RNA component of signal recognition particle 7SL2 (RN7SL2)

The **RNA component of signal recognition particle 7SL2 (RN7SL2)** is a non-coding RNA gene that provides the RNA scaffold for the signal recognition particle (SRP), a ribonucleoprotein complex critical for co-translational targeting of secretory and membrane proteins to the endoplasmic reticulum in eukaryotic cells. The SRP consists of RN7SL2 (7SL RNA) and six protein subunits, and acts by recognizing the signal peptide of newly synthesized proteins, pausing translation, and guiding these ribosome-nascent chain complexes to the ER membrane for proper insertion or secretion. RN7SL2 and its paralogs are highly conserved and also participate in broader gene regulatory networks, responding to cellular stress such as heat shock by globally suppressing transcription and translation. Dysregulation of RN7SL2 has been observed in certain diseases, including immune disorders and COVID-19, highlighting its importance beyond classic protein targeting functions. While RN7SL2 is not a typical therapeutic target (i.e., not a receptor, enzyme, or transporter), changes in its expression may serve as a biomarker in disease states.

Other names

7SL27SL1c7L30.1RNSRP2SRP RNA 27L1CRNA, 7SL, cytoplasmic 2