RNA terminal phosphate cyclase-like protein 1 (RCL1)

RNA terminal phosphate cyclase-like protein 1 (RCL1) is a highly conserved enzyme, structurally similar to bona fide RNA 3′-phosphate cyclases but typically deficient in actual cyclase enzymatic activity due to lack of a critical histidine residue for catalysis[1]. RCL1 is an essential nucleolar protein required for pre-rRNA processing, specifically for the maturation of 18S rRNA via cleavage at distinct processing sites, thereby supporting ribosome assembly and protein synthesis[1][2][3]. In yeast, human, and plant cells, depletion or inactivation of RCL1 impairs cell growth and ribosome biogenesis[1][3]. RCL1 has clinical relevance as a prognostic biomarker and potential tumor suppressor in hepatocellular carcinoma, where its expression inversely correlates with tumor stage and invasiveness[2]. No therapeutic agents are known to target RCL1 directly.

Other names

RCL1RNA 3′-terminal phosphate cyclase-like protein 1Rcl1pYOL010w