ZNF503 antisense RNA 1 (ZNF503-AS1)

ZNF503 antisense RNA 1 (ZNF503-AS1) is a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) transcribed from the antisense strand of the ZNF503 gene locus. ZNF503-AS1 is notably expressed in the cytoplasm of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, where it acts as a regulator of RPE differentiation, promoting differentiation and inhibiting proliferation and migration[3][4]. Its expression is downregulated in RPE-choroid tissues of patients with age-related macular degeneration, implying a potential role as a biomarker or therapeutic target in AMD[3][5]. In diabetic patients, elevated plasma levels of ZNF503-AS1 are associated with an increased incidence of diabetic retinopathy; mechanistically, overexpression of ZNF503-AS1 in cell models inhibits proliferation, promotes apoptosis, and upregulates transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), suggesting activation of TGF-β signaling[1][2]. Additionally, ZNF503-AS1 acts as a tumor suppressor in bladder cancer by upregulating SLC8A1 (a calcium transporter) via recruitment of transcription factor GATA6, leading to increased intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration and reduced tumorigenicity[1]. There are currently no known drugs directly targeting ZNF503-AS1. Overall, ZNF503-AS1 is emerging as an important non-coding RNA with regulatory roles in cellular differentiation, cell cycle control, and disease modulation, particularly in retinal and cancer biology.

Other names

ZNF503 antisense RNA 1 (non-protein coding)ZNF503-AS1