Small nucleolar RNA SNORD115 (SNORD115)

Small nucleolar RNA SNORD115 is a brain-specific, C/D box non-coding RNA found in mammals, most notable for its role in regulating the alternative splicing and possibly A-to-I editing of serotonin receptor 2C (HTR2C) pre-mRNA[1][2][3][4][5]. It is considered an orphan snoRNA because it does not target rRNAs or snRNAs for 2'-O-methylation, unlike canonical snoRNAs. SNORD115 binds directly to the HTR2C pre-mRNA and promotes production of signaling-competent receptor isoforms, with potential relevance to brain function and neuropsychiatric disease, such as Prader-Willi syndrome. Although highly studied for its potential regulatory roles, SNORD115 is not currently regarded as a therapeutic target, nor are there drugs or established biomarkers associated with its modulation. Key scientific insights: - Not a direct therapeutic target: SNORD115 is not a receptor, enzyme, transporter, or protein drug target; instead, it acts via RNA-based regulation of gene expression[1][2][3][4][5]. - Orphan snoRNA: Unlike most C/D box snoRNAs, it does not guide rRNA methylation but rather modulates alternative splicing and possibly RNA editing events[1][2][4][5]. - Role in disease: Its gene is deleted in most Prader-Willi syndrome patients, possibly contributing to abnormal eating and behavior via effects on serotonin signaling pathways, but knockout studies suggest a modest or context-dependent impact[4]. - Aliases and context: Known commonly as HBII-52 (human), with homologous names in other mammals, and often described in the context of neurogenetic syndromes and pre-mRNA processing[3][4]. - Research use: Investigated in neurobiology, RNA regulation, and epigenetic landscapes, but not under clinical or pharmacological development as a target[1][4][5].

Other names

snoHBII-52HBII-52LOC124902571RBII-52 (rat)MBII-52 (mouse)