UPK1A antisense RNA 1 (UPK1A-AS1)

UPK1A antisense RNA 1 (UPK1A-AS1) is a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) transcribed antisense to the UPK1A gene. It has been identified as an oncogenic lncRNA in several cancer types. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), UPK1A-AS1 is overexpressed, promotes cell proliferation by accelerating G1/S cell cycle transition, and confers chemoresistance to cisplatin, partly through interaction with the chromatin regulator EZH2 and sponging of miR-138-5p[2]. In pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, UPK1A-AS1 enhances IL8-induced oxaliplatin resistance by facilitating DNA double-strand break repair via strengthened Ku70/Ku80 interaction and NHEJ activity[3]. UPK1A-AS1 is considered a candidate therapeutic target, particularly as a regulator of chemoresistance, and a biomarker for poor prognosis in certain cancers[2][3]. Its functions appear context-dependent, acting as either an oncogene or tumor suppressor in different tissues. No direct pharmaceutical inhibitors are in clinical use, but its interaction networks suggest possible utility in targeted RNA therapeutics for cancer.

Other names

UPK1A-AS1lncRNA UPK1A-AS1

Acts as competing endogenous RNA ("miRNA sponge") for miR-138-5p and miR-1248. Regulates chromatin modification via interaction with EZH2 (component of PRC2) and SUZ12. Promotes double-stranded DNA break repair via interaction with Ku70/Ku80 and NHEJ pathway, enhancing chemoresistance.