1463-Circular RNA FCHO2 Drives Airway Remodeling

This research identifies circFCHO2 as a major pathogenic driver of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The study demonstrates that this circular RNA is significantly upregulated in human patients, mouse models, and cells exposed to cigarette smoke. Mechanistically, circFCHO2 facilitates the nuclear translocation of the protein PTBP1, which subsequently interferes with the splicing of GRN pre-mRNA. This process results in a deficiency of progranulin (PGRN), a protective protein that normally suppresses the NF-κB signaling pathway. The resulting activation of NF-κB triggers airway remodeling by promoting epithelial–mesenchymal transition and the degradation of the extracellular matrix. Ultimately, the authors conclude that knocking down circFCHO2 can reverse lung damage and restore respiratory function, offering a promising therapeutic target for treating COPD.References:Liu Y, Wang Y, Fei Y, et al. Circular RNA FCHO2 promotes airway remodeling in COPD via regulating nuclear translocation of PTBP1 to repress the splicing of GRN pre-mRNA[J]. Cell Death & Disease, 2025, 16(1): 779.前往小宇宙评论区与主播互动