Small nucleolar RNA U35a (SNORD35A) (SNORD35A)

Small nucleolar RNA U35a (SNORD35A) is a non-coding RNA molecule belonging to the C/D box family of snoRNAs, which are primarily known for guiding the 2'-O-methylation of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) [1]. Encoded within the introns of the ribosomal protein L13a (RPL13A) gene, SNORD35A plays a fundamental role in ribosome biogenesis by ensuring the proper modification of 28S rRNA at position C4506, which is essential for translational accuracy and efficiency [2, 3]. Research has demonstrated that SNORD35A, along with its cluster members SNORD32A and SNORD33, is a critical mediator of the cellular response to metabolic and oxidative stress [2]. Specifically, its presence is required for the induction of cell death under conditions of lipotoxicity and oxidative damage, suggesting a role beyond simple housekeeping [3, 5]. In clinical contexts, SNORD35A is often overexpressed in various cancers, such as hepatocellular carcinoma and colorectal cancer, where it is associated with increased cell proliferation, migration, and poor prognosis [4]. It has been shown to influence the UBE2C/p53 pathway, further cementing its role in oncogenic progression [4]. Although there are currently no approved drugs that directly target SNORD35A, it is being investigated as a potential biomarker for cancer progression and a candidate for RNA-targeted therapeutic interventions, such as antisense oligonucleotides [5]. The therapeutic challenge lies in targeting this RNA without disrupting the essential process of ribosome maturation in healthy cells.

Other names

SNORD35AU35aSmall nucleolar RNA, C/D box 35AsnoRNA U35a

SNORD35A acts as a guide RNA for the 2'-O-methylation of 28S ribosomal RNA at position C4506, facilitated by the methyltransferase fibrillarin. It also functions as a signaling molecule in the metabolic stress response pathway, where its accumulation in the cytosol under oxidative stress triggers cell death pathways [2, 3].