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Updated: Feb 6, 2026
Overexpressing Long Noncoding RNAs Using Gene-activating CRISPR
Published on: March 1, 2019
Long noncoding RNAs in cancer: from function to translation
Anirban Sahu1, Udit Singhal2, Arul M Chinnaiyan3
1Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan USA. ; Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan USA.
Abstract:
While our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer has significantly improved, most of our knowledge focuses on protein-coding genes that make up a fraction of the genome. Recent studies have uncovered thousands of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that populate the cancer genome. A subset of these molecules shows striking cancer- and lineage-specific expression patterns, suggesting they may be potential drivers of cancer biology and have utility as clinical biomarkers. Here, we discuss emerging modalities of lncRNA biology and their interplay with cancer-associated concepts, including epigenetic regulation, DNA damage and cell cycle control, microRNA silencing, signal transduction pathways, and hormone-driven disease. Additionally, we highlight the translational impact of lncRNAs, tools for their mechanistic investigation, and directions for future lncRNA research.
Insights
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are newly discovered cancer genome components. These molecules show potential as cancer drivers and clinical biomarkers, influencing epigenetic regulation and cell cycle control.
Area of Science:
- Genomics
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Cancer research has advanced, yet knowledge is limited to protein-coding genes.
- Thousands of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified in the cancer genome.
- Some lncRNAs exhibit cancer- and lineage-specific expression, suggesting functional roles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss emerging aspects of lncRNA biology in cancer.
- To explore the interplay between lncRNAs and key cancer mechanisms.
- To highlight the translational potential and future research directions for lncRNAs.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on lncRNA biology and cancer.
- Discussion of lncRNA involvement in epigenetic regulation, DNA damage, cell cycle control, microRNA silencing, signal transduction, and hormone-driven diseases.
- Analysis of translational impact and tools for lncRNA investigation.
Main Results:
- lncRNAs play significant roles in various cancer-associated processes.
- Specific lncRNAs demonstrate potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers.
- Emerging tools facilitate mechanistic studies of lncRNAs.
- lncRNAs are implicated in epigenetic regulation, DNA damage response, cell cycle control, and microRNA pathways.
Conclusions:
- lncRNAs represent a critical frontier in cancer research.
- Understanding lncRNA functions can lead to novel cancer biomarkers and therapeutic strategies.
- Further investigation into lncRNA biology is essential for advancing cancer treatment and diagnostics.
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