Vault RNA 2-1 (nc886) (nc886)

Vault RNA 2-1 (nc886) is a 101-nucleotide non-coding RNA (ncRNA) transcribed by RNA polymerase III that serves as a critical regulator of cellular stress responses and the innate immune system. Its most well-characterized function is the direct binding and inhibition of Protein Kinase R (PKR), a sensor of double-stranded RNA that typically halts protein translation via eIF2alpha phosphorylation. By repressing PKR, nc886 facilitates protein synthesis and cell survival in healthy tissues. In many cancers, nc886 is frequently silenced through DNA hypermethylation of its promoter, which triggers PKR activation and subsequent apoptosis or pro-inflammatory NF-kB signaling. Because of its bimodal expression—acting as a tumor suppressor when silenced or an oncogene in certain high-expression contexts—nc886 is an emerging biomarker and therapeutic target for precision oncology and anti-aging treatments. It also modulates other key proteins like Dicer and OAS1, further extending its role in microRNA processing and antiviral defense.

Other names

vtRNA2-1Pre-miR-886miR-886CBL3Non-coding RNA 886

Binds to and inhibits Protein Kinase R (PKR) to maintain protein synthesis; activates 2'-5'-oligoadenylate synthetase 1 (OAS1) to trigger antiviral responses; and modulates Dicer activity to regulate microRNA biogenesis.