THO complex subunit 3 (THOC3)

THO complex subunit 3 (THOC3) is a protein-coding gene product that forms part of the nuclear THO subcomplex of the TREX (transcription/export) complex. This complex couples mRNA transcription, processing, and nuclear export, specifically associating with spliced mRNA and not with unspliced pre-mRNA[1][3]. THOC3, as part of the core (THOC1-THOC2-THOC3), is sufficient to bind export factors (e.g., NXF1–NXT1), promote DDX39B ATPase activity, and facilitate export of polyadenylated, spliced mRNA to the cytoplasm[1][3]. In cancer biology, THOC3 has been identified as highly expressed in lung squamous cell carcinoma, where it promotes tumor cell proliferation, migration, and glycolysis, in part via cooperation with YBX1 to stabilize genes involved in glycolysis such as PFKFB4[2]. THOC3 is also required in mouse models for normal cell differentiation and development[1], and the THO/TREX complex is necessary for the export of certain viral RNAs[1]. No specific drugs currently target THOC3, but it represents a potential novel therapeutic target, particularly in cancers with overexpression or dependency on its function[2].

Other names

THOC3Tho3TEX1MGC5469TEX1 homologhTREX45THO3THO complex 3