TM4SF18 antisense RNA 1 (TM4SF18-AS1)

TM4SF18 antisense RNA 1 (TM4SF18-AS1) is a long non-coding antisense RNA, transcribed from the opposite strand of the TM4SF18 gene locus[4][6]. As a lncRNA, it does not encode a protein but carries out crucial regulatory functions in cancer biology, particularly through RNA-RNA and RNA-protein interactions. TM4SF18-AS1 exhibits upregulated expression in several cancer types, notably head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and gastric cancer[1][2]. Its biological role includes enhancing tumor cell proliferation, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, while suppressing apoptosis by facilitating stress granule formation. Mechanistically, TM4SF18-AS1 functions as a "molecular sponge" for specific microRNAs and interacts with various proteins to alter gene expression and cellular stress responses. Due to its oncogenic activity and upregulation in malignancies, TM4SF18-AS1 is considered a potential therapeutic target and biomarker in oncology, though it is a non-coding RNA and not a classical receptor or enzyme[1][2].

Other names

AC093001.1TM4SF18-AS1

Acts as a molecular sponge for specific microRNAs (e.g., miR-153-3p), thereby sequestering them and modulating downstream gene expression (such as LAMC1 in HNSCC). Interacts with proteins (e.g., heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C, Pur-α, YB-1) to regulate cellular stress responses and support tumor cell survival. Promotes stress granule formation, inhibiting apoptosis in cancer cells. May recruit chromatin-associated proteins to modify gene expression epigenetically.