THAP9 antisense RNA 1 (THAP9-AS1)

THAP9 antisense RNA 1 (THAP9-AS1) is a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) located on chromosome 4q21.22 and transcribed antisense to the protein-coding gene THAP9[1][4]. It is not translated into protein but regulates gene expression, especially in the context of cancer and cell differentiation. THAP9-AS1 is upregulated in multiple cancer types, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, breast cancer, gastric cancer, and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, where it promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of cancer cells and is associated with poor prognosis[1][2][4][5]. Mechanistically, it acts as a molecular sponge (ceRNA) for microRNAs like miR-133b and miR-652-3p, influencing downstream targets including SOX4 and VEGFA, thereby participating in oncogenic pathways and differentiation processes[2][3]. THAP9-AS1 is also induced by cellular stress and infection (e.g., Helicobacter pylori), and has been identified as an upregulated marker in conditions such as pediatric septic shock and responses to wounding[4][8][9]. Current research supports its role as a prognostic biomarker and suggests it may be a potential therapeutic target in oncology, but there are no known drugs directly targeting THAP9-AS1 as of now.

Other names

THAP9-AS1THAP9 antisense RNA 1 (non-protein coding)THAP domain containing 9 antisense RNA 1

Acts as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), sequestering microRNAs (e.g., miR-133b, miR-652-3p), which results in derepression/upregulation of their downstream targets such as SOX4 and VEGFA[2][3][10].