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Use of Alu Element Containing Minigenes to Analyze Circular RNAs
Published on: March 10, 2020
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Circular RNAs: Biogenesis, Mechanism, and Function in Human Cancers
Xing Zhao1,2, Yujie Cai1, Jianzhen Xu3
1Computational Systems Biology Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), No. 22, Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, China.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|August 16, 2019
Summary
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are abnormal in many cancers and play key roles in carcinogenesis. This review covers circRNA biogenesis, their functions in cancer, and future research directions.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Oncology
Background:
- Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are noncoding RNA molecules with a unique circular structure.
- Their biogenesis involves specific splicing mechanisms, including spliceosome-mediated and lariat-type pathways.
- Aberrant circRNA expression is frequently observed in various cancer types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biogenesis of circRNAs, emphasizing regulation by RNA-binding proteins.
- To summarize recent findings on the molecular mechanisms and functions of circRNAs in cancer development.
- To discuss current challenges and future research avenues in the field.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on circRNA biogenesis and function in cancer.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms underlying circRNA roles in carcinogenesis.
- Synthesis of current knowledge and identification of open questions.
Main Results:
- CircRNAs are regulated during biogenesis by RNA-binding proteins.
- Specific circRNAs are implicated in the initiation and progression of various cancers.
- Diverse molecular mechanisms contribute to circRNA functions in cancer.
Conclusions:
- CircRNAs are significant players in cancer development.
- Understanding circRNA regulation and function is crucial for cancer research.
- Further investigation is needed to explore the therapeutic potential of circRNAs.
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