Zinc finger CCHC-type containing 14 (ZCCHC14)

Zinc finger CCHC-type containing 14 (ZCCHC14) is a multi-CCHC motif zinc finger protein predicted to bind nucleic acids, phosphatidylinositol, proteins, and zinc ions. It is widely expressed in human tissues, primarily localizing to the nucleus and cytoplasm. ZCCHC14 acts as a critical host factor in viral RNA metabolism, particularly in hepatitis A and B viruses, where it partners with noncanonical poly(A) polymerases (TENT4A/B) to stabilize and protect viral RNA transcripts from degradation, thus facilitating efficient viral replication. In human cancer biology, especially non–small cell lung cancer, ZCCHC14 acts as a negative regulator of cell proliferation and invasion, in part by modulating the MAPK-P38 signaling pathway; reduction of ZCCHC14 enhances tumor progression, indicating a tumor-suppressive role. While its broader pathophysiological roles remain under active investigation, ZCCHC14 is emerging as both a critical node in viral–host interactions and a potential biomarker or molecular target in oncology.

Other names

Zinc finger CCHC domain-containing protein 14KIAA0579BDG29MGC14139BDG-29zinc finger, CCHC domain containing 14

Inhibition of the MAPK-P38 signaling pathway via small molecule inhibitors such as doramapimod, which disrupt the pathway affected by ZCCHC14 loss