THOC7 antisense RNA 1 (non-protein coding) (THOC7-AS1)

THOC7 antisense RNA 1 (non-protein coding), abbreviated as THOC7-AS1, is a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) transcribed antisense to the THOC7 gene. THOC7-AS1 has been identified as a regulator of gene expression, particularly implicated in promoting tumor progression and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC)[4]. It exerts its role by interacting with the transcription factor OCT1 and regulating the downstream EMT effector FSTL1. Silencing of THOC7-AS1 using antisense oligonucleotides in vitro and in mouse xenograft models leads to decreased expression of genes and proteins involved in tumor cell proliferation, migration, and EMT, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target in cSCC[4]. As a lncRNA, THOC7-AS1 does not code for a protein but can serve as a molecular scaffold or regulator influencing gene networks relevant to cancer biology. There are currently no approved drugs that target THOC7-AS1 directly in clinical use, but preclinical studies with antisense oligonucleotides have demonstrated proof-of-concept efficacy[4].

Other names

THOC7-AS1THOC7 antisense RNA 1 (non-protein coding)THOC7 antisense RNA 1

Downregulation of THOC7-AS1 using antisense oligonucleotides suppresses the THOC7-AS1/OCT1/FSTL1 signaling axis, thereby inhibiting EMT and decreasing tumor cell proliferation, migration, and viability[4].