Ribonuclease P protein subunit p21 (RPP21)

Ribonuclease P protein subunit p21 (RPP21) is a protein encoded by the **RPP21** gene and acts as a component of human nuclear ribonuclease P, a ribonucleoprotein complex. This complex is responsible for *processing the 5'-leader sequence of precursor tRNAs*, an essential step in tRNA maturation and, consequently, RNA processing and protein synthesis. RPP21 is primarily localized in the nucleoplasm but also detected in nucleoli and Cajal bodies, especially under overexpression conditions. Beyond its core role in tRNA processing, RPP21, together with Rpp29, is required for efficient *homology-directed DNA repair* after double-strand breaks, recruiting rapidly to DNA damage sites and implicating it in the maintenance of genomic stability. Amplification of the RPP21 gene has been detected in some cancer types, but there is currently no evidence of direct pharmacological targeting or drug interactions for this protein.

Other names

Ribonuclease P/MRP subunit p21C6orf135CAT60RNaseP protein p21FLJ22638Ribonucleoprotein VEm:AB014085.3