Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) emerged as key players in a diverse range of cellular processes and disease malignancies including cancer. The lncRNA SChLAP1 (second chromosome locus associated with prostate-1) has been shown to be overexpressed and highly associated with the aggressive nature and poor prognosis in a subset of prostate cancers. SchLAP1 is recognized to function, in part, by antagonizing the tumor suppressive SWI/SNF complex. However, the details of this mechanism remain only partially understood. As the name suggests, lncRNAs are long and present exceptional structural complexity. The structural diversity of lncRNAs allows them to mediate various biological functions in collaboration with proteins and nucleic acids. In this study, we determined the secondary structure of SchLAP1 utilizing chemical probing methods. Our structural model proved that SchLAP1 possesses distinct structural domains that may contribute to its function. In conclusion, for the first time, we determined the secondary structural map of SChLAP1, which will serve as a guide to understand its mechanism of action at the molecular level.
Support or Funding Information
Start-up funds from Drexel University College of Medicine, CURE grant (SAP 4100079710) from the Pennsylvania Department of Health
Start-up funds from Drexel University College of Medicine, CURE grant (SAP 4100079710) from the Pennsylvania Department of Health
