Long Non-coding RNAs: A New Regulatory Code for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disease characterized by a decrease in bone mass and degradation of the bone microstructure, which increases bone fragility and fracture risk. However, the molecular mechanisms of osteoporosis remain unclear. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have become important epigenetic regulators controlling the expression of genes and affecting multiple biological processes. Accumulating evidence of the involvement of lncRNAs in bone remolding has increased understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying osteoporosis. This review aims to summarize recent progress in the elucidation of the role of lncRNAs in bone remodeling, and how it contributes to osteoblast and osteoclast function. This knowledge will facilitate the understanding of lncRNA roles in bone biology and shed new light on the modulation and potential treatment of osteoporosis.