Small Cajal body-specific RNA 18 (SCARNA18)

Small Cajal body-specific RNA 18 (SCARNA18), also known as U109 or SCARNA18A, is a member of the scaRNA family of non-coding RNAs that accumulate in the Cajal bodies of the nucleus. scaRNAs function as guide RNAs, directing site-specific biochemical modifications, such as pseudouridylation and 2’-O-methylation, in spliceosomal small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs), which are critical components of the spliceosome machinery in pre-mRNA splicing. SCARNA18 is classified as a box H/ACA scaRNA, and like other scaRNAs, it plays an essential role in the maturation and function of snRNAs, thereby influencing splicing and gene expression[4][5]. There is no evidence that SCARNA18 functions as a receptor, enzyme, transporter, or other conventional drug target, nor are there known drugs that specifically interact with SCARNA18. Currently, while broader scaffolds of non-coding RNA dysregulation have been associated with disease, the specific disease relevance or biomarker status of SCARNA18 remains undemonstrated[2][4].

Other names

U109SCARNA18A