Long non-coding RNAs as novel therapeutic targets in cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Genomics

Background:

• Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), particularly long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), are pervasively expressed in various cancers.
• A subset of lncRNAs exhibits cancer-enriched expression, indicating crucial roles in tumor biology.
• These findings suggest the potential utility of lncRNAs as therapeutic targets in oncology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on identifying and validating lncRNAs as therapeutic targets in cancer.
• To summarize available in-silico and wet-biology resources for lncRNA research.
• To highlight existing challenges in the field of lncRNA-based cancer therapeutics.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications and databases.
• Analysis of in-silico and experimental (wet-biology) approaches for lncRNA research.
• Synthesis of information regarding lncRNA identification, validation, and therapeutic application.

Main Results:

• Numerous lncRNAs have been identified with cancer-specific expression patterns.
• Both computational and experimental methods are employed for lncRNA discovery and characterization.
• Significant challenges remain in lncRNA stratification, patient personalization, drug delivery, and toxicity assessment.

Conclusions:

• lncRNAs represent a promising class of molecules for cancer therapeutic development.
• Further research is needed to overcome technical and biological hurdles for clinical translation.
• Addressing challenges in identification, validation, and delivery is crucial for realizing the therapeutic potential of lncRNAs.