ZNFX1 antisense RNA 1 (long non-coding RNA) (ZFAS1)

ZNFX1 antisense RNA 1 (ZFAS1) is a long non-coding RNA transcribed antisense to the ZNFX1 gene and functions as a regulatory RNA rather than coding for a protein[3][4][5]. It is expressed in multiple tissues, such as lung and mammary gland, and plays a context-dependent regulatory role in both normal physiology and numerous diseases. In cancer, ZFAS1 is frequently upregulated in many tumors—including hepatocellular, colorectal, gastric, ovarian, and cervical carcinomas—and promotes tumor cell proliferation, migration, metastasis, and chemoresistance, primarily by sequestering tumor-suppressive microRNAs and modulating key signaling pathways[4][5]. Conversely, in healthy mammary glands, it restrains proliferation and supports differentiation, indicating a tumor-suppressive function in this context[4][3]. ZFAS1 also regulates antiviral innate immunity by positively regulating ZNFX1 gene expression and protein stability, enhancing antiviral responses via type I IFN and Jak-STAT pathways[1][2]. Moreover, it is involved in the regulation of inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and other disease mechanisms in a range of non-neoplastic diseases[4]. ZFAS1 is a potential disease biomarker and has emerged as a putative therapeutic target across cancer, antiviral immunity, and other disorders; however, its pleiotropic and context-dependent functions mean therapeutic targeting requires caution.

Other names

ZFAS1HSUP1HSUP2C20orf199NCRNA00275ZNFX1-AS1ZNFX1 antisense RNA 1 (non-protein coding)ZNFX1 antisense gene protein 1

ZFAS1 acts as a molecular sponge for tumor-suppressive microRNAs, preventing their inhibitory effect on oncogenic targets. It enhances protein stability and expression of ZNFX1, promoting antiviral innate immune response. Additionally, it modulates critical signaling pathways such as Wnt/β‑catenin, Notch, and Akt/mTOR.