The role of natural antisense transcripts in the pathogenesis of nervous system diseases

Abstract

Mammalian genomes encode numerous natural antisense transcripts (NATs). These antisense transcripts are now recognized as an important component of molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of gene expression. NATs are particularly prevalent in the mammalian nervous system. The importance of NATs in the normal functioning of nervous system is becoming increasingly evident. They are not only involved in neuronal differentiation, myelination and ion channel regulation, but also in advanced cognitive processes, such as synapse plasticity and memory formation. This paper focuses on the potential involvement of NATs in various neurodegenerative disorders.

DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1672-6731.2015.03.014