Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 5, 2026

RNA Pull-down Procedure to Identify RNA Targets of a Long Non-coding RNA
Published on: April 10, 2018
BC200 (BCYRN1) - The shortest, long, non-coding RNA associated with cancer
1School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Western Gateway Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
Abstract:
With the discovery that the level of RNA synthesis in human cells far exceeds what is required to express protein-coding genes, there has been a concerted scientific effort to identify, catalogue and uncover the biological functions of the non-coding transcriptome. Long, non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a diverse group of RNAs with equally wide-ranging biological roles in the cell. An increasing number of studies have reported alterations in the expression of lncRNAs in various cancers, although unravelling how they contribute specifically to the disease is a bigger challenge. Originally described as a brain-specific, non-coding RNA, BC200 (BCYRN1) is a 200-nucleotide, predominantly cytoplasmic lncRNA that has been linked to neurodegenerative disease and several types of cancer. Here we summarise what is known about BC200, primarily from studies in neuronal systems, before turning to a review of recent work that aims to understand how this lncRNA contributes to cancer initiation, progression and metastasis, along with its possible clinical utility as a biomarker or therapeutic target.
Insights
Researchers explore the role of the long non-coding RNA BC200 (BCYRN1) in cancer. This review summarizes its functions in neuronal systems and its potential as a cancer biomarker or therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
- Cancer Research
Background:
- The human transcriptome includes numerous non-coding RNAs with diverse biological functions.
- Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their roles in cellular processes.
- Aberrant lncRNA expression is implicated in various cancers, necessitating functional studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the known functions of BC200 (BCYRN1), a lncRNA originally identified in the brain.
- To explore the contribution of BC200 to cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis.
- To assess the potential of BC200 as a clinical biomarker or therapeutic target in cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on BC200 in neuronal systems.
- Analysis of recent research investigating BC200's role in cancer biology.
- Evaluation of BC200's potential clinical applications.
Main Results:
- BC200 is a predominantly cytoplasmic lncRNA linked to neurodegenerative diseases.
- Emerging evidence suggests BC200's involvement in cancer development and spread.
- BC200 exhibits potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target.
Conclusions:
- BC200 plays a significant role in both neuronal function and cancer.
- Further research into BC200's mechanisms in cancer is warranted.
- BC200 holds promise for future cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.
Related Concept Videos
lncRNA - Long Non-coding RNAs
lncRNA - Long Non-coding RNAs
RNA Splicing
Ribosomal RNA Synthesis
Ribosome biogenesis begins with the synthesis of 5S and 45S pre-rRNAs by distinct RNA polymerases. The primary transcripts are extensively processed and modified before they are bound and folded by ribosomal proteins and assembly factors,...
Nursing Code of Ethics
Transfer RNA Synthesis
Each of these chemical modifications is carried by a specific enzyme, post-transcription. All of these enzymes have unique base and site-specificity. Methylation, the most common chemical modification, is carried by at least nine different enzymes, with...

