Developments in lncRNA drug discovery: where are we heading?

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Therapeutics

Background:

• Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as key regulators, challenging the traditional central dogma of molecular biology.
• lncRNAs play complex roles in cellular processes and are implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current advances in lncRNA diversity and biological functions.
• To highlight the therapeutic potential of lncRNAs in various disease areas.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of lncRNA research.
• Analysis of therapeutic strategies targeting lncRNAs, including oligonucleotide-based drugs and CRISPR-Cas9.

Main Results:

• lncRNAs are involved in diverse biological functions and disease mechanisms.
• lncRNA-targeting modalities show promise for treating neurological, psychiatric, cardiovascular diseases, infectious diseases, and cancer.

Conclusions:

• lncRNA-dependent pathogenesis is a promising area for therapeutic intervention.
• Further research is needed to fully understand lncRNA biology, improve lncRNA-targeting drugs, and standardize nomenclature and databases.