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Updated: Jan 4, 2026

In Silico Identification and Characterization of circRNAs During Host-Pathogen Interactions
Published on: October 21, 2022
Circular RNAs: The star molecules in cancer
Jianhong Liu1, Dongpei Li2, Hui Luo3
1Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhanjiang), The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China; Cancer Center, The Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China.
Circular RNAs (circRNAs), highly conserved molecules, play crucial roles in cancer biology. This review details cancer-related circRNAs, their origins, functions, and applications in diagnosing and treating sixteen tumor types.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Oncology
Background:
- Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are non-coding RNAs with a unique closed-loop structure.
- Produced via alternative splicing, circRNAs are highly conserved and biologically significant.
- Their roles in cancer biology are increasingly recognized with advanced screening technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review cancer-related circRNAs.
- To elucidate their origins and formation mechanisms.
- To explore their functions and applications in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on circRNAs and cancer.
- Analysis of circRNA expression patterns in various tumors.
- Examination of experimental evidence for circRNA functions in oncogenesis.
Main Results:
- Numerous circRNAs are implicated in the pathogenesis of various cancers.
- circRNAs exhibit diverse functions, including acting as miRNA sponges, protein scaffolds, and gene regulators.
- Specific circRNAs show potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Conclusions:
- Cancer-related circRNAs are pivotal in tumor development and progression.
- Understanding circRNA mechanisms offers new avenues for cancer management.
- This review provides a comprehensive overview for sixteen tumor types, highlighting diagnostic and therapeutic potential.
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