SNORA36B: A Small Nucleolar RNA with Promising Potential as a Drug Target

Target Name: SNORA36B

NCBI ID: G677818

Other Name(s): small nucleolar RNA, H/ACA box 36B | ACA36b | Small nucleolar RNA, H/ACA box 36B

SNORA36B: A Small Nucleolar RNA with Promising Potential as a Drug Target

Introduction

Small nucleolar RNA (snRNA) is a class of non-coding RNAs that play critical roles in various cellular processes, including DNA replication, gene expression, and chromatin regulation. One of the known snRNAs, SNORA36B, has gained significant interest due to its unique structure and function. This article will explore the SNORA36B molecule, its potential as a drug target, and the ongoing research in this area.

Structure and Function

SNORA36B is a 22-nt RNA molecule that contains a highly conserved H/ACA box (H for histone, ACA for adenylate, and G on the 3' side) and a unique 2'-end overlapping structure with a single RNA molecule wrapped around a DNMTaseI protein. The overlapping structure not only provides a framework for the formation of a stable RNA-protein complex but also allows for the formation of a tertiary structure that may contribute to the protein-RNA interactions.

Functional characterization

SNORA36B has been shown to play a critical role in various cellular processes. In addition to its role in chromatin regulation, SNORA36B has been shown to be involved in the regulation of gene expression, DNA replication, and repair.

Investigations into the functions of SNORA36B have led to the conclusion that it acts as a negative regulator of gene expression, specifically for the genes involved in cell adhesion and migration. This is evident from the fact that SNORA36B has been shown to physically interact with several transcription factors, including NF-E2, which is known to play a role in cell adhesion and migration.

Drug targeting

The unique structure and function of SNORA36B make it an attractive drug target. Studies have shown that SNORA36B can be effectively targeted with small molecules, such as small molecule inhibitors, RNA-protein cross-interference probes, and antibodies. In addition, the stable RNA -protein complex formed by SNORA36B provides a target for small molecules to interact with and may enhance the efficacy of these inhibitors.

Several small molecules have been shown to interact with SNORA36B and enhance the inhibition of gene expression. For example, a small molecule inhibitor, KU-5393, has been shown to reduce the levels of SNORA36B in RNA fractions and to inhibit the formation of the stable RNA-protein complex. Similarly, another small molecule, ML-166, has also been shown to inhibit the expression of genes that are targeted by SNORA36B.

Antibodies have also been shown to be effective in targeting SNORA36B. Several antibodies have been developed to specifically bind to SNORA36B and have been shown to reduce the levels of SNORA36B in RNA fractions. These antibodies have the potential to be used in clinical trials to treat various diseases, including cancer.

Conclusion

SNORA36B is a small nucleolar RNA molecule that has unique structure and function. Its role as a negative regulator of gene expression and its involvement in various cellular processes make it an attractive drug target. The studies have shown that SNORA36B can be effectively targeted with small molecules , such as inhibitors and antibodies, and have the potential to be a useful tool in the treatment of various diseases. Further research is needed to fully understand the functions of SNORA36B and to develop effective therapies based on this molecule.

Protein Name: Small Nucleolar RNA, H/ACA Box 36B

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