TCF4 antisense RNA 2 (TCF4-AS2)

TCF4 antisense RNA 2 (TCF4-AS2) is a long non-coding RNA transcribed from the antisense strand of the TCF4 locus. Its presence has been detected in cells harboring expanded CTG repeats in the TCF4 gene associated with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD); these antisense RNAs may contribute to disease mechanisms through aberrant repeat RNA accumulation, but their full biological function is not well understood. Targeting TCF4-AS2 or similar antisense RNAs with specific antisense oligonucleotide therapies is under investigation as a potential disease-modifying approach in FECD, though clinical evidence and safety profile are still emerging. It is important to note that TCF4-AS2 is not the protein-coding "Transcription factor 4 (TCF4)," which is a well-described transcription factor involved in neurodevelopment and various genetic disorders. Most available research and clinical focus is on TCF4 (the protein, not its antisense RNA); information specific to TCF4-AS2 as a defined entity is sparse and primarily located in the context of expanded repeat RNA pathology, not as a broad drug target.

Other names

TCF4-AS2TCF4 antisense transcriptantisense RNA at the TCF4 locus

Inhibition of mutant TCF4 antisense RNA by antisense oligonucleotides (e.g., reducing toxic RNA foci as a therapeutic strategy in FECD)