lncRNA

Science & Engineering abbreviation · Genetics

lncRNA
Stands forLong non-coding RNA
CategoriesScience & Engineering

lncRNA stands for Long non-coding RNA, a genetics abbreviation.

RNA transcript longer than 200 nucleotides that does not code for a protein. Thousands are found in the human genome, and some regulate genes by guiding chromatin-modifying complexes, acting as scaffolds or soaking up microRNAs.

Example: The lncRNA XIST coats one X chromosome in female cells and silences it.

Usage notes

Pronounced "link RNA." XIST, discovered in 1991, is the best-studied example. How many lncRNAs have real biological functions is debated, since many are expressed at very low levels. They are often specific to particular tissues or developmental stages.

More genetics abbreviations

  • HDR – Homology-directed repair
  • HGP – Human Genome Project
  • HWE – Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium
  • indel – Insertion-deletion
  • kb – Kilobase
  • LD – Linkage disequilibrium
  • LOD – Logarithm of the odds (score)
  • MAF – Minor allele frequency
  • Mb – Megabase
  • miRNA – MicroRNA
  • mtDNA – Mitochondrial DNA
  • ncRNA – Non-coding RNA

See all 57 genetics abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.