OAS1 is a member of the 2-5A synthetase family, essential proteins involved in the innate immune response to viral infection. It is induced by interferons and uses adenosine triphosphate in 2'-specific nucleotidyl transfer reactions to synthesize 2',5'-oligoadenylates (2-5As). These molecules activate latent RNase L, which results in viral RNA degradation and the inhibition of viral replication. Mutations in this gene have been associated with host susceptibility to viral infection.This gene encodes a member of the 2-5A synthetase family, essential proteins involved in the innate immune response to viral infection. The encoded protein is induced by interferons and uses adenosine triphosphate in 2'-specific nucleotidyl transfer reactions to synthesize 2',5'-oligoadenylates (2-5As). These molecules activate latent RNase L, which results in viral RNA degradation and the inhibition of viral replication. The three known members of this gene family are located in a cluster on chromosome 12. Mutations in this gene have been associated with host susceptibility to viral infection. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been described.
Intended for research use only. Not for use in human, therapeutic, or diagnostic applications.