member of the RNase A superfamily. Unlike canonical RNases (RNases 1–8), RNASE9 lacks the catalytic triad and ribonucleolytic activity that characterize typical RNases. It is most closely related by sequence to RNase 7 and RNase 12, sharing ~30% identity. The protein is expressed specifically in the epididymis and is present on the head and neck regions of spermatozoa, suggesting a specialized function in the male reproductive tract, possibly related to host defense and sperm maturation. RNASE9 shows bactericidal effects against E. coli, mediated by its positively charged residues, but does not degrade RNA. No disease associations, therapeutic targeting strategies, biomarkers, safety concerns, or drug interactions are established for RNASE9, and its biological roles outside of the male reproductive tract remain largely unclear.

Other names

Inactive ribonuclease-like protein 9RNASE9h461RAK1HEL128ribonucleolar enzymeribonuclease A K1ribonuclease, RNase A family, 9 (non-active)

Not applicable / None described for drug targeting