Ribosomal protein L17 pseudogene 28 (RPL17P28)

Ribosomal protein L17 pseudogene 28 (RPL17P28), also known as ZAP-IT1, is a processed pseudogene and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) induced by type I interferon signaling. While its name derives from sequence similarity to ribosomal protein L17, RPL17P28 does not encode a functional ribosomal protein. Instead, recent studies confirm it functions as an intronic lncRNA comprised of 551 nucleotides, mainly localized in the nucleus upon viral infection. It acts as a robust restriction factor against RNA virus replication, most notably Zika virus, dengue virus, Japanese encephalitis virus, and vesicular stomatitis virus. Overexpression of RPL17P28/ZAP-IT1 leads to a significant reduction in viral RNA and protein, whereas knockout increases viral yield. The antiviral effect is independent of both canonical interferon signaling pathways and the adjacent protein-coding gene ZC3HAV1 (encoding ZAP). RPL17P28 does not appear to interact with clinically used drugs, nor is it considered a classical therapeutic target such as a receptor or enzyme. Its primary significance lies in its role as an endogenous antiviral lncRNA rather than as a direct pharmacological target.

Other names

ZAP-IT1lnc-ZC3HAV1L-1:1RPL17_7_858

Restricts viral replication (mechanism appears independent of type I interferon signaling and does not affect expression of nearby gene ZAP)