ncRNA

Science & Engineering abbreviation · Genetics

ncRNA
Stands forNon-coding RNA
CategoriesScience & Engineering

ncRNA stands for Non-coding RNA, a genetics abbreviation.

Any RNA molecule that functions without being translated into protein. The class includes transfer and ribosomal RNA, spliceosomal snRNAs, microRNAs, siRNAs, piRNAs and long non-coding RNAs.

Example: Most of the human genome is transcribed into ncRNA at some point, though its significance is debated.

Usage notes

Only about 1-2% of the human genome codes for protein, so the discovery of widespread ncRNA expression transformed views of genome function. Databases such as RNAcentral catalog non-coding RNAs across species.

More genetics abbreviations

  • lncRNA – Long non-coding RNA
  • LOD – Logarithm of the odds (score)
  • MAF – Minor allele frequency
  • Mb – Megabase
  • miRNA – MicroRNA
  • mtDNA – Mitochondrial DNA
  • NGS – Next-generation sequencing
  • NHEJ – Non-homologous end joining
  • ORF – Open reading frame
  • PAM – Protospacer adjacent motif
  • PRS – Polygenic risk score
  • QTL – Quantitative trait locus

See all 57 genetics abbreviations →

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